Chris-Craft 32 Launch (RJ) Owner's Manual page 145

Storage And Commissioning
Maintaining Your Boat's Gelcoat Finish (Continued)
Wash the area
To remove a gelcoat stain, begin by washing the affected area with soap and water. This alone will re-
move many stains, provided they are water-soluble. However, attempting to remove a mineral stain with
soap and water is a waste of time, because these stains are not water-soluble. Mineral stains require
products specifically formulated for their removal. These products usually contain an acid and/or a chelat-
ing (key-lay-ting) agent. Acids dissolve mineral stains while chelating agents chemically bond to the stain
and hold it in suspension until it is rinsed away. All feature simple spray- or wipe-on application and, be-
cause they rely on a chemical reaction, little or no scrubbing is required.
Stain removing products
Products tailored to remove organic and mineral stains on deck and rust around hardware include FSR by
Davis (Model 108753), Pure Oceans Fiberglass Stain Remover, and Rust Stain Remover (Model 126823)
by Starbrite. FSR and Fiberglass Stain Remover are non-runny gel formulations, making them excellent for
horizontal and vertical surfaces. Products such as Pure Oceans Black Streak Cleaner and 3M's Black
Streak Remover (Model 3760212) are tailored to remove the "black streaks" described above. With their
simple spray- or wipe-on application, little or no scrubbing is required.
Heavy stains
Heavy waterline stains and the scum and calcium growth encountered at haul out require a more
aggressive approach. Products such as Mary Kate's On & Off Hull/Bottom Cleaner (Model 127961) and are
strong acid formulations that really pack a punch. They are easily applied with a rag or brush and like other
acid-based products simply require that you wait a few minutes before rinsing them off. Because of their
caustic nature, rubber gloves and eye protection should be worn. Pure Oceans Hull Cleaner is a more en-
vironmentally friendly alternative that works well.
Restoring gelcoat shine
Once the stain is removed, take the time to apply a protective coat of wax to the gelcoat. This will provide a
barrier between staining materials and the pores in the gelcoat, making removal of future stains much eas-
ier. If your gelcoat still has a drab or chalky appearance after removing the stains, it is most likely suffering
from oxidation—so it is time for you to restore its shine!
Tools for making gelcoat shine
Before beginning, assemble the right tools. You will need a medium to coarse deck brush, a separate soft-
bristled brush, chamois and plenty of clean cotton rags. You will also need a pair of goggles to protect your
eyes and, because you will be working on your knees, you will also need protective kneepads. We suggest
Super-Soft Kneepads. These pads are big and comfy, with wide wrap-around straps for comfort while you
do the job.
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