In article 6ffLe.199430$5V4.3627@pd7tw3no,
"G.E. Way" wrote:

I plan to haul my 30 ft powerboat to clean the many layers of old bottom
paint right down to the gelcoat. There are several brands of chemical
strippers available, but all apparently require a lot of very messy work.
I have heard about a process called soda blasting, which is similar to sand
blasting, but they use baking soda. It is supposed to be environmentally
friendly, and doesn't harm the gelcoat. (presumably, if done correctly).

Has anybody had any experience with soda blasting, or is there a recommended
method / product for removing bottom paint? (Other than hiring someeone else
to do it) The soda blast option sounds like it would be quick, and therefore
relatively inexpensive. All comments greatfully appreciated.
Thanks.


Soda blasting works very well. Had it done for time & materials and it
was quite cost-effective.

If you want to do it yourself, there's a scraper with a carbide blade
that friends swear by. I can try to find the exact name if you want.....

--
Jere Lull
Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD)
Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html
Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/