Removing Gelcoat

published 04/11/2019

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QUESTION: Is it permissible to remove the moulded gelcoat from the deck in preperation for re-coating?

ANSWER: No.

Interpretation on Class Rules:

A question was raised with regard to reducing the amount of moulded polyester gelcoat on the deck, via sanding or grinding, in preparation for re-coating.

Upon review by the Class Chairman, the Class Measurer and the One Design Technical Committee Chairman, it has been decided that:

• Under CR C.7.1(a) and CR C.7.1(b), grinding or sanding is permitted for the repair of local imperfections.
• However, reducing the thickness of the moulded gelcoat over large areas of the boat would be in breach of CR C.7.1(b)
• CR D.2.3(c) states that no advantage should be gained by a repair
• By reducing the thickness of the moulded gelcoat over areas of the deck, that are not in need of repair (including areas of moulded non-skid pattern), and re-coating with other materials, weight would be reduced, particularly in the ends of the boat. This is deemed to be an advantage.

The Chairman also advises that any boat or boats in question may be checked by the Class Measurer at the upcoming 2019 World Championship. Any boat found to have less gelcoat thickness that can reasonably be accepted as an average thickness (based on the procedures of licensed Class Builders) over large and otherwise un-repaired areas may be subject to re-measurement and re-certification, under the class rules.

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