Capital Equipment News June-July 2020

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Service personnel should check engine oil and coolant levels before start up.

housings and the underside of the chassis if the vehicle is often used to carry marine products or coal and is thus prone to the effects of seawater or to serious paint damage. If anti-icing agent is left on the vehicle, it will stick to the vehicle and become impossible to remove with normal washing,” says Sebothoma. He adds that waxing the vehicle at least once every month is recommended. The best timing for waxing is just after washing the vehicle when the paint surface temperature is lower than the body temperature. “Avoid waxing under direct sunlight. Waxing hot paintwork may cause stains. Do not use a wax containing abrasive compound; it will damage painted surfaces and destroy their original luster,” adds Sebothoma. He adds that rust or corrosion on the underside or chassis of the vehicle can cause accidents or breakdowns. “After washing the vehicle, check for rust and for rust perforation. Remove any rust using a wire brush, then perform paint repair and/or apply rust inhibitor. If you find rust perforation, have corrective work performed promptly by your

Operators should do road testing at least every two weeks.

weeks when standing in the open,” he says. Sebothoma agrees that keeping the overall vehicle clean is of significance. He, however, advises not to use any organic solvent such as thinner or gasoline for cleaning. These will damage painted surfaces and cause discoloration and cracks in plastic components. “When washing the vehicle, pay particular attention to the wheel housings and the underside of the chassis, especially if the vehicle has been driven in a coastal area or on a road covered with an anti-icing agent. In addition, pay particular attention to the wheel

nearest authorised FUSO distributor or dealer,” says Sebothoma. Le Roux says Volvo Trucks are designed to operate in tough conditions, from below freezing conditions to the heat of the

Tyre pressure should be

monitored at least every two weeks

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