Must I remove old wax from my bottom before applying VS721

Skipper April 8, 2005 Ask The Skipper

George Kandler asked:

I want to purchase some VS721 Bottom Wax for my 17-ft fiberglass runabout. I put a coat of boat wax on the boat prior to winterizing last season.

What other products do I need prior to application of the Bottom Wax.

Answer:
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You need to strip off the old wax before applying the VS721 Bottom Coat, in order to get good adhesion and longevity.

First scrub the bottom with a solution of 1 part Boat Clean Plus to 4 parts water. Use Aurora Marine Power Mitt or aggressive cloth. Next scrub the bottom with Boat Scrub, or you can wet the Marine Power Mitt with Boat Clean Plus and then add some Boat Scrub to the mitt and scrub with both products at once. This will reduce labor. When you are through the bottom should be squeaky clean and stain free.

Next wipe on the VS721 Bottom Coat with a damp sponge, rubbing it into the gelcoat. Let it dry to a haze. Wipe off the haze with a terry towel. After 24 hours apply a second coat. This will protect your boat bottom all season. At the end of the season just wash the bottom of you boat with a solution of Boat Clean Plus, using a sponge or Aurora Marine Power Mitt. There will enough left to protect your bottom over the winter storage period.

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora