How to "Match" Color for Scratches?

[MI17Explorer]

Got two scratches that aren't too deep but did go through the color coat ("candy apple" red metalflake) of the boat. Any suggestions on how to color these in? Saw a number of posts on buffing out small scratches, but these need some color added. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[unklenew]

For scratches that are not deep I use a sharpie to color them out. It's cheap and it works

[98rangerdvs]

How about metal flake touch up auto paint? I have done several areas of the boat and trailer and have had no problems

[MI17Explorer]

Thanks for the ideas, guys.

I was also thinking about nail polish (usually avaiable in a zillion colors, even some "flake" ones. Anybody ever do this?

[98rangerdvs]

Not sure about nail polish...I know you can stop by an auto parts dealer, get their little paint sample book and hold it up to where you need to match and get darn close...atleast on mine I did...good luck

[BASSCAT7]

Both the nail polish and the sharpie will work fine........I have used both for years......follow both up with a coat of clear nail polish.......cheap fix , especially if you fish tight to cover and get a lot of scratches....

[DIXIEDOG]

Depending on how old the boat is most dealers can get you touch up paint direct from the manufacturer that will match.

[MI17Explorer]

I asked the dealer, and he said it is not available for boats "like it is for cars." I might check w/Triton customer service to confirm one way or the other. Thanks.

[BASSCAT7]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by MI17Explorer &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I asked the dealer, and he said it is not available for boats "like it is for cars." I might check w/Triton customer service to confirm one way or the other. Thanks.</TD></TR></TABLE>

It is not " paint ". The dealer can supply you with matching gelcoat from the factory, but you have to mix it with a hardener and have an idea how to apply it so it cures right...otherwise it will turn out a mess....not as simple as touching up a scratch on yout trucks paint.

[bobbymc]

If you are going to use metal flake you will have to deepen the scratch or it will pile up and make a mess. I have gone to Lowes Building Supply and ask the paint man for color. He will be glad if not to busy to mix a color. Add this to clear gel coat and add hardner and place wax paper over the repair and tape down.
Wait one hour and remove the paper, using a single edge razor blade remove unwanted material.
You may fail at first but if you do use Acetone and start over. Bobby Mc