6-2
Chapter 6: Maintenance and Service
sponge on smooth surfaces and the deck. A brush can be used on the nonskid areas. Use fresh
water to rinse away all grime and residue.
Finish/Waxing
Gel-coat will age or dull naturally due to constant exposure to the natural environment and
pollutants. Discolorations are shallow in depth. Factors that will affect the rate of discoloration
are: the sun, pollution, old wax accumulation, and the salt content of water. Polishing compound
(fine abrasive) or rubbing compound (coarse abrasive) is recommended for use on fiberglass
finishes to remove scratches and stains or restore severely weathered surfaces. These products
can be applied by hand or mechanical means. The process below will help restore fiberglass
finishes:
• Clean the affected area with a good detergent and fresh water.
• Remove stubborn stains or discoloration by gently wet sanding the affected areas with
600 grit “wet or dry” sandpaper.
Always sand in one direction.
Use plenty of water and
sand curves in the same direction. Dry the area to make sure all the discoloration has
been removed. Repeat this process if necessary.
• Buff using a polishing compound suitable for fiberglass, an electrically or pneumatically
operated buffer at low speed (1750-2250 RPM), and an 8-inch (20.3 cm) lamb’s wool pad.
C A U T I O N
Keep buffer moving. Do not allow it to rest in one spot. Heat build up will quickly distort the
surface.
C A U T I O N
Compounding too often or excessive compounding can wear away the gel-coat.
When buffing is complete, wash away compound with fresh water and dry the area.
• Once the area is clean it may be waxed. This will enhance the gloss while providing a seal
to prevent staining or soil accumulation.
• See a local dealer for advice on wax for your boating region. The wax film will seal the
pores as well as enhance the looks of your boat.
Do not wax surfaces that may be walked
on; they will become slippery.
While waxing your boat, inspect the surface for any
damage. Have the damage corrected as soon as possible.
Repairing
Though gel-coat is a very durable material, it is susceptible to scratches, blistering, and web-
like cracking (crazing) over time. It is elastic enough to withstand strong blows while flexing
with the hull’s movement. Gel-coat problems are cosmetic and will not affect the structural
integrity of your boat.
Summary of Contents for Fisherman 216
Page 2: ......
Page 10: ...1 4 Chapter 1 Consumer Information ...
Page 20: ...2 10 Chapter 2 Safety ...
Page 32: ...4 6 Chapter 4 Performance ...
Page 38: ...5 6 Chapter 5 Instrumentation ...
Page 45: ...6 7 Chapter 6 Maintenance and Service ...
Page 46: ...6 8 Chapter 6 Maintenance and Service ...
Page 68: ...9 4 Chapter 9 Warranty ...