TOPIC: Gelcoat Crack Issue 1965 Crosby Capri

Project: 1965 Crosby Capri
New at the Forum and need some advice !!
Well this is my first classic boat restoration project and I need some insight as to the repair of severely cracked Gel Coat. I just started the project so I have not done anything yet except removal of some trim and research. The entire hull has the cracking condition throughout all of the gel coat. I did some spot grinding and found that the cracks are just through the gel coat and the substrate does not seem to be affected. I have auto body experience and tools of the trade at the ready. So the question is would I completely strip the gel coat by sanding or media blasting or am I better off sanding it coarsely and glassing the entire hull with a layer of mat & resin? My plan is to paint the boat when I'm done with the fiberglass repairs. I would use a high build primer and marine paint.
I have seen some photos of other great restorations on the site so I'm sure someone has dealt with this issue.
Any experience or advice would be much appreciated !

Vt Boater,

IF it was me, I would sand the gelcoat OFF and then fill any remaining surface flaws with epoxy thickened (to heavy cream consistency) with agricultural/pulverized lime (get it at most any farm supply store. - It's CHEAP & works FINE.), finish sand, prime & paint.

yours, satx

Welcome aboard VT Boater, glad to have you join us.

Welcome aboard VT. Well you have two choices, grind each crack to a Vee and fill or just grind off the gel coat. I think grinding the gel coat would be best since it's all mostly cracked. I'd go with the SATX said. Just my 2 cents.

Bob

agree bob..though i would grind it all off as the gelcoat remaining will surely eventually crack also. big mistake i made with the mantaray. ron

Thank you for the replys and welcome ! I'm going to go with the compete grind/sand off. I will try the filling process on the deep areas. I figure that flipping her over is the best option and doing the dusty part outside now that spring is here.
I will post some pics of my progress !