Cessna 1973 172 - Interior and Propeller Care

Generally, the painted surfaces can be kept bright by washing with
water and mild soap, followed by a rinse with water and drying with
cloths or a chamois. Harsh or abrasive soaps or detergents which cause
corrosion or scratches should never be used. Remove stubborn oil and
grease with a cloth moistened with Stoddard solvent.
Waxing is unnecessary to keep the painted surfaces bright. However,
if desired, the airplane may be waxed with a good automotive wax. A
heavier coating of wax on the leading ec^es of the wings and tail and on
the engine nose cap and propeller spinner will help reduce the abrasion
encountered in these areas.
When the airplane is parked outside in cold climates and it is neces-
sary to remove ice before flight, care should be taken to protect the paint-
ed surfaces during ice removal with chemical liquids. A 50-50 solution of
isopropyl alcohol and water will satisfactorily remove ice accumulations
without damaging the paint. A solution with more than 50% alcohol is
harmful and should be avoided. While applying the de-icing solution, keep
it away from the windshield and cabin windows since the alcohol will
attack the plastic and may cause it to craze.
ALUMINUM SURFACES.
The clad aluminum surfaces of your Cessna may be washed with
clear water to remove dirt; oil and grease may be removed with gasoline,
naphtha, carbon tetrachloride or other non-alkaline solvents. Dulled alu-
minum surfaces may be cleaned effectively with an aircraft aluminum
polish.
After cleaning, and periodically thereafter, waxing with a good auto-
motive wax will preserve the bright appearance and retard corrosion.
Regular waxing is especially recommended for airplanes operated in
salt water areas as a protection against corrosion.
PROPELLER CARE.
Preflight inspection of propeller blades for nicks, and wiping them
occasionally with an oily cloth to clean off grass and bug stains will as-
sure long, trouble-free service. Small nicks on the propeller, particu-
larly near the tips and on the leading edges, should be dressed out as
soon as possible since these nicks produce stress concentrations, and if
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