Painted Surfaces - Cessna 172R Pilot Operating Handbook

CESSNA
SECTION 8
MODEL 172R
HANDLING, SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
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 Section 11 of 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.
Dec 2/96
8-21