Need Help getting black streaks out of the gelcoat

[aquaone]

I have 5-10 marks on the outside white gelcoat of a 26x from rubbing up against newer tires at a dock. Anyone know what the best way is to get that out? Any info appreciated, thanks.

Chuck

[jsserene]

I use acetone to remove all shorts of stuff from the hull, including dock marks, trailer tire rubbing etc.

[James V]

Try mixing some bakeing powder with water and make a paste. rub in and let it sit for 5 min or so and wash off.

[Robert]

while abrasive stain removal will leave a less shiny spot that will show if you look at it at an angle.
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I had great success with acetone recommended by my Mac26X dealer.
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Whatever you use, test it on a small spot away from general view first to prove to yourself that it will not harm your finish.

[Billy]

Haven't tried it on the Mac, but when we have black rubber marks on vinyl flooring--WD40 takes it right off. May want to give it a try.

[aquaone]

Thanks guys. I'll try the acetone first. Good thing about that is that you can cut it with water since it is soluble in water. Then if it's stubborn, I'll try the Wd-40 in a small area. The baking soda seems like a bit of an abrasive and may scratch up the finish a bit. Will keep you posted on how it works out. Thanks again for the suggestions.

[kmclemore]

Cross posted from the adhesives thread, and hopefully helpful?

Debond 2000 Marine Formula.

Marine Formula is a specially formulated, patented mixture that cleans and removes adhesives and sealants used on and in the boat.

USES:
Use Marine Formula to clean-up and remove these common marine adhesives and sealants:

• Cured 3M 5200 and other polyurethane adhesives
• Caulks & Sealants
• Black Rub Marks
• Most Graffiti and Overspray
• Adhesive residue
• Liquid Nails
• Adhesive Film from Duct and Masking Tape
• Wipe away excess spills of sealants and adhesives including 3M 5200
• Polysulfide Sealants

Will not harm: Gelcoat, Clear Coat, PlexiGlass, AwlGrip, Imron

[Bill at BOATS 4 SAIL]

I would try WD-40 or mineral spirits first. If one of those didn't work adequately, next I'd try Acetone or lacquer thinner. Then, I'd try what Kevin recommends, or similar.

[James V]

From what I have read you could try making a paste of water and bakeing soda, just put it on and let it set for several hours and rinse off. No need to rub in.

[Tom Spohn]

soft scrub

[Steve K]

Acetone
followed by re-waxing the area where you used the acetone, 'cause it took the wax off with the black mark.

And wear some rubber gloves, when using acetone. It is readily absorbed throught the skin and is very harmfull to the liver.