Penetrol on Imron

[eze2bme]

Several years ago "ron6785" posted the following concerning using penetrol on his Hatteras to restore the shine:
"I have a 1973 53MY with the original paint on the hull and she still looks better than many of the 90's and newer boats in the marina. Her interior is classic and while not slick like searays etc. , she still looks great and has a warm comfortable feel. When your pounding in 6-10's thats when the Hat quality is most noticeable. I'm not saying it's enjoyable but she just keeps slugging away and the hull thickness gives you that solid ride. Because older hats are painted it is easier to keep a shine, I use penetrol about once every year to 18 months and the paint on the hull and cabin shine like its new."

In another thread he said that he washed the boat, wiped it down with Acetone and then applied a thin coat of penetrol with a rag.

My question is: Has anyone tried this and to what outcome? Also, if you've tried this does the finish get dritier than usual or more quickly? Thxs.

 

[Maynard Rupp]

I am not familiar with Penetrol. I do know that acetone will soften the Imron...Not good. I polish ours every year with 3M Finesse it 2. That is what Hatteras recommended years ago.. Our Imron looks like new.

 

[Bob Bradley]

I've used Penetrol extensively in the past as an additive to oil based marine topside paint on my old wooden Chris. It really improves the brushability of the paint and reduces running if mixed properly. It is great to help you keep a wet edge while painting.

As far as rubbing it on an Imron painted hull, I can't see it harming the paint. It really isn't a solvent. It will make it shinier, but I'm betting it will attract dust and grime and be a bit sticky. If you are going to try it, pick a small test area and see how it does.

 

[Tinman]

Years ago we used Penetrol in paint and varnish to flow better, never heard of using it on Awlgrip or Imron. I agree with the 3M Finesse-it if the paint finish is in good shape, if not use Meguiar's fine cut compound, then a coat of Mequiar's M-20 polymer sealant for protection. I use a D/A polisher with foam pads not a high speed rotary. Try the M-20 on a 2x2 clean area first with no residue build up or chalking to see how it looks, may be all it needs and very easy to work with. Autogeek has a lot of detailing info for paint with instruction videos. I would never go back to using wax on a painted boat.