First remove the growth, scrape and sand. Use 18, 24, or 36 sand paper. (You may find pits and small holes from oxidation under the growth you just removed)
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If holes are severe, you should fill pits and small holes with Marine-Tex putty; after it has cured; sand to smooth out. If you find pits only (no holes) then mix Marine-Tex with Gluvit to a consistency that will roll on. (make sure you use the catalyst of each product in the correct ratio) then apply a coat with a small diameter throw away roller, using a cheap paint brush for tight spots.
- Let cure, rough up with sand-paper and apply a coat of the Gluvit Epoxy with throw away roller and cheap brush. Let dry.
- If you do not mix the Gluvit with Marine-Tex putty, then be sure and give the area with the pits or pin holes 3 coats of Gluvit. Let it dry between each coat.
- Apply coat of no-sand primer that is made for fiberglass hulls – let it dry to just being tacky per instructions.
- Apply fiberglass anti-fouling bottom paint. (Yes, fiberglass anti - fouling paint, you just covered your aluminum hull or pontoons with epoxy plastic – so now you can use fiberglass paint, instead of aluminum paint which cost about 70% more than fiberglass bottom paint.)
You need:
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Stands to put your hull on – you can make stands using: (see diagram below)
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2 X 6s, 2 X 10, 2X4s and 4X4s (or glue two 2X4s together) – pick your size stand.
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Glue and screws
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Treat with water seal after glue dries
Ø You can get almost all boats off trailers with tongue jack and floor jacks – just use brain power and care for your safety.
Other Items:
- Sander(s)
- Sand Paper (less expensive to cut your own)
- Gluvit Epoxy Resin
- Marine –Tex Epoxy, if you are going to use it for holes
- Acetone
- 1” diameter cheap rollers - NOT FOAM
- Cheap paint brushes
- Dust mask
- Something to lie on
- Non-Sanding Primer
- Fiberglass Anti-Fouling Paint
- Masking tape
Please see our marine repair products page for the products we offer online. If you need assistance about any thing re repairing aluminum boat or pontoons, please e-mail Tom at tomboatshp@bellsouth.net or call him at 386-795-6590.
Good Luck with your project!!
Tom