CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Caution: All hose clamps of 1 3/8" ID and over,
used on the heating and cooling systems, are of
the "Constant-torque" type. This type of clamp is
designed to automatically adjust its diameter to
compensate for the normal expansion
/contraction of a hose and metal connection that
occurs during vehicle operation and shutdown. A
torque wrench should be used for proper
installation. The recommended torque is 90 to
100 lbf·in. (10 to 11 N·m). The hose clamps will
break if over-torqued and cause loss of coolant.
Do not over-tighten, especially during cold
weather when hose has contracted.
Leaks
Check for leaks under vehicle and in
compartments.
Correct leaking hoses immediately. Failure to
correct leaks can cause severe damage to the
equipment, as well as increase operating costs
due to lost fluids. Treat fuel and oil leaks as an
immediate fire hazard.
Warning: Fire hazard - personal injury and
property damage may result from fire caused by
leaking flammable fluids.
Hose Service Life
Hoses have a limited service life. Thoroughly
inspect hoses annually. Look for surface
damage or indications of twisted, worn, crimped,
cracked or leaking lines. Replace damaged
hoses immediately.
Hoses should be replaced during major overhaul
or after a maximum of five years service. Make
sure replacement hoses match the original
equipment manufacturer's specifications.
Wheels And Tires
Check for loose wheel nuts. Both aluminum
alloy and steel wheel nuts should be tightened to
450 to 500 foot-pounds (610 to 680 Nm) torque.
Tire Pressure
Keep the tires inflated to the recommended
inflation pressure to prolong tire life and for
safety.
Note: Recommended tire inflation pressures are
given in the "Coach Final Record", placed in the
technical publications package supplied with the
vehicle. The cold tire inflation pressures are on
the Department of Transport certification plate
located on the L.H. console besides the driver’s
seat.
Warning: Do not exceed maximum inflation
pressure. Incorrect tire pressure increases tire
wear and could lead to loss of driving control
because of reduced road handling. Check tire
pressure regularly.
Doors
Close all exterior doors and windows. Check for
good tightness and fit.
Tools And Spares
Make sure the vehicle is equipped with a wheel
nut wrench, door keys, spare belts, reflectors
and jack.
Air System
To purge water from air and accessory tanks,
open drain cocks. Close drains when
completed. Refer to heading "Air Tank Purge" in
this chapter.
Water Separator
To purge water separator, loosen bleed screw.
Tighten bleed screw after purging.
Coolant Level
Check coolant level. Coolant level is correct
when visible in the filler neck of the surge tank.
If coolant level is low, fill system with 50-50
coolant mixture. Refer to the vehicle
"Maintenance Manual" for more information.
Warning: Hot engine coolant is under
pressure. Do not attempt to open the coolant
filler cap when the engine is hot. Allow engine to
cool before adding coolant.
Wheel Bearings
Check wheel bearing oil level in sight glass.
Refer to heading "Wheel Bearing Oil Level" in
this chapter.
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