vinyl upholstery. To preserve the upholstery and pre-
vent damage, carefully review the following sections
for recommended cleaning procedures. Waxing or
refinishing improves soil resistance and cleanability
for all vinyls. Any hard wax, such as that used on
automobiles, may be used.
Ordinary Dirt
Wash the upholstery with warm water and mild soap,
such as saddle or oil soap. Apply soapy water to a
large area and allow to soak for a few minutes, then
rub briskly with a cloth to remove the dirt. This can
be repeated several times, as necessary.
If dirt is deeply imbedded, use a soft bristle brush
after applying the soap.
If dirt is extremely difficult to remove, wall-washing
preparations normally found around the home can be
used. Powdered cleaners, such as those used for
sinks and tiles, are abrasive and must be used with
caution as they can scratch the vinyl or give it a per-
manent dull appearance.
Chewing Gum
Harden the gum with an ice cube wrapped in a plas-
tic bag, then scrape it off with a dull knife. Any re-
maining traces of gum can be removed with an all-
purpose light oil (peanut butter will also work) and
wiped off.
Tars, Asphalts, and Creosote
Each of these items stains vinyl after prolonged con-
tact. They should be wiped off immediately and the
area carefully cleaned, using a cloth dampened with
naphtha.
Paint, Shoe Heel Marks
Paint should be removed immediately. Do not use
paint remover or liquid-type brush cleaner on vinyl.
An unprinted cloth, dampened with naphtha or tur-
pentine may be used. Use care to prevent contact
with parts of the upholstery that are not vinyl.
Sulfide Stains
Sulfide compounds, such as those found in eggs and
some canned goods, can stain after prolonged con-
tact with vinyl. These stains can be removed by plac-
ing a clean, unprinted piece of cloth over the spotted
area and pouring a liberal amount of 6 percent hy-
drogen peroxide onto the cloth. Allow the saturated
cloth to remain on the spot for 30 to 60 minutes. For
stubborn spots, allow the hydrogen-peroxide satu-
rated cloth to remain on the area overnight. Use cau-
tion to prevent the solution from seeping into the
seams, or it will weaken the cotton thread.
Nail Polish and Nail Polish Remover
Prolonged contact with these substances causes per-
manent damage to vinyl. Careful blotting immediately
after contact minimizes damage. Do not spread the
liquid during removal.
Shoe Polish
Most shoe polishes contain dyes which penetrate
vinyl and stain it permanently. Shoe polish should be
wiped off as quickly as possible using naphtha or
lighter fluid. If staining occurs, try the procedure used
for sulfide stains.
Ball Point Ink
Ball point ink can sometimes be removed if rubbed
immediately with a damp cloth, using water or rub-
bing alcohol. If this does not work, try the procedure
used for sulfide stains.
Miscellaneous
If stains do not respond to any of the treatments de-
scribed above, it is sometimes helpful to expose the
vinyl to direct sunlight for up to 30 hours. Mustard,
ball point ink, certain shoe polishes, and dyes often
bleach out in direct sunlight, leaving the vinyl undam-
aged.
Velour Upholstery Cleaning
To prevent soiling, frequent vacuuming or light brush-
ing to remove dust and dirt is recommended. Spot
clean with a mild solvent or an upholstery shampoo,
or the foam from a mild detergent. When using a sol-
vent or a dry-cleaning product, follow the instructions
carefully, and clean only in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid any product that contains carbon tetrachloride
or other toxic materials. With either method, pretest a
small area before proceeding. Use a professional
upholstery cleaning service when extensive cleaning
is needed.
Cab Appearance
12.2
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