Battle destructive corrosion with routine maintenance

With the rugged operating conditions that many heavy-duty trucks endure, it’s no surprise that operators and maintenance staff need fast, easy solutions to protect vehicles from road debris, salt and rust.

In addition to rust from excessive moisture, heavy-duty trucks often experience the damaging effects of corrosion due to rock salt, magnesium chloride or calcium chloride used to salt and de-ice most roadways. Chlorides can be problematic for electrical connections and wiring, as well as dissimilar metals on the truck (i.e. electrical connectors, sensors, nuts, bolts, battery straps, etc.). Chlorides create a breeding ground for destructive corrosion, because they have the ability to stick to metal and capture atmospheric moisture.

The best way to protect truck components from rust and corrosion is to implement checks for any accumulation of rust or corrosion as part of a routine maintenance program. SKF, with its line of Krown rust protection products, recommends the following maintenance tips:

•     Remove de-icing agents in a way that dissolves quickly, makes dissolved salt inactive and prevents further accumulation of corrosion.
•     Wash the vehicle regularly with a detergent. Start by soaking the vehicle with a detergent and then power wash thoroughly to reduce the ability for de-icing chemicals to draw in the moisture and accelerate the corrosion process.
•     Apply a penetrating lubricant with a high dielectric strength to problem areas on the electrical system including plugs, ECUs, wiring harnesses, battery terminals and any exposed wiring. It can also be used to protect the body, chassis, dump beds, salt spreaders or moving parts.

To correct the damage caused by corrosion, it is recommended to use a solvent-free rust inhibitor with a dielectric strength of 50kv so it is safe with electrical components. SKF Krown products are a solvent free and environmentally friendly rust protection solution. However, 95% of all rust inhibitors in today’s market are made with solvents, which are hazardous to the environment, dangerous to the user and damaging to paint, plastic and rubber. They can also leave surfaces vulnerable and brittle as a result, which could lead to further corrosion.

Be sure to choose the right rust protection solution to help reduce downtime and save money from repairs needed due to rust.