arni
posted 15 August 2002 01:56 PM
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I posted a message on this topic months ago. This is an update for those interested.
So much for several days hard work! Four months later Paloma is back in the water, almost but not quite, finished. Partly the fault of the wet season, and partly the fault of a perfectionist I employed who could not keep to a schedule. I am considering renaming her ‘Bollard’ for obvious reasons.
Still, for those contemplating doing this job of topside repainting, don’t be put off, its quite feasible. Despite what experts say, its quite possible to use a machine to get a basically smooth base, because the trick with damaged gelcoat like mine (hairline shrinkage cracks) is to use a ‘high build’ product as a base. This is epoxy, so tough, but fills and seals minor imperfections. Then ever finer sandpaper to get a really smooth finish. Undercoat and topcoat really needs a professional to spray, as its a very skilled job. You also need a very high pressure air pump. However, if the spray expert only has to pull the trigger and not do all the preparation, the job is not too expensive.
So I now have a little cruising yacht. Still some interior furniture to do, and fit my new SS stanchions with an extra one to make a gate, but thats it. She has new standing rigging, the underwater has all been done, and loads of other little jobs. and I’m going sailing on Sunday, hooray!