Four winns FUNSHIP - O-5 USE OF WEATHER COVERS AND CARBON MONOXIDE

Owner’s Manual Page 103Fiberglass and Hull - Section P
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aky
orpowdery.Toremove,usene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.
B. Weathering Effects on Gel Coat
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.
Chalking is a result of the gel coat’s top surface being
brokendownintoanextremelynepowder.Whenthis
happens, the color whitens. The chalk is present on
the surface only.
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.
Yellowing is gel coat which has a yellow cast and
streaking usually deals with a stain or contact with
another surface.
Gloss refers to the shine of the surface. This can
change from sanding action, chalk, residues, or expo-
sure.
Blistering refers to a condition in which the unpro-
tected gel coat surface below the waterline has
absorbed water and formed bubbles. See Section P-5
for additional information.
Follow the instructions below for boats that have
weathered and chalked.
1. Wash.
2. Wax.Ifthisdoesnotwork,thenuseanerubbing
compound. If this does not work use 400 or 600
wetordrysandpaper,followedbynerubbing
compound and wax.
Whenusingwaxornerubbingcompounds,make
sure to read the label and follow the directions. Some
helpful tips are listed below.
products such as Ivory or Dawn hand dishwashing
liquid can be safely used. Always read the label
before using any product.
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
of household cleaning agents are: Tide
™
,
Oxydol
™
, Janitor-in-a-Drum
™
, Formula 409
™
,
Clorox
™
, etc. Always read the label before
using an agent.
There are several products available which are spe-
cicallydesignedtocleanberglassexteriornishes.
Many companies like Johnson & Johnson
®
, Turtle
Wax
®
,etc.manufacturecleaninguidsmildenough
to clean without stripping the wax.
NOTICE
Treading on a soiled berglass surface can
severely scratch and mar the nish. Keep the
berglass as clean as possible.
When cleaning nonskid areas, DO NOT attempt to
use a wire brush or sandpaper because this will
remove the nonskid gel.
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.
NOTICE
Do not use carnuba-based waxes. This type
of wax yellows over time and makes the
berglass appear yellow.
Waxing decks, cockpit oors or other areas on
which one walks is not recommended. Waxing
will produce a very slippery surface, espe-
cially 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.