Boat Polish

anchorout · Posted: Sat Aug 22, 2015 10:51 pm Post subject: Boat Polish

Has anyone used 3M Perfect-It, Machine Polish on their fiberglass?

My brother just had the transom rebuilt on his Champion 22 bay boat. The shop also threw in a quick polish. This boat was a chalky mess when he brought it in. Now it looks like new. I can't tell where the new glass ends and the old glass begins. Beautiful. I would have believed at least a wet sanding + + + would have been necessary.

They compounded it with the above product then used Formula 1 Carnauba Wax for polish.

If anyone has used this product, I would appreciate the feedback. From previous blogs, I know some products shine up fine but don't last, or turn color, etc. What have you experienced?

bcassal · Posted: Sat Aug 22, 2015 11:33 pm Post subject:

I frequently use it on fiberglass and also to polish varnish on mahogany boats.
It will take off a lot of skiff marks and rubber marks. It is an excellent product.
To get that glassy look, I usually wet sand through the grits to as much as 1200.
It will produce a fine finish on it;s own.
"Finesse-it" is a similar 3M product that is used similarly.

Carpy

thataway · Posted: Sun Aug 23, 2015 12:31 am Post subject:

Perfect-it is a line of paint finishing products. From 1500 to 2000 to 5000 grit, and then polishing--used mostly by the automotive finish industry, but can be used in boating. So you have to be specific about what Perfect-it product.

Finesse-it II is a bit more geared toward the marine gel coat market, but can be used for paints: " Removes fine scratches compounding leaves behind. This finishing material gives your gelcoat surface a slick, new shine and can be buffed on mechanically for best results."

I have used Finesse-it II after heavy compounding, but for most of our hulls, if kept in good shape, the Finesse-it, followed by Collinite fleet wax 885 is a great combination.

There is also a product line: Presta: http://www.prestaproducts.com/Buffing_Compounds-list.aspx Which some folks use.

I also have used the Collinite rubbing compound 920 followed by the wax.

Also here is a comparison:

http://www.collinite.com/assets/Uploads/docs/870pracsailor.PDF