Detailing in water

David M

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Mar 5, 2005
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For a variety of reasons (read money) I would rather avoid a short haul if possible and put the money into fuel. Is there a recommended way to detail a hull in the water. At the end of last season, all was similar to when I splashed with new ablative paint and shiny running gear. I am hoping the spring will bring the same results.

TIA
 
If the hull doesn't need compounding with the buffer, an easy way to get good results is, give it a good cleaning with hull cleaner and rinse well. Let dry.
Then use a basic kitchen sponge mop (Quickie brand, has the sponge fold in the center for wringing) and I'd recommend Meguiar's Cleaner/Wax (although no one on this board seems to like Meguiar's products), applying a little on the sponge (dampen it with water first) and work your way up and down the hull sides right down to the boot stripe. Put as much pressure on the sponge as possible, and use the little red coarse strip on black marks or stubborn dirty areas.
When dry, wipe off with a small hand towel. For hard to reach areas, like the bow, I've zip tied a car window washer squeegee thing on the end of a pole and tape a towel to it to remove the wax. Then I found a T shaped window washer on an extender pole which worked much better (found at home depot).
It sounds awkward but this method works PD well.
Buzz
 
Washing and drying your boat every week really helps to keep the shine on! Do not use harsh cleaners. I preferred to use Zip Wash 'n Shine by Turtle Wax. Wet, soap up, rinse, then hand dry.

Near the waterline will be more difficult. Use a "hull cleaner" and a brush on a pole to scrub. Rinse very well.
 
For any newbies or forgetful ones here, Buzz was a professional detailer up in Portland OR for a long time, so he is sharing tricks of the trade here.
 
Just my opinion - any time I have skipped waxing any part because I could do it while in the water resuled in that part not being waxed. If you don't do it while you're out, it just won't get done.
 
thanks George, sometimes I miss the work, other times, not so much.
Best regards to you and Reno.
Buzz
 
Ditto what Stephen said!! I spent two entire days waxing this weekend exactly for that reason!!
 
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