Windows staining the Gelcoat ..

[Ozz043]

Hello All
I have noticed black streaks coming from under the windows on my Marlin. I assume it's the rubber seals but internals are dry, also I don't really want to disturb them.
Any ideas anyone ?

 

[seasick]

Hello All
I have noticed black streaks coming from under the windows on my Marlin. I assume it's the rubber seals but internals are dry, also I don't really want to disturb them.
Any ideas anyone ?

Black streaks can be caused by a lot of things, aging rubber parts being one. Just dirty air, pollen and the like can add to the streaks. I find that some polishes are more prone to black streaks than others and some treatments like protectorants for vinyl and plastic ( similar to Armourall) are really good at causing black streaks.
Usually a cleaner wax will remove the streaks but if they don't easily come off, there are black streak remover sprays that work well but you should reapply wax after use.

 

[mboyatt]

Have you tried acetone to remove the streaks? Cheap and works on lots of stains. Will not harm your gelcoat either. I agree on a good wax when you remove the stains. That will make it easier to remove them each time they return. Keep her waxed.

 

[Ozz043]

I use a wax cleaner after a few trips, maybe that's causing the issue by soaking into the rubber...the rubber gets wet with rain or dew and ... I've also noticed that the rain/dew is pooling on my boat where the sailer next to me is bone dry ?

 

[Ozz043]

G-Day All
Has anyone replaced the window seals on a Marlin ?
I think it may be time to replace them.....unfortunately.