Body and Interior
444
rosion that would normally take 12 years to occur is now occurring in as little as two years because of
these liquid chemical de-icers.
These new chemical de-icers corrode and damage body structure, wick into connectors and damage elec-
trical systems, and work their way under brake linings and corrode brake shoes (causing “rust jacking”).
These chemicals also attack and pit both steel and aluminum wheels, causing them to deteriorate and
loosen. Almost all exposed underbody and chassis components can be attacked by de-icing chemicals.
The defense against these aggressive chemicals is to clean them off as soon as possible.
If these
chemicals are used in your area, Gillig recommends that a
pressurized underside wash, described
below, be done at least twice weekly
during the winter.
When cleaning the underbody with a pressurized wash, be careful not to damage the undercoating with
too much pressure. Excessive pressure can peel the undercoating from the underbody. We recommend
that only clean water be used in the bus wash and that if the water is recycled, it be purified first, so that
the washed-off chemicals are not reapplied. We suggest that
chemical cleaners
(such as “Mag Buster
Winter Wash” by Five Star Chemical Co. of Colorado or “Bright” by Advantage Coatings and Cleaners
of Colorado, etc.)
be used
to remove and neutralize the chemical de-icers used in your area. We also rec-
ommend that
regular underside inspections
be conducted, and that missing or
damaged undercoating
be repaired
or reapplied. Any corrosion should be cleaned off, and undercoating or other protections
(sealers, coating, etc.) should be applied to the exposed surfaces. We recommend
di-electric grease be
reapplied
to all electrical connectors and connections and that
inspections include brake shoes and
wheels
.
To maintain Gillig’s structural and corrosion warranty coverage in areas using magnesium chloride and
similar de-icers, vehicles should be frequently and properly washed (see above), any damage or corro
-
sion repaired (see above), and an annual underside inspection report must be sent to Gillig’s Warranty
Department within 60 days of the inspection so Gillig can institute corrective action before it’s too late.
See your specific warranty documents for terms, conditions, and limitations.
Please refer to GILLIG Field Service Bulletins FS-2001-03 and FS-2003-06 for additional information.
Road sand, salt, and rocks will sandblast bus undercarriages and remove
protective coatings. The underbody should be washed frequently and
inspected, especially at dirt collection points. Any areas with rust showing
and/or protective coating missing must be cleaned and the protective
coating must be reapplied.
Road de-icing liquid chemical sprays such as magnesium chloride or
calcium chloride can cause serious corrosion to structural elements, brake
systems, electrical systems, wheels, etc., which could lead to component
failure and degraded performance. These liquid de-icers and their mists
are very invasive; they wick into joints, electrical connectors and other
areas, making them difficult to remove. Also since they are hydrophilic,
they continue corroding all year. Therefore, proper cleaning (including
disassembly) and reapplication of protective coatings is essential.
Summary of Contents for LOW FLOOR
Page 18: ...Specifications 18...
Page 58: ...Preventive Maintenance 58...
Page 110: ...Engine 110...
Page 138: ...Transmission Driveline Rear Axle 138...
Page 182: ...Suspension 182...
Page 260: ...Air System 260...
Page 420: ...Electrical System 420 Deutsch DT Series Connectors...
Page 421: ...Electrical System 421...
Page 422: ...Electrical System 422 Deutsch HD 10 Series Connectors...
Page 423: ...Electrical System 423...
Page 424: ...Electrical System 424 Deutsch HD 30 Series Connectors...
Page 425: ...Electrical System 425...
Page 442: ...Heating Air Conditioning 442...
Page 492: ...Body and Interior 492 Figure 11 33 USSC Seat Assembly...
Page 493: ...Body and Interior 493 Figure 11 34 USSC Seat Suspension Assembly...
Page 495: ...Body and Interior 495 Figure 11 37 Seat Air Connections...