Chapter 8 Care & Maintenance - Regal LS4C Owner's Manual

Chapter 8
Care & Maintenance
Cosmetic Care
This section covers the care and maintenance
of your Regal boat. Many cosmetic care topics
including exterior hardware, upholstery, fiberglass
and canvas are covered along with major equipment
and systems. Refer to the owner's information
packet and the appropriate engine manufacturer's
manuals for further detailed instructions. Your vessel
may include or exclude select components in this
chapter.
Upholstery
Cockpit and interior vinyl require periodic cleaning
to maintain a neat appearance and to prevent the
build up of dirt, mildew and contaminants that may
stain and reduce the vinyl life if they are not removed.
The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of
use and conditions to which the vinyl is subjected.
Most common stains can be cleaned using warm,
soapy water and clear rinses. Scrubbing with a soft
bristle brush will help loosen soiled material from
embossed surfaces and under welting. If the stains
are not removed with the above method use a mild
cleaner such as Fantastic. This cleaner should be
used only as needed and not the normal means.
With more stubborn stains, rubbing alcohol or
mineral spirits may be tried cautiously. Widespread
solvent use can severely damage or discolor vinyl.
Try to remove stains immediately before they have
a chance to penetrate the surface of the vinyl.
Powdered abrasives, steel wool, or industrial
strength cleaners are not recommended for clean-
ing our vinyl. Lacquer solvents will cause immediate
damage. Dilute chlorine bleach before using. Do not
wax the vinyl as it may cause cracking. Always wear
protective gloves and make sure there is sufficient
ventilation when cleaning vinyl. Wear eye protection.
Remember that suntan oil will damage vinyl. Use
suntan lotion instead of suntan oil. Exposure to the
sun is a natural enemy of vinyl upholstery. Keep the
vessel covered with a cover when not in use.
Cockpit Carpet
Use approved cleaners on carpet. Always try on a
test area first. Many spots and spills can be removed
using a cleaner combined with a clean, white terry
towel. Try not to soak an area excessively and do
not use solvents because most interior carpet is
rubber backed and glued in place. Solvents and
abrasives will break down the backing and fibers.
Note: Always roll up cockpit carpet before towing
your boat. Store carpet in a locker.
Plastic
Use plastic cleaners and polishes recommended
for marine use only. Use proper applicators. Read
all instructions carefully. Test the product in a small
area first. Use a soft rag and always rinse the surface
with water. Ammonia based cleaners and abrasives
will damage plastic parts.
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