S100 and Denim Paint

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Dec 31, 2007 | 07:59 PM

bradld

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Joined: Dec 2007

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S100 and Denim Paint

Just reading my 2007 Bob manual and it specifically states to NOT use S100 cleaner on denim paint.

Can the cleaner be used or is HD serious about the dish soap?

If it's a no-go on the painted tank & fenders, can I use it everywhere else- i.e. the chrome and bob'd (black painted) parts?

Thanks,

B

Dec 31, 2007 | 08:18 PM

nkauf21

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 2,379

Likes: 1

From: England via the US

RE: S100 and Denim Paint

I used to have the denim paint but had mine repainted satin black. On both I use a cleaner called Plexus. It is in an aerosol can. I just spray it on a microfiber towel and wipe it down. I use that on pretty much everything and it works really well. I use S100 engine bright on all of the wrinkle black motor parts. I have washed my bike with a hose and water maybe twice. The rest of the time I just wipe it down really well before a ride.

Dec 31, 2007 | 09:23 PM

VenturaChop

Road Master

Joined: Apr 2007

Posts: 1,156

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From: oxnard ca

RE: S100 and Denim Paint

just use windex man i

Jan 1, 2008 | 07:53 AM

johnfxdb

Cruiser

Joined: Dec 2007

Posts: 104

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From:

RE: S100 and Denim Paint

I have seen a lot of messed up denim bikes here in FL...I know it sounds crazy for a HD owner not to wash and shine twice a week, but with a denim bike, just knock the lumps and bumps off of it with damp wipe down. S100 on the motor is not a problem...just not the paint. Take a look at your jeans...that is the intent over time with the denim finish. I also saw a guy who tried to do some touch up on his denim bike. OMG what a mess.

Jan 1, 2008 | 08:37 AM

domenicp7

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jun 2007

Posts: 2,687

Likes: 6

From: Kalaui Kona HI

RE: S100 and Denim Paint

Read this. It was posted in the Sporty Section. S100 I tossed my can. I just can't trust it.

The Service Bulletin:

[align=left]TT348 â€“ October 31, 2007 - XL1200N Nightster Engine Finish Discoloration[/align][align=left]XL1200N Nightster Engine Finish Staining/Discoloration[/align][align=left]Recently Harley-Davidson Tech Service has received several calls on "Staining"[/align][align=left]of the Medium Grey painted surfaces on the 1200 Nightster. The staining is the[/align][align=left]result of various conditions related to the improper use of S100 product.[/align][align=left]Discoloration of engine covers related to improper use of cleaning products is not[/align][align=left]a warrantable event. There is aerosol paint available, part number 98606CPM to[/align][align=left]remedy this situation, which has been used with success by dealer technicians.[/align][align=left]To help aid in proper use and to avoid staining to the surfaces, Please follow the[/align][align=left]guidelines below or the directions on the product being used.[/align][align=left]1) Insure bike is cool. Cool with water before applying S100.[/align][align=left]2) Spray fine mist of S100 over cycle. Avoid areas which should not be cleaned[/align][align=left]with water (electronics etc. see owners manuals)[/align][align=left]3) Since S100 can dry quickly, begin rinsing right away. Rinse off S100 using[/align][align=left]highest water pressure from a garden hose and hose nozzle set for[/align][align=left]sharpest jet. (More water pressure= better cleaning) No Pressure Washers.[/align][align=left]4) Rinse very thoroughly until no sudsing is noticeable. Check to see that[/align][align=left]surfaces feel "squeaky" to the touch. If slippery, continue rinsing.[/align][align=left]IMPORTANT DO'S AND DON'TS:[/align][align=left]Don't â€¦Spray S100 on a Hot cycle (either from riding or standing in sun)[/align][align=left]Spotting can occur. Cool first with water then wash[/align][align=left]Doâ€¦â€¦. Rinse S100 very thoroughly. S100 is very concentrated. Whitish residue[/align][align=left]which appears like water spots indicates incomplete rinsing. Re-clean area &[/align][align=left]rinse longer[/align][align=left]Don'tâ€¦.. Allow S100 to dry on the cycle. On hot days, wet bike before Appling[/align][align=left]S100[/align][align=left]Doâ€¦â€¦.. Consult your Ownerâ€™s Manual for sensitive areas to avoid with water[/align][align=left]Don'tâ€¦..Use steam cleaning or hot water pressure washers on your bike[/align][align=left]Please keep in mind, ambient temps can exceed 100 degrees in some parts of[/align][align=left]the country and you should cool off the bike with water before using the cleaner.[/align][align=left]Additionally, if a bike is parked on a black asphalt road or driveway the heat will[/align][align=left]rise and warm the bike, please cool with water before cleaning[/align]

Jan 1, 2008 | 09:11 AM

Lumpy63

Cruiser

Joined: Nov 2007

Posts: 156

Likes: 2

From: Here and there.

RE: S100 and Denim Paint

The denim finish is a flat clearcoat.Rubbing ANY clear coat will increase its shine.

What S100 does to flat paint is get caught in the flat paint's rough surfaces, and it leaves a discoloring white residue. The stuff's also mildly caustic. I also know it diluted the topcoat on my driveway, as does whitewall cleaner....

Dishsoap would work well since it's a degreaser and naturally removes wax. Anything sticking to your flat paint would be washed away, returning it to its natural, dull finish.

I had an oldtimer tell me once that you should never use water on a motorcycle. Not that it hurts anything, rather by hand wiping your bike with a rag and a spray bottle, you touch each and every nut and bolt, and are likely to sooner find loose parts or hardware BEFORE it's a problem, then by simply hosing it off.

I wash my bike 2-3 times a YEAR, if that, and that's only if I got caught in a rainstorm, or this time of year, where I may ride through drain water that has caustic roadsalt in it. Even then, it's low pressure water from a hose and towel dry.