Care & Maintenance; Exterior Care; Corrosion; Washing - Monaco 2002 Diplomat Service Manual

The most common cause of corrosion to the motorhome is the accumulation
of road salts, grime and dirt. These elements, combined with moisture, may
possibly cause early component failure. Salt air and fog from coastal trips can
greatly accelerate the corrosion process. Corrosive materials collected from
roadways accumulate on the undercarriage, around wheel openings and on the
radiator charge air cooler package. These areas need to be cleaned periodically
to help prevent component failure due to corrosion. 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. Remove road debris and mud that has accumulated. Material
left behind can intensify the corrosion problem.
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 1,800 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.
The life of the exterior paint finish can be extended if properly cared for.
Periodic cleaning will help preserve the paint finish. The motorhome is painted
with a "base coat, clear coat system." The clear coat is a polyurethane based
material which brings out the shine or luster to the base coat paint. Care should
be used when washing the motorhome. Use only mild detergents or preferred
specifically designed automotive detergents. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or
laundry detergents as they will scratch the clear coat and leave a soap film. The
use of specially designed automotive washing utensils, such as soft bristle
brushes, are acceptable as long as they do not trap abrasive material and
scratch the surface while being used. 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 the build up is excessive,
run water over a soft brush while gently scrubbing the surface in one direction.
This will help float 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 any detergent residue.
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D I P L O M A T
Care & Maintenance

EXTERIOR CARE

Corrosion

Washing

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