Albemarle 288 EXPRESS FISHERMAN, Owner'S Manual

Page: 87 / 122

87
288 OBXF
Chapter 13:
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
13.1 Exterior Hull and Deck
Hull Cleaning-Below The Water Line
When the boat is removed from the water, clean the outer
bottom surface immediately. Algae, grass, dirt and other
marine growth is easier to remove while the hull is still wet.
Use a pressure cleaner or a hard bristle brush to clean the
surface.
Bottom Painting
If the boat is to be left in saltwater for extended periods, the
hull must be protected from marine growth by antifouling
paint. Because of variations in water temperature, marine
growth, and pollution in different regions, a qualified boat
yard in your area should be consulted when deciding what
bottom paint system to apply to your hull. This is extremely
important as pollution and marine growth can damage
fiberglass hulls.
SANDING OR SANDBLASTING THE HULL
BOTTOM WILL DAMAGE THE FIBERGLASS. USE
ONLY STANDARD ANTIFOULING PAINTS AND
FIBERGLASS WAX REMOVERS AND PRIMERS
RECOMMENDED BY THE ANTIFOULING PAINT
MANUFACTURER WHEN PREPARING THE HULL
FOR BOTTOM PAINT.
Do not allow the hull antifouling paint to contact the outboard
motors. Most antifouling paints designed for hull bottoms
contain copper and can cause severe galvanic corrosion
damage to the motors. Always leave at least a 1/2” barrier
between the hull bottom paint and outboard motors.
Most bottom paints require some maintenance. Proper
maintenance is especially important when the boat is in
saltwater and not used for extended periods or after dry storage.
If the hull bottom has been painted with antifouling paint,
contact your dealer or local boat yard for the recommended
maintenance procedures.
Anodes
Sacrificial anodes are installed on the outboard motors,
engine bracket and trim tabs. The anodes are less noble
than copper based alloys, stainless steel and aluminum. They
will deteriorate first, protecting the more noble underwater
hardware against galvanic corrosion.
They must be monitored if the boat is to be left in the water.
Anodes should be checked monthly and changed when they
are 75% of their original size. When replacing the anodes,
make sure the contact surfaces are clean, shinny metal and
free of paint and corrosion. Never paint over the anode.
Boats stored in saltwater will normally need to have the
anodes replaced every 6 months to one year. Anodes requiring
replacement more frequently may indicate a stray current
problem within the boat or at the slip or marina. Anodes that
do not need to be replaced after one year may not be providing
the proper protection. Loose or low quality anodes could
be the problem. Contact your engine dealer or Albemarle
Customer Service for the proper size and type of anodes to be
used and the specific installation procedure.
Fiberglass Gelcoat Surfaces
Normal maintenance requires only washing with mild soap
and water. A stiff brush can be used on the nonskid areas.
Kerosene or commercially prepared products will remove oil
and tar which could be a problem on trailered boats. Harsh
abrasive and chemical cleaners are not recommended because
they can damage or dull the gelcoat, reducing its life and
making it more susceptible to stains. When the boat is used
in saltwater, it should be washed thoroughly with soap and
water after each use.
At least once a season, wash and wax all exposed fiberglass
surfaces. Use a high quality automotive or boat wax. Follow
the procedure recommended by the wax manufacturer. The
washing and waxing of your boat will have the same beneficial
effects as they have on an automobile finish. The wax will fill
minute scratches and pores thus helping to prevent soiling and
will extend the life of the gelcoat.
After the boat is exposed to the direct sunlight for a period
of time, the color in the gelcoat tends to fade, dull or chalk.
A heavier buffing is required to bring the gelcoat back to its
original luster. For power cleaning use a light cleaner. To
clean the boat by hand, use a heavier automotive cleaner.
Before cleaning the surfaces, read the instructions given with
the cleaner. After cleaning the surfaces, apply wax and polish
all fiberglass surfaces except the nonskid areas.
If the fiberglass should become damaged and need repair,
contact your dealer for an authorized repair person to make
the repairs.