Exterior Care; Corrosion; Washing; Drying - Monaco DYNASTY 2006 User Manual

EXTERIOR CARE

Corrosion

The most common cause of corrosion to the motorhome exterior is accumulation of road salts, grime and dirt.
These elements, combined with moisture, may possibly cause early component failure. The undercarriage, around
wheel openings and the radiator charge air cooler package require periodic cleaning to prevent component failure
caused by corrosive materials collected from roadways. If the motorhome is driven in areas where road salts are
used it should be washed at least once a week. Otherwise, it is recommended to hose off the undercarriage area at
least once a month to help minimize the corrosion process. High pressure washers or steam cleaners are the most
effective way of cleaning off the underside and inside wheel openings. Avoid directly spraying the painted surface
with a high-pressure washer.
CAUTION:
Exercise caution when cleaning the radiator charge air cooler package. Damage to the fins
can result when using a high pressure washer or steam cleaner. Nozzle discharge pressure
can exceed 1800 psi. Avoid using high pressure steam cleaners on the exterior paint surfaces.
Remove all spattered washing debris from the exterior paint surfaces as soon as possible.

Washing

Periodic cleaning will help to preserve the paint fi nish. The motorhome is painted with a "base coat, clear coat
system." Clear coat is a polyurethane-based material which brings out the shine and luster to the base coat paint.
Care should be used when washing the motorhome. Use only mild detergents or (preferred) specifi cally designed
automotive detergents. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or laundry detergents that will scratch the clear coat and
leave a soap fi lm. Use a soft cloth to wash the paint fi nish. Avoid using brushes as they can scratch the surface and
damage the paint. Before washing the motorhome, remove most of the accumulated dirt and "road wash" behind
wheel openings, below the windshield and on the rear of the motorhome. If build up is excessive, run water over
a soft cotton cloth while gently wiping the surface in one direction. This will help fl oat away the "build-up" from
the clear coat. Avoid back and forth or circular motions as this may act like sandpaper, scratching the clear coat
and leaving a haze or "swirl marks." After removing the heavy build-up, use the mixed detergent solution to wash
the motorhome. Start washing at the top of the motorhome working towards the bottom. If possible, wash the
motorhome in a shaded area when the exterior is not hot to the touch. If necessary, turn the motorhome around
to keep the area being washed in the shade. Try not to allow the detergent to dry onto the clear coat surface. Use
plenty of water when rinsing the surface to remove all detergent residue.

Drying

Chamois cloths come in natural and synthetic materials. Either type is acceptable as long as the surface is
clean. Soak the chamois in clean water, then wring it dry. Remove the water from the surface, starting at the
top and working towards the bottom, using a downward "S" pattern. Wring out the chamois as needed. Using a
chamois cloth to remove the rinse water is not necessary, but the effort can be worthwhile.
DYNASTY 2006 EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE — SECTION 3 • 85