unit – 3 inspection & dynamics

© 2006 PSEN

Unit – 3 Inspection & Dynamics

The inspection process may seem routine but every trip changes things. Always inspect carefully.

© 2006 PSEN

1. Understand the value and importance of regular inspections of emergency vehicles.

2. Identify the major component system of an emergency vehicle.

3. Understand how to perform pre and post-trip inspections.

Inspections & Maintenance Objectives

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4. Understand the various classes of PM and the importance of a PM program for emergency vehicles.

5. Recognize the role of the driver in inspections and maintenance.

6. Understand the importance of keeping accurate and complete records.

Inspections & Maintenance Objectives

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Types of Preventative Maintenance

• Routine Maintenance

• Scheduled Maintenance

• Crisis Maintenance

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Vehicle Inspection Vehicle Inspection

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Inspections – Pre-Trip

– Vehicle overview

– Check engine compartment

– Start engine and check inside cab

– Check headlights, signal lights, warning lights and audio devices

– Conduct walk around inspection

– Check controls and indicators

– Check brake system (air brakes)

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Check the Log

• Maintenance Records• Operational Records

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• Chassis

• Frame• Suspension System• Steering & Braking

System• Power Train

Components

Emergency Vehicle Components

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• Suspension Systems

1. Axles2. Springs3. Wheels

Vehicle Characteristics

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• Lubrication• Oil (Engine)• Tires• Steering System• Belts• Tools, Appliances, and

Equipment

Role of the Emergency Vehicle Driver

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Role of the Emergency Vehicle Driver

• Battery or Batteries• Coolant System• Electrical System• Fuel• Hydraulic Fluids• Braking System

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• Braking Systems

– Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

– Secondary or Auxiliary Braking Systems

• Engine Brake• Automatic Transmission

Retarder• Driveline Retarder

Vehicle Characteristics

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• Routine– Fluid level checks– Wheels and tires– Electrical system and devices

Types of Preventative Maintenance

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Vehicle Inspection Vehicle Inspection

4/32” Front tires

2/32” Rear tires

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Vehicle Inspection Vehicle Inspection

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Preparing to Drive

• Effective Start-Up Procedures

– Circle of Safety Inspection– Adjustment of cab features– Wearing of occupant restraints– Receive signal before moving

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• Document the need for maintenance on the assigned vehicle

• Verify that the request and needed maintenance was performed.

Role of the Emergency Vehicle Driver

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• Scheduled

– Manufacturer's recommended schedule

– Amount of use– Organizational policy– Professional standards

Types of Preventative Maintenance

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Vehicle Forces and Dynamics

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• Understand the physical forces which act upon vehicles and their impact upon vehicle handling.

• Recognize that certain vehicle characteristics can influence the impact of physical forces on emergency vehicles

Vehicle Dynamics Objectives

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• Friction

• Velocity

• Momentum

• Inertia

• Centrifugal Force

Physical Forces

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• Total Weight and Weight Distribution

• Suspension system

• Braking system

• Baffling system

Vehicle Characteristics

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• Total weight and weight distribution.

– Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)– Gross Vehicle Weight rating (GVWR)– Weight Distribution – horizontal & vertical centers of

gravity

Vehicle Characteristics

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• Momentum – is measures as the product of the object’s mass or weight times its velocity

• Inertia – is the force it takes for a moving object to stay in motion in the same direction

Physical Forces

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Physical Forces

• Directional Control is a derivative of three (3) factors

»Steering»Turning»Tracking

• Directional Control is a derivative of three (3) factors

»Steering»Turning»Tracking

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Centrifugal Forces

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• Friction – resistance to motion between two moving objects that touch.

• Tire/Road Friction• Brake Friction• Steering Friction

Physical Forces

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Tire Blowout

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• Velocity – Velocity is Speed

»Acceleration

»Deceleration»Braking

Physical Forces

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Braking & ABS

• Acceleration

• Deceleration• Braking

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Post Trip ConsiderationsPost Trip Considerations

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– Cleaning of the vehicle

– Replacing supplies

– Re-fueling and checking fluid levels

– Report any unusual occurrences or malfunctions.

Inspections – Post-Trip

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Unit – 3 Inspection & Dynamics