Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

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the air and surface temperatures cool below the dew point the water vapor in that air will condense onto all
surfaces inside the boat. In the morning it will take longer to heat the air and surfaces under the cover as it
affords protection thereby lengthening the time it takes to have the condensation evaporate. It’s very possible if
weather conditions change that the condensation may not return to vapor for quite some time.
This condition is often misunderstood as the cover “leaking” water through the fabric, but because of the
fabric’s high hydrostatic water resistance (160 cm) this is not possible. It’s understandable to think that having
the cover wet underneath is somehow due to it allowing water through, but it is just condensation forming on
its surface. It’s like camping in a synthetic tent; if you’ve ever done it you’ll remember water beads form on the
tent surface and bumping the tent would cause them to “rain” on you!
Pooling Water:
Water can pool on a cover for various reasons. However, the Malibu cover is designed to
combat this by having the overall features and characteristics work in concert to maximize its resistance. The
fabric choice requires it to be lightweight, high-strength, coated, water-repellent treated and “dimensionally”
stable. This minimizes the fabric adding weight, and its strength and stability allows for the necessary tight fit.
The “face” surface is treated with a water repellency, lowering the surface tension so water beads up and runs
off. The “back” surface is urethane-coated, providing additional defense against water penetrating the cover.
The new water repellent lowered the surface tension further over traditional treatments where the water beads
move sooner joining with others making them run off the cover sooner & faster (very visible). It also increased
hydrostatic water resistance (the ability of fabric to resist water penetration) from about 100 cm to 170 cm.
All “face” water repellent treatments wear off and the “water beading” will lessen eventually, allowing water
to be absorbed by the fabric fibers, but the “back side” urethane coating will provide the second defense of
penetration.
A traditional “face” treatment lasts about six (6) to nine (9) months, and tests on the enhanced treatment
(BW+) show it will last three to four times longer.
In all cases durability of the treatment is very dependent on the environment and use the cover experiences.
Providing the enhanced water repellent as a re-apply alternative isn’t possible because it requires a controlled
bonding process to properly attach it to the fabric surface. There are various aftermarket repellents available, but
because they are mechanically attached they usually only last about one month or so–like waxing your car!
Maintaining Zippers and Hardware:
• Lubricate zippers periodically using a clear silicone spray. Spray silicone on to the zipper and work the zipper
back and forth.
• Lubricate fasteners periodically using a clear silicone spray to keep corrosion to a minimum. Replace any
missing fasteners or fasteners that show signs of corrosion.
• Do not use petroleum-based products; i.e. petroleum jelly.
Maintenance Tips: The real key to canvas longevity is like all things in life: maintenance. Keep the canvas
clean of dust, dirt and environmental residue on a regular basis.
• Top fabrics should be cleaned of any dirt buildup at regular intervals.
• We recommend applying a mild, lukewarm soap solution, such as a liquid dishwashing soap, with a soft
brush or sponge. Water temperature is not to exceed 100
o
F. DO NOT allow the soap to dry. The fabric must
then be carefully rinsed with clear water in order to remove any remaining soap residue. Allow canvas to dry
thoroughly. DO NOT USE DETERGENTS!
• The use of abrasive detergents and/or substrates containing solvents or gasoline will damage the fabric. If
using high-pressure or steam-cleaning devices, use caution as improper use could damage the vinyl coating
and/or fabric.
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 228