Cessna 152 1978, Pilot Operating Handbook

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CESSNA AIRCRAFT COMPANY FOR TRAINING USE ONLY
MODEL 152 8-13
PAINTED SURFACES
The painted exterior surfaces of your new Cessna have a durable, long lasting finish and, under normal
conditions, require no polishing or buffing. Approximately 15 days are required for the paint to cure
completely; in most cases, the curing period will have been completed prior to delivery of the airplane.
In the event that polishing or buffing is required within the curing period, it is recommended that the
work be done by someone experienced in handling uncured paint. Any Cessna Dealer can accomplish
this work.
Generally, the painted surfaces can be kept bright by washing with water and mild soap, followed by a
rinse with water and drying with cloths or a chamois. Harsh or abrasive soaps or detergents which cause
corrosion or scratches should never be used. Remove stubborn oil and grease with a cloth moistened
with Stoddard solvent.
Waxing is unnecessary to keep the paint surfaces bright. However, if desired, the airplane may be
waxed with a good automotive wax. A heavier coating of wax on the leading edge of the wings and tail
and on the engine nose cap and propeller spinner will help reduce the abrasion encountered in these
areas.
When the airplane is parked outside in cold climates and it is necessary to remove ice before flight, care
should be taken to protect the painted surfaces during ice removal with chemical liquids. A 50-50
solution of isopropyl alcohol and water will satisfactorily remove ice accumulations without damaging
the paint. A solution with more than 50% alcohol is harmful and should be avoided. While applying the
de-icing solution, keep it away from the windshield and cabin windows since the alcohol will attack the
plastic and may cause it to craze.
PROPELLER CARE
Preflight inspection of propeller blades for nicks, and wiping them occasionally with an oily cloth to
clean off grass and bug stains will assure long, trouble-free service. Small nicks on the propeller,
particularly near the tips and on the leading edges, should be dressed out as soon as possible since
these nicks produce stress concentrations, and if ignored, may result in cracks. Never use an alkaline
cleaner on the blades; remove grease and dirt with carbon tetrachloride or Stoddard solvent.
ENGINE CARE
The engine may be cleaned with Stoddard solvent, or equivalent, then dried thoroughly.
CAUTION
Particular care should be given to electrical equipment before cleaning.
Cleaning fluids should not be allowed to enter magnetos, starter,
alternator and the like. Protect these components before saturating the
engine with solvents. All other openings should also be covered before
cleaning the engine assembly. Caustic cleaning solutions should be used
cautiously and should always be properly neutralized after their use.