the Idaho Transportation Department. It noted that vehicles contain several diff erent metals, and each metal reacts uniquely to the various chemicals used for winter road maintenance. A de-icer that is minimally corrosive to steel may cause serious corrosion to aluminum, for example. Moreover, the report says climatic conditions, methods of use and application rates all aff ect the corrosiveness of a given chemical as well. Corrosion inhibitors further complicate matters, as there are many unique formulations on the market and their eff ects also vary, based on conditions and the metals they come in contact with. Vehicle OEMs and suppliers are working on many approaches, such as metal plating and better coatings on new structural components. Fleets are adding aft ermarket protective coatings to the underside of existing vehicles and other areas that are susceptible to corrosion. INSPECTION An industry best practice to mitigating the eff ects of chemical road treatments is to be proactive and regularly inspect vehicles, plus perform the proper preventive maintenance (PM). Included should be a thorough examination of the electrical system and lighting, as even small surface cracks and holes in a wire or cable can cause moisture to wick into the system. Be on the lookout for early signs of corrosion so that corrective action can be taken before the damage becomes severe. WASH AND CLEAN Another best practice is to regularly wash and clean vehicles, especially in winter conditions. Th is gets rid of the road grime, salt, chemicals, dirt buildup, etc., that can contribute to premature wear on dozens of vehicle parts, along with wear on the exterior fi nish. Vehicles should be washed to remove road salt and chemicals within a couple days of exposure. Chemical additives can be mixed into the water for washing to achieve some degree of protection against road salt and chemicals. However, it is important to use additives with the right chemistry to get the best results. Using an additive with the wrong chemistry can aggravate the problems. Washing vehicles by hand is preferred to automated or commercial washing facilities. Commercial facilities oft en use high-pressure wands that emit higher than necessary water pressures and use stiff brushes that can mar or damage a vehicle’s surface. Scratches can penetrate the clearcoat fi nish, causing delamination and/or other paint related issues not covered under warranty. Th e application of neutralizing chemicals to areas of a vehicle that are most susceptible to rust and corrosion can pay benefi ts as well. Cover Story | Paints and vehicle corrosion For information about paints and vehicle corrosion, see the Collision Repair supplement that accompanies this issue of Fleet Maintenance. COLLISION SUPPLEMENT BROUGHT TO YOU BY While corrosion on vehicles from aggressive anti-icing products has been reported on chrome, aluminum and even stainless steel, no area of a vehicle is immune from the effects of corrosive materials and chemicals. Photo courtesy of Technology & Maintenance Council Applying wax to a vehicle’s fi nish to act as a buff er will extend the life and beauty of a vehicle’s paint. Sadly, there is no simple or easy solution to preventing or stopping vehicle corrosion. Vigilance and proper maintenance practices are the keys to minimizing the impact of the Big C, corrosion. Online Exclusive Recommendations on fi ghting corrosion within a vehicle’s electrical system, provided by Optronics International, can be found at: VehicleServicePros.com/12228916 REPAIR Best practices for vehicle repair and refinishing ÎPlus how to deal with health and safety challenges Top Tools for Collision Repair page 21 Aluminum Repair page 4 f GUIDE TO IN ASSOCIATION WITH PROFITS ADJUSTRITE® ESTIMATING DELIVERS MAXIMUM With its mobility and exclusive features, the AdjustRite system for heavy-duty trucks is the well-proven tool for enhancing your professional image, increasing sales, and maximizing profitability. FREE TRIAL OFFER No credit card required and no sales calls! We’re confident your first estimate will convince you this is the estimating tool you’ve always needed. Visit adjustrite.com to get started. ©2015 PPG Industries, Inc. All rights reserved. AdjustRite is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. VehicleServicePros.com/10226485 VehicleServicePros.com ❚ AUGUST 2016 ❚ FLEET MAINTENANCE 15
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