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Chapter II – Exterior
1. METAL
Aluminum skin is pre-painted as prepared from supplier with polyester
automotive paint finish. To clean, use a mild detergent soap and water.
Use an automotive type of wax or polish; same as you may use on
your tow vehicle. By waxing your RV once per year, it retains its nice, new
appearance.
2. FIBERGLASS
Several different types of fiberglass components are used in Open
Range recreational vehicles:
a. Front and rear caps are built in a mold, using gel type of fiberglass
components.
b. For sidewalls, there are two types used – “Gel coat” and
“Lamulux.”
Cleaning on all fiberglass materials, use a mild detergent and warm
water using a soft brush or rag. For tougher stains such as found around
drip rails, awning rails, or windows, a special cleaner may be required.
Waxing on Gel Coat Material
As the gel coat begins to lose its gloss from constant exposure to the
natural environment and pollutants, it will require some special attention
to restore the original gloss and color. Good polishing with a self-cleaning
automotive wax will restore most of the original gloss. A fall and spring
wax job is generally all that is needed to maintain the original appearance.
If the surface has been allowed to weather badly, and cleaning and wax
polishing does not restore the finish satisfactorily, then compounding will
be necessary. The finish is totally impervious to chemical and weathering.
Imagine what a brand new car could look like if allowed to sit outside for
years with no cover and no washing or waxing. With the same minimum
maintenance you would ordinarily give your new automobile’s finish, your
RV gel coat finish will retain its depth of color and gloss for years.
3. ABS PLASTICS
Frontier and Ultra Lite lower fronts and fenders will retain their original
condition with general washing and polishing. These surfaces are not
as hard as fiberglass and can scratch. DO NOT use abrasive soaps or
polishes on ABS plastics.
