Xxii) Maintenance - BENETEAU 331 Owner's Manual

XXII) MAINTENANCE OF YOUR BOAT
Your boat represents a sizable capital investment that needs special and regular care
Safeguarding your investment and looking after your own safety should persuade you of
the importance of careful and regular upkeep of your boat. The maintenance suggestions
in the following sections will help you with the basics. Always refer to the original
manufacturer's manual for specific guidelines on individual components.
NOTE: It is important to clean the bottom of your boat at least two or
three times a year.
General Hull Maintenance
DO NOT SAND THE HULL WITH COARSE SANDPAPER.
•
DO NOT USE SOLVENTS TO CLEAN HULL.
•
DO NOT WASH WITH PRESSURE MACHINE USING WATER
•
WARMER THAN 70 DEGREES F. (21 degrees C.).
DO NOT USE PRESSURE EXCESS OF 2175 PSI (150 BAR.)
•
WHEN USING A HIGH PRESSURE SPRAY WASH.
DO NOT HOLD NOZZLE CLOSER THAN 4 INCHES (10 CM) TO
•
SURFACE OF HULL.
DO NOT MACHINE SAND.
•
We believe the above points to be pertinent for all FRP boats.
GEL COAT
The gel-coat is vulnerable to any nicks and scratches it may get during maneuvering in
harbor and on a mooring. The best way to avoid them is to undertake maneuvering
calmly, after thinking out all the relevant factors (such as speed, current, wind, and the
layout of the harbor). Always have one of the crew ready to put out a fender at the right
place. When bringing in the anchor chain, back off or swing the boat round so as not to
rub the chain against the hull. Hold the anchor well clear as you bring it aboard so that it
does not scrape the stem: lay it on deck and lash it down at once, if only temporarily.
Never use dirty fenders.
Hose off the hull and deck as often as possible, with fresh water.
Before hosing down, remember to check that the hatch covers are closed; and it is wise
not to take on diesel oil or fresh water supplies while you are hosing off the hull.
After a few years, the gel coat may be re-polished, either with a lambs wool buffer and
polish, or by hand using a polish or similar product. Your yard will also be able to supply
you with special cleaning products for getting rid of stubborn stains.
BENETEAU 331
Jan. 10, 2003
rev 02
Page 60 of 73