Osprey 5.8 Viper Max - Toluene & Gel Coat

1978SeaRider · 06 April 2009, 12:05

Hi,

I've just picked up a 2006 Osprey Viper Max... what a boat ! I think it previously belonged to 'RibRachel' another one of your members.

Can't say enough good things about it.

I would like to bring the tubes back to former glory, I've been told that Toluene is good for it.... However, I thought this was a paint stripper type substance ? Should I use it ?

If not, what do you recomened ?... its Hypalon.

I also want to Gel Coat parts of the hull... any suggestions on the best type

Thanks in advance... Rob

Mollers · 06 April 2009, 12:24

Use dilute TFR on wet tubes, DON'T LET IT DRY! It'll streak, wash and rinse sections as you go, apply with a big sponge. Dry with towels then apply Polymarine Inflatable protector. This method gives fantastic results, my previous Vmax was filthy when I 1st bought it.
Others will tell you to use different products, this combo I know works well.

Ah, Gelcoat? I use 3m Finesse GRP compound which can be hand or machine applied with a supermop head followed by 3m GRP finishing polish. Again, it gives great results.

Chris · 06 April 2009, 12:26

Hi,

Well done on your purchase I think you got a real Bargain there!

On my previous Viper I had great results with this stuff it does a great job but don't leave it on the tubes too long as its quite powerful stuff!

http://www.rib-shop.com/product.asp?...For=&PT_ID=128

Once you have cleaned then the 3M tube conditioner helps renew the shine and protects the Hypalon.

As for the Gelcoat, I had excellent results for smaller repairs using the plastic padding Gelcoat filler

http://www.force4.co.uk/4673/Plastic...at-Filler.html

if you take it down with finer and finer sandpaper then finish off with 1200 and then 2000 grit wet and dry for a shiny finish looks like new and is a very close match for the Osprey white.

1978SeaRider · 06 April 2009, 12:37

Many thanks !

I've gone for the Polymarine Cleaner and Polymarine Protector direct from Polymarine... I think its a bit more 'idiot proof' than the Toluene !

I am also going to fill the marks with Plastic Padding GelCoat initially and see how well I can buff it up...

The boat is excellent... and I only paid just over 12k for it in the end ! Bargin of the century I reckon !?

Very very impressed with hull design, handles the rough with no slamming at all, and goes over chop at speed with problem... Interior layout is also excellent.. Its got a 150 Mercury on the back, I reached 50mph trimmed up

I'll be doing a lap of Anglesey on the weekend to celebrate !

Thanks again

1978SeaRider · 06 April 2009, 12:43

would you say the 3m Finesse GRP compound would give a better result than the GelCoat filler ?

Only concern is that I'm an amatuer filler !

Mollers · 06 April 2009, 12:50

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1978SeaRider

would you say the 3m Finesse GRP compound would give a better result than the GelCoat filler ?

Only concern is that I'm an amatuer filler !

Compound will give a finish on faded or stained gelcoat, filler is for repaurs. Is it that bad?

I, or someone else will explain how to fill deep scratches if required (I have to work right now.

)

You really have had a bargain, I suggested that some other guy whom was asking questions go and buy the boat, but you snapped it up.

1978SeaRider · 06 April 2009, 14:28

there's no major damage, just a few dinks and scrapes from what looks like a slipway or stone beach... It doesnt really need to be done, but I might as well do it before I put my own marks on it ! I'll try the Gelcoat filler and see how I get on...

I'm glad the other chap was slow off the mark ! I had to drive from manchester to portsmouth, back to manchester and then to anglesey in a day to fetch it.... 13 hours behind the wheel... well worth it though !!

Downhilldai · 06 April 2009, 14:38

Nice boat - well done

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1978SeaRider

I reached 50mph trimmed up...

What prop are you using and what was the max rpm?

jyasaki · 06 April 2009, 16:41

I'd use the solvent method as a last resort kind of thing. It's kind of harsh on the material. Works well for greasy soils, though.

jky

Ribster Rache · 06 April 2009, 18:17

im glad to see that you have acquired my old boat. It was a lovely boat and
you seem very pleased with it.

We sold it when we bought our 7metre Osprey which is now up for sale, if anyone is interested.

Ribster Rache · 07 April 2009, 12:32

the rib is up for sale on boats and outboards. take a look.