[david_kohler]

I want to put the west systems graphite epoxy on the bottem of the boat. I've heard that epoxy won't stick to gel coat so how is this done? Because it's a coating and not a structual bond do you just ruff the gel with 40-60 grit and apply? Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[DuckNut]

You heard wrong.

For a utility boat fix any cracks or gouges that should be fixed. Clean with a wax remover/degreaser, sand, clean again, apply epoxy/graphite, go test on oyster bar.

 

[david_kohler]

Thanks for the quick responce. oysters are the reason it's going on ;D

You heard wrong. 

For a utility boat fix any cracks or gouges that should be fixed.  Clean with a wax remover/degreaser, sand, clean again, apply epoxy/graphite, go test on oyster bar.

 

[DuckNut]

I have said many times before. Aluminum for abrasion. Graphite for vegetation.

Others say graphite but I have learned first hand the benefits of aluminum.

Your choice.

http://www.westsystem.com/ss/additive-selection-guide

 

[david_kohler]

I wonder if you could do both of them together. Maybe 3/4 aluminum and 1/4 graphite. I do gig a lot and have to pull the boat over sandbars to get to some way back spots, so I was liking the slickness of graphite. Thanks for the input!

I have said many times before.  Aluminum for abrasion.  Graphite for vegetation.

Others say graphite but I have learned first hand the benefits of aluminum.

Your choice.

http://www.westsystem.com/ss/additive-selection-guide

 

[DuckNut]

Sand is an entirely different game altogether. Nothing makes a hull slide over sand easier for some reason and I can not tell you why, it just doesn't work. Mud, yes - sand, no.

You can use any concoction that you wish.