Smooth bottom

[Mark G]

What are people using to get the smoothest bottom finish with an ablative paint. Brush, smooth roller, sponge brush? I plan to use a wet scotchbrite pad to prep. On my last boat, a C30, I rolled on two coats one year and ended up with an eggshell finish that seemed to cost me about .4 knots under power. Thanks.

[Ted Pounds]

Mark,

If you want a really smooth bottom you need to get rid of the ablative paint and replace it with a hard surface paint like VC-17.  That's what I did and it made a big difference.  The ablatives are, by their very nature, not designed to give you a smooth, fast finish.  There are other fast paints besides VC-17, but VC-17 is what everyone who races on lake Michigan seems to use.  

[Ron Hill]

Mark : If it's speed you want, then go to a hard bottom paint and spray it on.  The thinner spray will give you the protection against slime and critters, while not presenting a buildup problem.