Overcoating Bottom Paint

[KeelHaulin]

I have a question regarding what paint to overcoat with. Currently I have 2 coats of Interlux Ultra over a barrier coat. I have 2 gallons of Ultra (purchased ~2 years ago) but I don't think that is enough for 2 coats; 3 gallons would probably be required for 2 full coats.

So should I re-coat with Ultra; or should I consider switching to an ablative? Do I need 2 full coats on a re-coat or should the 2 gallons be OK for a maintenance coat?

Does anyone have experience with Interlux Ultra? Last time I had difficulty getting it on smooth; the painted surface was quite rough. I used a roller and tried to apply it thick but it just would not smooth out. It's probably due to the high copper content; the paint is very thick. However; when painting a small bit of Trinidad SR onto the area beneath the keel support before launching it went on easy and much smoother. So I don't know; should the Ultra be thinned down so it flows better?

[bubb2]

If it were me, I would go ahead and use the Ultra this year. I say this because the cost of new bottom paint and what you already have invested in the 2 gallons of Ultra. Yes, you can thin it,I believe you use 213 or 233 thinner, but double check. Next year I would go with a ablative. With the copper content of Ultra one coat should do it.

[max-on]

I only put on 1 coat of Trinidad SR each year.