Batteries/Grease Fittings/Differential/Steering Gear/Brake fluid/Brakes
BATTERIES
Batteries may be recharged if vehicle has been driven 15
minutes or more since the previous charge. Before charging,
be sure master power switch is OFF and the key is removed
from the switch.
Refer to Chapter 8 for all procedures related to the batteries.
GREASE FITTINGS
There are six lubrication points with grease fittings on the front
end of the vehicle — one on each of the four tie rod ends and
one on each side of the front axle (kingpin pivot). Under
normal conditions, these points should be greased every six
months with chassis lube.
DIFFERENTIAL FLUID
The differential should be checked upon receipt and monthly
for leakage.
For BC2 use SAE HD30 gear oil for differential fluid
replacement. For BC3 and 4 vehicles use SAE 80/90 gear oil.
Do not overfill. Lubricant should not go above the bottom of
the filler plug hole when the vehicle is level.
STEERING GEAR
Check yearly; add grease as required (Molub-Alloy #0 or
equivalent).
NOTICE: This will require replacing the steering cover
gasket. Part Number 83113-02.
CHAIN/BELT ADJUSTMENT
Check tension semi-annually. Contact your Columbia dealer.
CLEANING
Wash underside to remove all dirt and debris. Do not direct
high pressure water at the controller, speed switches, or tops
of the batteries.
Wash cab (if equipped), body, and seats with a mild
detergent. Do not use abrasives (bodies are painted).
Frequent washings with mild soap will preserve the finish of
your vehicle. For stubborn and imbedded dirt, a soft bristle
brush may be used. Tar, asphalt, creosote and the like should
be removed immediately to prevent staining of paint.
BRAKE FLUID
Check the brake fluid in the master cylinder periodically
(under normal conditions, every 3 months). The master
cylinder is located under the front deck board and seat
assembly. Use DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid. Maintain
fluid level within 1/4" of master cylinder filler opening.
BRAKES
Rear brakes are self adjusting and require no adjustment. They
should be checked for wear every 6 months along with front
brakes if equipped.
PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
As the brake pads wear thinner, the parking brake must be
adjusted to preserve proper parking brake operation. Be very
cautious when performing this adjustment or doing any work
on your brakes. The parking brake adjustment is made to hold
the vehicle, load capacity, and driver on a 15% grade for 15
minutes (ASME B56.8).
