Painted Surfaces - Cessna 172S Nav III Information Manual

SECTION 8 CESSNA
HANDLING, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE MODEL 172S NAV III
CLEANING AND CARE (Continued)
Follow by carefully washing with a mild detergent and plenty of
water. Rinse thoroughly, then dry with a clean moist chamois. Do
not rub the plastic with a dry cloth since this builds up an
electrostatic charge which attracts dust. Waxing with a good
commercial wax will finish the cleaning job. A thin, even coat of
wax, polished out by hand with clean soft flannel cloths, will fill in
minor scratches and help prevent further scratching.
Do not use a canvas cover on the windshield unless freezing rain or
sleet is anticipated since the cover may scratch the plastic surface.
PAINTED SURFACES
The painted exterior surfaces of your new Cessna have a durable,
long lasting finish.
Generally, the painted surfaces can be kept bright by washing with
water and mild soap, followed by a rinse with water and drying with
cloths or a chamois. Harsh or abrasive soaps or detergents which
cause corrosion or scratches should never be used. Remove
stubborn oil and grease with a cloth moistened with Stoddard
solvent. Take special care to make sure that the exterior graphics
are not touched by the solvent. For complete care of exterior
graphics refer to the Maintenance Manual.
To seal any minor surface chips or scratches and protect against
corrosion, the airplane should be waxed regularly with a good
automotive wax applied in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. If the airplane is operated in a seacoast or other salt
water environment, it must be washed and waxed more frequently to
assure adequate protection. Special care should be taken to seal
around rivet heads and skin laps, which are the areas most
susceptible to corrosion. A heavier coating of wax on the leading
edges of the wings and tail and on the cowl nose cap and propeller
spinner will help reduce the abrasion encountered in these areas.
Reapplication of wax will generally be necessary after cleaning with
soap solution or after chemical deicing operations.
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