Specifications

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10. MAINTENANCE
All yachts require maintenance on a regular basis to stay in top operating condition and to keep
looking their best. One should constantly check running and standing rigging, winches, engine, head,
bilge, and surface finishes for telltale signs of needed maintenance.
10.1) Gelcoat Surfaces:
The best protection for your gelcoat surfaces is to clean them regularly with fresh water and a good
detergent. Wax all smooth gelcoat surfaces with a good automotive or boat paste wax at least twice a
year. Do not wax non-skid deck surfaces.
Gelcoat surfaces may stain if leaves or debris collect on deck or birds roost. Surfaces should be
scrubbed frequently or have a protective cover if these conditions occur.
Minor imperfections in gel coat surfaces may be repaired by the owner using one of several methods.
Some typical examples:
Shallow Scratches and Dings (not through the gel coat)
• If a scratch is not through the gel coat into the fiberglass, it may be sanded out with 320 grit wet
and dry sandpaper used with water. Finish off with 400 and 600 grit with water and hand buff with
automotive-type rubbing compound. Wax for additional luster.
Deep Scratches and Flaws
(exposed fiberglass) - -
Thoroughly clean the damaged area with acetone to remove dirt, grease, or wax. Tape off the area
around the flaw with masking tape. Thicken a small amount of matching gel coat with talcum powder
to obtain a putty-like consistency. When ready to apply the putty, thoroughly mix a small amount of
the hardener into the gel putty. A table spoon quantity of gel putty will require only one drop
of the
hardener to cure into a hard plastic in mild temperatures. Some experimenting will allow you to adjust
the amount of hardener to suit your needs.
Apply the gel putty with a putty knife, filling the flaw slightly above the surrounding surface. Allow to
harden. Sand and buff as previously mentioned for small scratches. Clean up hands and tools with
acetone before putty hardens.
CAUTION:
A) The clear hardener should be handled with great care. Flush skin or eyes with large amounts of
water if accidentally splashed.
B) Once gel coat materials have been mixed with hardener, never
return to a container of unmixed
material. The entire quantity would cure into a solid mass.