Albemarle 290 EXPRESS FISHERMAN, Owner'S Manual, Page: 99 / 134

99
290 XF
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, your dealer and/or
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.
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 for the recommended maintenance
procedures.
Sacrificial Anodes
Sacrificial zinc anodes are installed on the inboard engines’
fresh water cooling system and on the transom. The transom
zinc is connected to the bonding system and protects the
rudder assemblies, shaft logs, trim tabs and other underwater
hardware that is bonded. Additional zinc anodes are installed
on the propeller shafts.
The anodes are less noble than copper based alloys, aluminum
and stainless steel. They will deteriorate first, protecting the
more noble engine and underwater hardware against galvanic
corrosion. 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, shiny metal
and free of paint and corrosion. Never paint over the anode.
The bonding system should be inspected by a qualified marine
electrician once a year to make sure all connections are sound
and there is continuity throughout the system.
Boats stored in salt water 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. There could also be a problem in the
bonding system. Contact your dealer for the proper size and
type of zinc 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.