Airstream 390 - Manual (Page 41)

E
E - 1
EXTERIOR
CLEANING
The roof of your Airstream Land Yacht motorhome is a fiberglass compound. If it is
damaged contact the Airstream customer service department and ask for the Service
Bulletin on roof repairs.
The walls, front, and rear end are fiberglass that is custom painted by Carrera Designs
with an automotive finish. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend the motorhome
be washed about every four weeks and waxed in the spring and fall.
ALWAYS CLEAN YOUR MOTORHOME IN THE SHADE OR ON A CLOUDY DAY WHEN
THE SKIN IS COOL. Oil, grease, dust and dirt may be removed by washing with any
mild non- abrasive soap or detergent. Do not use hot water. Cleaning should be fol-
lowed by a thorough clean water rinse. Drying the unit with a chamois or a soft cloth
can prevent spots and streaks.
After cleaning and drying, a good grade of nonabrasive automotive paste or liquid
wax will increase the life of the finish, especially in coastal areas where the finish is
exposed to salt air, or in polluted industrial areas. It will also protect the shell from
minor scratches and make subsequent cleaning easier.
If your vehicle is exposed to pollen, bird droppings, tree sap, or the like, especially in
hot and sunny weather, wash it as often as necessary to keep it clean. If you do not,
your paint will be damaged. Take similar precautions if your vehicle is exposed to
chemical industrial fallout. If asphalt remains on the motorhome after washing, use a
small amount of 100% mineral spirits on a rag and wipe the spots individually, being
careful not to scratch the finish.
It is recommended that the caulking and sealant used in external seams and joints
such as window frames, light bezels, beltline and rub-rail molding, etc., be checked
regularly. If this material has dried out and becomes cracked or checked, or if a portion
has fallen out, it should be replaced with fresh material to prevent possible rain leaks.
Caulking and sealing material is available from your motorhome dealer.
CAUTION : Do not use high-pressure vehicle washes with harsh detergents or
automatic truck washes.
The front nose of the motorhome is coated with a protectie paint film. This film
gives added protection from insects. The care of the film is the same as for the
rest of the motorhome.