wealth of harmful toxins and bacteria, offi cials at Detroit Diesel Corporation recommend technicians clean the engine and the area around the engine prior to working on it and in accordance with both local and federal recommendations. Detroit Diesel (www.demanddetroit.com) is a manufacturer of engines, axles and transmissions and a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America (www.daimler-trucksnorthamerica.com), the leading heavy duty truck manufacturer in North America. In addition, Detroit offi cials say, an engine exposed to fl oodwater should be inspected and have its fl uids changed. Additional recommended practices involving fl ood-damaged vehicles, according to Detroit offi cials, include: Disconnecting the vehicle batteries prior to any service. Washing the exterior of the engine in fuel oil -- but not its electrical components -- to remove rust. Before subjecting the engine to a load or high speed, allowing it to reach a normal operating temperature and checking for any troubling diagnostic codes. Inspecting the engine and other areas of the vehicle for any leaks or other related problems. 24 Fleet Maintenance | APRIL 2017 Following manufacturer recommendations for addressing any problems related to a vehicle’s electrical components, including: Th e throttle position sensor. Cruise control switches. Engine brake switches. Cooling fan control. Vehicle Components Th e presence of rust and corrosion on vehicle components exposed to fl oodwater should be of great concern to maintenance personnel. In an eff ort to prevent the potential for vehicle performance issues as a result of adversely aff ected components, Meritor offi cials advise undertaking a number of service procedures before returning a fl ood-damaged vehicle to the road. Meritor is a provider of automotive systems, modules and components for light vehicle, commercial truck, trailer and specialty equipment (www.meritor.com). A vehicle should not be running when a technician commences with the inspection process of fl oodwater-exposed air compressors, say Meritor offi cials. Furthermore, all air lines and connections must be checked for water and contaminant damage, including, but not limited to, rust and Guidelines For Inspecting Flood-Damaged Vehicles The Car Care Council recommends following these guidelines to check for vehicle damage due to water intrusion or contamination: • Check interior carpets, upholstery and door and trim panels for dampness. If they are wet, they must be addressed immediately. If maintenance personnel simply let the carpet dry, it will quickly grow mildew and give off foul odors. • Seat brackets, motors and modules should also be checked for rust and proper operation. • Pull the engine oil and transmission fluid dipsticks and differential plug. If the fluid appears milky, diluted, is no longer its original color or is beige in color, then it is likely the pans contain water. High levels could also indicate that water has entered. • Starting and driving a vehicle with water present may damage the vehicle’s internal parts and result in the need for extensive overhaul or repairs. • Some new synthetic differential fluids may appear to be milky, but are not water contaminated. • Check the air filter for water. If it is wet, replace the air filter. • Check the undercarriage, bumpers, radiator area and frame for mud, grass, dirt, debris and rust. If any of these are present, the vehicle should be washed and cleaned as soon as possible. • Check the brake system. • Check the exterior lights for moisture and water. • Replace headlights and bulbs that contain water. • Listen for abnormal noises while the engine is running. • Lubricate the suspension joints, if necessary. The majority of newer vehicles are lubricated at the factory for life; however, these joints should be checked for rust. The Car Care Council, is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating motorists about the importance of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair (www.carcare.org). » A vehicle that has sustained extensive damage from a flood often ends up being deemed a total loss. Photo from iStock
FleetMaintenance_April_2017
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