SECTION 10 –
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
10-4
•
We recommend a silicone-free polish with an
orbital machine and terry cloth applicator.
•
Liquid waxes are easier to apply and bring to
a gloss with fewer residues.
•
Avoid paste waxes. They sometimes have
fillers and additives that give a very short term
result. Stay away from silicones in polishes
and soaps.
•
Buffing compounds remove some of the mil
film of the clearcoat, so we recommend that
only professionals or very experienced users
apply this type of product.
Inspection
A motorhome exterior is subjected to many
physical forces and environmental conditions.
While the motorhome is parked, it is exposed to
climate and weather extremes and other
environmental conditions. While in operation, it
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
referred to as "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 motorhome 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 motorhome.
Protective Film
–If Equipped
Your motorhome may be equipped with a
protective film to defend against everyday road
hazards. This film creates a barrier against bugs,
road grime, bird droppings, and other harmful
elements.
Further Information
See the manufacturer’s information provided
in your InfoCase for complete care and
maintenance instructions.
EXTERIOR GRAPHIC CARE
The pressure-sensitive graphics on your
vehicle require very little maintenance. In order
to allow the graphics to have the longest life
possible, the following steps should be taken.
•
Wash graphics with plain soap and water or
any car wash detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
•
High pressure water spray may loosen or
damage graphics. Keep spray nozzle at least
1 1/2 feet from the edge of the graphics.
•
Test any cleaning solution on a small section
of graphic before using.
•
Never use aromatic solvents such as acetone,
M.E.K., toulene, paint thinner or lacquer
thinner on graphics. Solvents may soften the
vinyl and smear colors.
•
Gasoline or other fuels spilled on graphics
should be rinsed off immediately with water.
•
Do not apply paint or clearcoat over the
graphics.
•
Do not apply wax over the graphics,
especially wax containing petroleum
distillates. Wax that has dried along the edge
of a graphic can be removed with cotton
swabs after softening it with isopropyl
alcohol. Rinse area thoroughly after cleaning.
