Holiday Trip 2012, Owner'S Manual

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2012 Trip
Therefore; it is up to the motorhome owner
to perform regular washing maintenance and
neutralize any corrosive agent applied to the
roadway by local or state governments.
NOTE:
No two motorhomes are exposed
to the same conditions. Therefore,
maintenance intervals will vary.
Washing
Periodic cleaning will help to preserve the
paint finish. The motorhome is painted with a
“base coat, clear coat system.” Clear coat is a
polyurethane-based material which brings out
the shine and luster to the base coat paint. Care
should be used when washing the motorhome.
Use only mild detergents or (preferred)
specifically designed automotive detergents.
Avoid abrasive cleansers or laundry detergents
that will scratch the clear coat and leave a soap
film. Use a soft cloth to wash the paint finish.
Avoid brushes as they can scratch the surface
and damage the paint. Before washing the
motorhome, remove most of the accumulated
dirt and road wash behind wheel openings,
below the windshield and on the rear of the
motorhome. If build up is excessive, run water
over a soft cotton cloth while gently wiping the
surface in one direction. This will help float
away the “build-up” from the clear coat. Avoid
back and forth or circular motions as this may
act like sandpaper, scratching the clear coat
and leaving a haze or swirl marks.
After removing the heavy build-up, use
the mixed detergent solution to wash the
motorhome. Start washing at the top of the
motorhome working towards the bottom.
If possible, wash the motorhome in a shaded
area when the exterior is not hot to the touch.
If necessary, turn the motorhome around to
keep the area being washed in the shade. Try
not to allow the detergent to dry onto the clear
coat surface. Use plenty of water when rinsing
the surface to remove all detergent residue.
Drying
Chamois cloths come in natural and synthetic
materials. Either type is acceptable as long
as the surface is clean. Soak the chamois in
clean water, then wring it dry. Remove the
water from the surface, starting at the top
and working towards the bottom, using a
downward “S” pattern. Wring out the chamois
as needed. Using a chamois cloth to remove
the rinse water is not necessary, but the effort
can be worthwhile.
Waxing
It is recommended to wax the motorhome
twice a year: spring and fall.
NOTE:
Use a grease and wax remover
before applying another coat of
wax. Chemicals can become trapped
between layers of wax, possibly
damaging the paint finish.
INFORMATION:
When selecting a product, follow the
product manufacturer’s recommended
application instructions.
Types of Products:
Glazes - Glazes are generally used to fill
very fine scratches in the clear coat. They are
applied either by hand or by using a polisher
with a special pad.
Waxes - Waxes come in many types of
chemical make-up. Most contain cleaning
agents, lubricants and a natural or synthetic
wax. Cleaning agents remove oxidation and
leave a high gloss. Wax leaves a clear film that
protects the finish.
NOTE:
Recommended waxes are Menzerna
FMJ (Full Molecular Jacket) or
Meguiars NXT Generation Tech Wax
2.0.
Polishes - Polishes combine wax based
substances with abrasives to clean and polish
at the same time. These products are too
abrasive for clear coats and 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 minor imperfections
in the surface.
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.