Care Of Appliques And Decals; Front End Masks And Paint Damage; Headlights And Exterior Lights - Winnebago Itasca Ellipse Owner's Manual

SECTION 11 –
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
is subjected to various twisting and flexing forces
caused by routine cornering and turning, and by
uneven road surfaces, such as bumps, potholes,
railroad tracks and parking lot entrances.
Inspect the exterior fiberglass shell
periodically for cracks which may represent a
threat to the integrity of the fiberglass.
Minute cracks in the surface, commonly
called "spider cracks" or "hairline cracks" caused
by normal flexing of the fiberglass exterior are
normal and typically pose no threat to the
integrity of the vehicle other than appearance.
However, if a crack has opened up and the
weave of the cloth is visible, this does represent a
threat to the integrity of the fiberglass and must
be repaired or covered as quickly as possible to
avoid penetration by moisture, especially in
freezing climates.
If the fiberglass has been damaged and
contains cracks, tears or holes, use plastic
sheeting and duct tape, if necessary, to prevent
moisture from damaging the sidewall material or
the interior of the coach.
CARE OF APPLIQUES AND
DECALS
The pressure-sensitive appliques and decals
on your coach require very little maintenance.
They should be treated like any painted surface
on your vehicle.
Here are a few helpful hints on caring for decals:
• Wash appliques and decals with plain soap
and water or any retail car wash soap. Always
rinse thoroughly.
• High pressure water spray may loosen or
damage appliques and decals.
• Test any cleaning solution on a small section
of appliques or decal before using.
• Never use aromatic solvents such as acetone,
MEK, toluene, xylene, lacquer thinner, etc.,
on appliques or decals. Any solvent including
alcohol may soften or smear colors.
11-4
• Fuel or antifreeze spilled on appliques or
decals should be rinsed off immediately with
water.
FRONT END MASKS AND
PAINT DAMAGE
NOTE: This information is to make you aware of
a potential paint failure that could occur
when moisture is trapped between front
end masks and painted surfaces.
If you choose to install an aftermarket
protective front end mask, please follow these
preventive guidelines:
• The front end mask must be removed if the
vehicle sits longer than 5 days without being
driven.
• The front end mask must be thoroughly dry
before storing away or reinstalling on the front
of the coach.
• When reinstalling the mask, be sure both the
mask and the painted surface are free of debris
to avoid damage by abrasion.
• Failure to follow recommendations will void
any paint warranty.
HEADLIGHTS AND EXTERIOR
LIGHTS
Exterior Light Lenses
Most Winnebago Industries
polycarbonate lenses on exterior lamps, which
are very sensitive to a variety of chemical
solvents and cleaners.
Use only soap and water to clean exterior
lamp lenses - especially headlights.
• Contact with certain chemicals can cause
etching, "crazing", or cracking of the lens,
which can significantly reduce the lens clarity
and effectiveness of the lamp and may require
replacement of the complete lamp housing.
• Some popular citric acid cleaners may cause
bicarbonate lenses to become "hazy" or
"foggy".
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