Penetrol

[Bob Miller]

My usual procedure for waxing both the hull and topside is to buff with rubbing compound first (to get the weathered chalk off), before applying two coats of good carnuba wax. While browsing in the store the other day, I read the label on a product called Penetrol which, among other uses, is used for removing the chalk from fibre glass. Has anyone tried this product as a substitue for rubbing compund? How did it work?Bob MillerGusty GetawayEverett, WA

 

[Mark Johnson]

Never Heard of that!

I have used Penetrol to treat formica to bring the sheen back, but never heard that it removes chalked gel coat. Let us know if it works!MPJ

 

[Sam Lust]

Penetrol uses

Says it right on the can. Other uses too, like modifying paint. Would they lie to us? I've actualy tried it on scrap pieces of fiberglass, Seems to work. Work it line tung or boiled linseed oil.

 

[Jim]

Penetrol / paint emulsifier

I have tried Penetrol on my black fiberglass truck cap as it was oxidized and I wanted an easy answer. It didn't work. It was streaky and the oxidation came back after a few weaks of sun and then it was worst than ever. I suggest #2000 wet sandpaper, that's right# 2000. Then go to your polish but I suggest a conditioner over a polish, such as McQuiers 55 or 45 [excuse the spelling]. I say this because I used to have algea developing on the hull of my 1980 Hunter and nothing would stop it. Ever since Ive used the McQuiers 55 or 45 I haven't had algea problems on the hull. Penetrol is better suited for mixing with paint to make it spread more smoothly.

 

[Michael Bell]

Pressure wash it

One of the boats in my flotilla is an older Hobie – and every year I work at getting the oxidation off it before setting it out for the Summer.Last spring, I pressure washed it first (2,700 psi) and was amazed at how it took off the oxidation.After washing it, I waxed it, and it was as good as the times I used rubbing compound.