Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Gel-Coat Z-Legs?

Posted by carter samford on 09/26/14 - 6:45 AM
#1

Has anyone out there ever tried to gel-coat a z-leg?
That fiber plastic material, not sure what it is called used in the z- legs is similar to fiberglass.
Is there any reason why this won't work? I have some old dry legs that penetrol won't penetrate
so I was thinking about giving it a try.
Input welcome.
Thanks

Posted by Phil T on 09/26/14 - 1:39 PM
#2

Gelcoat will not stick.

Why not sand down the chalky layer and then retry Penetrol. How about posting some photos.

Posted by Weatherly on 09/27/14 - 7:24 AM
#3

I recommend you paint your Z-Legs with Krylon Fusion satin expresso spray paint (after sanding, of course). The Krylon Fusion paint finish will last many seasons and Krylon Fusion spray paint costs much less than penetrol.

Posted by Whalerbob on 09/28/14 - 8:29 AM
#4

Is this the Penetrol you're taking about? http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/...do?pid=174
I've never used it but they claim it also helps to restore old fiberglass, anyone ever try it on their hull?

Posted by carter samford on 09/28/14 - 9:51 AM
#5

No! I wouldn't put Penetrol on my hull.
It just restores the gloss and new appearance to the material used in the z-legs.
It will not work on gel coat. Penetrol is just an oil base liquid used to condition oil base house paints.
Helps the paint flow out and with less brush strokes.
Someone figured out that it works good on the z-leg material and it does if they are not to dried out.
I am sorry if I have mislead anyone here.

Posted by Buckda on 09/28/14 - 12:18 PM
#6

I've had good results by sanding the oxidation off and then sealing the legs with a urethane varnish. Unfortunately, this means that they will have to be maintained every few years, but they look fantastic.