Salt Contamination

"New Anglia" Range

Service letters Nos. 9, 10, 11, 12 (Export) (Thames Commercial Vehicles) and Nos. 27, 28, 29, 30 (Export) (Passenger Cars), 1963 Series, dealt with the protection of various underbody parts against attack by the corrosive liquid formed when salt is used to melt ice and snow. It is possible that the weather conditions in some territories may be such that salt is being or has been used to assist in clearing ice and snow from the roads. This may lead to the problem of salt contamination again being experienced.

The salt solution can be thrown up by the wheels resulting in the contamination of any metal surface on to which it is thrown. The contamination must be removed, by thoroughly washing the vehicle after it has been used in these conditions. Particular attention should be given to the underside of the wings and floor pan. A power hose should be used to clean these areas but care should be taken to prevent water flooding the engine compartment.

The initial and more obvious signs of corrosion will appear on exterior bright metal parts such as bumpers, hub caps, grills etc. and washing, followed by polishing with FoMoCo chrome cleaner will be necessary if corrosion is to be arrested.

During and following such adverse weather conditions, periodic checks for signs of corrosion should be made, particularly on such items as brake pipes, hoses and unions, stop light switches, handbrake cables, exhaust systems and all wiring connections that may be splashed from the road. Any corroded parts, particularly braking system components, should be renewed.

If some corrosion is evident, and the vehicle in question has the stop light switch positioned on the underbody, it is advisable to ensure that the corrosion has not been affected the switch itself. Clean the area around the switch, then firmly depress the brake pedal several times (simulate “emergency stop” conditions). Examination of the switch will reveal any fluid leakage. If leakage is apparent, the switch must be replaced.

A stop light switch, Part No. 508E-13480, incorporating a protective sleeve, is used in production on “Thames Trader” Forward Control vehicles and also on “Anglia” cars, “Thames” 5/7 cwt. And “Thames” 10/12 and 15 cwt. Vans for operation in cold climate countries, such as North America, where these adverse conditions are frequently experienced. This switch, with the protective sleeve, should be used to replace one on which corrosion has taken place.

In extreme cases, if neglected, corrosion can lead to collapse of the switch body resulting in fluid loss and consequent brake failure.