How to Restore Gloss to a Sea-Doo

Like any vehicle used in water, a Sea-Doo needs maintenance to keep it looking new. Saltwater is especially hard on the gelcoat of a boat or jet-ski. Keep the Sea-Doo's gelcoat glossy by using a gelcoat polish on a regular basis. Any cracks or bubbles in the gelcoat can also be repaired by sanding and polishing the area. Preventing gelcoat fading is a constant battle, because the sun and water that damage the Sea-Doo's shine are always present.

Things You'll Need

  • Boat wash
  • Water
  • Sand paper
  • Putty knife
  • Gelcote repair kit
  • Polish
  • Polishing cloth
  • Buffer
  • Seal
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the Sea-Doo to remove dirt and residue. Use boat wash and rinse the Sea-Doo thoroughly with water to remove all the wash when you are finished.

    • 2

      Repair damaged areas if necessary. If no repairs are needed, skip to the next step. Remove the damaged gelcoat with a putty knife, sand the area so the gelcoat will bond easier and clean the sanded area with acetone. Prepare the gelcoat putty according to the instructions on the Gelcote repair kit. Apply the gelcoat with a putty knife and cover the putty with plastic film. Remove the film when the area hardens. Sand the patch until it is smooth, clean the area to remove the dust and buff and wax the spot.

    • 3

      Polish the Sea-Doo with a liquid gelcoat polish and a polishing cloth. Use a buffer for applying polishing paste. If using a buffer, check periodically to make sure it is not overheating. Apply the paste to the Sea-Doo rather than the buffer. Do not buff without paste.

    • 4

      Seal the polished surface by wiping on a polymer polish. Use two coats, which should last for one season. If your Sea-Doo gets heavy use, a mid-season touch-up may be needed.