Volvo 9700 - Page 113

Vehicle cleaning
DANGER
Always read the instructions governing
and how to proceed in a hazardous
situation before using a cleaning agent.
The empty packaging from cleaning
agents used in washing, waxing and
polishing should be disposed of in an
ecologically sound manner. This also
include fabric items used for cleaning or
polishing painted surfaces.
Engine and chassis
cleaning
NOTE
The bus may only be washed in a place
intended for this purpose.
Engine wash
It is important to keep the engine room
clean. It contains many critical parts that
must be kept clean in order to maintain
safe and reliable operation.
Wash off any oil or diesel spillage. Use
hot water for cleaning the engine and
use pressure washer with caution. Avoid
spraying water on the alternator, starter
motor and other electrical components.
Cleaning sound baffles mounted around
the engine and gearbox should be
carried out with great caution. The
baffles are easily damaged, especially
when using pressure washers
Chassis wash
Be particularly careful when pressure
washing axles, joints and other moving
parts where water and dirt can be forced
in. If possible, avoid washing off
lubricant. Should this still happen, make
sure to lubricate the components.
NOTE
Remember to review underbody anti-
corrosion coating once per year.
Contact a Volvo workshop for
information and advice.
Use automatic underbody washers with
caution. The pressure washers can
damage critical components mounted
underneath the chassis.
Tyres and air suspension bellows
Pulsating high pressure may damage
tyres and air suspension bellows. The
damage is not visible but may eventually
cause tyres or bellows to rupture.
Radiator
Cleaning the radiator should be carried
out with great caution. The fins are easily
damaged, especially when using
pressure washers.
Rims
Rims are often exposed to different types
of dirt such as road dirt, oil, asphalt, tar
and brake dust. To protect the rims from
discolouration, oxidisation and
unnecessary wear, regular maintenance
is required. For additional protection a
protective wax must be used, e.g. when
driving in slush, salted roads or
environments close to the sea.
Clean the rims regularly. First rinse with
water, preferably using a pressure
washer. Use a brush to clean the rim.
Aluminium
Alumium is sentive and is damaged if
exposed to pH-values below 4,5 and
above 7. For stubborn dirt, use a
cleaning agent intended for aluminium
rims. Rinse with clean water afterwards.
NOTE
Abrasive polish or cleaning agents must
not be used, since this will damage the
rim’s surface.
Steel
For stubborn dirt, an alkaline cleaning
agent (pH<7) may be used.
For information on recommended
cleaning agents, see Cleaning agents
page 106.
07
Maintenance and service
107