Cleaning products such as Ivory or Dawn hand
dishwashing liquid can be safely used. Always read
the label before using any product.
A darkening or discoloration of the nonskid surfac-
es can sometimes occur as a result of wax buildup.
Exposure to the sun and elements can turn the wax
darker, or occasionally can cause it to become flaky
or powdery. To remove, use fine rubbing compound
and a low RPM buffer (1200 to 2000 RPM). Apply
light pressure and keep the buffer moving at all times
to prevent heat build up. Read the directions before
using any equipment.
NOTICE
DO NOT use acetone, paint thinner, solvents,
or strong alkaline based detergents, nor
cleaners with a “gritty” and abrasive texture.
Avoid products which contain sodium phos-
phate. Common examples of these types
B. Weathering Effects on Gel Coat
of household cleaning agents are: Tide
, Janitor-in-a-Drum , Formula 409 ,
™
, etc. Always read the label before
using an agent.
™
,
Oxydol
™
™
Weathering occurs from direct sunlight, water, chemi-
cals, and dust. Some of the terms below describe the
changes that can occur to the gel coat surface.
Clorox
™
There are several products available which are spe-
cifically designed to clean fiberglass exterior finishes.
®
Many companies like Johnson & Johnson , Turtle
Wax , etc. manufacture cleaning fluids mild enough
®
Chalking is a result of the gel coat’s top surface being
bro ken down into an extremely fine pow der. When this
happens, the color whitens. The chalk is present on
the surface only.
to clean without stripping the wax.
Fading is the uniform change in color. This happens
when the actual pigments have changed color, espe-
cially from excessive chalking, or when the gel coat
has either been stained or bleached by something.
NOTICE
Treading on a soiled fiberglass surface can
severely scratch and mar the finish. Keep the
fiberglass as clean as possible.
Yellowing is gel coat which has a yellow cast and
streaking usually deals with a stain or contact with
another surface.
When cleaning nonskid areas, DO NOT attempt to
use a wire brush or sandpaper because this will
remove the nonskid gel.
Gloss refers to the shine of the surface. This can
change from sanding action, chalk, residues, or expo-
sure.
Apply wax once or twice a year to maintain gel coat
lustre. Read the label before using any product. Make
sure product is formulated for gel coat surfaces.
Also, consult a Four Winns dealer for their recom-
mendations.
Blistering refers to a condition in which the unpro-
tected gel coat surface below the waterline has
absorbed water and formed bubbles. See Section P5
for additional information.
NOTICE
Do not use carnuba-based waxes. This type
of wax yellows over time and makes the
fiberglass appear yellow.
Follow the instructions below for boats that have
weathered and chalked.
1.
Wash.
2.
Wax. If this does not work, then use a fine rubbing
compound. If this does not work use 400 or 600
wet or dry sandpaper, followed by fine rubbing
compound and wax.
Waxing decks, cockpit floors or other areas
on which one walks is not recommended.
Waxing will produce a very slippery surface,
especially when wet. Wax may also buildup in
the nonskid surfaces. Be sure all persons wear
deck shoes while aboard the boat. Footing will
be improved and feet will be protected from
accidental cuts and bruises.
When using wax or fine rubbing compounds, make
sure to read the label and follow the directions. Some
helpful tips are listed as follows:
Fiberglass and Hull - Section P
Owner’s Manual Page 118
| Categories | Four Winns Manuals, Four Winns SL-Series Manuals |
|---|---|
| Tags | Four Winns SL |
| Model Year | 2011 |
| Download File |
|
| Document Type | Owner's Manual |
| Language | English |
| Product Brand | Boats and Cruisers, Four Winns. For support contact your dealer at http://www.fourwinns.com/locate-dealer.aspx |
| Document File Type | |
| Publisher | fourwinns.com |
| Wikipedia's Page | Outboard Marine Corporation |
| Copyright | Attribution Non-commercial |
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