Stained Gel Coat

[112motorsports]

So I had to leave my boat in the water while my trailer was getting fixed and since we have be in such the drought I couldn't use my lift due to a lack of water depth. Anyways while in the water for a few days the boat has red stain at the water line and I can not seem to get it out. I have tried waxing with little results. Is there a good "cleaner" wax out there as well as compund that will get it out? Please help and it makes me sick to my stomach to see this line around my boat. Thanks for any and all help. I tried using the "el cheepo" buffer since I am not that great with a regular buffer and don't want to leave swirl marks.

[boatech]

RE: Stained Gel Coat

try the 3m marine cleaner wax i have had good results with it.

[JoeCos]

RE: Stained Gel Coat

For stubborn stains, I use Star Brite - Instant Hull Cleaner. This product works very well and has worked for me. Especially when the boat sits in the water for a long time and scum line forms. Wear gloves when you use this because its a pretty strong detergent and can sting if you have a wound.

[east tx skier]

RE: Stained Gel Coat

Sno Bowl toilet bowl cleaner or On/Off. Both have HCL in them, so the wear gloves rule applies. Rinse well and wax afterwards.

[James]

RE: Stained Gel Coat

The water line stain is a result of minerals/chemicals in the water penetrating the porous gel coat. The easiest way to remove the stain is by using Muriatic Acid which can be purchased from swimming pool supply stores. Muriatic Acid is also an ingredient in many commercial hull cleaners. Apply directly to the hull using a damp cloth. A 50% solution (dilute with H2O) to 100% solution (for severe stain) may safety be used. Muriatic Acid will generally have no effect on decals and pin stripes but care should be used the avoid them if possible. Apply the acid to the hull and let it stand for a minute or so (the white vapor you will see is normal). Rinse with H2O. Then wax. The hull will be like new. Muriatic Acid or Acetic Acid (vinegar) can be used to quickly remove hardwater stains too. Be sure to use in a WELL VENTILATED AREA OR OUTDOORS WITH RUBBER GLOVES and EYE PROTECTION. The TRAILER MUST BE PROTECTED as well. Any contact with the trailer should be immediately rinsed with H2O. Good Luck.

[66Skylark]

I'm going with JoeCos and recommending Starbrite Hull Cleaner.

My boat sat in the water for a while this summer and when I pulled it it had scum all over the bottom. Starbrite worked great. Spray it on and let it sit for a minute then just wash it off with soap and water.

I don't have the bottle handy, but if I remember correctly Starbrite Hull Cleaner contains a mild acid. Definitely use rubber gloves and eye protection. I believe it will take any wax off too, so you'll have to rewax.

Good luck!
Kyle

[Fast351]

Zing hull cleaner or Fiberglass Stain Remover (West Marine) both work really well at cleaning white hulls.