Cobalt Digital Inc 303, Owner'S Manual

Page: 116 / 136

Cobalt_OM_preprint_shell.fm Page 2 Wednesday, March 1, 2006 5:39 AM
5
-
4 303 Owner’s Manual
COBALT
303
D
AY
C
RUISER
S
ECTION
5
DECK AND HULL
The finish on your Cobalt boat is known as gelcoat.
The gelcoat used by Cobalt Boats is the finest
available on the market today. With all its
properties, it is not impervious to the elements and
many types of water conditions.
Cleaning Deck and Hull
A multi-purpose boat soap* should be used to
clean exterior fiberglass/gelcoat surfaces on your
Cobalt boat after each use. This product,
depending upon the ratio mixed, is designed to
clean anything from dirty hulls and decks to greasy
engines. Always rinse and wipe off the finish with a
damp towel or chamois.
A fiberglass restorer/wax* should be used to
remove heavy oxidation, characterized by a
chalk/faded surface as well as rust and exhaust
stains. This product will not only remove the
oxidation, but also leaves a wax protection on the
cleaned surface in one easy application.
Deck and Hull Care
Paste wax* will help retard UV light damage. We
suggest three coats be applied at the end or the
beginning of the season, depending on the type of
winter boat storage (covered, enclosed storage
facility), and again mid-season.
To extend the life of your gelcoat finish, use a
Cobalt marine mooring cover totally covering the
top deck of the boat for maximum protection.
Additionally, if your boat is to be stored where the
sun is constantly on the side or transom of the boat,
you should consider having some custom skirting
made to complement the mooring cover.
Tonneau covers will supply adequate short term
protection to the interior, but will not protect the
gelcoat finish. Please check with your authorized
Cobalt dealer for more information on the subject.
STAINLESS STEEL AND
CHROME
Stainless steel, though highly resistant, is still
capable of rusting, particularly in the marine
environment. Initial signs of rust and corrosion, left
untreated, may result in pitting and permanent
damage to components. Keep your stainless steel
looking new by cleaning monthly with a good
quality stainless steel cleaner or polish. Always
clean and polish in the direction of the grain and
finish.
The following steps will help protect against such
occurrences:
Preventive Steps
Clean and wax metal brightwork prior to extended
storage. In saltwater or other harsh environments,
repeat more often as needed. High-quality
stainless steel cleaners and conditioners are
commercially available. Rinse with fresh water and
wipe dry with towel or chamois after each use.
Cleaning Stainless Steel
Remove rust or corrosion promptly using a good
metal cleaner/polish. Delay may contribute to
permanent finish damage. Do not use steel wool or
other coarse abrasives, or clean with acids or
bleach. DO NOT use cleaners that are not for use
on stainless steel, such as glass, tile or counter
cleaners, or citrus-based cleaners. These types of
cleaners can damage the surface permanently.
Apply metal or automotive wax after cleaning for
additional protection. Always test any product in an
inconspicuous area before applying to the complete
surface.
Should you have reason to replace hardware or
fasteners, be certain that replacements are correct
materials. See your authorized Cobalt dealer for
further information.
* 3M carries a complete line of fiberglass care products.