Bass Tracker Boat Cleaning: Easy Tips For Sparkling Results

Keeping your bass tracker aluminum boat in pristine condition is a challenging task, especially when faced with stubborn scum and hard water deposits. While various cleaning methods are available, such as using vinegar, aluminum polish, or even acid-based products, finding the right approach to restore your boat's shine without damaging its surface can be tricky. In this discussion, we will delve into the different techniques and products available for effectively cleaning your bass tracker aluminum boat, ensuring it sparkles like new again.

Removing hard water deposits

To remove hard water deposits from your bass tracker aluminium boat, you can try a few different methods. One option is to use a compound wax and a buffer with a wool pad. This method requires hours of buffing but will leave your boat shining. You could also try an aluminium wash, which you can spray on and then hose off. If you're looking for a stronger option, try Marikate On & Off, which is designed to remove super nasty scum from pontoon boats. Spray it on or brush it on with a paintbrush, let it sit, then use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub before power washing it off. Be careful with this product, as it's very strong.

Another option is to use an acid-based cleaner like Toon Brite or NAPA aluminium cleaner. Spray it on, let it sit for five minutes, then hose it off with water. You may need to do this a few times to get the desired results. After using an acid-based cleaner, you'll need to polish your boat. Use a wool bonnet on a dual-action polisher with a metal polish like White Diamond. This will leave your boat shiny, although not a perfect mirror image.

If you're looking for a more natural solution, you can make a paste with cream of tartar and vinegar. This method requires some elbow grease, but it can effectively remove hard water deposits. You can also try using Alumabrite, a product designed to clean aluminium.

Using acid-based cleaners

Acid-based cleaners can be used to clean your bass tracker aluminum boat, but it is important to exercise caution as using the wrong type of acid can damage the boat. Muriatic acid, for example, is highly corrosive to aluminum and should be avoided as it can eat away at the metal and cause etching, leaving the metal with a white, streaky finish.

Instead, opt for acid-based products specifically designed for cleaning aluminum boats, such as Toon Brite or NAPA aluminum cleaner. These products can be sprayed on, left to sit for a few minutes, and then rinsed off with water, requiring minimal scrubbing. It may take multiple applications to achieve the desired level of cleanliness.

Another option is to use an HVAC a/c coil cleaner, which is said to be similar in composition to the above-mentioned acid-based products. This can be applied in the same way, and while it will leave your boat clean, it will also result in a dull finish.

If you choose to use an acid-based cleaner, always follow safety precautions and dilute the product if necessary. Additionally, be aware that acid-based cleaners may not be suitable for all types of aluminum finishes, and they may not be necessary for regular maintenance cleaning.

After using an acid-based cleaner, you may need to polish your boat to restore shine and protect the aluminum from further oxidation. This can be done using a wool bonnet and a polisher with a metal polishing compound.

Polishing the boat

Polishing your boat is a very satisfying way to spend an afternoon. It's fun to see a cloudy, dull boat transform into a shiny, showroom-ready boat. But before you start, make sure you have the right safety gear and equipment. You'll need hearing protection, such as over-ear earmuffs or earplugs, as buffing wheels can be loud. Goggles or a face shield will protect your eyes and face from flying debris, and a respirator or N-95 mask will protect you from breathing in contaminants. Gloves and clothes you don't mind getting dirty are also a good idea.

When it comes to equipment, the most important thing is to have a reliable buffing and polishing tool. An orbital rotary buffing tool, similar to the ones used for waxing cars, will work just fine. Avoid using an angle grinder, as the high RPMs make them unsuitable for polishing. Battery-powered buffers are convenient, but a corded one is cheaper and more reliable. Rotary tools are also a good investment, as they can be used for other tasks like waxing and polishing cars.

The process of polishing aluminium involves three stages: cutting, intermediate buffing, and final polish. Each stage uses progressively softer pads and finer buffing compounds to achieve that mirror-like finish. You'll need three different wheels and buffing compounds, in coarse, medium, and fine varieties. The buffing compounds come in the form of bars and contain small amounts of sandpaper. Both the wheels and compounds are necessary to achieve the perfect shine.

Now, let's move on to the technique. First, make sure you're in a well-ventilated area and put on your safety gear, including respirator, goggles, and hearing protection. Fire up your rotary tool and apply some coarse buffing compound. Hold the rotary tool in one hand and the bar in the other. Gently press the wheel against the bar for about 5 seconds to coat the wheel with the compound.

Now you're ready to start polishing! Firmly press the side of the wheel against the boat and sweep over a 3x3 section. Once the tool is no longer taking off material, stop polishing and remove the aluminium buildup from the wheel using a specialised rake or a block of wood. Reapply the buffing compound and go back to polishing. Repeat these steps as needed, being careful around the corners and curves of the boat.

Once you've completed the first stage, clean off the buildup from the boat using shop towels or a pressure washer. The boat should already be noticeably shinier, but you're not done yet! Move on to the next two stages, changing out your buffing wheel and polishing compound accordingly. After each stage, the boat will become increasingly shinier. After the final stage, you'll be left with a mirror finish.

To maintain that shine, it's recommended to wax your boat every few months. Simply apply some wax onto your wheel and wax the entire boat. Wait about 10 minutes for the coating to become hazy, then buff it to a shine. With proper care, your aluminium boat will stay shiny for years to come.

Applying a gel coat

To apply a gel coat to your boat, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you have all the necessary tools and products for applying the gel coat. Pick a shaded area to work in, as applying a gel coat should not be done in extreme weather conditions. Rain and humidity can affect the process.

Next, clean your boat thoroughly with the right products. Rinse it with a pressurised spray hose and wipe it dry with a clean microfiber cloth or chamois.

After this, identify any cracks, chips, scratches or damaged areas. Mark these with masking tape or painter's tape and cover the parts of the boat that you won't be working on.

Now, clean the damaged area again and sand it with medium-grit sandpaper. Be sure to choose the right grit to prevent damaging a good layer of gel coat.

Before applying the gel coat, match the colour of the paste with the colour of the hull. Test this out to get the right shade. Once you have the right colour, fill in the cracks with a pigmented gel coat paste using a putty knife. Make sure there are no air bubbles. Let the gel coat cure completely and cover the area with plastic film or wax paper.

If the gel coat is worn out, repair it by applying a fiberglass cleaner to restore shine and remove dirt. Sand down the area again if necessary. Fill in the cracks with a mix of fibreglass filler and hardener, which should blend well with the gel coat.

If the old gel coat is highly oxidised, fix it by sanding the remaining gel coat with fine-grit sandpaper and smoothing out the cracks. The old gel coat can also be removed with acetone. Once the hull is dry, apply new gel coat with a spray applicator or brush. Apply as many layers as necessary.

Finally, polish the gel coat area. A rubber compound can be used to smooth out dull surfaces before polishing. Polishing protects the gel coat by keeping the boat's exterior clean and rust-free, maintaining a smooth and glossy finish.

Cleaning without destroying decals

To clean a bass tracker aluminium boat without destroying the decals, it is important to use the right products and avoid common mistakes. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Start by hosing down the boat to remove any loose dirt or debris.
• Apply a boat-friendly, eco-conscious cleaning product. Look for products specifically designed for aluminium boats, such as Boat Clean Plus, which is safe for all surfaces.
• Gently scrub the surfaces with a soft brush or a microfiber cloth. Always scrub along the grain of the aluminium to avoid leaving scratches.
• For more stubborn stains, oxidation, or rust, you can use a specialised aluminium cleaner.
• Rinse the boat thoroughly with water.
• Dry the boat with a soft towel or a chamois to avoid water spots and ensure a shiny finish.

It is important to avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning products, as these can damage the decals and the aluminium surface. Always test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area first. Additionally, avoid using high-pressure water, as it can damage the boat's finish.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your bass tracker aluminium boat while preserving the decals and maintaining the boat's appearance.

Frequently asked questions