Piper Comanche PA-24 Service Manual page 77

Cleaning Exterior Surfaces.
2-24.
CAUTION: WHEN HOSING DOWN AIRCRAFT AVOID DIRECTING WATER IN THE FUEL
TANK VENTS, DRAIN TUBES AND AROUND THE SEALED COVER PLATES AND
FILLER CAP ACCESS OPENINGS.
The airplane should be washed with a mild soap and water. Harsh abrasive or alkaline soaps or
detergents used on painted or plastic surfaces could make scratches or cause corrosion of metal surfaces.
Cover areas where cleaning solution could cause damage. To wash the airplane the following procedure
may be used:
a. Flush away loose dirt with water.
b. Apply cleaning solution with a rag, sponge or soft bristle brush.
c. To remove stubborn oil and grease, use a cloth dampened with naptha.
d. Where exhaust stains exist, allow solution to remain on the surface longer.
e. Any good automotive wax may be used to preserve the painted surfaces. Soft cleaning cloths or
chamois should be used to prevent scratches when cleaning or polishing. A heavier coating of wax
on the leading surfaces will reduce the abrasion problems in these areas.
Cleaning Windshield and Windows.
2-25.
NOTE: Do not use gasoline, alcohol, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, thinner, acetone, or window
cleaning sprays.
a. Remove dirt, mud, etc., from exterior surface with clean water.
b Wash with mild soap and warm water or an aircraft plastic cleaner. Use a soft cloth or sponge using
a straight rubbing motion. Do not harshly rub surfaces.
c. Remove oil and grease with a cloth moistened with kerosene.
d. After cleaning plastic surfaces, apply a thin coat of hard polishing wax. Rub lightly with a soft
cloth. Do not use a circular motion.
e. A severe scratch or mar in plastic can be removed by using jeweler's rouge to rub out the scratch.
Smooth both sides and apply wax.
f. To improve visibility through windshield and windows during flight through rain, a rain repellent
such as REPCON should be applied to the windshield and windows. The surfaces of the windshield
and windows treated becomes so smooth that water beads up and readily flows off the surface.
Apply this product in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Cleaning Headliner, Side Panels and Seats.
2-26.
a. Clean headliner, side panels and seats with a stiff bristle brush and vacuum where necessary.
CAUTION: SOLVENT CLEANERS REQUIRE ADEQUATE VENTILATION.
b. Soiled upholstery, except leather, may be cleaned by using an approved air type cleaner or foam
upholstery cleaner. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid soaking or harsh
rubbing.
c. Leather material should be cleaned with saddle soap or a mild soap and water.
04/01/09
PIPER COMANCHE SERVICE MANUAL
II - HANDLING AND SERVICING
1C4A