I was thinking of doing a little hand sanding of the bottom to get a feel of the old paints condition and type. Along with locating the defects (old blisters and the like), being only a preliminary sanding by hand would 60 grit sandpaper be permissible or should I stay with 80 grit or above?
Terrence
Wilmington N.C.
Chrysler 26' 1980
Pandora (for now)
Is 60 grit sandpaper to abrasive?
If you can't see blisters through the bottom paint I doubt that you have any problems. For the blistered bottoms I have done I use really course paper, 36 or even 24 grit on a DA sander. For really thick bottom paint 60 grit is probably OK. If you want to explore a few spots try the 80 grit. I have also had good success using a really good sharp scrapper to remove soft bottom paint. Also plan on using a lot of paper. I buy mine at the Klingspor outlet here in Hickory. Most body shop supply houses sell rolls of stick on sheets for a good price. A vacum attachement is also well worth the money.
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I've used that grit on a random orbit to remove bottom paint, just don't get too agressive with your pressure and dwell time. Good protective mask and suit is a must..
PS if you want to find some blisters, look at the first 3 feet behind the bow. Both my 79's have had the 'measles' right there, and both were so small they didn't show till I sanded some..but there were plenty there.
PS if you want to find some blisters, look at the first 3 feet behind the bow. Both my 79's have had the 'measles' right there, and both were so small they didn't show till I sanded some..but there were plenty there.
Thanks, it sounds like sanding with only hand pressure (no sander) the 60 grit should work ok, I'll keep the 80 grit as a stand by. I have a mask but will need a suit, just what little bit I sanded by hand had dust flying everywhere. No I have not lost my mind thinking I'll just sand the whole bottom by hand. A random orbit with vacuum attachment will haft to wait till Christmas.
Terrence
Wilmington N.C.
Chrysler 26' 1980
Pandora (for now)
Terrence
Wilmington N.C.
Chrysler 26' 1980
Pandora (for now)