Malibu Boats Response Owner's Manual

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Malibu Boats Response Owner's Manual Manual pdf 87 page image

4-3ExteriorYour Malibu boat is highly resistant to weathering, water pollution and minor scrapeswhich occur during normal use. However, regular care and maintenance of your boat is ageneral responsibility for all Malibu boat owners. By following the boat care instructionslisted below, you will be able to extend the life and beauty of your Malibu boat.Fiberglass and GelcoatThe fiberglass hull and deck of your Malibu boat consist of a molded shell and exteriorgelcoat. The gelcoat protects the fiberglass shell and gives all Malibu boats a smooth andshiny surface. The following are some general instructions which will help you maintainyour boat’s sleek appearance:1) Wash monthly or more frequently, depending on use. Use a mild dish washingsoap and lukewarm or cold water. Rinse your boat with fresh water and wipedown immediately to avoid water spots.2) Wax the boat hull and deck after every three or four outings to decrease waterfriction and to lessen the potential for staining or spotting the gelcoat surface. Incases where the original gelcoat shine cannot be restored by waxing, hand buffthe surface using any commercial compound. Be sure to apply several coats ofwax over the area that has been polished.Surface StainsStains can appear as a result of dust, road tar, plant sap, rust from metal fittings and othermaterials coming in contact with your boat’s exterior. Listed below is a step-by-stepprocedure to remove stains from your boat:1) Wash area with dish washing soap2) Apply a mild cleanser on a small area (3 x 3 ft)3) Rinse with fresh water4) Buff with a fine rubbing compound5) WaxIf the stain is not removed by the dish washing soap or mild cleanser, then the nextprocedure is to use either denatured or rubbing alcohol. Common rubbing alcohol isexcellent for removing stains.ScratchesScratches to the gelcoat sometimes occur during normal use. Your dealer can usuallyrestore the gelcoat to like-new condition.Underwater CorrosionCorrosion occurs in saltwater conditions from the interaction of the saltwater and thedirect current of the battery. To prevent corrosion, it is important to keep the bilge area asdry and clean as possible.