Removing clear coat with brush marks in it

[vzar2112]

I just picked up my Astro a couple of months ago and now that it is getting cold out I want to remove the clear coat that was brushed on. I do know I can wet sand, but I need some advise on how, with what equipment and any time saving tips that anyone may have for me. And YES I do know that clear coat finishes need to be put on with a sprayer...Ha Ha Ha This boat is the poster card for a budget boat, but I do want her looking as nice as I can get her. Any advise will be greatful.
Thanks,
Vince

[cyclone70]

Not really any shortcuts here.
Start with 1000 grit wet paper to get the biggest bumps down.
Keep the paper very wet at all times,a spray bottle helps a lot.
On flat surfaces use a real soft rubber sanding block.
On surfaces not flat it's better to use your hand.
Stay way from sharp edges and corners,the coating will be it's thinnest there.
Save those for last and go easy.
Use as cold water as you can stand to work with in hot weather.
Then go to 1500 paper and do the same.
When the brush marks are almost gone,switch to 2000 grit paper.
After that you can use polishing compund such as 3M 5995, to try and shine it up.
Then a good wax.

[vzar2112]

Hey thats just what kind of instruction I was looking for!!!!
Thanks alot, I will be sure to post my Astro S20DC when it is finished. Sounds like it will be spring time, lots of sanding.
Thanks again,
Vince

[merklerob]

check some of the auto paint store arround you. tell them what you want to do and have them recommend an air sander or electric sander [probably a random ordibal system] they also have the paper or snding medium suggested above.

[ChampioNman]

vzar,
I saw your boat when it was down here and all I can say is ! You'll have arms like Popeye's if you do it by hand. I'd try 800 grit on a palm sander and keep it moving. I told knothead not to use a brush on it but you can't tell him anything.

[vzar2112]

Yep, I was bummed when I saw that finish brushed on like that, but I think with some work it will be looking good this spring. Thanks for the advise, I can use all the help I can get. Winter time is a good time of the year to get back into shape, so it looks like I can kill two birds with one stone here with all the sanding I have ahead of me. Thanks again,
Vince

[Rollo331]

it sounds like it is put on rather bad...If you want to make headway fast get a da and hit it with 320 then 600..depending how thick it is????????
That will speed the process way up if it is on it thick ??????sounds like you have nothing to lose if it is all lumpy..........

[90-skeeter]

i am also gonna be taking some clear coat of my boat because its falky ,should i pretty much go about it the same way as you told him to?

[Rollo331]

NO if it is chalky hit it with 1000 grit.If you go 600 be careful.....Is it Gel Coat clear or automotive? The instuctions i give him are for a extreme case "Brushed on"

[90-skeeter]

it seems to be automotive

[Rollo331]

if its automotive wet sand it with 1500 grit then 2000 and buff a little spot and see if it has enough on it to sand and buff out...do it by hand no DA

[ChampioNman]

This guy used Sherwin Williams Sher-Clear directions said use a brush, roller or foam brush, spray if thinned. He opted for a nylon brush thus the marks ! The guy is no Van Gogh. I don't believe he let it cure properly. I saw it and said ! What did you do !

[vzar2112]

I agree he was no paint and body man by any means, but I do think that all of the advise will help make my THICK BRUSHED ON FINISH look "like" new.
Thanks everyone for the tips and "been there done that & have the t- shirt" feedback.
Vince