Mercedes-Benz 1998 SL 500 Operator's Manual page 130

Engine Cleaning
Prior to cleaning the engine
compartment make sure to protect
electrical components and connectors
from the intrusion of water or cleaning
agents.
Corrosion protection, such as MB
Anticorrosion Wax should be applied
to the engine compartment after every
engine cleaning. Before applying, all
control linkage bushing should be
lubricated. The poly-V-belt and all
pulleys should be protected from any
wax.
Car Washing
Never run the vehicle through an
automatic car wash with the soft top in
place or use a power washer to clean it,
as you may damage the soft top
material.
Before washing your vehicle, remove
insect residues. MB Insect Remover is
recommended. Do not use hot water or
wash your car in direct sunlight. Use
only a mild car wash detergent, such as
MB Autoshampoo.
Thoroughly spray the car with a
diffused jet of water. Direct only a very
weak spray towards the ventilation
intake. Use plenty of
water and rinse the sponge and
chamois frequently.
Rinse with clear water and thoroughly
wipe dry with a chamois. Do not allow
cleaning agents to dry on the finish.
If the vehicle has been run through an
automatic car wash -in particular one
of the older installations - rewipe the
recessed sections in the taillamps
(designed to prevent soiling) if
necessary. No solvents (fuels, thinners
etc.) must be used.
In the winter, thoroughly remove all
traces of road salt as soon as possible.
When washing the underbody, do not
forget to clean the inner sides of the
wheels.
Tar Stains
Quickly remove tar stains before they
dry and become more difficult to
remove. MB Tar Remover is
recommended.
Window Cleaning
Use a window cleaning solution on
all glass surfaces. MB Glass Cleaner
is recommended.
Wiper Blade
Clean the wiper blade rubber with a
clean cloth and detergent solution.
Replace blade twice a year; once
before and once after winter.
Headlamp Cleaning System
The condition of the wiper blades is
important for satisfactory cleaning of
the headlamp lenses. We therefore
recommend that the blades be
inspected regularly.
Replace damaged wiper blades.
Seat Belts
The webbing must not be treated with
chemical cleaning agents. Use only
clear, lukewarm water and soap. Do
not dry the webbing at temperatures
above 176°F (80°C) or in direct
sunlight.
Warning!
Do not bleach or dye seat belts as
this may severely weaken them. In a
crash they may not be able to
provide adequate protection.
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