not being able to do, as one use too, makes the importance of a plan and careful study of who is going to follow your wish even more critical.
Deciding to pull the 1968 31 for a bottom job this year was an ambition of mine, but I knew full well it was not going to be me doing the work. I did however want to direct the operation making sure that I got what I wanted for the bottom.
Pulling the boat was step one. First engaging the hauler, making sure equipment and experience would work including all documentation for the rig and insurance was in order.
The day of loading arrived. It was a drive on trailer, well set up but cross winds made lining up the boat on the rail a challenge.
By the end of the day, the haul of 26 miles was complete. My Commander high and dry, on a concrete slab.
Now the work begins. Wash, sand, wash, fare,1st coat of 3 2000E epoxy, and then 2 coats of Trinidad.
Been there, done that on my 27. Never again. Wear a full body suit and respirator if you’re doing this yourself.
A bit of barrier coating advice ;
If you're applying barrier coat, I highly recommend you hire someone to sand blast or soda last your bottom to bare gelcoat.
Carefully inspect your bottom for blisters. They are not always blatantly visible so it's a good idea to feel for them too. Any found will need to be ground open and repaired
Before the barrier coat can be applied , be extra sure that the frp is completely dry. You can monitor it with a moisture meter.
Keep in mind , it can take weeks and sometimes months to completely dry out. You don't want to trap moisture underneath barrier coat as that will auctually promote blisters (like putting on a rain coat over top of wet clothes)
When applying 2000E , make sure to get a 10 mil DFT (Dry film Thickness) which usually will happen with 4-5 coats depending on the roller its applied with.
I like to use 1/4" foam rollers rated for epoxy. The west system #800 rollers are always a safe bet.
A thinner roller will require more coats but will also leave the least texture.
In between coats of barrier you have plenty of time before the next coat needs to be applied , but... you need to carefully plan out your last coat of barrier coat so that the bottom paint of your choice can be applied without having to sand the last coat of barrier achieving a true chemical bond.