Stains; Fiberglass Repairs; P - 5 Fiberglass Repairs - Four winns FREEDOM Owner's Manual

Blistering refers to a condition in which the unprotected
gel coat surface below the waterline has absorbed water
and formed bubbles. See Section P-5 for additional infor-
mation.
Follow the instructions below for boats that have weath-
ered and chalked.
1. Wash.
2. Wax. If this does not work, then use a fine rubbing
compound. If this does not work use 400 or 600 wet
or dry sandpaper, followed by fine rubbing compound
and wax.
When using wax or fine rubbing compounds, make sure
to read the label and follow the directions. Some helpful
tips are listed below.
1. Avoid working in direct sunlight. This dries out the
wax or compound, and can stain the surface.
2. Use clean pads or cloths to apply a thin coating of
wax or rubbing compound to a small area such as
three feet by three feet. Remove any excess, and
then rub the area with a buffing pad, or power buffer.
Apply pressure only as necessary to restore the sur-
face finish. Applying too much pressure or buffing in
one place too long can permanently damage the sur-
face.
3. After applying compound, always follow with waxing.
NOTICE
If using a power buffer, use a low rpm buffer with
light pressure. Keep the pad wet and the buffer
moving at all times to prevent heat build up.
NOTICE
To prevent gouges, uneven areas, or other dam-
age from occurring, DO NOT use a power or belt
sander when sanding. For best results, block
sand the gel coat.
Freedom™/Horizon™ Owner's Manual
C. Stains
Stains can appear anywhere on the exterior of the boat
and may be a result of contact with tar, plant sap, leaves,
rust from metal fittings, and other materials. Surface
stains may be removed with hand dishwashing soap, mild
cleansers, or some household detergents. DO NOT use
chlorine or ammonia products. These products can af-
fect the color of gel coat. Commercial car washes use
strong cleaners and should be avoided.
To remove stains, refer to the procedures below.
1. Wash area with hand dishwashing soap.
2. Begin with a small area such as three feet by three
feet and apply a mild cleanser.
3. Rinse with clean water.
4. Follow with compound and waxing as outlined in pro-
cedure above.
If the stain is not removed by the hand dishwashing soap
or mild cleanser, then the next procedure is to use either
denatured or rubbing alcohol. If this does not work, con-
sult your Four Winns dealer for professional assistance.
NOTICE
DO NOT use acetone, ketone, or other solvents
to remove stains. These chemicals are flam-
mable and may damage the gel coat.
P - 5

FIBERGLASS REPAIRS

Fiberglass is one of the most durable, strong, and forgiv-
ing construction materials afloat. It is resilient and nor-
mal repairs can be made without affecting the strength or
structural integrity of the boat.
Striking docks, other boats, or submerged ob-
jects could create a very hazardous situation or
severely damage the fiberglass. In the event an
object is struck below or near the waterline, pro-
ceed directly and cautiously to the nearest ser-
vice facility and remove the boat from the water.
Closely inspect the hull for damage. If the outer
fiberglass laminate was penetrated, repairs must
be made prior to relaunch.
Section P
Page 3