Why MotorCoaches Burn

[Arcticdude]

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!

[al perna]

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 .

[davidbrady]

John,

I found this in our Document Library -> Theory -> Why Motorcoaches Burn.

[al perna]

real nice find David .

[Arcticdude]

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.

[davidbrady]

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.

[Arcticdude]

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!