
c. Allow the solvent to remain on the gear from five to ten minutes; then rinse the gear with additional
solvent and allow to dry.
d. Remove the cover from the wheel and remove the catch pan.
e. Lubricate the gear per Lubrication Chart.
2-25. CLEANING EXTERIOR SURFACES. The airplane should be washed with a mild soap and water. Harsh
abrasives or detergents used on painted or plastic surfaces could make scratches or cause corrosion of metal
surfaces. Cover areas where cleaning solution could cause damage. To wash the airplane, the following
procedure may be used:
a. Flush away loose dirt with water.
b. Apply cleaning solution with a rag, sponge or soft bristle brush.
c. To remove stubborn oil and grease, use a cloth dampened with naptha.
d. Where exhaust stains exist, allow solution to remain on the surface longer.
e. Any good automotive wax may used to preserve the painted surfaces. Soft cleaning cloths or a chamois
should be used to prevent scratches when cleaning or polishing. A heavier coating of wax on the leading surfaces
will reduce the abrasion problems in these areas.
2-26. CLEANING WINDSHIELD AND WINDOWS.
a. Remove dirt, mud, etc., from exterior surfaces with clean water.
b. Wash with mild soap and warm water, or an aircraft plastic cleaner using a soft cloth or sponge and a
straight rubbing motion. Do not rub surfaces harshly.
c. Remove oil and grease with a cloth moistened with kerosene.
— NOTE —
Do not use gasoline, alcohol, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, thinner, acetone, or window
cleaning sprays.
d. After cleaning plastic surfaces, apply a thin coat of hard polishing wax. Rub lightly with a soft cloth. Do
not use a circular motion.
e. A severe scratch or mar in plastic can be removed by using jeweler's rouge to rub out the scratch. Smooth
both side and apply wax.
f. To improve visibility through windshield and windows during flights through rain, a rain repellent such as
REPCON should be applied to the windshield and windows. The surfaces of the windshield and windows treated
becomes so smooth that water beads up and readily flows off the surface. Apply this product in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions. (Refer to Table II-III. Consumable Materials for Specifications and
Manufacturer's address.)
2-27. CLEANING HEADLINER, SIDE PANELS, AND SEATS.
a. Clean headliner, side panels, and seats with a stiff bristle brush and vacuum where necessary.
b. Soiled upholstery, except leather, may be cleaned by using an approved air drying type cleaner or foam
upholstery cleaner. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid soaking or harsh rubbing.
— CAUTION —
Solvent cleaners require adequate ventilation.
c.Leather material should be cleaned with saddle soap or mild soap and water.
PIPER AIRCRAFT
PA-28-161 CADET
AIRPLANE MAINTENANCE MANUAL
Issued: FEBRUARY 28, 1989
HANDLING AND SERV I C I N G
1B13