VC17 or micron

[petrus45]

I have a sailboat Hunter 460, i do not know how to determine if the actual bottom paint is VC-17 or micron csc.

How to make sure ?

Thank you

[Freesail99]

If you just bought it ask the former owner. If the yard painted it last year, ask them. Vc-17 is a fresh water paint, if you sail on a lake that may be your answer.

[sailingfool]

Originally Posted by petrus45

I have a sailboat Hunter 460, i do not know how to determine if the actual bottom paint is VC-17 or micron csc.

How to make sure ?

Thank you

Is there a reason you think those are the only two choices? Micron CSC is a soft ablative while VC 17 is a harder teflon finish, you shouldn't find them confusing. If your real question is whether you can put what you want to use over what's there, I'd call the Interlux 800 number and I bet they'll get you to an answer (if you plan to use their poaint).

From yachtpaint.com:
By Phone:
We are happy to answer any product questions you may have and to give technical support on the application of our products. The Interlux technical service helpline 800-468-7589 is open Monday through Friday to assist you.

[TradewindSailing]

VC17 can be wiped off with rubbing alcohol, or even E85 gasoline. Try that on a small spot.

[artbyjody]

The simple test and I know - my boat was advertised with VC-17. When we had it hauled - the simple test is:

If you run your finger across it - does it rub off?

If it does it is not VC-17. It is ablative.

VC-17 is rock hard - can hold up to scrubbing but has to be done regularly.

Abalative - is more resistive to growth... but the drawback is that unless in fresh water will wear quickly.

Racers use VC-17 because they haul it out prior to races and it has to resist the scrubbing etc...Ablatives are useful because on average less you have to tend to it so it becomes a seasonal maintenance item not a weekly etc one...

I think that addresses your original question..