Section 3 --- Exterior & Interior Care
The Executive 2005
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Drying
Drying chamois cloths come in natural and synthetic materials. Either type is acceptable as long as
the surface is clean. Soak the chamois in clean water, then wring it dry. Remove the water from the sur-
face, starting at the top and working towards the bottom, using a downward “S” pattern. Wring out the
chamois as needed. Using a chamois cloth to remove the rinse water is not necessary, but the effort can
be worthwhile.
Waxing
To wax or not to wax? This is a good question. There are many schools of thought on this issue.
The two most common thoughts are:
• The clear coat needs to “breathe.” A layer of wax will seal the clear coat
not allowing it to breathe, possibly leading to failure of the clear coat.
• If the surface is not waxed, what is protecting the surface from the
environment (road salts, acid rain, road tar, ultraviolet light)?
It is recommended to wax the motorhome twice a year: spring and fall. Many types of protective
barriers are available today that may be applied to the clear coat: glazes, waxes, polishes, rubbing com-
pounds or combinations of these products.
NOTE:
Use a grease and wax remover before applying another coat of wax. Chemicals can
become trapped between layers of wax, possibly damaging the paint finish.
INFORMATION:
When selecting a product for use follow the product manufacturer’s recommended
application instructions.
Types of Products:
Glazes - Glazes are generally used to fill very fine scratches in the clear
coat, being applied either by hand or by using a polisher with a special pad.
Waxes - Waxes come in many types of chemical make-up. The popular
Carnauba wax is a natural occurring wax from the leaves or fronds of the
Carnauba palm tree. Mineral waxes have a paraffin base. There are also
other topical application products which contain silicone.
Polishes - Polishes usually contain a combination of wax based substances
with an abrasive, getting the two for one idea. These products can be too
abrasive for clear coats and are not recommended for use.
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