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Buffing a Varnished Finish

One part science, five parts experimentation. Every wood boat veteran has their secret recipe for a showy finish. Share your trials and triumphs.

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Moosemeat
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Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by Moosemeat » Wed Sep 14, 2016 10:29 am

I returned from the SML show with some white dock scuff marks. I use a auto style heavy electric buffer, a 3M waffle pad and 3M Finnese It compound. It did a great job of removing the scuffs; so much so that I'm tempted to do the whole boat.
Is this a good idea, as I think that buffing may remove a bit of the varnish. I would like to get another two seasons out of this finish. Thanks.

joanroy
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Re: Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by joanroy » Wed Sep 14, 2016 10:42 am

Depends on how you use your boat. If mainly for show and occasional use buff, if she gets used a lot and stays in the water and sun, don't buff.

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Doug P
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Re: Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by Doug P » Wed Sep 14, 2016 12:40 pm


Tightline5
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Re: Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by Tightline5 » Fri Sep 16, 2016 9:16 pm

Mossemeat, "Purple Haze" (at that show) has had a slight buffing all over. :roll: :roll: :roll: :roll: :roll: :roll: :roll: :roll: 8)
I think she looks good in the buff, and she has been from GA to Canada in shows all summer. She has been well used this summer.
Phil Jones

1948 US Plywood Executive Runabout Hull #1 "WeldWood"
1954 Racing Runabout R-496
1957 Deluxe Runabout D-17-2062
"MISBEHAVIN"

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tkhersom
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Re: Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by tkhersom » Sat Sep 17, 2016 7:26 am

IMHO it's a personal preference. Buffing looks GREAT! I would rather be out boating then buffing. :D

There is a great article in the latest Brass Bell about Polishing Brightwork by Aaron Ledonne.
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Troy in ANE - Former President CCABC

1957 CC 21' Continental "Yorktown" (Mom's boat)
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1985 Formula 242LS "Gottago"
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Moosemeat
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Re: Buffing a Varnished Finish

Post by Moosemeat » Sat Sep 17, 2016 1:25 pm

Phil has a photo of my boat being towed to the haul-out ramp at the SML show. I'm not sure I'll take her out again until I figure out what's going on with the twin carbs from Hell. The boat started and ran until I turned towards the ramp, then conked out. I guess she did not want to leave SML.

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