Parker 2014 - Maintenance Overview; Exterior Fiberglass Finish; Maintenance; Cleaning

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maintenance & services
GENERAL
The amount of maintenance required to keep your boat operating properly and to maintain the appearance is dependent on how the
boat is used, amount of usage, type of water, climate, etc. Your hull and deck are constructed by the hand lay-up method using the highest
quality berglass mat and knitted non-woven fabrics. This method of construction ensures a proper berglass-to-resin ratio and uniform
thickness, which together result in boat of superior strength, much stronger than boats constructed of “chopped glass”. This process ensures
that your Parker boat is the strongest, most durable berglass boat possible. The bilge areas should be kept clean and dry. Leaks found early
and corrected are less likely to cause damage. Do not allow grease and dirt to build up. Proper maintenance of your boat is not only a source
of pride, it is the key to maintaining your boat’s value. A few simple steps will keep your berglass Parker looking showroom bright for years.
EXTERIOR FIBERGLASS FINISH
The exterior nish of your Parker is a thin layer of resin with a nished color pigment called gelcoat. Its purpose is to protect the inner laminate
from moisture and chemicals and to give the parts the glossy smooth colored nish that is the hallmark of berglass boats. Although gelcoat
has a hard smooth surface it does contain microscopic pores that will allow surface discoloration if not kept clean.
MAINTENANCE
Normal exterior nish maintenance of your Parker boat is similar to the care
you would give your automobile. Do not use caustic, highly alkaline cleaners
or those containing ammonia. These cleaning agents may darken gelcoat.
The resulting stain is a chemical reaction and can be removed with a rubbing
compound followed by waxing.
CLEANING
The best way to prevent discoloration and soil build-up is to hose the boat
with fresh water after each outing or on a regular basis. This build-up is the
result of use and environmental pollutants. Clean the boat regularly with a
mild household detergent and plenty of fresh water. Use a sponge on smooth
surfaces including the deck and a brush on the nonskid. Rinse away all grime
and residue. All stainless or aluminum surfaces inside Pilot Houses should be
cleaned and polished.
CAUTION
- Keep buer moving. Do not allow it to rest in one spot.
- Heat build up will quickly distort the surface.
- Compounding too often or excess compounding can wear
away the gelcoat.
- When buering is complete wash away compound with
clear clean water and dry the area.
- Once the area is clean it may be waxed. This will enhance
the gloss while providing a seal to retard staining or soil
accumulation.