What kind of bottom paint do I have?

[Mike]

I've exhausted the archives and myself. I bought a boat (Hunter 33) and I don't know what kind of bottom paint it has. The previous owner can't be reached.Is there a way to tell?Thanks,Mike

 

[Brian]

some help

I do know there are two common types of bottom paint, ablative (spelling?) and another type I can't recall the name of right now. Ablative paint is softer and will wipe off on your hand easier than the harder type. Once your boat is out of the water you should be able to tell, or find someone in the yard that can tell the difference between the harder and softer types of paint. I hope this helps.

 

[Andy Howard]

Ask around

If you know where the previous owner docked her, chances are that the bottom was done within 5 or 10 miles of the old home port. The yard guys might remember working on her and should have records. As you call around also ask what they recommend and if there is a consensus, that's probably what was used if no one remembers.

 

[barrett]

If you can't "find out"...

...then test for compatability...Prep/paint over a small area and wait to see what happens...Make a deal with the seller that you'll buy the paint from him (quanity needed of one that will work,) provided he helps you figure out which that is by letting you test.. Yeah,sounds like a hassle, but not nearly as big a hassle as removing all the old paint because of massive "wrinkling and Bubbling" of non-compatable paints...plus,once you've done it,you'll never have to again...you will know what you put on and you'll never forget..even if you try!