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An important part of effective maintenance is cleanliness.
Accumulated road grime, dust, and salt lead to rapid corrosion.
Appearance of rusted and corroded truck and semi-trailer bodies is bad
enough. However, the effects of operating a dirty vehicle can be even
more serious. The electrical system is particularly vulnerable to
corrosion. Recessed light fixtures offer an ideal surface for caked
mud. Once a pinhole in the fixture develops, moisture becomes trapped
inside and replacement is only a matter of time.
Dirt and grease readily conduct electricity. While wiring shouldn't
be exposed, insulation gets scraped off wiring. Chances of a short
are increased considerably by the presence of a layer of grime. The
place to begin with cleanliness is in the battery. A clean case
eliminates the possibility of power leakage between posts and adds to
battery life.
Although the process takes longer, major components can be severely
damaged by unchecked corrosion. Pitted springs have lost much of
their strength. Frame members also are frequently damaged by
corrosion. Welds and bolt holes provide an ideal surface for catching
and holding salt and road grime.
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