Catalina 27 exterior wood

[Bob Middleton]

I am looking at a 1988 Catalina 27 that has a terrible exterior varnish job on all the exterior woodwork. Instead of preparing the surface beforehand, it was just varnished over. Most of the wood is probably in good shape, but some may require replacement. My questions:1) Is there a good chemical stripper available that will not harm the gel coat? 2) If it becomes necessary to replace some wood, where is the best place to go. Specifically I refer to the woodwork for mounting the traveler, cabin top and sides trim and cockpit side sections.3 How difficult is it to replace the woodwork?Thanks,Bob

 

[Roger]

Teak cleaner

I have found teak cleaners to work surprisingly well at removing the black in the wood. I would start by using a teak cleaner, then sand until you are satisfied. You will lose less wood that way. I too, am very happy with Cetol (Sickens) and find it easier to maintain. A yard hand once told me to try mixing household bleach with hydrogen peroxide. I haven't tried it yet but it sounds like it would work (I'd make sure I was outside).

 

[jason schuster]

You'd be suprised

I purchased my catalina 27 (1972 #265) almost 3 years ago. When I took possession of the boat, it was in such a state of disrepair and negelct..epecially the exterior woodwork.My first impression also was to replace the grey and brittle looking treak trim, It didn't look fit enough for a campfire. After removing them for replacement, I wanted to see just how gone they were. I sanded them with a RANDOM ORBIT sander with 80 grit pads. And low and behold with out hardly any effort at all, the teak was perfect beneth the weather damage. Not only was it perfect, it was aged and had patina....somthing that takes years to develop (30 in this case).Once all the wood was stripped, (this is the important part)I applied teak oil to the bare wood with a brush and wiped off the excess. After the teak oil has been applied wait 30 minutes and apply your choice of varnish ( the oil in the teak oil binds with oil in the varnish, I swear!). I strongly suggest" WOOD PRO GLOSS"(5 to 6 coats) a west marine product. It is darker than normal varnish due to its sun screens. But the look is very unique,and it lasts at least a year.Even the "experienced "boaters on my dock ask me what I used..and used the same thing on their boats...the ultimate compliment for beginners luck.