SECTION 11 –
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
11-4
is subjected to various twisting and flexing forces
caused by routine cornering and turning, and by
uneven road surfaces, such as bumps, potholes,
railroad tracks and parking lot entrances.
Inspect the exterior fiberglass shell
periodically for cracks which may represent a
threat to the integrity of the fiberglass.
Minute cracks in the surface, commonly
called "spider cracks" or "hairline cracks" caused
by normal flexing of the fiberglass exterior are
normal and typically pose no threat to the
integrity of the vehicle other than appearance.
However, if a crack has opened up and the
weave of the cloth is visible, this does represent a
threat to the integrity of the fiberglass and must
be repaired or covered as quickly as possible to
avoid penetration by moisture, especially in
freezing climates.
If the fiberglass has been damaged and
contains cracks, tears or holes, use plastic
sheeting and duct tape, if necessary, to prevent
moisture from damaging the sidewall material or
the interior of the coach.
CARE OF APPLIQUES AND
DECALS
The pressure-sensitive appliques and decals
on your coach require very little maintenance.
They should be treated like any painted surface
on your vehicle.
Here are a few helpful hints on caring for decals:
•
Wash appliques and decals with plain soap
and water or any retail car wash soap. Always
rinse thoroughly.
•
High pressure water spray may loosen or
damage appliques and decals.
•
Test any cleaning solution on a small section
of appliques or decal before using.
•
Never use aromatic solvents such as acetone,
MEK, toluene, xylene, lacquer thinner, etc.,
on appliques or decals. Any solvent including
alcohol may soften or smear colors.
•
Fuel or antifreeze spilled on appliques or
decals should be rinsed off immediately with
water.
PLASTIC PARTS – CLEANING
Many parts in your motorhome, such as the
dash, exterior light lenses, and certain exterior
body panels are made of high-impact plastic
materials that can be damaged by wiping with
solvents or improper cleaning products.
Always try cleaning plastic parts with the
mildest cleaners first and work your way up to
stronger cleaning products. Use the following
cautionary lists as a guide when selecting
cleaning products to use on plastic parts.
Here is a list of mild cleaners that
may be used
safely
:
•
Car washing soap and water
•
Glass cleaners
without
ammonia
•
Mineral oil
•
Multipurpose cleaners (such as Fantastik
®
,
Formula 409
®
, etc.)
The following products, compounds, or solvents
must be
wiped off immediately
to avoid
damage:
•
Ammonia
•
Brake fluid
•
Bathroom basin, tub, and tile cleaners
•
Chlorine
•
Ethyl alcohol
•
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
NOTICE
Do not use citrus-based cleaners on
polycarbonate finishes. Citric compounds
will damage the high-gloss surface,
causing it to appear dull or “flat”. Always
test a cleaning product on a hidden area
to be sure it will not cause damage to the
appearance of the part.
