I'm geting ready to do some repairs to a boat that's had wax on it. It's car wax, so how hard is it to remove? There is some places where there is exposed wood so I don't want anything soking into it. The repairs will be done with epoxy, and the finish is epoxy too.
Thanks
Shawn

Not really hard, but you do want to be thorough. There are products called "Deglossers" and solvent washes specifically to remove wax from fiberglass (The gelcoat/paint is often the first part of a boat that goes in a mold, on top of a layer of mold release wax. This wax has to be removed before adding trim or touch-up paints). Acetone will work, but you have to use lots of rags or you'll just spread the wax around and it will re-harden once the acetone evaporates off.

Option #2 Do the same procedure but use straight household ammonia followed by detergent wash and rinse.

Do either cleaning BEFORE ANY Sanding, you don't want the wax on the sandpaper.

What you want to use is a product called "Prepsol" or a Poly Fiber product called "C-2210". You may be able to find Prepsol locally at a paint store or go online at http://www.stitspolyfiber.com and look for C2210.

They are both used for cleaning surfaces before painting. they remove wax and/or contaminants before painting. Be sure any product you use is completely evaporated before using the epoxy. Especially the Acetone. Acetone is a solvent for epoxies.

Good luck
Chip

I have access to some automotive paint prep. Will this work?

Absolutely, it's the same stuff.

Thanks!!! I'll get started tonight.
Shawn