Regal 26 FASDECK Owner's Manual page 224

FIBERGLASS & GELCOAT
Routine maintenance is the only practical way to keep the
surface of your boat looking shiny and new. Most objects
le outdoors will gradually deteriorate from exposure to
the sun, water, dust and pollution. Such outdoor expo-
sure can cause your boat's gelcoated surface to change
or fade. Darker colors tend to fade more rapidly than
lighter colors because they absorb more of the sun's rays
(ultraviolet and infrared).
Basic maintenance includes monthly washing of the
boat's surface to remove normal accumulation of soil and
stain. Use a mild detergent such as dishwasher powder or
liquid. Do not use automatic dishwasher detergent. Avoid
any kind of alkaline cleaners such as tri-sodium phos-
phate (TSP), abrasives, bleaches and ammonia. For best
results use cleaners that are recommended for berglass.
t is recommended that you wax the gelcoat surface
twice yearly to prevent loss of gloss and to protect the
nish. Use only waxes for berglass and follow the label
instructions. Apply a 3' x 3' section at a time using clean
applicator cloths or a bu ng bonnet. When a haze devel-
ops, use a power bu er at low speeds (1200-2000 rpm) to
remove the haze. Keep the bu er moving to avoid heat
build-up. Never wax gelcoat in direct sun.
Cosmetic Care & Maintenance
When the washing and waxing as recommended does
not restore the shine it may be necessary to use a ne
rubbing compound. Do not apply rubbing compound
in direct sunlight. A power bu er at lower speeds does
an excellent job to remove impurities from the gel coat
that cause dulling. Use light pressure and keep the bu er
moving. Re-wax a er compounding to bu the surface.
"Hairline cracks" or "spider webbing" could develop in
the gelcoat surface of a hull or deck.
by impact or other factors. Small air pockets or gouges
may also occur through normal wear.
the strength of the hull or deck and can be repaired by
yourself, a marine professional or a Regal dealer.
a thin layer of color matched gelcoat applied.
is then sanded smooth and bu ed to its original luster.
Most minor scratches, nicks, and dents can be removed
by compounding the surface. Marine type compounds
can be found at most auto body supply stores.
Specify a number 25 which is a coarser compound up to a
number 55 being less coarse. Various glazes and polishes
are available as needed. Ask your marine professional or
Regal dealer for more information. Fiberglass hulls are
strong but they can be damaged. A berglass hull has
virtually no internal stresses.
ken or punctured, the rest of the hull retains its original
shape. A severe blow will either be absorbed or result in
a de nite localized break. A break of this nature should
be checked and repaired by a marine professional or a
Regal dealer.
MINOR REPAIRS
You will need the following materials for minor repairs:
• Gelcoat
• Clear Liquid Catalyst
• Putty Knife
• Razor Blade
• Fine Sandpaper (400,600,1000)
• Wax Paper (to cover repair area)
7
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us when a part is bro-