Painting teh Toe Rails

[Jim Arthur]

We recently purchased a '79 H-30 and are going through an extensive refurb.Here's my question. Virtually all boats of the late '70's and 80's have the black aluminum toe rails. Not only do I find it unattractive, it's also very hot when I touch it. Has anyone ever painted the toe rail, if not, why not (other than the effort). I am in the process of prepping the entire deck for repainting with Interlux Brightside and would love to include the toe rail in the job.Thanks everyone.Jim

 

[Eric]

1978 H 30 with same goals in mind

We recently waxed and buffed our toe rails which brought back some of the black ... but it's still hazy in places. Do you think that painting them would create ANOTHER endless re-paint project for these old Hunters? It would sure look great but that would be a lot of work if it starts to chip.Re: Topside. I would love to know how you plan to prep the decks and get a "professional" finish. This is one project we desparately want done on our boat (since someone did 2-3 BAD topside jobs in the past). Topside. Toe rails. Teak. Our goal is to full restore the exterior of our sailboat so it is a gorgeous as the interior.Keep me posted.

 

[Sanders LaMont]

Old advice passed along

Previous owner left a manual which says the toe rails need painting periodically. He gave them a light sanding (400 or so grit) to prep the surface, and then simply used a good grade of marine paint. Don't see why you coudn't lighten up the paint color.I have not tried it yet on the toe rails, but did some cleats and it worked out fine. Regards,Sanders

 

[jcherubini]

Don't refinish the toerail.

I would NOT sand them because it would remove the black coating, which is anodising to prevent serious oxidation. Mine is all dinged up from poor application of snatch blocks and other fittings and is already getting a little corroded.I think painting the toerail is just one more ugly maintenance job that will have to be done over and over ad infintum-- like varnishing your teak. As far as possible I would resist taking that (irrevocable) step.Try polishing them really well with wax-like products first. I am sure at least some of that color will come up.And yes, they are hot, but there it is. Remember the black toerail thing is not only functional and intended to be decorative, but it is structural too-- it is the top component (essentially the washer- of the hull-deck joint. And it CAN be replaced... if it's that bad.JC 2