Monaco Executive 2001, Owner'S Manual

Page: 180 / 269

The most common cause of corrosion to the motorhome is the accumulation
of road salts and dirt, combine these with moisture and you have a recipe for
possible early component failure. Combine this recipe with salt air and fog
from being near the ocean and the corrosion process is greatly accelerated. This
road wash material generally accumulates on the undercarriage, around wheel
openings and the radiator charge air cooler package. Periodically these areas
need to be cleaned to help prevent early component failure due to corrosion. If
you drive in areas where road salts are used, the motorhome should be washed.
Hose off the undercarriage area at least once a month to help minimize the cor-
rosion process.
High pressure washers or steam cleaners are the most affective way of
cleaning off the underside and inside wheel openings. When washing try to
remove all road debris and mud that has accumulated. Material left behind can
exaggerate the corrosion problem.
CAUTION: Exercise caution when cleaning the radiator
charge air cooler package. Damage to the fins can result
when using a high pressure washer or steam cleaner. Nozzle
discharge pressure can exceed 1800 psi. Avoid using high
pressure steam cleaners on the exterior paint surfaces.
Remove all spattered washing debris from the exterior paint
surfaces as soon as possible.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The life of the exterior paint finish can be extended if properly cared for.
Periodic cleaning will help preserve the paint finish. The motorhome is painted
with a “base coat, clear coat system.” The clear coat is a polyurethane based
material which brings out the shine or 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 using abrasive
cleansers or laundry detergents. These products may scratch the clear coat or
leave a soap film. The use of specially designed automotive washing utensils
such as soft bristle brushes are acceptable, as long as they do not trap abrasive
material, scratching the surface while being used. Before washing the
motorhome, remove most of the accumulated dirt and “road wash” behind
wheel openings, below the windshield and rear of the motorhome. If there is
excessive build up, use running water over a brush, wiping in one direction.
This helps to 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, 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 the shade 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.
Unit Care & Maintenance
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E X E C U T I V E
6 • 1 8 0
EXTERIOR CARE
Corrosion
Washing