you just contradicted yourself.. I thought you said the duratec instructions said not to pva over it? it's been at least a decade since i used duratec, follow their instructions..
CK5
Register an account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members.
Gel coat questions
- Thread starter Jake_C_
- Start date
you just contradicted yourself.. I thought you said the duratec instructions said not to pva over it? it's been at least a decade since i used duratec, follow their instructions..
I’ve not seen clear instructions online and have seen mixed opinions on various forms, that’s why I was asking, thanks for the insight I’ll do some more digging.
Last edited:
Inside done, going to flip it to do the top side. First attempt with 4” foam rollers did not go great, foam and gelcoat do NOT mix. The foam swelled up and got soft and eventually fell apart. I switched to 4” 3/8 nap woven rollers and they were the ticket. About 3 coats of regular gel and 1 heavy coat of gel/duratec mixed 1:1. Kept the shop warm all night and will continue to for at least 24 hours after applying. The shop has been between 65-75 since I started applying the gelcoat. Not a perfect job but overall very pleased with the finished product. Nice glossy orange peel texture, very hard and slick to the touch. Color looks just about right to match frost white (a factory squarebody color) I’ll update when the topside is done. 
if you want foam rollers that will survive, buy the West system rollers..
Exterior went well, 5 coats of standard non waxed and one with duratec. Love the texture and the slick hard finish. The duratec being so much thinner really flows out well and doesn’t leave roller lines as bad as previous coats. I included some close ups so you can get an idea of the texture, very orange peel-ish. Exactly what I had in mind. 
I don't know, my 76 was like that, my 84 was more smooth.
My 73 was definitely like this and I know it was original.
I’ve seen so many mixed opinions on what the factory finish was, the only thing I’m pretty sure of is that it wasn’t consistent through the years, I know my 88 top was pretty smooth on the outside and as far as I know it was factory. Glad to hear it’s turned out similar to a factory 73.
I have a feeling the early years were textured and later years went smooth.
Not sure what year that happened but I suspect with the body style change in 81
Not sure what year that happened but I suspect with the body style change in 81
I have a 74 Jimmy with original top. It has a texture, much like orange peel for dry wall, and came factory flat black. Inside is smooth and white.
Much appreciated!
Thank you! And I agree.
looks good.....
Thank you, and thanks for all the help!
