Fixing Gel Coat Scratches

[FLCERIK]

I have a few scraches in the gel coat and want to remove them. I tried using a rubbing compound and it did not work. How do you remove the small scraches?

[BozBoarder]

RE: Fixing Gel Coat Scratches

You might try wet sanding with 1000 grit wet sand paper and then use a cutter polish with a electric or air polisher.

[DavidF]

RE: Fixing Gel Coat Scratches

1000 grit paper will not do much to gelcoat due to its hardness. If the scratch is not too deep, start with 600. If a deep scratch (not through gelcoat) start with 400. Either way, graduate to 800, then polish with course compound like Boz said.

[WakeUpDude]

RE: Fixing Gel Coat Scratches

Graduate with at least a 1200+ grit sandpaper. The higher you go, the smoother the end result will be.

Also remember to sand in every direction, and keep sanding a good 2-3 inches away from the actual scratch, or you will get a pit in the gel coat once you finish.