Monterey M3 Owner's Manual page 111

Routine Maintenance
When replacing the anodes, make sure the contact
surfaces are clean, shiny metal and free of paint
and corrosion. Never paint over the anode. The
bonding system should be inspected by a quali-
fied marine electrician once a year to make sure
all connections are sound and there is continuity
throughout the system.
Boats stored in saltwater will normally need to
have the anodes replaced every 6 months to
one year. Anodes requiring replacement more
frequently may indicate a stray current problem
within the boat or at the slip or marina. Anodes
that do not need to be replaced after one year may
not be providing the proper protection. Loose or
low quality anodes could be the problem. There
could also be a problem in the bonding system.
Contact your dealer for the proper size and type
of anodes to be used and the specific installation
procedure.
NOTICE:
Your Volvo Penta or Mercruiser product has
been shipped with Aluminum anodes. Alu-
minum is effective in both saltwater and in
fresh water. If you will be boating in salt-
water exclusively, we recommend switching
the anodes to Zinc. If you will be boating
in fresh water exclusively, we recommend
switching the anodes to Magnesium. Using
the recommended anode is more critical
when stainless steel propellers are installed.
Consult your dealer or the engine manufac-
turer for information on the proper anode
for your boating area.
Fiberglass Gelcoat Surfaces
• Keep the gelcoat surface out of direct sunlight
or covered when it is not in use.
• Wash gelcoat frequently (daily in salt or pol-
luted environments) with mild detergent and
plenty of fresh water.
quickly. Gelcoat is microscopically porous, so
long term staining may become permanent.
• Regularly (monthly in salt or polluted envi-
ronments) wax gelcoat surfaces with marine
grade wax recommended for fiberglass fin-
ishes. The washing and waxing of your boat
will have the same beneficial effects as they
have on an automobile finish. The wax will
fill minute scratches and pores thus helping to
prevent soiling and will extend the life of the
gelcoat.
112
Remove any stains
DON'TS
• Do not use plastic or other nonporous (non-
breathable) materials to cover gelcoat surfac-
es. Trapped moisture from condensation can
cause gelcoat damage. Shrink wrap storage
covers must be properly ventilated, including
hull sides.
• Do not use abrasives, bleaches, ammonia,
acids or harsh detergents. See your dealer for
special marine formulations. Harsh abrasive
and chemical cleaners are not recommended
because they can damage or dull the gelcoat,
reducing its life and making it more susceptible
to stains.
• NEVER apply wax or buffing compound to a
gelcoat surface in direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to remove stains and scratch-
es. Chalking, stains, and minor scratches can
be removed in most cases with careful rub-
bing and polishing with appropriate chemicals
and is best done by a professional - see your
dealer.
After the boat is exposed to the direct sunlight for
a period of time, the color in the gelcoat tends to
fade, dull or chalk. A heavier buffing is required
to bring the gelcoat back to its original luster. For
power cleaning use a light cleaner. To clean the
boat by hand, use a heavier automotive cleaner.
Before cleaning the surfaces, read the instructions
given with the cleaner. After cleaning the surfaces,
apply wax and polish all fiberglass surfaces except
the nonskid areas.
If the fiberglass should become damaged and need
repair, contact your dealer for an authorized repair
person to make the repairs.
Stainless Steel Hardware
Marine grade stainless steel components such as
hardware, cleats, eyes and rails offer superior
corrosion resistance. When properly maintained,
stainless steel will not rust or stain, even in harsh
saltwater environments. However, if not main-
tained, stainless steel can rust, discolor or even
corrode. The following guidelines will help keep
stainless steel looking good for years to come.
DO'S
• Clean stainless steel frequently (daily in salt
or polluted environments) with mild soap and
plenty of water. Any cleaner safe for use on
glass is usually safe for stainless.
MONTEREY
BOATS