Winter Project

[RangerBrown]

My Ranger R71 is in need of some restoration work. Mainly it is the oxidation look (hazy) on the top portion of the boat that gets the sun. I've got some scratches and couple dings in the fiberglass (a couple are through the gelcoat). I plan to replace the carpet in the boat as well. None of the problems are major, but I would love for it to look like it did when new or as close to it as I can get it. It's a 98 model, so after 10 years it has some wear. I would also like to look at getting a new dash cover and steering wheel just to make it fancier lookin', but that may be too much money. The dash is just plain black, so really not that great looking and the buttons (switches) used to have white writing on them to list what the switch is for, but all worn off now.

Anyway, I have never attempted any of this so any and all advice, links, instructions, what kind of carpet, tools, etc. would be greatly appreciated. I have a buddy with a nice shop and we said it would be a good winter project this year. I remember seeing some instructions on BBC about using 3M projects and fine grit sandpaper for getting the shine back, but didn't save it.




Modified by RangerBrown at 8:29 AM 6/9/2008

[unkdale]

Is that Hwy 43 in the background? I see people hand-grabbing in that spot quite often.

[Scrapper]

Rangerbrown...I don't know if you've found the info you are looking for but I don't think I would wetsand unless I had too. I have a post on here probably on the 2nd or 3rd page now about a "gelcoat rebirth" it was on my 83 330V. I don't think you'll have to sand...I may be wrong but each time you sand or compound or whatever you take off some of the gel. I think I would try a 3M polishing glaze or a 3M compound with a buffer...I would also use water on the pad with the glaze or compound...if you use the compound follow up with 3M finesseII polishing glaze then go with a good CARNUBA wax...that is the only way to go...the Meguires is really good. If you have anyquestions feel free to ask...LOTS of info here. I'm in SW Arkansas if your ever this way give me holler. NICE CATS by the way. Good luck!!