SECTION 4 -- LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
4--40
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BODYWORK MAINTENANCE
Protection against atmospheric agents
Over the years, the Company has introduced a
series of measures to protect the tractor from the
deterioration and corrosion which can be caused by
various external elements, such as those listed
below:
-- salinity and humidity in the atmosphere;
-- atmospheric pollution (industrial areas);
-- abrasive action of solid substances;
-- using tractor in the presence of aggressive
chemical and/or organic substances;
-- physical damage such as dents, abrasions or
deep scratches.
The technical response to these problems was:
-- highly corrosion--resistant zinc plating;
-- paint systems and pain ts which help the tractor
resist corrosion and abrasion;
-- application of suitable hardened plastic-coatings
to points which are particularly exposed to
corrosion (edges, projections and sheet--metal
welded joints);
Unfortunately, external agents act in various ways
depending on environmental conditions and tractor
use; if the user takes enough care, however , his tractor
can be maintained in substantially better condition.
The following information is provided to help achieve
this aim.
BODYWORK AND CAB
Where there are abrasions or deep scratches, which
expose the underlying metal, they need to be
retouched immediately with genuine products as
follows:
-- rub down the area thoroughly;
-- apply the primer;
-- leave to dry and then rub down lightly;
-- apply the paint;
-- lastly, polish.
The paint can normally be maintained by washing at
intervals which vary depending on the conditions of
use and the environment. In areas prone to
atmospheric pollution and in coastal areas, wash
more frequently, whereas if organic or chemical
substances are present, wash immediately after the
tractor is used. Use a low--pressure water spray,
sponge down with a solution of 2 to 4% shampoo in
water, rinsing the sponge frequently, rinse the tractor
thoroughly and dry it, if possible, with an air jet.
Avoid washing the tractor after it has been standing
in the sun and when the engine is still hot in order to
protect the shine on the paint.
It is good practice to protect the paint by polishing it
with specialised products (silicone waxes) from time
to time and, when the paint starts to dull, you can use
wax polish which has a slight abrasive action.
CAB MAINTENANCE
After carrying out the external maintenance of the
cab, proceed as follows:
1. Periodically check that no water remains in areas
covered with mats or padding.
2. Protect the hinges and locks on the doors and
opening windows with lubricants and
water--repellents.
3. Use suitable detergents or, if necessary,
sulphuric ether to clean the windows.
4. Remove the windscreen wiper blade and
sprinkle the rubber with talc.
5. Leave the door or a window partially open.