Messed up my gelcoat....dang it!

[Vet4jdc]

2019 331RL...I got on the roof yesterday and did a thorough cleaning. I used the same Dicor roof cleaner that I always use on the black areas and then went over the entire roof with dawn detergent and a soft brush on a handle. The roof came out awesome and I couldn't be happier.


Now my issue, where the Dicor roof cleaner ran down over the side just behind the nose cap, I have drip lines or streaks that are "etched" into the clear gelcoat. This has never happened before. I rinsed the sides immediately after finishing on the roof but the streaks still appeared.


I have used Meguiars RV and boat cleaner for oxidation and that doesn't help it. I also used a couple of cutting and finishing polishes for cars and they don't help either. Anyone used a product that might help remove these?

[Daryles]

I use Turtle Wax bug and tar remover to get the black rub marks off where the slide wipers rub on the slide while bouncing down the road.

[RMcNeal]

If you're sure it's actually etched into the clear coat and not just sitting on top, you may need a more aggressive compound and DA polisher to remove.
First I'd try the least aggressive approach of a 50/50 mix of IPA and distilled water to try to decontaminate the gel coat. Mix half 90% Isopropyl Alcohol and half distilled water and wipe vigorously with a soft microfiber cloth. If that doesn't get it, you may need to try something like Maguire's 67 or 49 compound polish with a medium to soft cutting or finishing pad.
67 is the One Step compound and 49 is the heavy oxidation remover. It's a bit more aggressive than the 67, but still quite safe as long as you don't over do it. Stay away from rotary polishers and only use a random orbit or dual action polisher for safety. Microfiber pads have more cutting ability, but don't run too fast with them.

[Bourbon County]

The first time we took our rig to FL we returned with the nose cap absolutely plastered with bugs. It was so bad I was fully expecting the FL game & fish people to be coming after me! After several unsuccessful washings and trying every bug & tar remover I could find, a friend made a very simple and effective suggestion.

Roll up a stack of clothes dryer sheets really tight like a cigar. Stuff the roll into a spritzer bottle and fill with water. Let it stand overnight to let the chemicals in the sheets to start dissolving. Just spray some of the liquid on the stains and wipe off with a microfiber cloth.

I have found this to be very effective for bugs and the notorious black streaks. It does tend to dull the finish a bit, but the Meguiars product brings it right back.

[Eagleback]

try vinegar. or iron out in a small area.

[Vet4jdc]

Originally Posted by Daryles

I use Turtle Wax bug and tar remover to get the black rub marks off where the slide wipers rub on the slide while bouncing down the road.

Thanks but not sure this will help my situation.

[Camp CA]

Try a rubbing compound and/or wet sanding, followed by waxing / polishing. Start with a low abrasion rubbing compound and/or fine 1000 grit sand paper. This is what I use on my boats.

[432bartman]

I'd stop and call a professional to look at it, before it gets more messed up. It just might save you money in the long run.

[team bradfield]

I'm leaning toward @432Bartmans reply, gelcoat can be tricky

[Camp CA]

You can also apply new color matched gelcoat, if necessary. Do it all the time on my boats (waterski,
sail and power). Lots of videos on the internet to show you how. Of course, consult with a gelcoat expert if you uncomfortable with this type of repair.

[Scootsk]

I was of the understanding that Montana paints the front caps with automotive grade paint since the mid twenty teens.

[dfb]

if worse comes to worse you can use Gelcoat repair from a boat shop...