Fuel Water Separators
If fuel water separators are installed on your boat, the “spin on” filter cartridges should be renewed every
season at a minimum. Fuel tanks that are not kept full accumulate water faster due to condensation.
Therefore, filter cartridges may need to be replaced more often depending upon usage and conditions or
if motors begin to run rough. When replacing the filters for the fuel water separators, coat the rubber seal
with a film of grease or oil to help prevent sticking.
Compass
During periods of long storage, it is recommended that you remove the compass from the boat and store
it in a location providing normal room temperature. At low temperatures, an air bubble may form on the
top of the dome. This will in no way affect the reading or accuracy. When restored to normal
temperature, the air bubble will disappear.
Clean the Lucite compass dome carefully with a moistened soft cloth to avoid scratching. In saltwater
operation, salt crystals from the spray may form on the dome. These crystals should be removed with a
moistened soft cloth. A dry cloth and/or harsh rubbing may scratch the compass dome. Any good grade
of paste wax can be applied to the dome to retain its luster and optical clarity.
Aluminum
Aluminum is corrosion resistant but not corrosion proof. The grain structure, when modified by welding
processes, has increased susceptibility to micro-corrosion (invisible to the unaided eye) and cracking.
Proper care will preserve the weld strength and beauty of your aluminum:
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Always clean frequently with a mild non-abrasive soap and lots of fresh water. Most
glass cleaners work.
•
Always protect with a wax, especially around welds to guard against micro-corrosion,
cracking and rust spots.
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Always remove rust and corrosion spots, as they appear, with an aluminum cleaner.
•
Thoroughly wash the aluminum with a soft towel or sponge using lots of soap and water.
Remove all dried salt crystals and other contaminates. Rinse completely with direct
water pressure.
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Clean and rinse it well.
•
Wash it often enough to keep contaminates from forming or building up.
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Avoid the use of bleach or chlorides to clean the aluminum and/or nearby components.
Chlorides can leach onto the aluminum when nearby.
•
Never clean with acids or bleaches.
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Avoid abrasive cleaning products. NEVER use sandpaper, steel wool, brass wool, wire
brushes, polishing wheels, or rubbing or polishing compounds. These items will remove
anodizing and lead to pitting.
•
Never permit contact with iron, carbon steel, or other metals, which could cause rust or
corrosion.
Pay particular attention when cleaning the tubing directly beneath the top (i.e., hard top, T-top, Bimini
top). This area does not receive the natural rinsing action of rainwater and is shielded from the sun.
Therefore, it does not dry as completely or quickly as the rest of the frame. The top of the frame is often
overlooked when cleaning the boat and should be hand washed and dried often. This area is likely to be
the first place that staining or pitting occurs.
Additional information from Taco Metals is included in your owner’s package.
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