Bottom paint stripping

[Mike Mc]

Has anybody heard of something called SpongeJet as an alternative to soda blasting for bottom paint removal?
From previous threads it appears the 310 does not have barrier coat, so if I do strip all paint down to gel coat do I need to barrier coat, or can I paint straight on gel coat? If so what primer would work?
Any info appreciated,
Thanks

 

[JK_Boston_Catalina310]

We redid our bottom last year. We had the marina pressure wash down as much as they could (paid them extra for it). Then it was hand sanding. I don't like the idea of media blasting on gelcoat.

We put two coats of Interlux 2000e barrier coat, mainly as a primer for the paint since Catalinas of our vintage don't need barrier coat for blisters. Then 2 coats of Pacifica Plus. Very happy with both.