How to prep new 21 for bottom coat ?

[naturechick23]

Hi everyone,
As you know we just bought a brand new 21ec and had a couple of questions....I have read dozens of articles about "how to" prep for a new boats bottom paint. Well, there are tons of articles but all have a different version of what they think should be done.
I want to do this right the first time, and it has to be next week. We are on the Connecticut river so it is very brackish. What are your suggestions on this as well as types of paint you have used. I would love to get something that will last multiple seasons although i know it will cost more.Also,how much paint do you use....pints....a gallon? I don't want to buy to much and have it sit around for a whole season.
Also, are there any other Ranger tugs in my area? I would love to find out and tell tall tales with them down the road 😛 lol.
Thanks in advance
Vickie

 

[RProffer]

If you pull the boat out of the water after every use, then you do not need to paint the bottom. Only if you are going to leave it in the water all the time, or go on a long cruise, do you need to paint the bottom. I use Interlux Micron Extra on my boats. You put on one coat for each year of protection you want. For example, put on three coats if you do not want to paint the bottom again for three years. Follow the instructions on the label for preparation. It is expensive, but worth it. You can find it at West Marine.

 

[rt11002003]

First the wax left from the mold has to be removed. Use a material made for that, m/b mineral spirits-I can't recall. Then, lightly sand the entire area to be painted, lightly, lightly, just enough to scuff it so the bottom paint will bond. Then put on your paint of choice. I use Trinidad SP (or is it SC?). We're traveling, looking for an Albin trawler, so I don't have my files with me.

It's not rocket science, Vicki. But, it is hard, dirty work. Also dangerous, beware of breathing the cleaning fluid fumes and the paint fumes without a respirator.

Gene