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Why MotorCoaches Burn
03-23-2014, 13:01
Post: #1
[split] Parting out writeoffs-- website
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!

John Mace
06 450LXi bigger bird
living in the wild hinterlands of the north
free to roam without the man getting me down
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03-24-2014, 01:40
Post: #2
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website
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 .

al perna
2000 LXI
ormond beach fla
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03-27-2014, 15:44
Post: #3
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website
John,

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

david brady,
'02 Wanderlodge LXi 'Smokey' (Sold),
'04 Prevost H3 Vantare 'SpongeBob'

"I don't like being wrong, but I really hate being right"
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03-27-2014, 18:54
Post: #4
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website
real nice find David .

al perna
2000 LXI
ormond beach fla
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03-28-2014, 09:37
Post: #5
RE: Parting out writeoffs-- website
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.

John Mace
06 450LXi bigger bird
living in the wild hinterlands of the north
free to roam without the man getting me down
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03-28-2014, 11:27
Post: #6
Why MotorCoaches Burn
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.

david brady,
'02 Wanderlodge LXi 'Smokey' (Sold),
'04 Prevost H3 Vantare 'SpongeBob'

"I don't like being wrong, but I really hate being right"
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03-28-2014, 14:04
Post: #7
RE: Why MotorCoaches Burn
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! Wink

John Mace
06 450LXi bigger bird
living in the wild hinterlands of the north
free to roam without the man getting me down
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