Barrier coat prep

Sixbrothers · #1 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

I'm ready to barrier coat my new (rebuilt) rudder. I've got my Interprotect 2000E etc. The directions on Interlux's web site say that I should wash it with boat soap then sand it and finally wipe it down with Interlux 202 solvent wash. My question is: is there any other product I could use instead of this solvent wash? I don't mind purchasing it but the nearest marine store is over an hour and a half drive away. I want to start on it right away so I don't want to wait to get it shipped.
Of course I want to do this right but if this stuff is some common product with a marine name and price on it I would rather buy local and save time, gas, and money.

Thanks

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

Interprotect 202 is a mix of naphtha petroleum distillate with several other compounds, like xylene, pseudocumene, cumene, cyclohexanone and methyisobutyl ketone added in. Mainly, it is designed to lift off oils very aggressively.

I believe you can probably use acetone or denatured alcohol to wash the boat down. Basically, it is to get any airborne grease and dirt off the surface. Remember to use two cloths... one to wipe the solvent on, and one to wipe it dry and pick up any contaminants it may have lifted off the surface. Change the cloths frequently.

If you have any questions whether acetone or denatured alcohol would be better, call International paints, who makes the Interprotect and ask them. I would guess that they'd recommend the Acetone...since it is a bit more aggressive than the denatured alcohol.

Another possible solvent for you to use would be Xylol, which may be available at your local hardware store. It is primarily xylene... and should work fairly well.

jrd22 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

Check your local auto paint store if you have one in your area. There are several commercial products that are designed as a "final wash" prior to applying two part finish coats. Worth a try, might save you a long drive. I hate being ready to do the job and then something like this causes a delay, frustrating. Good luck.

John

Sixbrothers · #4 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

Thanks for all the advice. I will investigate.

pegasus1457 · #5 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by jrd22

There are several commercial products that are designed as a "final wash" prior to applying two part finish coats. Worth a try, might save you a long drive.

John

And what if it doesn't work as well as the Solvent Wash 202? And the barrier coat starts to peel off the rudder after one season? The OP has invested $100 or more in Interprotect 2000. If it doesn't bond properly, he has to do the whole thing over again. Sand the whole rudder, solvent wash, new barrier coat?

If it were me, I wouldn't take any chances. BTW I am about to do the same job on my bottom in 6 weeks when the temps here get above 60F.

sailingdog · #6 (**permalink**) 02-15-2008

That's kind of why I told him to call International Paints... to ask about whether acetone, denatured alcohol or Xylol will work in place of Interlux Fiberglass Prep Wash 202.

Quote:

Originally Posted by pegasus1457

And what if it doesn't work as well as the Solvent Wash 202? And the barrier coat starts to peel off the rudder after one season? The OP has invested $100 or more in Interprotect 2000. If it doesn't bond properly, he has to do the whole thing over again. Sand the whole rudder, solvent wash, new barrier coat?

If it were me, I wouldn't take any chances. BTW I am about to do the same job on my bottom in 6 weeks when the temps here get above 60F.