1981 Volvo DL, GL and GLT
pg. 77 Washing, cleaning
Chromed parts
Chromium-plated and anodized parts should be washed with clean water as soon as they become dirty.
This is particularly important if you drive on gravel roads or on roads where salt is used during the
winter. After the car has been washed, apply wax or an anti-rust preparation.
Stains on chrome trim can be removed with commercially available chrome cleaner. Do not use abrasive
compounds or steel wool.
Polishing (waxing)
Polishing and waxing is not necessary unless a glossy surface can no longer be obtained by normal car
washing.
Normally, polishing is not required during the first year after delivery, however, waxing may be
beneficial.
Before applying polish or wax the car must be washed and dried. Tar spots can be removed with
kerosene or tar remover. Difficult spots may require a fine rubbing compound.
After polishing use liquid or paste wax.
Several commercially available products contain both polish and wax. Waxing alone does not substitute
for polishing of a dull surface.
Cleaning the upholstery
Generally the fabric can be cleaned with soapy water or a detergent. For more difficult spots caused by
oil, ice cream, shoe polish, grease, etc., use a stain remover.
The plastic in the upholstery can be washed.
To clean leather upholstery, use soft cloth and mild soap solution, for instance common toilet soap.
For more difficult spots, consult an expert for the choice of cleaning agent.
On no account must gasoline, naphtha or similar cleaning agents be used on the plastic or the
leather since these can cause damage.
When aging, leather changes appearance, but the typical texture remains. To preserve smoothness and
appearance, it is recommended to treat the leather with a special leather preservative after one or two
years of use.
Cleaning floor mats
The floor mats should be vacuumed or brushed clean regularly, especially during the winter when they
should be taken out for drying.
Spots on textile mats can be removed with a mild detergent.
Anti-rust treatment
Your Volvo has been rust protected at the factory.
On external surfaces a heavy coat of wear resistant material has been used, while on the internal surfaces
a lighter rust protector is used.
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