Blackfin 212 - Page 96

96
Routine Maintenance
be the problem. There could also be a problem in
the bonding system. Contact your dealer for the
proper size and type of anodes to be used and the
specic installation procedure.
Notice:
Using the recommended sacricial anode is
more critical when stainless steel propellers
are installed. Consult your dealer or the engine
manufacturer for information on the proper
anode for your boating area.
Fiberglass Gelcoat Surfaces
• Keep the gelcoat surface out of direct sunlight
or covered when it is not in use.
• Wash gelcoat frequently (daily in salt or polluted
environments) with mild detergent and plenty of
fresh water. Remove any stains quickly. Gelcoat
is microscopically porous, so long term staining
may become permanent.
• Regularly (monthly in salt or polluted environ-
ments) wax gelcoat surfaces with marine grade
wax recommended for berglass nishes. The
washing and waxing of your boat will have the
same benecial eects as they have on an auto-
mobile nish. The wax will ll minute scratches
and pores thus helping to prevent soiling and will
extend the life of the gelcoat.
DON’TS
• Do not use plastic or other nonporous (non-
breathable) materials to cover gelcoat surfaces.
Trapped moisture from condensation can cause
gelcoat damage. Shrink wrap storage covers
must be properly ventilated, including hull sides.
• Do not use abrasives, bleaches, ammonia, acids
or harsh detergents. See your dealer for special
marine formulations. Harsh abrasive and chemi-
cal cleaners are not recommended because they
can damage or dull the gelcoat, reducing its life
and making it more susceptible to stains.
• NEVER apply wax or bung compound to a
gelcoat surface in direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to remove stains and scratches.
Chalking, stains, and minor scratches can be
removed in most cases with careful rubbing and
polishing with appropriate chemicals and is best
done by a professional - see your dealer.
After the boat is exposed to the direct sunlight for
a period of time, the color in the gelcoat tends to
fade, dull or chalk. A heavier bung is required
to bring the gelcoat back to its original luster. For
power cleaning use a light cleaner. To clean the
boat by hand, use a heavier automotive cleaner.
Before cleaning the surfaces, read the instructions
given with the cleaner. After cleaning the surfaces,
apply wax and polish all berglass surfaces except
the nonskid areas.
If the berglass should become damaged and need
repair, contact your dealer for an authorized repair
person to make the repairs.
Stainless Steel Hardware
Marine grade stainless steel components such as
hardware, cleats, eyes and rails oer superior corro-
sion resistance. When properly maintained, stainless
steel will not rust or stain, even in harsh saltwater
environments. However, if not maintained, stainless
steel can rust, discolor or even corrode. The follow-
ing guidelines will help keep stainless steel looking
good for years to come.
DO’S
• Clean stainless steel frequently (daily in salt or
polluted environments) with mild soap and plenty
of water. Any cleaner safe for use on glass is
usually safe for stainless.
• Remove rust spots (especially around welds) im-
mediately with a brass, silver or chrome cleaner.
Irreversible pitting will develop under rust al-
lowed to remain on stainless for any period of
time.
• Remove rust stains on gelcoat. See dealer for
recommended product.
• Protect stainless with waxes or polishes suitable
for marine use.
DON’TS
• Do not use coarse abrasives like sandpaper or
steel wool which may actually cause rusting.
• Do not use acids or bleaches which may etch the
naturally occurring protective coating.
• Do not leave stainless steel in contact with iron,
steel or other metals which cause contamination
leading to rust or corrosion.