Baja Marine 242 Care & Refinishing, Paint Cleaning Agents & Other Substances, Stains & Scratches

Section 9 • Care & Refinishing

Your new boat has been designed to provide you with years of enjoyment and satisfaction. In order to maintain the factory new appearance of your boat, we recommend the use of Yacht Bright™ products designed specifically for pleasure boats. Following proper fiberglass maintenance guidelines will help maintain your boat’s performance, value, and enjoyment.

1.Paint Cleaning Agents & Other Substances

Wash the gelcoat and fiberglass regularly with clean, fresh water. Wax gelcoated surfaces to maintain the luster. In northern climates, a waxing at the start and end of the boating season may suffice. In southern climates, an application of wax every three months will be required for adequate protection.

REFER TO THE Yacht Bright™ PAMPHLET IN YOUR OWNER’S MANUAL PACKET FOR INSTRUCTIONS AND WARRANTY INFORMATION.

3.Stains & Scratches

!WARNING

EXPLOSION/FIRE HAZARD

Care and refinishing materials may contain ingredients that are flammable or explosive. Do not use such materials in the bilge

Shut off electrical power and ventilate when using such materials anywhere on the boat or in the cabin.

Do not create sparks or use lighted materials.

!WARNING

Gelcoat surfaces are slippery when wet.

Always wear non-slip footwear securely fastened to your feet and hold on to rails or the boat structure.

!WARNING

Waxed surfaces are slippery.

Do not wax areas that are usually walked on.

Do not use products containing chlorine, phosphates, perfumes and non-degradable ingredients. Consult your marine dealer regarding environmental regulations before painting the hull. Fumes can last for hours, and chemical ingredients can harm people, property and the environment. Common household cleaning agents may cause hazardous reactions. Read and understand directions on all paint, cleaning and polishing materials before using.

2.Fiberglass & Gelcoat

The fiberglass hull, deck and some interior parts consist of a molded shell and exterior gelcoat. The gelcoat is the outer surface, often colored, that presents the shiny smooth appearance associated with fiberglass products. This gelcoat surface is painted or taped in some areas for styling purposes.

Although gelcoat and painted surfaces are resistant to deep stains, a need for cleaning will occasionally arise. But, the use of some common cleaning agents will permanently discolor or otherwise damage the finish on your boat.

•Do not use abrasive porcelain-cleaning powders. These are too abrasive and contain chlorine and ammonia, either of which will permanently discolor gelcoat and paint.

•Never use nail polish remover (acetone) or any ketone solvents.

•Use diluted household detergents to remove surface soil and stains. Before using a given brand, check to make sure it contains no chlorine or ammonia.

•Isopropyl alcohol can be used to remove difficult stains. But it must be promptly washed off with mild detergent and water.

242 Islander® 9.1