Exterior Care; Corrosion; Washing - Monaco SIGNATURE 2001 series Owner's Manual

The most common cause of corrosion to the motorhome is the accumula-
tion of road salts, grime and dirt. These elements, combined with moisture,
may possibly cause early component failure. Salt air and fog from coastal
trips can greatly accelerate the corrosion process. Corrosive materials collect-
ed from roadways accumulate on the undercarriage, around wheel openings
and on the radiator charge air cooler package. These areas need to be cleaned
periodically to help prevent component failure due to corrosion. If the
motorhome is driven in areas where road salts are used it should be washed
at least once a week. Otherwise, it is recommended to hose off the undercar-
riage area at least once a month to help minimize the corrosion process. High
pressure washers or steam cleaners are the most affective way of cleaning off
the underside and inside wheel openings. Avoid directly spraying the paint-
ed surface with a high pressure washer. Remove road debris and mud that
has accumulated. Material left behind can intensify the corrosion problem.
CAUTION: Exercise caution when cleaning the radiator charge air
cooler package. Damage to the fins can result when using a high
pressure washer or steam cleaner. Nozzle discharge pressure can
exceed 1,800 psi. Avoid using high pressure steam cleaners on the
exterior paint surfaces. Remove all spattered washing debris from
the exterior paint surfaces as soon as possible.
The life of the exterior paint finish can be extended if properly cared for.
Periodic cleaning will help preserve the paint finish. The motorhome is painted
with a "base coat, clear coat system." The clear coat is a polyurethane based
material which brings out the shine or luster to the base coat paint. Care should
be used when washing the motorhome. Use only mild detergents or preferred
specifically designed automotive detergents. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or
laundry detergents as they will scratch the clear coat and leave a soap film. The
use of specially designed automotive washing utensils such as soft bristle
brushes are acceptable, as long as they do not trap abrasive material and
scratch the surface while being used. Before washing the motorhome, remove
most of the accumulated dirt and "road wash" behind wheel openings, below
the windshield and on the rear of the motorhome. If the build up is excessive,
run water over a soft brush while gently scrubbing the surface in one direction.
This will help float away the "build-up" from the clear coat. Avoid back and
forth or circular motions as this may act like sandpaper, scratching the clear
coat and leaving a haze or "swirl marks." After removing the heavy build-up,
use the mixed detergent solution to wash the motorhome. Start washing at the
top of the motorhome working towards the bottom. If possible, wash the
motorhome in a shaded area when the exterior is not hot to the touch. If neces-
sary, turn the motorhome around to keep the area being washed in the shade.
Try not to allow the detergent to dry onto the clear coat surface. Use plenty of
water when rinsing the surface to remove any detergent residue.
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S I G N A T U R E
Care & Maintenance

EXTERIOR CARE

Corrosion

Washing

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