Cleaning And Care; Painted Surfaces - Textron Cessna Grand Caravan Ex 208B Pilot's Operating Handbook And Faa Approved Airplane Flight Manual

SECTION 8 CESSNA
AIRPLANE HANDLING, SERVICE MODEL 208B 867 SHP
AND MAINTENANCE GARMIN G1000

CLEANING AND CARE

PAINTED SURFACES

The painted exterior surfaces of the Cessna 208B have a durable, long-
lasting finish. Approximately 10 days are required for the paint to cure
completely; in most cases, the curing period will have been completed
prior to delivery of the airplane. In the event that polishing or buffing is
required within the curing period, it is recommended that the work be
done by someone experienced in handling uncured paint. Any Cessna
Authorized Service Facility can accomplish this work.
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 that cause
corrosion or scratches must never be used. Remove stubborn oil and
grease with a cloth moistened with Stoddard solvent.
To seal any minor surface chips or scratches and protect against
corrosion, the airplane must be waxed regularly with a good automotive
wax applied in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If the
airplane is operated in a sea coast or other salt water environment, it
must be washed and waxed more frequently to assure adequate
protection. Special care must 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 solutions or after chemical deicing
operations.
When the airplane is parked outside in cold climates and it is necessary
to remove ice before flight, care must be taken to protect the painted
surfaces during ice removal with chemical liquids. Isopropyl alcohol will
satisfactorily remove ice accumulations without damaging the paint.
However, keep the isopropyl alcohol away from the windshield and
cabin windows since it will attack the plastic and may cause it to craze.
8-46 U.S.
208BPHCUS-00