PeterO wrote; >I've had a carbon fibre paddle for 3 years and the blades are starting to >be >covered with fine scratches. Can anyone tell me if this will weaken the >blade which is exposed to a fair bit of UV in the intense Australian sun. >Also recommendations on restoration of the surface and care and maintenance >would be very welcome. Acccording to my source the carbon fiber should provide adequate protection to the laminate below the first layer but some deterioration on the surface may occur. If the scratches bother you the paint will solve the problem (you can even use it for fancy decoration if that turns you on) . Two part polyurethanes seem to work best. I have used these for over 25 years and they hold their gloss as well as providing a touhg finish. Most custom yacht builders use them. Brand names that I have used with success include AWLGRIP, International, IMRON and Sika. Not sure how easily you can them Down Under but every marine store worthy of the name that I have seen carries something. Cheers John Winters *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Jan 10 2005 - 06:44:33 PST
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