Airstream Rangeline 2023, Owner'S Manual

Page: 59 / 118

Exterior
2023 Rangeline
6-3
Waxing/Polishing Your Touring Coach
Over 90 percent of all automotive finishes are clear
coat finishes that protect the base coat paint/pigment
(the pigmented layer that provides color)� You are
washing and polishing a clear urethane coating when
caring for the bodywork. Since the clear coat finish is
a protective layer, it must be maintained, especially
in harsh environments� Clearcoats do not fade
themselves but appear to fade or lose gloss as the
surface becomes contaminated by the environment�
You must remove this contamination frequently, or
it will result in a dull or low-gloss finish. Occasional
washing alone will not adequately remove some forms
of contamination, so polishing is necessary�
Polishes and waxes primarily serve the following
purposes:
6� To remove minor surface imperfections caused by
water spots and acid rain
7� To remove minor scratches by filling them and
leveling the surface
8� To beautify the paint finish appearance with more
depth and high-gloss
9� To protect the paint finish from the elements
CAUTION
Do not use products that contain harsh abrasives
such as rubbing or polishing compounds. These
products should only be applied by experienced
technicians with the proper training and
equipment. Always wash before applying waxes or
polish. Failure to do so could result in damage to
the clear coat.
Most polishes and waxes are designed to clean and
polish in one application� A hand-applied polish or
wax will offer outstanding performance and protect
the touring coach finish. When applying polish or
wax, do so in a shaded area making sure the surface
is at the specified temperature according to the
polish manufacturer’s recommendations� Due to the
variations of polishes and waxes, incorporate the
following suggestions into the polishing technique:
1� Condition the polishing pad by rubbing a slight
amount of polish on it�
2� Use only the amount of polish specified in the label
directions�
3� Work a small area at a time�
4� Rinse off and remove dried polish from crevices,
trim, and moldings�
5� Follow the products manufacturer’s directions�