Safety instructions

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Jacking

The recommended jacking points are given in LIFTING AND TOWING, always ensure that any lifting apparatus has adequate load and safety capacity for the weight to be lifted. Ensure the vehicle is standing on level ground prior to lifting or jacking. Apply the handbrake and chock the wheels.

Never rely on a jack as the sole means of support when working beneath the vehicle. Use additional safety supports beneath the vehicle.

Do not leave tools, lifting equipment, spilt oil, etc. around or on the work bench area.

Precautions against damage

Always fit wing and seat covers before commencing work. Avoid spilling brake fluid or battery acid on paintwork. Wash off with water immediately if this occurs.

Disconnect the battery earth lead before starting work, see ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS.

Always use the recommended service tool or a satisfactory equivalent where specified.

Protect exposed bearing and sealing surfaces and screw threads from damage.

Cleaning components

Always use the recommended cleaning agent or equivalent.

Do not use degreasing equipment for components containing items which could be damaged by the use of this process. Whenever possible clean components and the area surrounding them before removal. Always observe scrupulous cleanliness when cleaning dismantled components.

Steam cleaning and dewaxing

Due to the high temperatures generated by steam cleaning equipment, there is a risk that certain trim items could be damaged and some adhesives and corrosion prevention materials soften or liquify.

Adjust the equipment so that the nozzle temperature does not exceed 90°C. Take care not to allow the steam jet to dwell on one area and keep the nozzle at least 300mm (12in) from panel surfaces. Avoid applying steam directly onto electrical components; connectors, relays, ECU’s, fusebox’s and harness.

DO NOT remove wax or lacquer from underbody or underbonnet areas during repairs. If it is necessary to steam clean these areas, apply a new coating of wax or underbody protection as soon as possible.

Brake shoes and pads

WARNING: Always fit the correct grade and specification of brake linings and renew brake pads and brake shoes in axle sets only.

Brake hydraulics

WARNING: It is imperative that the correct brake fittings are used and that threads of components are compatible.

Always use two spanners when loosening or tightening brake pipe or hose connections. Ensure that hoses run in a natural curve and are not kinked or twisted. Fit brake pipes securely in their retaining clips and ensure that the pipe run cannot contact a potential chafing point.

Containers used for hydraulic fluid must be kept absolutely clean. Do not store hydraulic fluid in an unsealed container, it will absorb water and in this condition would be dangerous to use. Do not allow hydraulic fluid to be contaminated with mineral oil, or use a container which has previously contained mineral oil. Do not re-use fluid from the system. Always use clean brake fluid or a recommended alternative to clean hydraulic components. Fit a blanking cap to an hydraulic union and a plug to its socket after removal to prevent the ingress of dirt. Absolute cleanliness must be observed with hydraulic components.