Best way to remove wax b4 re-lettering

[dpvandy01]

I tried the search function and even tried to refine my criteria to no avail.(still not ruling out operator error or ignorance but,) I am re-naming the boat this weekend and need to know the best way to remove the wax from the area where the new name is to be applied? What are the best steps to prep the surface

 

[Daniel P Thomas]

Dawn Dishwashing Liquid Soap will remove all of the wax.
Last year prior to lettering my boat I also wet sanded area.
I believe with 1200 grit paper.
Dan

 

[NorCal Boater]

You are going to go through the renaming ceremony, right?

 

[dpvandy01]

Yes

 

[TimC]

I just used Mcguires oxidation remover to smooth it out. Don't know if that's the best way but my letters are set perfect and I haven't had any probs.

 

[fc3]

Some people use acetone, but that's too strong, IMHO. I prefer Interlux 202 Fiberglass Solvent Wash. Keep changing your paper towels, otherwise you're just smearing the wax around.

Best regards,
Frank

 

[Dave S]

A person who makes and installs decals for a living told me he uses Rubbing Alcohol on a surface to remove waxes and polymers before he applies decals.

 

[Skip]

The other issue, which Daniel Thomas alludes to above, is getting the gelcoat clean-by that I mean no oxidation. Wet sanding is one way to get the gel clean and smooth. You can also compound with a rotary polisher, wool cutting pad, and oxidation remover. At the end of the day you want clean gel that shines like glass, with no odixation, wax, or other imperfections to impede the application of the new letters. Once the letters are on, you can then polish, then wax the area. I do not use any machines, to include the Porter Cable Random Orbital, on the letters. I polish and wax those areas by hand.

regards
Skip

 

[At Ease]

Just renamed my boat and I took the advice from a member who does it for a living and the suggestion was rubbing alcohol. Worked great. After I removed the old letters I used Mequiars color restorer and then the rubbing alcohol.

 

[jmeo2x]

What is the renaming ceremony?????????
ThanksTom

 

[ruf1967]

I was going to say "acetone" as a joke. I can't believe there are persons who would actually even consider putting acetone on fiberglass. It dissolves the resin. Plain old rubbing alcohol works fine for prepping before applying decals.

 

[NorCal Boater]

What is the renaming ceremony?????????
ThanksTom

It is considered bad luck to rename a boat. There is a specific cermony where homage is paid to the God of the Sea, Neptune, to ask for watching out for the vessel. It's kina fun and a good excuse to invite a bunch of friends and drink.

I used to think it was BS until a former boat partner changed the name of his boat with no ceremony and consequently sunk it 3 times in 18 months and replaced 4 engines and 1 outdrive.

Wheter you believe or not....what could it hurt?:huh:

Here is a site that explains the ceremony. http://www.namethatboat.com/boat-renaming.htm

 

[NorCal Boater]

Here is another one. http://www.boatsafe.com/nauticalknowhow/rename.htm