Bottom Paint

I haven’t seen this topic before. I have an ‘88 SN2001. Generally good shape with usual expected needs: a couple of new seat skins, carpet in another season, buffing of gelcoat, fix some old messy PO wiring, and trailer restoration. 600 hours. New carb, starter, RWP. Stringers feel and sound good? A little soft floor ahead of drivers seat only. Spent most it’s life on a CT lake 1 owner. 2md owner used on tidal bay? Hauled out to store dry after each outing.

Nevertheless he had it bottom painted about 6 years ago.

My questions are: 1). how can I ensure that the paint doesn’t contain TBT? Though the age should date it after TBT was phased out you never know if someone used old product on the bottom shelf.   2) how do I get it off, it it’s even possible? Should I care?

Thanks gang. Always a great read and lots of information here at CCF. Helped a lot in deciding to go IB and SN specifically

William,
Removing the bottom paint can be a real PITA but it really depends on what type it is. Start with a weak paint stripper such as one that is based on orange oil. If it doesn't affect the paint move on to one of the caustics. If that doesn't affect it, you may end up having to go all the way with methylene chloride but be cautious that it doesn't start affecting the gel. Some have resorted to sanding!! The ablative paints are the worst.   

Thanks guys. Great info and advice. I followed the thread as suggested. Good details there. I think I’ll postpone this project and focus on fun and fixing other items (like badly needed new rear seat!) and tackle this next off season. Look at that -
I’ve learned from experience not to dive in to projects without a good plan lest I get over my head!    Thanks again.

Well Pete, I never said for him to do it himself. Not worth the mess nor cost to rent equipment.   Water/sandblast is the preferred method. Ive owned larger boats for the better part of 30 years and all were full time wet slip salt water boats. I have never seen anyone attempt to remove paint with stripper. Fact the boat yard would freak.   What a freakin mess and who wants to work on their back with that crap dripping on them?   
Cape marina, Pt Canaveral FL uses water/sand at 5000 psi.   I have not seen them damage a boat yet.   You can get majority off with this method and dry sand to finish it up.    If I was doing it dry then soda is the way to go.   

shierh wrote:     Water/sandblast is the preferred method.    I have not seen them damage a boat yet.

Steve,
Good to know that it can be done by a pro without gel damage. Thanks for your input.