Repair and Diagnosis: Service Precautions
SAFETY PROCEDURESThe following unique Tribute Hybrid components require service to be performed by a certified hybrid dealership with specially trained Tribute hybrid technicians:
- High voltage battery
- Wiring harness (indicated by orange color)
- eCVT Transmission
- DC/DC Converter
- Brake actuation control unit (i.e. master brake cylinder)
- Brake hydraulic control unit
The Tribute Hybrid has been designed with maximum driver and service technician safety in mind. There are multiple devices and systems build into the vehicle to minimize any danger from electrical shock. A warning label is posted to warn owners, operators and service technicians that this vehicle operates on high voltage and precautions should be taken to protect from injury.
When working on the Tribute Hybrid, unnecessary people in the work area pose a safety threat to those directly involved in the repair of the vehicle. In order to avoid this threat, a "buffer zone" should be established prior to starting service:
- The buffer zone boundaries should extend approximately 3 ft (1m) from the vehicle.
- The boundaries should be clearly marked with orange cones.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
When working around high voltage circuits, High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves (A) must be worn. These gloves are designed for working around equipment rated up to 1,000 volts. The rubber insulated safety gloves are protected by durable leather gloves (B) that serve as an outer shell.
Prior to putting on the High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves, inspect them to insure that there are no holes or breakage. Even a pinhole leak is enough to allow current to pass through.
- Inspect the gloves by rolling them up from their open end and making sure that they retain air pressure with no leakage.
- If the gloves show any sign of wear and tear, the gloves should not be used.
- Replacement gloves should meet all American Safety Testing Materials Standards.
- High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves must be re-certified every six months.
- Protective leather gloves must always be worn over the High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves.
- Chemicals can break down the rubber of the gloves. Never wash them with chemicals or use them for washing parts.
- Never use the protective leather gloves without the High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves. Oil that may be on your hands can contaminate the protective leather gloves and then be transferred onto the High Voltage Insulated Safety Gloves.
If voltage can not be turned off at its source, use a fiberglass reach pole or a dry board to remove a live wire or push the person away from the wire.
When working with energized high voltage equipment, to protect your face and eyes from the possibility of an electrical arc, debris, or spark that could be generated from a short circuit, a non-conductive, OSHA-approved face shield must be worn.
