SECTION 5
–
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE
KIngFisher uses marine grade products and takes extra
caution during installation to ensure the longevity of
your boat. However, after each voyage there is a need
to thoroughly clean your vessel to minimize electrolytic
action (galvanic corrosion). In addition to instructions
found elsewhere in this manual and in literature specific to
certain components, the following information is provided
for general maintenance and repair Because conditions
vary widely in different areas and the frequency and type
of use can differ greatly between owners, intervals for
maintenance are not listed here
Sacrificial Anodes
Sacrificial anodes are a highly active alloy material used to
prevent less active alloys from corroding. Your Kingfisher
hull is fitted with four 2.5lbs aluminium sacrificial bar anodes
bolted to the stern of the boat The boat’s motor(s) will also
be fitted with several sacrificial anodes. Careful inspection
and replacement of worn anodes are essential to keep
the hull in the best condition possible Good practice is to
change the anodes if they deteriorate by 40-50% Failure
to replace a worn anode will result in hull damage and will
void your warranty. See your authorized Kingfisher dealer
for sacrificial anode replacement information.
Cleaning
Wash your boat with soap and fresh water the way you
would wash a car Power washing at more than 1000psi
may cause paint to delaminate Pull the hull drains if
practical and allow the boat to dry thoroughly Clean all
surfaces and apply a coat of automotive or marine grade
wax protectant two to three times annually to protect your
painted finish from the elements, and to seal the metal
where any paint scratches may have occurred. Rinse with
fresh water after every salt water use. Always spot test new
cleaners and waxes before using Marine growth, barnacles
and other debris deposits should be removed from the hull
prior to storage. Never use a metal brush of any kind on
the exterior surface of your boat. Do not use abrasive or
non-biodegradable solvents. Do not discharge chemicals
overboard. Regular periodic maintenance will maintain the
overall appearance of your boat.
Paint Touch Ups
For small scratches that need repainting, clean the area to
be painted of wax, grease and dirt Apply the touch up paint
When the paint is dry, (at least 24 hours) polish the area
with an automotive cutting wax compound.
For larger scratches that need repainting, please see your
authorized Kingfisher dealer or an automotive body shop.
Oxidization and Corrosion
The high electrically conductive nature of salt water
intensifies corrosive action on aluminum. The hostility of
the marine environment affects most materials - metals,
wood, plastic, fibreglass, etc.
KingFisher hulls are manufactured with marine grade
aluminum alloys such as 5086 - H32 and 5052 - H32 Marine
grade aluminum alloys produce a natural protective film -
either a whitish or darker surface layer - when exposed to
oxygen or water Although extremely thin, (approx 5 to 10
millionths of a millimeter), this oxide film forms a corrosive-
resistant barrier Experience shows that large and small
vessels constructed of these alloys can stay in constant
saltwater service for decades as long as proper care is
taken
Avoid dissimilar metals coming in contact with aluminum
surfaces (e g all ferrous metals including steel, brass, or
copper fittings). If there is a need to attach fittings made
of a dissimilar metal make sure that a non-wicking gasket
or sealant is placed between the fitting and the boat hull.
If the hull is drilled for any reason, a sealant such as a
marine grade silicone should be used as a barrier between
the hull and components See the
corrosion manual
for
more information
Warranty does not apply to:
Corrosion or damage resulting from fuel overfilling, the
use or storage of harmful solvents or cleaners, electrolysis
caused by reversed polarity connections or inadequate
galvanic isolation, improper use of anti-fouling paint, or
dissimilar metals and saltwater exposure Salt water
corrosion damage resulting from absence of zinc anodes,
cathodic protection devices, improper or unattended
storage or moorage
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