Sanding bottom paint is one of the least enjoyable elements of our sport, but it is a necessary evil for boats that are not dry sailed. With a lot of people about to go into the boat yard to prepare their bottoms for a fresh coat of paint, check out this video that shows tools that will make this job easier, faster and safer for your health and the environment.
A SAFER, FASTER AND EASIER SANDING SET UP
First, most boat yards require all sanding to be done with a vacuum to capture the dust. No one wants toxic paint dust on their property or blowing onto other customers’ boats. Many dust making tools these days are designed to attach to vacuums. Notice how there is almost no dust coming from the sander.
Another improvement that makes the job easier is the sanding medium. Sandpaper is now a mesh, not paper at all. These mesh disks attach simply with a hook and loop connection. Since they are mesh, the vacuum can suck the dust through the disk very efficiently. The mesh disks last longer and do not clog or tear. Not needing to change paper often makes bottom work go much quicker.
The final time saving tool that I’m recommending is an automatic switch that turns on the vacuum as soon as you turn on the sander. The switch is programmed to run the vacuum for seven seconds after you turn off the sander so that the dust in the hose gets cleared out. This $35 purchase is a great time saver, especially if you are starting and stopping often.
Great advice, now please tell us specifically what to get and where it would be available. Thank you.
Great advice, now please tell us specifically what to get and where it would be available. Thank you.