Stripe removal, wetsand, etc...

[ngavdba]

Understandable, but being a custom painter I've done countless boats im not just limited to cars, gel coat is a thicker mill than clear coat (total gel coat factory 20 mils, total clearcoat factory 3 mils), 400 all day cannot penetrate through it, with oxidation I dont recommend starting at that but I had die back and chalking, you need to be aggressive at that point. Gel coat is a polyester resin, not urethane like clear coat. It is used to add structural integrity to the fiberglass. This is a quote to the data sheet for evercoat gel coat, "Once the gel coat is cured, sand with 400-grit sandpaper, then 600-grit or finer to achieve a
smooth surface." so starting at 400 is ok.

You have valid points but need to understand this is a boating forum with boating enthusiasts. You are a professional with 15 years experience. I'm sure there are a few automotive painters who can do this dry sanding and not screw it up and probably a few professionals who could screw it up.
I have never heard of dry sanding gelcoat but if it works for you then fine. I just wouldn't recommend it to first timers buying an old boat looking to rid themselves of oxidation. If this was a forum for professional automotive or gelcoat restorers then I'd say you are good to post what you say, but somebody that has no clue and goes this route can seriously F it up in a few minutes. I value your opinion as well as the others on here that have done it themselves. There has to be a level of comfort in this for a weekend warrior in knowing he will eventually reach his goal of oxidation free gelcoat and not "Oh my God, WTF have I just done?"
There is definitely risk vs. reward going 400 dry. I hope you understand my point.

[haugy]

Thanks for making my point Ngavdba, I would never recommend a newbie doing what is being suggested. As I said earlier, the chance of making a mistake is huge.

I would rather someone take a little extra time and sweat to do it a little at a time, and to learn while they do it, versus going for the gold on their first try.