Sea-doo GTI 5558, Shop Manual

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Section 14 HULL/BODY
Subsection 02 (ADJUSTMENT AND REPAIR)
SMR2002-049_14_02A.FM
14-02-31
INSTALLATION ON GELCOAT
Clean surface with a good solvent such as ACRYLI-
CLEAN DX 330 from PPG or equivalent (refer to
manufacturer instructions).
For best result apply an activator (P/N 293 530
036) to prepare the surface using a clean cloth.
After a few seconds, when the activator evapo-
rates, the surface is ready.
Using a pencil and the decal as a template mark
the area where decal will be located.
For better adhesion a dry application is recom-
mended, however, to ease decal installation a mild
solution of soapy water can be sprayed over sur-
face where decal will be installed.
Remove back protective film from decal and align
decal with marks. When well aligned squeegee
decal beginning at center and working outward us-
ing firm, short, overlapping strokes.
Remove front protective film once decal has ad-
hered to hull.
INSTALLATION ON PLASTIC
(storage cover)
Clean surface with isopropyl alcohol.
Using a pencil and the decal as a template, mark
the area where decal will be located.
Apply an activator (P/N 293 530 036) to prepare the
surface using a clean cloth. After a few seconds,
when the activator evaporates, the surface is ready.
CAUTION: Do not use soapy water to locate de-
cal on plastic parts.
Remove back protective film from decal and care-
fully align decal with marks. When well aligned
squeegee decal beginning at center and working
outward using firm, short, overlapping strokes.
Remove front protective film once decal has ad-
hered.
HULL AND BODY REPAIR
General
Gelcoat is the smooth and durable cosmetic finish
which coats the fiberglass hull and body of a Sea-
Doo watercraft. It also provides a protective barri-
er against water and sun. It consists of a mixture
of resin, pigment (coloring), fillers, monomers and
catalyst which is sprayed into the mold.
The body and hull of the Sea-Doo are constructed
of chopped fiberglass, saturated with resin. It is
sprayed on the layer of gelcoat along with pieces
of fiberglass mat, cloth and woven rowing which
are added at required areas. This type of construc-
tion is very accommodating for high quality re-
pairs. With patience, the proper techniques and
materials, a damaged area can be restored to an
original finish.
NOTE: Fiberglass repair kit is available through au-
tomotive or marine suppliers. Gelcoat repair kits
are available directly to GELCOTE INTERNATION-
AL LTD.
Air Bubbles
Possible cause:
– Air pocket trapped between layers of laminate
and gelcoat.
PREPARATION OF SURFACE
Remove all of the damaged gelcoat surrounding
the air bubble with a putty knife or preferably a
carbide grinding tip. Make sure all loose and weak
areas are completely removed. Sand a small area
of the gelcoat surface with 220-grit sandpaper. If
needed, sand the cavity itself. These areas must
have a rough surface to allow the gelcoat putty to
bond properly.
FILLING THE CAVITY
The prepared surface must be cleaned with ace-
tone on a cloth. Use a gelcoat repair kit. Follow the
mixing instructions in the kit when preparing the
gelcoat putty.
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WARNING
Protect skin, wear gloves when in contact with
resin, hardeners and gelcoat. A barrier skin
cream may also be used. Do not expose area
to open flame or lit cigarette. Some of the ma-
terials are flammable. Protect eyes, wear safety
glasses when grinding, sanding or spraying.
Use a dust mask when sanding or grinding.
When spraying wear a respirator or paint
mask. Always read warning labels on products.
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