Inspection and Verification

Leaks

Forward vehicle motion creates a slight vacuum within the body, particularly if a window or ventilator is partially open. Any unsealed crevice or small opening in the lower section of the body will permit air to be drawn into the body. If dust is present in the air, it will follow.

Under certain conditions, water can enter the body at any point where dirt or dust can enter. Any consideration of water leakage must take into account all points covered under dust leaks.

To determine the exact location of a dust leak, remove the following trim from the cab: the cowl trim panel, the kick pads, and the floor mats.

Removal of the trim will reveal the location of most leaks. Seal these leaks, and road test the vehicle on a dusty road to make sure all leaks are sealed. Dust entry is usually indicated by a pointed shaft of dust or silt at the point of entrance. After the road test, check for indications of a dust pattern around the door openings, cowl panel, and cowl side panel.

Sometimes leaks can be located by putting bright lights under the vehicle, with the above components removed, and checking the interior of the body at joints and weld lines. The light will show through where leaks exist.

Noise

Wind noise, rattles and their sources are detected by driving the vehicle at highway speeds in four different directions. Listen for sources of noise with all windows closed, radio off, heater and air conditioner blower motor turned off and ventilation ducts open. A stethoscope can be used to pinpoint the source of wind noise.

Most wind noise-producing leaks will occur at the door and window seals or at sheet metal joints in the door or the door opening in the body.