Section : General

Fibreglass hardtop repairs 

Posted By : Gary Ohlson, 22-May-2006, 01:01am

Hi All,

I have just purchased a secondhand (at least!) fibreglass hardtop for my 13/60 Herald, but it is in need of some tidying up. One of the previous owners has painted it in a thick black paint but it now looks a bit tatty with age, wear and tear. It needs to be stripped back before being repainted, and this is where I need your advice.

Can you recommend the best way to safely remove the layer(s) of paint without damaging the fibreglass and what would be the best paint to use once fully prepared? On a budget, so would need to be in an aerosol can rather than using a fully kitted out paint shop oven etc Final question is one of asthetics, Matt or Gloss black finish?

Thanks in advance of any recommendations, ideas or suggestions.

• Fibreglass hardtop repairs 

  Posted By : Jason Chinn, 22-May-2006, 07:30am

  Personally, I'd go for sanding, that wayyou can control how deep you go! Chemical strippers could damage your fibreglass. As for paint finish, I'd be inclined to go matt if your hardtop is a bit rough, gloss (especially black) will show every imperfection - check my profile or my blog for pictures of my Vitesse with a gloss black hardtop fitted

• Fibreglass hardtop repairs 

  Posted By : Nigel Gibbins, 22-May-2006, 07:46am

  Sanding (by hand) is the only way I'm ariad... that's why re-painting GRP is so expensive...
  
  If you use chemicals it WILL damage the gel coat (they all do) and if you use an orbital/belt sander then you will gouge great holes in the gel too... It's not pleasant work I'm afriad.

  • Fibreglass hardtop repairs 

    Posted By : Gary Ohlson, 22-May-2006, 08:12pm

    
    Thanks for the info Guys.
    
    I was afraid that I would be told that the only safe way was by hand. Looks like I will need to get busy and dirty to clear the paint off then! Might just get it finished for the summer.....2007!
    
    Thanks again.