Hunter H45DS, Operator'S Manual

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Hunter 45DS • Maintenance
14.3
Waxing helps protect your boat from everyday elements.
Use a wax recommended for fiberglass (gelcoat) finishes.
Many automatic, over-the-counter waxes can be used.
Check the product label for recommended surfaces and
applications.
14.2.3 Color Fading and Yellowing
Darker colors are more prone to fading because they
absorb more of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Whites and off-
whites will yellow, usually on the deck radii. If the finish
on your boat has started to fade or yellow, and waxing
will not restore the finish, compounding with a fine grit
compound and a low speed buffer may be necessary.
An automotive, fine grit rubbing compound will work well
in most cases.
* Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions. Do
not apply compound or wax in direct sunlight.
* Never place the buffer in such a manner that the pad
touches the ground. The pad will pick up dirt which will
cause deep scratches in the finish.
* After compounding, clean the surface with soap and
water. Apply a good coat of wax.
14.2.3 Minor Scratches
If you have light surface scratches and rubbing compound
does not remove them, wet sanding may be necessary.
** To wet sand:
* Clean the area with soap and water. During sanding,
try to keep the area free of dust and dirt.
* Use a 500 or 600 grit wet and dry sandpaper. Use a
sanding block. Sandpaper and sanding blocks can be
purchased from automotive supply stores.
* When sanding, keep the surface wet. On dry surfaces,
press a wet sponge above the sanding area. Always
keep the sanding block flat on the surface. Never use
the edge or corner. Doing so will make scratches that
rubbing compound will not remove.
* After completing wet sanding, compound the sanded
area with a fine grit rubbing compound. Use a low speed
(1200 – 2800 rpm) buffer. Several applications of rubbing
compound will have to be applied before all the scratches
are removed.
* Apply a good coat of wax.
14.2.4 Stains
You can remove stains using a cleaner specifically made
for gelcoat surfaces. Any cleaner recommended for cul-
tured marble or fiberglass tubs and sinks will work. Most
of these cleaners can be purchased at a grocery store.
If a cleaner does not remove the stain, use a fine grit
rubbing compound. By hand, apply a small amount of
the compound to the stain area. Using a cotton cloth
and medium pressure, rub the compound into the stained
area. After the stain is removed, wash the area with soap
and water and apply a good coat of wax.
14.2.5 Stainless Steel
Rinse the SS rails and SS hardware after cruising. Polish
them periodically to prevent salt water corrosion.
** Follow these procedures to clean stainless steel:
* Wash with hot water and soap or detergent such as
Bon Ami or other cleaner available commercially.
* Rinse with clear water after cleaning. Wipe dry with a
clean, soft cloth to avoid water marks.
* If discolorations or deposits persist, use a non-scratch-
ing household cleanser or other polishing powder with a
little water and a soft cloth.
Important: Do not use abrasive cleaning products, pads, steel
wool, or steel brushes. These products will damage the finish.
* For stubborn deposits, use a plastic scouring pad or
soft bristle brush with cleanser and water. Rub lightly in
the direction of the polishing lines of the finish. Do not
use too much pressure because the cleaner may mar the
surface.
* Do not allow deposits to remain on the finish for long
periods of time. Do not allow salt solutions, disinfectant,
bleaches, or cleaning compounds to remain on the finish.
Chemicals in many of these compounds may damage
the rails or hardware. Rinse with soft water after every
exposure and wipe dry with a clean, soft cloth.
14.2.6 Deck Hatches
Wax the rubber gaskets on all deck hatches with a car-
nauba wax to ensure gasket material does not stick to