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11. MAINTENANCE
11.1. MARINE ENVIRONMENT
It must be remembered that the marine environment is a very harsh and
corrosive one. Especially saltwater, sun, spray, dust, chemicals in the air
and other elements take their toll on your boat in short time unless it is
protected and maintained properly.
If your boat is used in saltwater, it is necessary to rinse it with fresh water
after each use. Also it is highly recommended to wax your boat every
month. All metal hardware must be cleaned and treated with chrome
cleaner and wax.
11.2. CLEANING
Regular cleaning will keep the surface of your boat in good condition for
many years.
You are advised to use completely biodegradable boat cleaning agents.
Do not use scouring powder, solvents, ammonia and chlorine because
they scratch and bleach the gelcoat surface. If the surface is very dirty, rub
it with boat polish, which is free of abrasives and silicone after washing.
We recommend you to take special marine products, which you can buy in
boat shops and chandleries. You can use wine vinegar for removing lime
patches (dried drops of hard water).
You can use customary cushion cleaner or marine vinyl cleaner for
cleaning cushions. The cushions must be let dried after use and cleaning
to prevent the formation of mildew. In case mildew forms on cushions,
mildew removers can be used.
11.3. BELOW WATERLINE
If applied, the underwater coating – antifouling paint - should be renewed
periodically, if the boat will remain in water for longer periods. This
prevents the growth of algae and shells. You should also clean the
NORTHSTAR MANUAL
underwater area, from time to time, with high-pressure water cleaner when
out of water.
Do not clean the underwater areas of your boat mechanically (hard brush
or scouring pads) as this will scratch the bottom gelcoat and may trigger
blistering of gel-coat (Osmosis). Boats, which are left in the water for long
periods of time, may be prone to osmosis more than the boats, which are
kept out of water during non-use.
Consult your local authorities for the type of antifouling allowed in your
region.
Always apply these chemicals following their manufacturers' directions.
Take care that no environmental hazard is created during use of these
chemicals.
11.4. BILGE
Please check Specific Information Booklet for location and type of bilge
pumps in your boat.
To assure proper function of your pump, your boat's bilge must be free
from debris that can clog the pump.
Check your pump's strainer periodically and keep your bilges clean. Bilges
must never be cleaned with flammable solvents.
The bilge pumping system is not designed for damage control.
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