Hey guys,
I have an 85 ranger 375v that I have had for a few years. I have kept it covered or under a shelter since I have had it and I bought it from a friend who shelter kept it as well. The person he bought it from must have kept it parked on the face of the sun from what the top cap looks like.
I have read the clear/gel coat resto. threads but mine looks pretty bad compared to everyone else and I was wondering if I did the Basscat7 method if I was just going to be wasting my time. Here is a few pics of what I have done so far on a test spot. Please advise.

Here is a pic of the boat color from behind the seat pad.


This is a pic of what the top cap look like right beside where the test spot is located.(I have not removed the grab rails yet since I don't know if this is a project worth undertaking.




I started with 800grt, but dropped back to 400 for just a pass or two and that helped knock down the build up greatly. I then hit it again with the 800, and then 1000. It is by no means done, but I think it looks better, but I am just wondering if my whole clear coat is gone and it is not going to look right until I get it sanded off. You can still see the spider web looking cracks and pin pore holesm in the finish. I am not getting any flakes, so I know I am still in the clear coat.
This first pic show the top rail dry.


Spit shined top rail.




My main question is whether or not you all think I will be able to get rid of the scratchy look before I get through the whole clear coat? Also, I have only waxed on car in my life and never have compounded anything so will those products assist in the filling/covering of the cracks/pores?

Thanks guys for the help, information and advice.