SoCal Jet Boats
Tech Talk => Gelcoat / Paint / Fireberglass Repair => Topic started by: Stewie5409 on May 14, 2017, 01:54:11 AM
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Hello all, I just ordered a couple cans of white gel coat with wax to redo the bilge/back end of my kachina. I think I have pretty good idea on what prep work needs to be done but I'm not sure on the best way to apply it. I was hoping to go the cheap route and just brush it on and sand afterwards. Has anyone tried this and how did or turn out?? Or is spraying it on the only way and what kind of thinners or gun would I need?? Thanks for any input!
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Yes, it is doable. It is A LOT of sanding. The better you can get the brush marks to flow out, the less sanding you will have to do.
It's not the best choice, but you can thin with acetone. MEK (Methyl Ethyl Keytone) also works as a thinner for polyester resin and gel coat. Don't confuse MEKP (hardener) and MEK.
FiberGlast has the following to say about thinning with acetone: "While acetone is an effective solvent, we strongly recommend that it not be used to thin resin or gel coat, as this can lead to added pinholes or premature yellowing."
Polyester resin and gel coat is styrene based. The technically correct thinner is styrene thinner.
http://www.fibreglast.com/product/Styrene_Thinner_70/Polyester_Resins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6F0j5OgVAOI
If you need to add wax to non-waxed gel coat or resins:
http://www.fibreglast.com/product/Styrene_Wax_71/Polyester_Resins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBTiOIKTs_4