Monterey Boats 378SE, Owner'S Manual

Page: 141 / 210

141
MONTEREY
BOATS
Routine Maintenance
Fiberglass Gelcoat Surfaces
• Keep the gelcoat surface out of direct sunlight
or covered when it is not in use.
• Wash gelcoat frequently (daily in salt or pol-
luted environments) with mild detergent and
plenty of fresh water. Remove any stains
quickly. Gelcoat is microscopically porous, so
long term staining may become permanent.
• Regularly wax gelcoat surfaces with marine
grade wax recommended for fiberglass finishes
in the spring and fall. (Monthly in salt or pol-
luted environments) The washing and wax-
ing of your boat will have the same beneficial
effects as they have on an automobile finish.
The wax will fill minute scratches and pores
thus helping to prevent soiling and will extend
the life of the gelcoat.
DON’TS
• Do not use plastic or other nonporous (non-
breathable) materials to cover gelcoat surfac-
es. Trapped moisture from condensation can
cause gelcoat damage. Shrink wrap storage
covers must be properly ventilated, including
hull sides.
• Do not use abrasives, bleaches, ammonia,
acids, harsh detergents or highly alkaline
(high PH) cleaners. See your dealer for spe-
cial marine formulations. Harsh abrasive
and chemical cleaners are not recommended
because they can damage, stain or dull the
gelcoat, reducing its life and making it more
susceptible to stains.
• NEVER apply wax or buffing compound to a
gelcoat surface in direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to remove stains and scratch-
es. Chalking, stains, and minor scratches can
be removed in most cases with careful rubbing
and polishing with appropriate chemicals and is
best done by a professional - see your dealer.
After the boat is exposed to the direct sunlight for
a period of time, the color in the gelcoat tends to
fade, dull or chalk. A heavier buffing is required
to bring the gelcoat back to its original luster. For
power cleaning use a light cleaner. To clean the
boat by hand, use a heavier automotive cleaner.
Before cleaning the surfaces, read the instructions
given with the cleaner. After cleaning the surfaces,
apply wax and polish all fiberglass surfaces except
the nonskid areas.
If the fiberglass should become damaged and need
repair, contact your dealer for an authorized repair
person to make the repairs.
Stainless Steel Hardware
Marine grade stainless steel components such as
hardware, cleats, eyes and rails offer superior
corrosion resistance. When properly maintained,
stainless steel will not rust or stain, even in harsh
saltwater environments. However, if not main-
tained, stainless steel can rust, discolor or even
corrode. The following guidelines will help keep
stainless steel looking good for years to come.
DO’S
• Clean stainless steel frequently (daily in salt
or polluted environments) with mild soap and
plenty of water. Any cleaner safe for use on
glass is usually safe for stainless.
• Remove rust spots (especially around welds)
immediately with a brass, silver or chrome
cleaner. Irreversible pitting will develop under
rust allowed to remain on stainless for any
period of time.
• Remove rust stains on gelcoat. See dealer for
recommended product.
• Protect stainless with waxes or polishes suit-
able for marine use.
DON’TS
• Do not use coarse abrasives like sandpaper or
steel wool which may actually cause rusting.
• Do not use acids or bleaches which may etch
the naturally occurring protective coating.
• Do not leave stainless steel in contact with
iron, steel or other metals which cause con-
tamination leading to rust or corrosion.