sorry, but an orbital polisher will not restore the dull gelcoat. they are
just what they say they are, polishers, not buffers. get a good variable
speed buffer, makita, dewalt, or equivalant.

a job like this requires several steps and you can do them all with a
buffer, you just change the pads. depending on just how oxidized it is , you
may get by with a polishing pad, usually yellow in color, and some fine
compound. if not yo need some coarser compound and a cutting pad. once the
oxidation is gone, just switch to a foam polishing pad and a good wax. apply
the wax by hand and hit it with the foam pad. if you really want to get
sexy, put a good glaze on top of the wax and put your sunglasses on, you'll
need em.

i just did a friends 20 foot boat last weekend, and as jim so rightly says,
there aint no easy way to do it unless you pay someone else. took us both
all day and 2 12 pax of pepsi, but it is purdy. best regards, j.d.