57
2008 IMPERIAL
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE — 3
Waxes -
Waxes come in many types
of chemical make-up. Most contain
cleaning agents, lubricants and wax.
Cleaning agents remove oxidation and
leave a high gloss, and wax leaves a
clear
fi
lm that protects the
fi
nish
Polishes -
Polishes combine wax based
substances with abrasives to clean and
polish at the same time. These products
can be too abrasive for clear coats and
are not recommended for use.
Rubbing Compounds -
These
types of products are generally
applied by using a buffer. The use of
rubbing compounds should be left to
professionals as undesired results can
quickly occur. These types of products
are generally used to correct or
fl
atten
a surface by removing high spots or
small amounts of material.
When selecting a product, the container
should be marked,
“safe for clear coats”
or
“clear coat safe.”
Carefully follow the
application instructions when using a product.
Upon
fi
rst use of a product, try it on a small
test spot in an inconspicuous area in case an
undesired reaction occurs.
Observe the test area from different angles to
check for hazing or swirl marks. If an abnormal
reaction to the
fi
nish occurs, discontinue product
use and consult the product manufacturer. If the
product is a paste, do not allow dried paste to
be baked on by the sun. Remove paste shortly
after drying. Clean, dry, 100% cotton cloths are
best suited for the removal of dried paste. Turn
the cloth often. Use a separate clean cloth to
buff. The surface should feel slick when rubbing
the cloth lightly over it. Avoid repeated wax
applications which can cause wax to build up.
Some very
fi
ne scratches or swirl marks may
be removed by an application of a glaze. These
types of glazes
fi
ll the scratches or swirl marks.
The motorhome has a large surface area.
Washing and waxing may not be completed
in one afternoon. Select sections to wax until
the motorhome is complete. If the task seems
overwhelming, have an automotive detailer
perform the task.
Paint Codes
The motorhome color scheme is comprised of
speci
fi
c paint colors, each assigned a code used
to achieve a desired color of paint. “Touch-up”
paint may be used to repair a small scratch or
imperfection in the paint surface. To paint a
larger area, it is necessary to obtain the paint
code to get the correct color match.
To Obtain the Paint Code:
1. Contact
National Parts
at
1-877-466-6226
.
2. Specify the year, model, serial
number and exterior color scheme
name (if known) to obtain the paint
codes.
3. The formula can be mixed at a local
paint store. Call the Akzo Nobel Tech
Line at 1-800-618-1010 (Opt. 3) to
obtain a local (Sikkens) paint supplier.
NOTE:
All special paint schemes require
contacting Monaco Coach Corporation
directly for paint codes.
Tire Care
Proper care and methods in cleaning must
be used to obtain the maximum service years
out of the tires. Use a soft brush and a mild
detergent to clean the tires. If a dressing
product is used to “protect” the tires from
aging, use extra care and caution. Tire
dressings that contain petroleum products or
alcohol may cause deterioration or cracking.
In many cases it is not the dressing that
causes a problem but the chemical reaction that
subsequently occurs. When these same dressing
products are used on a passenger car tire that is
replaced every three to four years, it is rare to
see a major problem. However, in most cases
recreational vehicle tires may last longer due to
limited annual mileage and exposure.
