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.
FRONT END MASKS AND
PAINT DAMAGE
NOTE: This information is to make you aware of
a potential paint failure that could occur
when moisture is trapped between front
end masks and painted surfaces.
If you choose to install an aftermarket
protective front end mask, please follow these
preventive guidelines:
•
The front end mask must be removed if the
vehicle sits longer than 5 days without being
driven.
•
The front end mask must be thoroughly dry
before storing away or reinstalling on the front
of the coach.
•
When reinstalling the mask, be sure both the
mask and the painted surface are free of debris
to avoid damage by abrasion.
•
Failure to follow recommendations will void
any paint warranty.
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.
