Helm P32 Manual

P32/42 C
HASSIS
BODY BUILDERS INSTRUCTIONS
The Incomplete Vehicle Document (IVD) is supplied with each incomplete vehicle, and
provides information that should be used by intermediate and final stage manufacturers
in determining conformity to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
(FMVSS). The IVD also includes information which must be followed in order to ensure
that Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California emissions certification re-
quirements and NHTSA Fuel Regulations are met.
The Body Builders Book contains information that may be used in addition to the IVD for
any manufacturer making alterations to an complete/incomplete vehicle. No alteration
should be made to the incomplete vehicle which either directly or indirectly results in any
component, assembly or system being in nonconformance with any applicable Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or Emission Regulation. Intermediate and final stage
manufacturers should be familiar with all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and
Emission Regulations and aware of their specific responsibilities as manufacturers.
For further assistance contact SVIE at: 1 (800) 875-4742
All notes are applicable to all models except where specifically stated other-
wise.
Section 0 – General Instructions
Check for proper clearance between body members and chassis components which
may in any way affect the reliability and performance of the vehicle by developing abra-
sion and wear points from moving parts or degradation from extreme environment or
thermal exposure or may increase interior noise. Any attachments must consider chas-
sis components for jounce and rebound motion at Maximum GVW.
Check headlamp aim and all vehicle illumination systems for proper operation when the
vehicle has been completed. Re-aim headlamps when necessary. Check for proper op-
eration of windshield washer, wipers and defroster system.
Extreme care must be taken when working on vehicles equipped with Engine Control
Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Transmission Control Module
(TCM), Vehicle Control Module (VCM), Anti-lock Braking System Model (ABS) or any
electronic unit associated with an inflatable restraint system. (See Owner's Manual).
If arc-welding is employed on the chassis, precautions must be taken to protect all ve-
hicle components, especially brake, fuel lines, front suspension air cylinders and fuel
tank assembly, electrical wiring and ECM/PCM/TCM, VCM or ABS. To avoid electronic
component damage, disconnect battery (batteries); disconnect the negative cable first,
P32/42 Rev. 12/98
followed by the positive. To reconnect cables; connect the positive first, then the nega-
tive.
All labels on the vehicle (any message applied to the vehicle or vehicle component that
informs, instructs, or warns) must appear on the completed vehicle so the user can read
them easily and without obstruction.
Service and service replacement parts for your add-on systems may not be available
from a GM dealer. Those installing aftermarket systems should provide information as
to where and how to obtain service.
Section 1 – Body
Accessory items such as refrigerator, hot water heater, furnace, etc., which operate on
liquid propane gas should be located and protected to prevent exposure to any flame.
Body structures, interior and accessory arrangements must be designed into the vehicle
to provide for proper load capacity and distribution on both axles and not to exceed any
gross axle weight ratings. Lateral load equalization must also be maintained. The resul-
tant Center of Gravity of the unladen vehicle must be within the limits tabulated in the
FMVSS 105 section of the Incomplete Vehicle Document.
Body insulation provided by General Motors should not be removed. This includes any
thermal or underbody heat shields. This insulation is provided to protect the vehicle body
and occupants from excessive heat and/or provide noise attenuation. Any replacement
material internal to the occupant compartment must be certified for MVSS standard on
flammability. Areas of specific concern, but not limited to are:
Underbody exhaust, muffler and tailpipe shields and insulators.
Rear load floor interior insulation.
Front floor interior insulation.
Dash mat insulation.
Engine cowl insulation–interior and exterior.
Engine cover insulation.
The following statement applies to P 30042 (school bus) model only
The fuel system for the school bus chassis is certified to FMVSS 301 Barrier Perfor-
mance requirements based on a body floor height not exceed 3" above the top of frame.
The 3" maximum dimension is to be measured from the bottom surface of the interior
body floor to the top of the frame. The height of any cross supports and spacers between
the bottom of the floor surface and the top of frame are not to exceed this 3" dimension.
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