F 150 Heritage 4WD Pickup V6-4.2L VIN 2 (2004)
Radiator Support: Technical Service Bulletins
Body/Frame - Magnesium Radiator Support Service Tips
TSB 04-25-17
12/27/04
MAGNESIUM ALLOY RADIATOR CORE SUPPORT -
UNIQUE HANDLING AND REPAIR PROCEDURES -
SERVICE TIPS
FORD:
2004-2005 F-150
This article supersedes TSB 04-02-05 to update the Service Procedure and vehicle model years.
ISSUE
The F-150 has a radiator core support made out of a Magnesium Alloy. There have been no changes regarding procedures for removal and reinstallation
of the radiator core support. However, due to the part being made of magnesium alloy, there are unique handling and repair procedures that must be
adhered to.
ACTION
Read and understand the SAFETY, WARNING and CAUTION information contained in this TSB before attempting repairs on components
constructed of magnesium.
SERVICE TIPS
SAFETY
Providing that proper care and caution is exercised when working with a magnesium casting (large part), the likelihood of fire is minimal. This is due to
magnesium's ability to dissipate heat quickly and the high temperature necessary to cause combustion. However, if the entire mass of the casting reaches
800° F (427° C) there is a potential for fire.
Great care must be exercised when applying heat to a magnesium casting. While the casting will quickly transfer the heat away from the heat source, the
ignition temperature of the casting is near the melting point. If the casting ignites the fire may be extinguished by individuals who have been trained in
the use of either a CLASS "D" fire extinguisher, or through the use of a 1.5" diameter water hose. Note the following WARNING about applying water
to a magnesium fire, but continued application of the water will extinguish the fire.
EXTINGUISHING A MAGNESIUM FIRE
A magnesium fire should be extinguished as soon as possible.
WARNING
USE ONLY CLASS "D" FIRE EXTINGUISHER. CLASS "A", "B" OR "C" EXTINGUISHERS ARE NOT DESIGNED FOR MAGNESIUM
FIRES.
WARNING
WATER WILL CAUSE THE FIRE TO BURN FASTER, BUT IT ALSO COOLS THE MAGNESIUM AND OTHER MATERIALS AROUND
THE FIRE TO ENSURE THEY DON'T IGNITE. CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN IF WATER IS THE ONLY OPTION.
WARNING
NEVER ATTEMPT TO MOVE BURNING MATERIAL.
1.
Encircle the fire with dry extinguishing material (CLASS "D" EXTINGUISHING MATERIAL).
2.
Sprinkle the extinguishing material on top of the fire (CLASS "D").
3.
Leave the material untouched for 30 minutes or more until cool.
NOTE
DRY SAND AND DIRT CAN BE USED TO EXTINGUISH BURNING MAGNESIUM BY SMOTHERING THE FIRE. DO NOT MOVE THE
SAND OR DIRT COVER FOR AT LEAST 30 MINUTES.
CAUTIONS FOR WORKING WITH MAGNESIUM
