Removing mineral deposits from hull at the waterline

[hsims]

Hello,

The hull of my Ranger 28 has an accumulation of minerals at the waterline. The boat has been sitting in a fresh water lake for years. I have read of marina services that included an acid wash to remove such deposits. I assume some dilute solution of hydrochloric acid or possibly phosphoric acid is used since these will dissolve some carbonates and oxides. Does anyone have any experience with this process or know the composition of the solution used? Obviously one wouldn't want to damage the gelcoat in the process as would whacking away at the deposit with a masonry chisel might do. Careful wire brushing has had little effect on this deposit.

hsims

 

[Snotter]

Use muriatic acid which you can buy from any hardware store for ~5$ a gal. Careful of the fumes and its bite.

 

[RichH]

CLR Toilet bowl cleaner.

Dont let an 'acid' or any acid-based cleaner come in contact with your copper bearing bottom paint.

 

[agaliha]

FSR

FSR (Fiberglass stain remover) also works really well. The gel type can even be used in the water (when there are no waves).
Agaliha

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Yards use muriatic (hydrichloric) acid

Which you can get from any hardware store. Use it diluted or full strength. Won't hurt gelcoat, hull paint (not sure about bottom paint) or plumbing... It's also used to dissolve sea water mineral buildup in hoses.

Follow all directions for handling very carefully.

 

[hsims]

Hello,

Thank you all for the quick replies!

hsims

 

[Barnacle Bill]

Try Zing. It is forumulated for fiberglass or aluminum. Great stuff. It is hydrocloric acid which is the same as myriatic (however they are spelled).