Body and Frame: Service Precautions
NOTES REGARDING REPAIR WORKSAFETY MEASURES
PROTECTIVE GEAR
During body repair work, a work suit, a work cap, and safety shoes should be worn at all times. Depending on the work being done, safety glasses, gloves, ear protectors, a dustproof mask, etc., should also be worn as needed.
SECURING THE VEHICLE
If the vehicle is raised on a jack, be sure to always support it with jack stands positioned at the specified points.
CLEARING THE AREA OF FLAMMABLE MATERIALS
Because of the presence of many various kinds of flammable materials, organic solvents, etc., in the work area, there is always the possibility of a fire or explosion. It is, therefore, important to keep the work area as clear as possible of such dangerous materials.
HANDLING ELECTRONIC PARTS AND SEMICONDUCTORS
When the body is used as the ground during welding for body repairs, be absolutely sure to first disconnect the battery's positive (+) cable.
NOTE:
Vehicles today include a great many electronic parts and components, and these are in general very susceptible to adverse effects caused by overcurrent, reverse current, electromagnetic waves, high temperature, high humidity, impacts, etc. In particular, such electronic components can be damaged if there is a large current flow during welding from the body side, etc.
This is because, for electronic components that incorporate a back-up circuit (for memory retention) that functions (by a trickle current) even when the ignition key is at OFF, an electronic circuit is formed even when the key is at OFF.
CAUTION:
- Be sure that both the ignition and lighting switches are off before either disconnecting or reconnecting a battery cable. (If this is not done1 equipment containing semiconductors could be damaged.)
- Note that the memory of electronic equipment having a memory function will be cleared when the battery cable is disconnected.
HANDLING COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
If welding work is to be done in the area of the fuel tank, the fuel tank must be removed to prevent the generation of flammable gases. Also be sure to cap the inlet port and the pipes of the fuel tank after removal to prevent the escape of any fuel or flammable gases.
Wipe up any fuel, oil, etc., spilled in the work area as soon as possible.
Only the amounts of paint to be used for the day's work should be in the work area; do not keep excessive amounts of paint, or paint which is not going to be used, in the work area.
HEALTH AND SANITATION PROCEDURES
The following points should be noted for employee health and sanitation.
- The work area should be well ventilated in order to prevent the inhalation of dust, organic solvent vapors, etc.
- All unused paint cans must be securely covered.
- Care should be taken to avoid exposure to the skin of adhesives, organic solvents, etc.
If an unavoidable exposure occurs, the exposed area should be immediately washed with clean water.
VEHICLE PROTECTION
- Vehicle covers (fender covers, seat covers, etc.) arid tape (if there is the possibility of damage by tools, equipment, etc.) should be used to protect painted surfaces, interior/exterior parts and components, etc. from staining and damage.
- For welding operations, a heat-resistant protective cover should be used to protect glass, seats, instrument panel, carpeting, etc.