2013 Chaparral SSi Owner’s Manual
Chaparral Boats, Inc.
Nashville, GA
chaparralboats.com
8-1
The following information will help you keep the interior and exterior of
your boat in tip-top shape. If you need more specifi c information, contact
your Chaparral dealer.
Note: Before you use a particular cleaning solution or method, test
the material to be cleaned in a hidden or inconspicuous area for
possible adverse reactions. Use cleaning agents sparingly. Never
discharge cleaning solutions into the waterways. Do not use prod-
ucts containing phosphates, chlorine, solvents, or nonbiodegrad-
able or petroleum based products.
INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR CARE
FIBERGLASS AND GEL COAT
The hull and deck are made of fi berglass. The outer layer of the hull
and deck is a color pigmented polyester resin, called gelcoat. Gelcoat is
highly resistant to scratches that occur during normal boat use. Neverthe-
less, during the life of your boat, some damage to the gelcoat is bound
to occur.
Gelcoat Maintenance
To remove and prevent the buildup of most salt, soil, and grime, clean the
hull and deck regularly with household detergent and water.
Note: Make sure household detergent does not contain ammo- nia
or chlorine. Because ammoniate or abrasive cleaners dull and
discolor the gelcoat surface, they are not recommended for rou-
tine maintenance.
Gelcoat surfaces are very resistant to deep stains. To remove minor
stains, wash the affected area with a soft cloth and household deter-
gent. Then rinse thoroughly with clear water. If deep stains do occur, use
a special fi berglass cleaner and stain remover.
Waxing the gelcoat surface regularly will help prevent soiling and pre-
serve its luster. Chaparral recommends a fi berglass wax that fi lls the gel-
coat pores. Chemicals in fi berglass wax screen out harmful ultraviolet
rays that cause fading of the gelcoat color.
CAUTION
: Waxed gelcoat is slippery. Falls causing bodily injury or
falls overboard are possible. Never wax deck surfaces that require
sure footing.
Repairing Gelcoat Damage
Minor Scratches
Repair minor scratches with automotive rubbing compound or polishing
wax. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Although the scratches may
not disappear completely, they should not be as noticeable. Apply rub-
bing compound or polishing wax to a damp, soft cloth. Rub the gelcoat
surface with the damp, soft cloth in a circular motion.
Chips, Hairline Cracks, and Small Patches
Your Chaparral dealer has qualifi ed personnel capable of making this
type of repair.
Chaparral uses the fi nest gelcoats and resins available to prevent gelcoat
crazing and hairline cracks. Over time your boat may develop slight hair-
line cracks in the outermost gelcoat layer. These usually do not damage
the structure of your boat or affect its integrity.
