INTRODUCTION
PRELIMINAR STUDIES AND CONSIDERATIONS
MAINTENANCE AND DAMAGE PREVENTION
WORK ON BASIC VEHICLE
MOUNTING AND CONSTRUCTION
POWER TAKE-OFF
ELECTRIC AND ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
APPENDIX
V1.0, February 2015
Body Builder Manual Part II, Specific Book LCV
57
4.2
Chassis frame modifications
4.2.1
General considerations
The chassis frame is a high-strength structure commonly formed by two longitudi
-
nal beams. Both beams are connected by cross-members or bridges by rivets,
screws or welding. It provides a firm structure for the body, as well as a good anchor
point for the suspension system and other relevant elements.
None of the modifications carried on the chassis of the vehicle should affect the
normal operation of the systems or equipment installed on the vehicle as standard.
It should also be ensured that the new configuration of the vehicle complies with
the European standards as well as with the respective rules of the country to which
the vehicle is delivered.
When making modifications, a certain number of restrictions must be respected:
- If the structure of the chassis has been changed to reduce or increase the
wheelbase or the rear overhang, the BB must ensure that the new configura
-
tion has at least the same endurance ability as the original.
- The structure must be suitably reinforced in all areas where concentrations of
stress occur, either due to a peak load, or to the addition of a trailer coupling,
the fixing of equipment to the chassis frame, etc.
- After modification work, the different groups, devices and equipment installed
on the vehicle must be accessible for proper maintenance, repair or substitu
-
tion.
See chapter 2.3.11 "Body and chassis clearances".
- When planning the conversion work,the minimum free space requirements for
some original elements of the vehicle, such as brake cables, fuel pipes, etc.
should be taken into account
- The modifications carried out should not prevent the safe operation of vehicle
control devices such as switches, electronic systems, security systems, cooling
systems, etc.
- Regulations for drilling and welding work must be complied with at all times, as
must the recommendations provided in this manual.
See chapter 4.1 "Prevention and recommendations".
- The formation of rust on the vehicle should be prevented.
See chapter 4.1.5 "Corrosion protection".
- The bolt assemblies must be attached to the original vehicle through consoles
or right elements, using the appropriate size screws and supplying the right
torque.
See chapter 4.1.3 "Bolted connection work".
- Care must be taken to ensure that the weight distribution meets the permissible
limits after modification work.
See chapter 2.3.3 "Weight distribution".