Chapter 2 - Apparatus Inspection and Maintenance

What are the factors to consider in chassis lubrication?

The requirements of the unit, the characteristics of the lubricant, and the manufacturers recommendations. The manufacturer's manual will recommend the Society of automotive engineers numbers for engine oil. The SAE number indicates only the viscosity of the oil.

What is an electrical load management system?

An electrical monitoring system that will shed electrical load in a predetermined order if the chassis voltage begins to drop below a predetermined level.

What are antilock braking systems?

An electronic system that monitors wheelspin. When breaking into wheel are sensed to begin locking up, the brake on that wheel is temporarily released to prevent skidding.

What is a functional check?

An inspection or a certain system or component of an apparatus is operated to ensure it is functioning properly.

What is the circle or walk around method?

And inspection method in which the driver or inspector starts at one point of the apparatus and continues in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction inspecting the entire apparatus.

What's your drivers observe when they are approaching the vehicle?

Any problems that may be readily apparent from a distance such as body damage or severe lean to one side. The terrain on which the vehicle is parking. Vehicle fluid leaks may indicate a severe hydraulic problem.

What is chassis lubrication?

Applying grease and other lubricants to specific parts of its assets reduce wear noise and binding.

What is checked referring to tire condition?

Check for proper tread depth, tread separation, cupping, excessive wear on the sidewalls, cuts, dry rotting, cracking tires, or objects impaled in the tire, per department policy. The valve stem should not be cut cracked or loose. Valve stem caps should be in place.

What needs to be checked on an apparatus in regards to tire inflation?

Check that apparatus tires are inflated to the apparatus manufacturers recommendations for tire pressure according to NFPA 1911.

What are some other essential characteristics of oil outside of viscosity?

Corrosion protection, foaming, sludging, and carbon accumulation.

What is a load sequencer?

Device in an electrical system that turns lights on at specified intervals, so that the startup load for all of the devices does not occur at the same time.

What is a load monitor?

Device that watches and electrical system for added loads that may threaten to overload the system.

What are slack adjusters?

Devices used in an air brake system that connects between the activation pads and the brake pads that compensate for brake pad wear.

Maintenance might older apparatus batteries require?

Distilled water.

What's your drivers check for in reference to vehicle batteries?

Drivers should check that the cable connections are tight and protected with a film of grease, petroleum Jelly, or battery terminal protection product.

What is curb weight?

Empty fire apparatus weight with no equipment or people.

When does NFPA 1911 require that all tires be replaced?

Every seven years.

What is the order in which a daily inspection should be completed?

Exterior check, then in cab check, air brake check, engine compartment.

True or false: an ignition source near a leaking battery can cause a dangerous explosion due to helium gas.

False (hydrogen).

What are important considerations for a driver before jumpstarting a vehicle?

Insert that the vehicle being used as the power source has the same voltage electrical system as the apparatus being jumpstarted. Check the manufacturers operations manual before jumping or charging the system. The operations manual should specify to which battery the cable should be connected. Make sure that the jumper cables are connected to the specified battery in the recommended manner.

What is an operational readiness inspection?

Inspecting an apparatus and equipment on the apparatus to ensure that all equipment is in place, clean, and ready for service.

What is a guideline for when an apparatus or a piece of equipment on board is found broken, defective, or in need of any type of repair?

Inspection of apparatus results in finding a system in need of repair. The driver documents the defective system as per local policy such as written or computerized document. The driver notifies their immediate supervisor of the defect and documentation. The status of the repair is followed up in a reasonable amount of time based on the nature of the problem. For serious issues or items meeting the NFPA 1911 out of service criteria, immediate action must be taken.

Why is it important to bleed compressed air tanks?

It prevents moisture development that can cause rusting inside the tank.

What are the risks of insufficient free play? What are the risks of excessive free play?

It will cause the clutch to slip and overheat. It can cause harsh shifting, gear clashing, and damage to gear teeth.

what is steering wheel play?

It's a steering system the amount of travel between turning the wheel and when the steering system moves

What is maintenance?

Keeping equipment or apparatus in a state of usefulness or readiness

What is checked referring to tire type?

Make sure the tire types match, all tires should be the same size and weight ratings according to an appropriate manufacturer specification.

What is gross vehicle weight rating?

Maximum weight at which a vehicle can be operated on roadways and ideal conditions.

What should be the limit of steering wheel free play

No more than approximately 10 degrees in either direction.

What is overload?

Operation of equipment or a conductor in excess of its rated ampacity; continuous overload may result in overheating that damages the equipment.

(R) an inspection checklist designed by the ahj for specific apparatus will ensure that each driver conducts a uniform and complete inspection by using the checklist as a guide.

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What is free play?

The amount of travel the clutch has before it begins to disengage the engine from the transmission.

What is the gross axle weight rating?

The maximum amount of weight that an axle system can safely carry.

What is the limit of side to side variance in weight?

7%

What is a hydraulic braking system?

A braking system that uses a fluid and a closed system to pressurize wheel cylinders when activated.

What are air actuated braking systems?

A breaking system that uses compressed air to hold off a spring break and applies air pressure to a surface break for vehicle stopping

What is a manual shift transmission?

A component of the powertrain that receives torque from the engine and converts it to rotation to the wheels. A clutch is used to disengage the transmission from the engine to allow the apparatus to start, stop, or change gears to maximize engine performance.

What is a diesel particulate filter or DPF?

A device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.

What is a commercial driver's license or CDL?

A drivers license that is issued to individuals who demonstrate contents inspecting and driving vehicles with a gross vehicle rating of 26,001 pounds or more

What is an air brake test?

A series of tests used to ensure the serviceability of an air braking system. Tests include air loss, air compressor buildup, air warning, and emergency parking brake activation.

What is a post maintenance repair inspection?

A specific inspections of an area of a chassis or apparatus to ensure that the unit is operating properly in accordance with the manufacturer's initial design.

What is tilt cab?

A truck that uses a cab that lowers over the powertrain

What is a pre trip roadworthiness inspection?

A visual inspection of an apparatus to ensure the major components of the chassis are present and in proper working condition.

In order to ensure the operational status of the vehicle, NFPA 1002 requires drivers to be able to perform routine tests, inspections, and servicing of what items?

Batteries. breaking systems. Coolant system. Electrical system. Fuel system. Hydraulic fluids. Oil. Tires period steering system. Belts. Tools, appliances, and equipment.

What are the steps for a driver to complete chassis lubrication?

Be familiar with all the lubrication fill points. Wipe the fitting clean with a shop rag. Press the end of the lubrication gun fill hose onto the fitting. Operate the pump handle on the lubrication gun until resistance is felt. Continue this process around the vehicle until all lubrication points have been filled.

(R) diesel particulate filters trap much of the particulate matter and exhaust emissions. However, these systems will periodically conduct a process of regeneration in which the exhaust temperature is raised in order to burn off particulate matter accumulated in the filter. In automatic regeneration mode, the vehicle may be operated normally. If the vehicle is driven without automatic regeneration and the filter becomes too contaminated, the vehicle will experience reduced power and driving capability until a regeneration cycle is complete.

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(R) fire departments should require regular inspections to detect deficiencies or failure points of the fire pump and other apparatus equipment. Some checks are completed on an as needed basis.

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(R) in a warranty claim, maintenance and inspection records may be needed to document that required maintenance was performed. Keeping apparatus clean can help promote a longer vehicle life. In cold weather climates, a corrosive effect from road salt dust may occur, but can be counteracted by washing the apparatus. Some of the most vulnerable areas in the engine compartment were linkages, fuel injectors, or other controls may become inoperable due to the collection of dirt. However there are adverse effects to over cleaning and apparatus. Steam cleaning or high pressure water spray may remove lubrication from the chassis, engine, pump, and underbody. It can be magnified by using degreasers or detergents.

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(R) in addition to a DPF system, and since produced after January 1st 2010, may be equipped with an exhaust after treatment system called selective catalyst reductant. An SCR system uses diesel exhaust fluid to help further reduce emissions. DEF is stored in a tank downstream of the DPF and is injected into the gas in order to reduce the nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines. Periodically inspect the exhaust system and look for signs of cracks or leaks. Ensure the exhaust pipe wrap or insulation is intact and undamaged. Pay close attention to joints and flex pipes. While this is important on any apparatus, it is extremely important on 2007 and later engines equipped with DPF.

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(R) on apparatus equipped with air brakes, the air pressures must build up to a sufficient level within a defined period of time after starting the engine. It may be necessary to add an electric air compressor, or connect the apparatus to a fire station compressed air system to maintain adequate air pressure when the apparatus is not in use. These measures may prevent delays in responding to emergencies. Apparatus with air brakes are to be equipped with an air pressure protection valve that protects air horns or other non essential devices from being operated when the pressure in the air reservoir drops below 80 PSI.

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(R) the readings of some fluid levels, crankcase oil, transmission fluid, must be considered due to a cold engine.

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What are instructions for waxing an apparatus?

Review instructions before applying products on newer apparatus. The application of some products may no longer be necessary and may damage some clear coat protective seal finishes applied over paints. Reference the manufacturer's manual before using wax or polishes. Wait until the apparatus is 6 month old to apply these products if necessary. Wash and dry the vehicle thoroughly and apply the waxer Polish according to product instructions. PowerShell the vehicle with a soft cloth.

What is NFPA 1071?

Standard for EVT professional qualifications.

What is NFPA 1911?

Standard for inspection, maintenance, testing, and retirements of in service automotive fire apparatus.

Describe the steps associated with cleaning the interior of an apparatus.

Sweep or vacuum large, loose dirt particles. Use warm soapy water or commercial cleaning products to clean surfaces. Take care to use only products specified by the apparatus manufacturer to avoid possible damage to interior surfaces. Avoid using solvents such as lacquer thinner, acetone, laundry soap, bleach, and naphtha. Ventilate the cab or crew riding area when using cleaning agents. Take care when using any liquids around the vehicle's electrical system. Keep compartments hinges sidetracks, and seals clean and free of debris.

What is the guideline for cleaning a new apparatus during its first six months?

The vehicle should be washed with cold water to harden paint and keep it from spotting. Use a garden hose without a nozzle to wash a new vehicle. High pressures can drive dirt and debris into the finish. Rinse as much loose dirt as possible from the vehicle before applying soap. Never remove dirt by dry scrubbing. Wash the apparatus before dirt, grit, and road salt can dry on the surface. Do not wash it with extremely hot water or while the surface of the vehicle is hot. Begin washing from the vehicle top and work downward. Dry the apparatus with a clean chamois.

why shouldn't diesel engines be run in an unvented area for any amount of time?

They contain up to 100 harmful chemicals and compounds.

Why are anti-lock braking systems important?

They reduce the possibility of an apparatus going into a slide, jackknife, or spin during heavy braking. They greatly enhance they controlled stop.

What is a throw out bearing?

This component used to push on the internal clutch fingers connected to the clutch pedal and when activated, disengages the clutch from the engine.

What three aspects of tires should be checked as part of your functional check?

Tire type, tire condition, and inflation.

What is repair?

To restore or put together something that has become inoperable or out of place.

True or false: newer apparatus may have onboard charging systems or jumper studs to facilitate jumpstarting without needing battery access.

True.

True or false: newer apparatus may require gentler cleaning in order to avoid damaging new paint, detailing, or clear coat.

True.

True or false: some basic preventative measures performed by the driver others are carried out by apparatus mechanics.

True.

True or false: drivers should not only rely on gauges, fluid levels should be physically inspected. Tilt cab control should operate freely and hold open device should be latched; tilt cab should be lifted weekly.

True. True.

True or false: repair work on complex tools or requiring in-depth mechanic knowledge is left to a certified mechanic. Larger departments may have a repair facility. The ahj determines assignment of maintenance and repair in each department

True. True. True.

What cleaning product should be used for automotive glass? Are shop towels acceptable for use on automotive glass?

Warm soapy water or commercial glass cleaner. Shop towels are not acceptable for glass gear due to metal shavings embedded in the cloth.

What is load shedding?

When an overload condition occurs, the load monitor will shut down less important electrical equipment to prevent the overload.