The below came with my Manual and is what Winnebago will refer you to as for taking care of the Fiberglass Roof. I have used the
RV Wash & Wax which is easy to do and looks good, I have the
Meguiar #56 Pure that I have used on the sides and if I ever were to wax the roof, it is what I would use.
GENERAL
The exterior surface of composite exterior is a high quality gelcoat. Gelcoat is available in many colors and is very durable, but
it can become dull or faded as it weathers, especially with darker colors. Sunlight, heat and moist air combine to oxidize the
gelcoat surface, fading it and making the surface cloudy.
So how do you keep your composite exterior looking good? Depending upon the frequency of exposure to the elements and
the darker the gelcoat color, maintenance of the composite exterior can be as little as every 6 months to as often as every 3
months or less, if the vehicle is kept out in the elements under constant exposure. It is essential to wash it often and wax it
periodically, as doing so will ensure that it will remain like new for many years. Failure to perform these simple maintenance
tasks may result in surface deterioration over time.
KEEP IT CLEAN
Wash the exterior of your RV at least monthly using a mild liquid detergent. Avoid cleaners that are abrasive, caustic (highly
alkaline or high pH) or those cleaners containing ammonia. Caustic cleaners can cause discoloration and loss of gloss and
repeated use may cause cracking and reduced UV resistance. Also, avoid dirty or gritty brushes. Remove tar, bugs, sap, and
bird droppings as soon as possible to prevent staining. If using a tar and insect remover product, test a small area to be sure
it is safe for use on composites.
To remove a light stain that does not wash off, first try additional washing. Next, try cleaning with an appropriate solvent,
again test on an inconspicuous area. For severe stains, it may be necessary to use an abrasive cleaner, starting with a fine
rubbing compound. If the stain still exists, sand lightly with 800 grit sandpaper, followed by rubbing compound and wax. RV
accessory stores carry many cleaning supplies that are specially formulated for cleaning RV exteriors.
Always read labels carefully and follow label directions.
KEEP IT SHINY
Storing conditions are very important. Indoor storage is ideal. Alternatively, outdoor storage out of direct sunlight and away
from tree and bird droppings is recommended. Various covers are available at RV accessory dealers. Avoid covers that trap
moisture. Prolonged exposure to trapped water may cause blushing, especially in darker colors.
The gel-coat surface of your composite exterior (like all products), change color over time as part of the aging process when
exposed to weathering and sunlight. Gel-coats are available in many colors and is very durable, but it can become dull or
faded as it weathers. Sunlight, heat and moist air combine to oxidize the gel-coat surface, fading it and making the surface
cloudy.
Depending upon the frequency of exposure to the elements and the darker the color, maintenance (washed and waxed) of
the composite exterior must be completed at a minimum of every 6 months (3 months or less for darker colors). To ensure
that all sides of the vehicle receive the same level of exposure to sunlight, the vehicle should be moved frequently. Failure to
perform these simple maintenance tasks will void any warranty.
If the surface has been allowed to weather badly, and cleaning and wax polishing does not restore the finish satisfactorily, then
compounding will be necessary. Polishing compound (fine abrasive) or rubbing compound (coarser abrasive) is recommended
for use on fiberglass RVs to remove scratches, stains, or a severely weathered surface. Polishing or rubbing compound
can be applied by hand or by mechanical means, such as an electrical or pneumatic buffer. After the scratched, stained or
weathered surface has been removed, it should be waxed to enhance the gloss and color while providing a seal to retard
staining or new soil accumulation.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE CARE AND MAINTENANCE
FORM 6998
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE CARE AND MAINTENANCE
cranecomposites.com | 1.800.435.0080 | 1.815.467.8666 [fax] |
sales@cranecomposites.com
We believe all information given is accurate. It is offered in good faith, but without guarantee. Since conditions of use are beyond our control, all risks are assumed by the user.
Filon and Noble
6998 | REV. 7 | 02.17 (8094)
KEEP IT REPAIRED
Scratches are the most common damage an RV suffers. Many of these can be removed with rubbing compound, followed by
wax. Major repairs should be referred to a professional.
KEEP IT SEALED
A water tight seal is necessary to maintain the integrity of the composite wall system. Follow the RV manufacturer’s guidelines.
Damage caused by moisture in the RV wall will void any warranty.
RESTORING GLOSS
Materials
• Meguiar’s: #49 Heavy Duty Oxidation Remover
• Meguiar’s #50 Boat and RV Cleaner Wax Liquid or a Mild detergent and water
• Meguiar’s: #56 Boat and RV Pure Wax
• Soft cotton cloth
• Mechanical buffer (optional)
Procedure
1. Wash the Crane Composites RV panel with a mild detergent and water.
2. Dry the Crane Composites RV panel with a clean, soft cotton cloth.
3. Apply heavy duty cleaner by following the directions on the container. (If a buffer is available, substitute polishing
compound for heavy duty cleaner and buff polishing compound lightly).
4. Wash the Crane Composites RV panel with water and dry the surface.
5. Apply car wax per directions.