TOPIC: removing scum from bottom of hull.

I am restoring a 58 Lund aluminum boat. It sat in the water for many summers and has a coating of dry scum on the bottom. I have unsuccessfully tried many different types of lime remover, laquer thinner, Simple Green, and about everything else in the shop. The next try will be soda blasting. Does anybody have any ideas?

Thank you,

Randy

I may be able to get in touch w/a guy that had the same issue, he tried every thing. I think he found his remedy from an airplane guy believe it or not. Ill look for his #,not real familiar w/alum myself.

Yes there is a product you can use,just brush it on and leave it then spray it off.i got the brand for you tomorrow.

randyr,

If nothing else works, try ground pecan or walnut shells in a sandblast machine. - Nut shells will cut most anything, without damaging the metal/glass underneath the scum.

BE CAREFUL to not use too much air pressure.

yours, satx

Some of the gang has had great results using "The Works" bathroom/toilet bowl cleaner to remove scum stains, Randy. Might be worth a try?

I heard of "The Works" for fiberglass but would that also do Aluminum? Do a test area first before you go crazy with it.

I've used Thompson's Deck Wash with great sucess on fiberglass hulls/gellcoat. Not too sure about aluminum/paint. Thompson's deck wash has oxalic acid - dangerous stuff - read the label when handling. I spray it with a garden insecticide (pressurized) sprayer or just a squirt bottle, wait a few seconds and rinse. Amazing results!

The best stuff I've ever found is Captain PHAB Hull and Bottom Cleaner. Just spray it on let it sit for a few min, brush lightly (I usually spray it on the brush too) Then rinse. For really stubborn stains a second application takes it off. The stuff smells great and leaves a nice shine.
Al

This stuff really works!!!