Modifications/add-on wiring must be carefully reviewed to ensure compatibility with the base vehicle wiring by reviewing system schematics, wire routing paths, harness connections, etc. Due to the wide range of modifications that may be required for vocational needs, it is not feasible for the O.E.M. to take into account all potential revisions. For this reason, any person modifying existing vehicle wiring must assume responsibility that the revisions have not degraded the electrical system performance. Any add-on wiring needs to be properly fused and routed to prevent cut, pinch, and chafe problems, as well as avoid exposure to excessive heat. Care must be exercised that existing vehicle interfaces do not have their current load capabilities exceeded, and that the respective control devices are not overloaded. Added wire size should be at least as large as the wire to which it is attaching in order for fuse protection to be maintained A Packard electric wiring repair kit is available through Kent-Moore (P/N J38125-B) (Phone # 1-800-345-2233). This kit contains instructions, tools and components for making repairs to wiring harness components. This kit would also greatly assist in accomplishing necessary add-on wiring such as body marker lamps, so that system reliability/durability is maintained.
Electrical wiring components can be obtained through your authorized GM/Isuzu dealers. Packard Electric components are also available through Pioneer Standard Company (1-800-PACKARD). Pioneer may also be able to assist in making necessary wiring additions by providing custom wiring stubs or jumpers to your specifications.
Wheelbase Alteration
With certain applications, it may become necessary to alter the wheelbase of the chassis. The next two sections provide the suggested guidelines for accomplishing either shortening or lengthening of the wheelbase.
Shortening/Lengthening the Wheelbase Without Altering the Frame
Since the frame is an integral part of the chassis, it is recommended that the frame not be cut if it is possible to avoid it. When shortening/lengthening the wheelbase on some models, it is possible to do so without cutting the frame. This is possible on models which have a straight frame rail. If the chassis does not have a straight frame rail, it may still be necessary to cut the frame. For instructions on shortening/lengthening these chassis, refer to the “Altering the Wheelbase by Altering the Frame” section of this book. Otherwise, the wheelbase may be shortened/lengthened by removing the rear suspension, drilling new suspension mounting holes at the appropriate spot in the frame, and sliding the rear suspension, suspension liner, and suspension crossmembers forward or aft. The suspension and suspension crossmembers’ rivet holes left in the frame rail flange must be filled with GRADE 8 bolts and hardened steel washers at both the bolt head and nut, HUC bolts or GRADE 8 flanged bolts and hardened steel washers at the nut. When shortening/lengthening the wheelbase in this manner, the following guidelines must be adhered to:
- All frame drilling must comply with the DRILLING AND WELDING section of this book.
- All rivet holes left in the frame rail flange from the suspension and suspension crossmembers must be either filled with GRADE 8 bolts and hardened steel washers at both the bolt head and nut, HUC bolts or GRADE 8 flanged bolts and hardened steel washers at the nut.
- The components required to be slid forward or aft are the suspension and suspension hangers, suspension crossmembers and suspension frame liner.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION CONCEPTS Weight Restrictions
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of each Incomplete Vehicle are specified on the cover of its Incomplete Vehicle Document in conformance to the requirements of Part 568.4 of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations. The final stage manufacturer is responsible under Part 567.5 to place the GVWR and the GAWR of each axle on the Final Vehicle Certification Label. The regulation states that the appropriate rating “shall not be less than the sum of the unloaded vehicle weight, rated cargo load, and 150 pounds times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity.”
Center of Gravity
The design of the truck body should be such that the center of gravity of the added load does not exceed the guidelines as listed in each Vehicle Section. If the body is mounted in such a way that the center of gravity height exceeds the maximum height of the center of gravity designated for each model, the directional stability at braking and roll stability at cornering will be adversely affected. A vertical and/or horizontal center of gravity calculation must be performed if a question in stability arises to ensure the designed maximum height of the center of gravity is not violated.