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+--- Thread: Why MotorCoaches Burn (/showthread.php?tid=10183)
[split] Parting out writeoffs-- website - Arcticdude - 03-23-2014 13:01
They're in East Bernhart, KY.
Interesting to see they've also got 6 Prevost/MCI/etc sitting there. A couple of true wrecks, but mostly fires.
So why are RV's so susceptible to fires? I mean, I know we've got numerous ignition sources and lots of stuff that burns way too fast; but shouldn't the owners recognize this and work to prevent them? I realize I've just stirred up the fire demons and won't make it back home!
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website - al perna - 03-24-2014 01:40
John ,
Just a guess but I can think of 2 reasons for fires .
1. running the exhaust thru the bus . I wish it was down low .
2. failure to allow the engine exhaust to cool down .
I always allow 5 or so minutes after a run .
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website - davidbrady - 03-27-2014 15:44
John,
I found this in our Document Library -> Theory -> Why Motorcoaches Burn.
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website - al perna - 03-27-2014 18:54
real nice find David .
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website - Arcticdude - 03-28-2014 09:37
I've seen that article before and it definitely offers good for thought. Most of the ignition sources mentioned are easily inspected during the morning walk around. Maybe that's what I'm having a hard time comprehending. Stuff that's easily and should be checked daily is accounting for most of the Motorcoaching fires out there, commercial and private.
Why MotorCoaches Burn - davidbrady - 03-28-2014 11:27
This is important enough that I thought I'd break this discussion out into it's own thread.
Some of you may have seen this 2007 publication: Why MotorCoaches Burn, From Document Library -> Theory:
Taken from the article:
Preventative, Periodic, Annual and Daily (Pre/Post Trip) Maintenance and Inspection Items
• B+ Cable at alternator secure (stud, bracket and clamps in position)
• Alternator oil lines and rear cover plate secure and not leaking
• All alternator electrical studs covered with rubber boots
• Remote Jump Post secure and stud covered with rubber boot
• Starter cables secure and routed properly
• Bulkhead connection for B+ cables (starter and alternator) secure
• Engine compartment clean/dry of fluids
• Engine and Transmission fluid connections/hoses secure and not leaking; sensors not leaking
• No leaks dripping onto pavement
• Hub-Caps; no visible leaks, rubber plug in place, sight glass is clear, oil at proper level
• Oil seals are in good condition, no leaks (only observable from under vehicle)
• Disc brake rotors (if visible) clean with no bluing
• Dual tires not making contact with each other
• Turbocharger oil line(s) not leaking, waste gate pivot pin not leaking oil
• Exhaust system; no oil exiting from muffler, no excessive blue smoke (turbocharger oil consumption)
• Engine has appropriate performance (torque)
• Auxiliary heater not leaking fuel
• No active / Illuminated A.B.S. dash light*
*The illumination of this light could indicate the potential onset of a loose wheel bearing, hub run-out, wheel bearing failure or a skidding or locked tire/wheel.
RE: Why MotorCoaches Burn - Arcticdude - 03-28-2014 14:04
Good point to separate this, David. We've all got everything mentioned in the article and the vast majority is easily checked. We all need to remember a comprehensive VISUAL inspection can prevent the normally seen issues with our coaches. It's even the same routine, no matter what brand we're driving!
