Exterior Care Corrosion; Washing - Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual

The most common cause of corrosion to the motorhome is the accumulation
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 collected 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 undercarriage area at least once a month to help
minimize the corrosion process. High pressure washers or steam cleaners are the
most effective way of cleaning off the underside and inside wheel openings. Avoid
directly spraying the painted 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 1800 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 auto-
motive 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 wash-
ing 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 necessary, 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.
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE
DIPLOMAT 2004
EXTERIOR CARE
Corrosion

Washing

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