Yesterday tried FF method of using the drywall pole and pad to sand the bottom. Upon further field testing have to give this method 2 thumbs up. Still took plenty of physical ummf...nothing is easy when it comes to the bottom...but I put the boots and oil skins on and went to town. The best thing is no dust, usually look like a raccoon afterwards and then proceed to turn the inside of my shower the same color as my bottom. I wanted to get some 60 or 80 grit pads but couldn't find anything courser than 120.

Thanks again FFreak........

If you've got the ground clearance nothing beats a 6" porter cable random orbit with vaccum pickup.

Have to be careful with em that you don't cut through the bottom paint and into the bottom.

I've read that Bix Extra Strength Sprayable Stripper will take bottom paint off pretty easily without sanding. I plan on giving that a try. Its not supposed to damage the gel coat or fibergalss underneath either.

glad to help.
wetsanding is the way to go absolutely NO dust whatsoever.

be carefull with that chemical stripper once your done you got a huge pile of hazardous waste to deal with.

All I can say is that I'm glad I'm finished with mine. Sanded and Bottom Paint, two (2) coats. Used Petitt Unepoxy, thats what was on it. The last job lasted four (4) seasons. I think I'll have it done next time. Sure is a lot of work!