BAJAMARINE.

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Care and Maintenance

Table of Contents
VINYL UPHOLSTERIES CANVAS PROPELLERS UNDERWATER METALS BATTERIES BOTTOM PAINT WINDSCREENS AND HATCHES FIBERGLASS/GEL COAT BILGE/ENGINE COMPARTMENT FUEL TOPSIDE AREAS STAINLESS STEEL ANODIZED ALUMINUM SERVICE GUIDE PARTS, ACCESSORIES, AND SERVICE

For more information on surface care and other maintenance tips using Yacht Brite Products, Bajas recommended choice for maintenance products, go to Yacht Brites website: www.yachtbrite.com

VINYL
Vinyl requires periodic cleaning to maintain its neat appearance and to prevent the buildup of dirt and contaminants that may permanently stain and reduce the life of the vinyl if they are not removed. The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of use and environmental conditions to which the vinyl is subjected. The procedures used for cleaning are dependent upon the end use circumstances. FOR NORMAL CLEANING In general, most common stains can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and clear water rinses. Moderate scrubbing with a medium bristle brush will help to loosen soiling material from the depressions of embossed surfaces. For stubborn stains, use Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner Spray and wipe or spray on, agitate with gentle scrub brush, then rinse with water. For light cleaning and protection use Yacht Brite Serious Shine. Spray and wipe with Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Note: Any cleaners other than recommended cleaners should not be used. Most boat vinyl cleaners on the market are not approved. These products are not produced by vinyl manufacturers. Using them would be at the owner's risk unless tested by our laboratory and approved. Caution: Powdered abrasives, cleaners containing abrasives, steel wool and industrial strength cleaners are not recommended for vinyl. Any lacquer solvent will cause immediate, irreparable damage to the vinyl. (Solvents will remove the topcoat on the vinyl, allowing the plasticizers to migrate, first causing a tacky surface. Next the surface will become hard and crack.) Wax or protectors should never be used on any vinyl upholstery, as it will cause premature embrittlement and cracking. Dilute chlorine bleach before using. Never use at full strength. If flammable solvents such as alcohol, turpentine or varsol are used for cleaning, only small quantities should be employed, in a well-ventilated area. Exercise proper care by advising any personnel in the area and keep away from any ignition source. Always wear protective gloves. Note: Stronger cleaners, detergents and solvents may be effective in stain removal, but can cause either immediate damage or slow deterioration. Many such materials are wrongly recommended in the marine and other related industries. The use of such cleaners is at the owner's own risk Certain stains may become permanently set unless they are removed immediately. Procedures for the removal of the more severe staining agents are outlined below. Ballpoint Ink, Permanent Marker: Ink spots will stain vinyl permanently. Immediate wiping with rubbing alcohol in a well-ventilated area will remove much of the stain. Use Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner. Spray on stain, let set for 30 seconds, wipe dry with Yacht Brite Microfiber Towel. Repeat if necessary. Oil-Based Paint: The use of turpentine in a well-ventilated area will remove any fresh paint. Dried paint must be moistened carefully with a semi-solid gel-type stripper so that the softened paint can be gently scraped away. Rinse with soap and water. Caution: Direct contact with paint strippers will remove the print pattern from a vinyl. Paint strippers are very corrosive. Take care to avoid skin contact by wearing protection. Latex Paint: Fresh paint can be wiped off with a damp cloth. Hot soapy water will normally remove dried latex. Use Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner. Spray on stain, let stand for 10 seconds, wipe off with terry cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber Towel. Tar, Asphalt: Remove immediately, as prolonged contact will result in a permanent stain. First spray Yacht Brite Serious Shine, let set for 20 seconds, remove tar or asphalt. Use a cloth lightly dampened with mineral sprits and rub the stain gently, working from the outer edge of the stain toward the center in order to prevent spreading. Rinse with soap and water. Crayon, Mustard, Ketchup: Sponge with mild soap and water. For stubborn stains that may have set, use a cloth soaked in diluted Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner and rub gently. Any remaining stain should be washed with diluted bleach. Rinse repeatedly with clear, cold water. Chewing Gum: Scrape off as much as possible with a dull knife. Rubbing with an ice cube will make it easier to remove when scraping. The remaining gum should then be removed by using Yacht Brite Serious Shine. Spray on, let set for 10 to 20 seconds, wipe of with soft cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Lipstick, Grease, Oil, Eye Shadow, Shoe Polish: Spray on Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner, let set 10 to 20 seconds, wipe clean with terry cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Apply a small quantity of mineral spirits by means of a cloth with gentle rubbing. Take care not to spread the stain by smearing it beyond its original source. No time should be lost in removing shoe polish, because it contains a dye that will cause permanent staining. Rinse thoroughly with water. Candy, Ice Cream, Coffee, Tea, Fruit Stains, Liquor, Wine, Suntan Lotion, and Soft Drinks: Use Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner. Spray onto affected area or on a Yacht Brite Microfiber towel, let sit 10 to 20 seconds, wipe clean, rinse with water, dry with a soft cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Any loose material should be gently scraped with a dull knife.

Blood, Leaf Residue: Rub out any spots with a clean cloth soaked in cool water. If stubborn spots remain, use Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner. Spray on affected area, let sit for 10 to 30 seconds. Wipe clean with terry cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber cloth. Bird Excreta & Nausea Stains: Sponge the area with soapy water containing diluted bleach until the stain is removed. Rinse thoroughly with water. For stubborn stains spray Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner, let sit for 10 to 20 seconds. Wipe with terry cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Urine Stains: Sponge with Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner. Spray and wipe dry with terry cloth or Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. If stain still persists sponge stain with warm water and Yacht Brite Moldaway (use as directed on package). Surface Mildew: Use Yacht Brite Moldaway. Mix the Moldaway powder with warm water (as directed), sponge into affected area, and rinse with water. Repeat if necessary. Note: Yacht Brite Moldaway quickly removes mold and mildew from most all surfaces including carpet, vinyl, and canvas. Yacht Brite Moldaway does not contain bleach or chlorine. Yacht Brite Moldaway is an oxygenating enzyme cleaner which is nontoxic.

INTERIOR MARINE VINYL CARE & CLEANING Allante should be periodically cleaned to maintain its appearance and to prevent build-up of dirt and contaminants. Any stain, spill or soiling should be cleaned up promptly to prevent the possibility of permanent staining. When cleaning, always rub gently. Dry soil, dust & dirt: Remove with a Yacht Brite Microfiber towel or soft cloth. Dried-on dirt: Wash with a soft cloth dampened with water. Variations in surface gloss: Wipe with a water-dampened Yacht Brite Microfiber towel and allow to air dry. Stubborn dirt: Wash with a soft cloth dampened with Yacht Brite Brite Wash or Ivory soap and water. Rinse with clean water. Stubborn spots and stains: Spray with either Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner or Yacht Brite Serious Shine and rub with a Yacht Brite Microfiber cloth. Rinse with clean water. Liquid spills: Wipe immediately with a clean Yacht Brite Microfiber towel. Rinse with clean water. Food grease and oily stains: Spray immediately using either Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner or Yacht Brite Brite Wash, wiping with a Yacht Brite Microfiber cloth. Take care not to extend the area of contamination beyond its original boundary. Rinse with clean water.

Caution: Powdered abrasives, abrasive cleaners and steel wool damage vinyl, as do strong solvents, lacquer solvents and inks. Lotions, suntan oil, waxes and polishes, etc., contain oils and dyes that can cause stiffening and staining of vinyl. Never use steam heat, heat guns or hair dryers. Note: Stronger cleaners, detergents and solvents may be effective in stain removal, but can cause either immediate damage or slow deterioration. Many such materials are wrongly recommended in the marine and other related industries. The use of such cleaners is at the owner's own risk.

UPHOLSTERIES
Exterior fabrics should be cleaned with a sponge or very soft scrub brush, Yacht Brite Brite Wash, and warm water solution. Rinse after scrubbing with plenty of cold, clean water and allow the fabric to air dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably away from direct sunlight. Mildew can occur if your boat does not have adequate ventilation. Heat alone will not prevent mildew; you must also provide fresh air circulation. Cleaning recommendations for marine fabrics Always clean immediately. Test an unseen area of fabric before cleaning stain. Check your owners manual for cleaning instructions.

CANVAS
Care, Cleaning and General Information for Your Baja Canvas The cockpit cover and other canvas items supplied on your Baja boat are manufactured from top-quality materials to provide you with years of trouble-free service. The following information on the care, cleaning and proper storage of the fabrics and fasteners that make up your marine canvas is being provided to help you maintain its appearance and ease of operation. Cleaning Instructions General Cleaning: All fabric and clear vinyl components should be cleaned regularly before substances such as dirt, roof particles, etc., are allowed to accumulate on and become embedded in the fabric. Simply brush off any loose dirt (use soft cloth on clear vinyl parts), hose down and clean with a mild solution of natural soap (Yacht Brite Brite Wash) in lukewarm water (no more than 100 degrees F). Rinse thoroughly to remove soap. DO NOT USE DETERGENTS! Allow to air dry. After

each use, especially in saltwater areas, rinse the canvas completely with fresh cold water. Then let the canvas dry completely before storing. Sunbrella: Used for Baja cockpit covers, and Islander series bow tonneau covers. For stubborn stains, soak the fabric for approximately 20 minutes in a solution of Yacht Brite Moldways (use as directed - one scoop of Moldway powder per one quart of lukewarm water, no more than 100 degrees F). Rinse the fabric thoroughly in cold water to remove all the soap. This may require rinsing several times. Incomplete rinsing can cause deterioration of sewing threads and prohibit the fabric from being properly re-treated. Allow the fabric to air dry completely. This method of cleaning may remove part of the water and stain repellency and the fabric should receive an application of an air curing re-treatment, such as 303 High Tech Fabric Guard (available at www.boatingstore.com) Sunbrella may be dry cleaned but 303 High Tech Fabric Guard must be applied to the fabric after dry cleaning. Sunbrella is made from 100% acrylic fiber and is thermoplastic or heat sensitive. When washing and cleaning, DO NOT SUBJECT TO EXCESSIVE HEAT as the fabric will shrink. DO NOT STEAM PRESS OR DRY IN ELECTRIC OR GAS DRYERS, but allow to air dry.

Characteristics Sunbrella Sunbrella is a woven fabric. Even though it is treated with water repellency, some "misting" through the fabric is typical. With new canvas, the greatest potential for leakage is through the sewn seams. Because Sunbrella and the long-term thread are synthetic, the holes created by sewing will not swell up and seal when exposed to water as cotton does. Usually the movement of the fabric in use will move the fibers enough to seal the holes. You may apply a couple of light coats of 303 High Tech Fabric Guard to the seams to speed up this process. When the canvas is new, the fit will normally be tight. It is designed this way because Sunbrella stretches as it ages. The initial tight fit allows for a suitable fit for the life of the canvas. The fit with Sunbrella will vary in the heat, cold and rain.

Care and Storage Tips NEVER store canvas wet or in an unventilated, moist area. Always roll the canvas instead of folding. This is of particular importance on any part with the clear vinyl "glass" or the snapless vinyl extrusion strip. Handle the clear vinyl carefully. It is soft and very prone to scratching. To keep the vinyl soft and flexible, regularly apply a UV screening agent such as Yacht Brite Serious Shine (use as directed) with a Yacht Brite Microfiber Towel. Your top, side curtains, aft curtain and camper sets are designed and intended for short-term use only; DO NOT USE FOR STORAGE. Under no circumstances should the boat be towed with the boat top in the upright position. When zippers are new they can be a little difficult to zip. Zip carefully without forcing - they will loosen with use. A zipper lubricant such as Zip Tech or Max Wax may be used to help new zippers as well as for maintaining long, trouble-free service. The most vulnerable part of the zipper is the start. Use care when starting zippers. To prevent damage to the fabric, fasteners should be unsnapped as close to the button as possible. Never remove canvas by pulling roughly on one edge of the material. If the snaps become difficult to unsnap, the action can be lowered by many lubricants, such as oil, petroleum jelly, waxbased lip balm, silicone sprays. The most common recommendation is to rub candle wax or paraffin around the stud or inside the socket. Whichever method is used, care must be taken that the lubricant does not stain the canvas or other surfaces it may contact. Trailering with Canvas The cockpit cover and tonneau cover must be removed when trailering. Bimini tops should be laid flat. Damage will occur to canvas and boat if attached to boat while trailering.

PROPELLERS
Your Baja has been equipped with propellers that our tests have shown to be the best suited for general use under normal conditions and load. In some situations you may wish to change propellers to give your boat slightly different performance characteristics. In general, changing to a lower-pitch propeller will increase acceleration and load-pulling ability, but with a slight decrease in top speed. Conversely, moving to a higher-pitch propeller will attain higher top speed with a light load, but will sacrifice acceleration and power. Your particular requirements should be discussed with your Baja dealer. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES USE A PROPELLER THAT ALLOWS THE ENGINE TO OPERATE AT HIGHER THAN RECOMMENDED RPM OR AN RPM THAT IS LOWER THAN THE RECOMMENDED WIDE OPEN THROTTLE (WOT) RPM RANGE GIVEN BY THE ENGINE MANUFACTURER. Basic Characteristics Propellers have two basic characteristics: diameter and pitch. Diameter is the distance in inches measured across the propeller hub line from the outer edge of the 360 that is made by the propeller's blades during rotation. Pitch is the distance

in inches that a propeller will travel if rotated one revolution without any slippage. For example, a propeller with a 12-inch pitch, when rotated 360, would theoretically, advance 12 inches through the water. No 12-inch pitch blade will, in a single rotation, advance a boat 12 inches. This variance is referred to as slippage. When describing a propeller, both the diameter and pitch are given. The diameter is referenced first and the pitch is second. Therefore, a 14" x 19" propeller would have a 14-inch diameter and a 19-inch blade pitch. Torque and Its Correction Some of the more powerful motors create a considerable torque effect - that is, a twisting motion causing the boat to ride with one sheer lower than the other. This twisting reaction is caused by the direction of propeller rotation lifting one side of the boat. This causes uneven drag, so that the boat's bow may tend to fall off in one direction or the other from the intended course given by the wheel. Torque action may occur when maximum or close-to-maximum rated horsepower is applied. Any slight torque may be offset by shifting passenger or gear weight to the high side of the boat. Damage Propellers should be free of nicks, excessive pitting and any distortions that alter propellers from their original design. A badly damaged propeller should be replaced, but those that are chipped, bent or merely knocked out of shape can be reconditioned by your marine dealer. When doing extensive cruising, it is advisable to carry an extra propeller aboard. Operating your boat with a damaged propeller will reduce its top speed, may introduce undesirable handling characteristics and will definitely increase fuel consumption. A damaged propeller may also create unpleasant vibrations leading to an increased sound level. These excessive vibrations will hasten wear to rotating and reciprocating engine components and may cause costly damage. Ventilation, Its Causes and Corrections While often called "cavitation," ventilation is really a different effect. At times when a boat enters or leaves a sharp turn, the propeller seems to slip and lose thrust and the engine may overspeed. This problem is normally caused by air or aerated water entering the propeller. (A damaged propeller can also cause ventilation.) Ventilation can usually be corrected by one or more of the following: Replace the damaged or incorrect propeller with the recommended one. Set the outdrive at a lesser trim angle (trim the unit downward). Cavitation, Its Causes and Corrections Cavitation is a phenomenon that occurs in all propeller-driven craft under certain conditions. The surface of propeller blades are not perfectly flat, and as water is drawn through the blades to be discharged aft into the propeller's slipstream, the water flowing over the curved surface of the blade encounters areas of greater and less pressure. In those areas of reduced pressure, air bubbles are formed. When they move out of the low pressure area these bubbles collapse. If these bubbles collapse while in contact with an object, such as part of the propeller blade or a trim plane, the bubbles create highly localized forces that can erode the surface of the object. In the case of the propeller, such damage is sometimes called a "burn." It may be caused by an irregularity in the propeller's leading edge, and should be corrected by reconditioning the propeller or by replacement. Cavitation is a normal occurrence in modern boats, and prop inspection should be part of routine maintenance.

UNDERWATER METALS
Electrolysis corrosion of underwater metals on powerboats can result in serious deterioration. The boat owner must be aware of the possibilities of galvanic action (the deterioration of underwater metals due to dissimilar characteristics when placed in salt water) and/or electrolysis. It is the owner's responsibility to check for and replace parts damaged by galvanic deterioration. Refer to your Baja dealer to investigate the source of stray corrosive currents. Inboard/outboard and outboard engines are fitted with zinc anodes on their lower units (refer to the engine operator's manual for their locations). If your boat is equipped with trim planes (tabs), zinc plates are installed on the trim planes (tabs). Zinc protects underwater hardware. Zinc, being much less "noble" than copper-based alloys and aluminum used in Baja underwater fittings, will deteriorate first and protect the more noble parts. Zinc anodes generally require replacement about once a year; however, they should be checked weekly. In salt water areas, replace every six months. The need to replace anodes more frequently may indicate a stray current problem within the boat or at the slip or mooring. If zinc anodes do not need replacing after one year, they may not be providing proper protection. Loose anodes or low-grade zinc may be the problem. NOTICE: Do not paint between the zinc and the metal it contacts, and do not paint over the zinc.

BATTERIES
Please refer to the engine manufacturer or your Baja dealer for the size and category of battery needed (or required) for your particular boat. Check the fluid level in the battery cells approximately every four weeks, and more often in summer and hot zones. The fluid level must be between the lower and upper markings. Replenish only with distilled water. Do not use metal funnels. Coat battery terminal clamps with silicone grease. Keep battery clean and dry. Use only a battery charger designed to charge automotive/marine batteries when batteries are disconnected from the boats electrical circuits.

CAUTION! While the engine is running, the battery terminal clamps must not be loosened of detached, nor should the battery switch(es) be turned off; otherwise, the alternator and other electronic units will be damaged. DANGER! Never use an open flame in the battery storage area. Avoid striking sparks near the battery. A battery will explode if a flame or spark ignites the free hydrogen given off during charging.

BOTTOM PAINT
From time to time, a slight algae or slime forms on all vessels. The bottom painted portion of the hull can be wiped off with a coarse Turkish towel or a piece of old rug while the boat is in the water. Do not use a stiff or abrasive material to clean the bottom paint. The bottom paint should be inspected annually. If it needs repainting, flush the old paint and wash with hot water and laundry detergent. Rinse well and let surface dry completely. Feather any deep scratches with sandpaper and repaint, following the directions on the bottom paint label. Replacement coating can be ordered from your Baja dealer. Fiberglass hulls should never be hauled, painted and relaunched the same day, since this does not allow sufficient time for the moisture that has been absorbed into the old paint film to completely dry out. Generally, 24 to 36 hours of drying time is required. NOTE: There are EPA regulations regarding bottom paint application. Consult your Baja dealer for proper application methods.

WINDSCREENS AND HATCHES

Never use a dry cloth or duster, or glass-cleaning solutions, on windscreens or hatches. To clean windscreens and hatches, first flood it with water to wash off as much dirt as possible. Next, use your bare hand, with plenty of water, to feel and dislodge any caked dirt or mud. A soft, grit-free Yacht Brite Microfiber cloth may then be used with a nonabrasive soap or detergent. A soft sponge, kept clean for this purpose, is excellent. Blot and dry with a clean, damp Yacht Brite Microfiber cloth. Do not use solvents such as acetone, silicone spray, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, fire extinguisher fluid, drycleaning fluid or lacquer thinner on windscreens or hatches, since they attack the surface. Remove fine scratches with Yacht Brite Pro Polish, followed by Yacht Brite Serious Shine. To remove deeper scratches use Yacht Brite Buff Magic with a machine buffer at low RPM, 1,000 or less. This should be done by an experienced professional.

FIBERGLASS/GEL COAT
Molded fiberglass with a gel coated exterior finish makes up the structure of the hull, deck and some interior parts of your Baja. The gel coat is the outer surface, often colored, that presents the shiny, smooth appearance that is associated with fiberglass products. In some areas, this gel coat surface is painted or taped for styling purposes. Wash the fiberglass regularly with Yacht Brite Brite Wash and clean, fresh water. Use Yacht Brite Pro Polish on gel coated surfaces to maintain the luster. In northern climates, a semiannual polishing may suffice for the season. In southern climates, a quarterly application of polish will be required for adequate protection. CAUTION: Gel coat surfaces are slippery when wet. Use extreme care when walking on wet gel coat. Baja Marines recommended polish and sealant is Yacht Brite Pro Polish. If the gel coated surface gloss cannot be restored by Yacht Brite Pro Polish, power buff with a compound such as Yacht Brite Buff Magic followed with Yacht Brite Pro Polish. CAUTION: Care should be utilized in waxing commonly walked upon areas of the boat to ensure that they are not dangerously slippery. If gel coat is not maintained and becomes heavily oxidized, light sanding may be required before buffing. Fiberglass/Gel Coat Stains & Scratches Gel coated and painted surfaces are very resistant to deep stains. Common surface stains can be removed with diluted household detergents, providing these detergents do not contain ammonia or chlorine. Porcelain-cleaning powders are too abrasive and often contain chlorine and ammonia, either of which would permanently discolor the gelcoat and paint. Minor scratches and deeper stains that do not penetrate the gel coat may be removed by light sanding and buffing with the prescribed Yacht Brite products. About Colored Gel Coats Chemical lab test have proven that colored gel coats will show more chalking than white gel coat due to an eventual degradation from weathering. Chalking results from a breakdown of a gel coated surface into an extremely fine powder. When this happens, the color of the part whitens. The chalk is strictly on the surface. Most house paints are designed to chalk and then wash off clean with water. Gel coat chalk, however, does not wash off. One can extend the life of white or colored gel coat by following Baja Marines recommended maintenance instructions. Use Yacht Brite Buff Magic to remove any chalking by hand or machine followed by Yacht Brite Pro Polish. Yacht Brite Serious Shine will help maintain the luster and gloss of the original gel coat finish.

Permanently Moored or Docked Boats Boats should be rotated in a slip as often as they are polished. This will eliminate too much ultra violet exposure and degradation to occur on only one side of the boat. If permanently moored in salt water or fresh water, your boat will collect marine growth on its bottom. This will detract from the boat's beauty and greatly affect its performance. There are two methods of preventing this: 1. Periodically haul the boat out of the water and scrub the bottom with a bristle brush and a solution of soap and water. 2. Paint the hull below the waterline with a good grade of antifouling paint. DO NOT paint the engine drive surfaces. NOTE: There are EPA regulations regarding bottom paint application. Consult your Baja dealer for proper application methods.

BILGE/ENGINE COMPARTMENT
Pump the bilge dry and remove all loose dirt. Be sure that all limber holes are open. If there is oil in the bilge and the source is not known, look for leaks in engine oil lines or engine gaskets. Oil stains can be removed by using a bilge cleaner such as Yacht Brite Serious Marine Cleaner available from your dealer or marina. DO NOT use flammable solvents. Check all wiring and that there are no loose or corroded terminals. If there are corroded terminals, they should be replaced or thoroughly cleaned. Tighten all terminals securely and spray them with light marine preservative oil. Inspect the entire fuel system (including fill lines and vents) for any evidence of leakage. Any stains around joints could indicate a leak. Try a wrench on all fittings to be sure they are not loose, but do not over tighten them. Clean fuel filters and vent screen. Inspect the entire bottom for evidence of seepage, damage or deterioration, paying particular attention to hull fittings, hoses and clamps. Straighten kinked hoses and replace any that do not feel pliable. Tighten loose hose clamps and replace those that are corroded. Tighten any loose nuts, bolts or screws. Refer to your engine operator and owners manual for engine maintenance details. Wipe off engines to remove accumulated dust and grease. If a solvent is used, make sure it is nonflammable. Go over the entire engine and tighten nuts, bolts and screws. Inspect the wiring on the engine and clean and tighten the terminals. Inspect the belts and tighten them if needed. Clean and lubricate the battery terminals; fill the battery cells with distilled water as needed.

FUEL
The quality of the fuel is very important for satisfactory engine performance and long engine life. Fuel should be clean and free of contamination. Your fuel tanks should be kept full of fuel whenever possible. This will reduce the amount of water condensation and reduce the possibility of contamination. CAUTION! Use of improper gasoline can damage your engine seriously. NOTICE! The use of any good-grade unleaded regular or premium gasoline with a minimum posted octane rating [(A.K.I.) Anti-Knock Index] of 87 is satisfactory for use in gasoline marine engines. In areas where unleaded regular or premium gasoline is not available, a good-grade leaded regular with a minimum posted octane rating (A.K.I.) of 89 may be used. However, gasoline containing alcohol, either methyl alcohol (methanol) or ethyl alcohol (ethanol) may cause increased: Corrosion of metal parts Deterioration of rubber and plastic parts Fuel permeation through flexible fuel lines Wear and damage of internal engine parts Starting and operating difficulties AVOID USING FUELS WITH ALCOHOL ADDITIVES Some of these adverse effects are due to the tendency of gasoline containing alcohol to absorb moisture from the air, resulting in a phase of water alcohol separating from the gasoline in the fuel tank. The adverse effects of alcohol are more severe with methyl alcohol (methanol) and are worse with increasing alcohol content. NOTICE! ALWAYS FOLLOW THE FUELING PRECAUTIONS AND SAFEGUARDS FOUND IN YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL.

TOPSIDE AREAS
Check grab rails for loose screws, breaks, sharp edges, etc., that might be hazardous in rough weather. Inventory and inspect life jackets for tears and deterioration. Check your first aid kit to make sure it is complete. Check the signaling equipment. Inspect anchor, mooring and towing lines and repair or replace as required. DO NOT stow wet lines, or they may mildew and rot. Stainless steel and alloy fittings should be cleaned with Yacht Brite Brite Wash and water or household glass cleaner. Remove rust spots as soon as possible with Yacht Brite Buff Magic or a brass, silver and chrome cleaner. Irreversible pitting will develop under rust that remains for any period of time. Never use an abrasive like sandpaper or steel wool on stainless. These may actually cause rust. To help protect the stainless, we recommend the use of Yacht Brite Buff Magic. When instruments are exposed to a saltwater environment, salt crystals may form on the bezel and the plastic covers. These salt crystals should be removed with a damp Yacht Brite Microfiber towel; never use abrasives or rough, dirty cloths to wipe plastic parts. Yacht Brite Serious Shine can be used with a Yacht Brite Microfiber towel to keep the instruments bright and clean.

STAINLESS STEEL CARE

Austenitic Stainless Steels as used in Marine applications, contrary to popular beliefs, are not completely free from corrosion attack. The degree of surface oxidation is directly affected by local atmosphere and saltwater concentrations. All metals are subject to corrosion in some environments. The choice then is one of economics or optimum performance. Gold would be an exceptional material, but...practicality leads us to the non-magnetic High Chrome - Nickel grades of Stainless Steels. These alloys in the wrought condition have proven to be the most versatile in the "Above Water" Marine environments. Many factors contribute to corrosion and the protection from corrosion. The most noteworthy is the special characteristic that Stainless Steel has in its ability to form its own anti-corrosive coating, through an adherent oxide passive film. This natural resistance can only be accomplished in a clean, contaminant free and oxygen present surface. Our most helpful recommendation then is to give your Stainless Steel Hardware the same attention you would other materials on your boat. Regular fresh water washing with a mild non-abrasive cleaner will keep your Stainless bright and beautiful and should last far beyond the life of the boat. ALWAYS Clean stainless frequently with Yacht Brite Brite Wash and water. Any cleaner safe for glass is usually safe for stainless. Remove rust spots as soon as possible with Yacht Brite Buff Magic or a stainless steal, brass, silver and chrome cleaner. Irreversible pitting will develop under rust that remains on stainless for any period of time. Use a cleaner, like a Yacht Brite Serious Shine, for added beauty and protection. NEVER Use coarse abrasives like sandpaper or steel wool on stainless. These may actually cause rusting. Clean with mineral acids or bleaches. Leave stainless in contact with iron, steel or other metals. These may cause contamination leading to rust or corrosion.

ANODIZED ALUMINUM CARE

The anodized aluminum used in your boat is the best available and is designed to marine specifications to enhance quality and performance. However, the marine environment is still one of the harshest conditions on Earth. Baja Marine offers the following recommendations that may extend the life of your aluminum hardware. Wash it often to keep contaminates from forming or building up! Use extra care and maintenance when cleaning the tubing directly beneath the Hardtop or T-Top Canvas or Radar Arches. The aluminum tubing in these areas does not receive the natural rinsing of rainwater, plus the area is shielded from the sun and usually does not dry completely or quickly as the rest of the frame. If the underside is overlooked it may result in staining or pitting. Give your anodized aluminum hardware the same attention you would other materials on your boat. Regular fresh water washing with Yacht Brite Brite Wash will keep your anodized aluminum bright. ALWAYS Clean often, and do it thoroughly. Wash often to keep contaminates from forming or building up. Clean anodized aluminum with Yacht Brite Brite Wash and water, soft towel or sponge is recommended. Rinse thoroughly and completely with direct fresh water. The important point is to clean and rinse your anodized aluminum well! When using metal protection products, be sure they are formulated for anodized aluminum. NEVER Use bleach or chlorides. They have a tendency to leach on the aluminum, which could lead to staining and pitting. Use abrasive cleaning products. Never use steel or brass wool, wire brushes, polishing wheels, rubbing or polishing compounds. These items will remove the anodizing and lead to pitting. Use concentrated alkaline base solutions, many detergents fall into this category.

SERVICE GUIDE
It is important that our Baja owners follow maintenance schedules. For general information on servicing your boat, please contact your Baja dealer. For specific information, you may refer to your Baja owners manuals, the engine operator and owners manual, specific component manuals, or the manufacturer of the component on your boat needing service.

PARTS, ACCESSORIES, AND SERVICE

Baja parts and accessories are available only through an authorized Baja dealer. When contacting a Baja dealer regarding replacement parts, accessories, or service, please have all pertinent information such as serial numbers, model numbers, etc., on hand. Baja Marine has a permanent record of your boat, which is retained under its "Hull Identification Number." The Hull Identification Number (HIN), located on the starboard side of the transom, is the most important identifier and must be included in all correspondence and orders. Failure to include this information may cause shipment delays or service delays.