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Topic: Discolored Fiberglass Exterior (Read 414 times) previous topic - next topic

Discolored Fiberglass Exterior

We just purchased our new project and, as you can see by the avatar, it is an 1987 GV with most of the original decals removed.  A discoloration remains marking where the old decals were, as well as, normal discoloration from age.  Does anyone have any recommendation for removing the discoloration to refresh it up (short of painting or adding decals again)?  I'm OK with leave it as the "Great White" or as I call it "Jaws", but I would like to get rid of some of it's age spots before waxing it up.

Thanks.
Bruce & Jennie
1987 Grand Villa 36', OREG, Model V-814-1

Re: Discolored Fiberglass Exterior

Reply #1 –
Welcome

I am using 3M Marine Restorer/Wax with a dual action buffer on my coach.  It is a 1 step process that has rubbing compound in it and it is for medium or a little more oxidized finished gelcoat.  Does not come out perfect but it is better than doing the 3 step process of compounding, polishing, then sealing- in my opinion ( or maybe I am just lazy in my old age).  You can get this product on Amazon.

I have no personal experience with it but I have heard the Aqua Buff products are good also- again, a multi step project.

Good luck.

 ^.^d  ^.^d
Ted & Karen
2001 U270 36' - sold after 12 years full timing

Re: Discolored Fiberglass Exterior

Reply #2 –
Quote from: besowers –
A discoloration remains marking where the old decals were, as well as, normal discoloration from age.
They call that discoloration a "shadow".  I have removed a few decals on our coach (the ones on the nose).  I found that not only is the color different under the decal, but the surface is actually "higher" than the surrounding area.  I could feel the raised edge with my fingernail.  I think the color under the decal is actually closer to the original color of the gelcoat, and it is the surrounding areas that have faded.  The photo below shows the spot on the roof where I removed a TV antenna.  Note how much darker the original gelcoat was under the antenna base.

I second Ted's recommendation for 3M Marine Restorer/Wax.  I have also had good luck with Meguiar's 67 One Step Compound + Polish, followed up with a good wax/sealer.  If you encounter any of the raised edges, they can be smoothed off with some 2000 grit wet/dry sand paper, applied gently with water.

Meguiar's Marine 1-Step Compound Aggressive Cleaner Polish, 32 fl oz -...
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Discolored Fiberglass Exterior

Reply #3 –
I have found that the color will fade with time (or maybe UV exposure) to match the rest of the coach.  Mine have not gone away completely but they do seem less noticeable as time passes.
John Fitzgerald
1991 U300 (SAI) Side Aisle Island Bed 40'
Detroit 6V92 with Allison Retarder
Meridian (Boise), Idaho
 

Re: Discolored Fiberglass Exterior

Reply #4 –
Compound with a buffer tool.  If you have not done this before make sure you learn how.
Peter & Beth Martin
No Forrest? What have you done?
MC# 15890 until Dec 2016; FMCA #F329677
Cincinnati, OH