Pierce Enforcer, Operator'S Manual

Page: 186 / 196

B-2 /
© 2018 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
B-2. Washing the Vehicle
B-2.1 Proper Washing Equipment and Methods
NOTE: Compartment and entry door jams, door sills, and the bottoms of compartment and entry doors
should be washed each time the vehicle is washed. These areas are subject to the same elements
and dirt build up as the body and should be washed and dried to prevent build up of salt, chemicals,
and other containments which can damage the surface and cause corrosion.
• Never use abrasive cleaners, chemicals, or rough applicators such as steel wool or scuff pads
on the vehicle, as these will damage the finished surface.
Washing removes small particulates that can scratch the painted surfaces. It also removes contaminants that can
etch the paint and accelerate corrosion.
•
Wash the vehicle only when dirty. Excessive daily washing should be avoided, unless the vehicle is dirty. To
remove light dust without getting the truck wet, wipe off with a clean damp cloth or chamois. A “dry wash”
commercial product can also be used to remove light soils. (Follow product manufacturer’s instructions.)
• Wash all soils off as soon as possible, especially road salts, fuel, industrial fallout, etc., from inside and outside
surfaces.
B-2.1a Soaps or Detergents
Use a mild, non-abrasive detergent soap or a “wash and wax” type soap specifically formulated for vehicle washing.
This type soap has been formulated to have minimal effect on waxed surfaces. Harsher de-greasing soaps (i.e. dish
soap) can be abrasive to the surface, including graphics, and/or strip the protective wax. Mix with cool or luke-warm
water at the recommended dilution.
B-2.1b Water
NOTE: Culligan is a good source for water testing and purifying equipment. Detailed information is
available at: http://www.culligan.com
Clean and “pure” water is also essential to proper finish care. Your water supply may contain minerals and or
chemicals affecting its purity. Water is too hard if above 120ppm; pH should be between 6 and 8. Water that has a
pH below 7 is acidic. Acidic water will etch the paint and accelerate corrosion in crevices, under hardware and
around fasteners. The water’s purity can be tested with a kit or by a local water testing company.
B-2.1c Washing Application
A clean sponge, soft mitt, or soft bristle brush is recommended using a gentle cleaning motion. Rinse the applicator
often to avoid dirt build-up which can scratch the finished surface.
Low pressure water is recommended for spraying and rinsing the vehicle. Avoid using a pressure washer on the
vehicle’s surface (see
“Pressure Washing” on page B-3 ).
Avoid washing with high water pressure, hot wash solutions, abrasive detergents, or rough cleaning
motions.