SECTION 11 –
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
11-4
•
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 coach 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 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.
Protective Film
–If Equipped
Your coach 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.
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.
