The rust and corrosion caused by winter road salts that negatively impact tractor/trailer components have always been a problem for fleets. Since the introduction of calcium and magnesium chloride about five years ago, damage and resulting costs have dramatically increased. Calcium and magnesium chloride are far more corrosive than other road salts and deicers.

As the industry has become more aware of the problems related to these more caustic chemicals, actions have been taken. The Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) proposed several initiatives. Initially, members of the group requested that states limit the use of magnesium and calcium chlorides. But, that suggestion has been met with limited change, since both chemicals are more effective at controlling ice on roads and highways.

Then, in 2005, after extensive taskforce research on the topic, TMC published recommendations for corrosion abatement, in which it stated that OEMs and suppliers need to produce products that are more resistant to corrosion.

In the last two years, OEMs and suppliers have been researching and testing new componentry and coatings, but introductions have been slow to come to market. In the meantime, fleets are dealing with some major concerns, one of which is the extent of corrosive damage to brakes.

Some fleets are finding that two or three years of exposure to magnesium and calcium chloride causes a significant increase in rusting and cracking of brake shoe tables and the area below the brake shoe block. Most of the damage seems to be on trailer brakes and steer axles. Because drive axle brakes run hotter, they have a tendency to burn off moisture and chemicals more efficiently, and rust damage is reduced.

One way to combat this problem is to use common sense and keep tires, wheels and tractor/trailer undercarriages rinsed off and clean. This can be the first step in helping to control rust damage.

There are other methods that also will help address this problem. The ATA has created a “Preventing and Controlling Corrosion Training Module” CD, which is available free by calling 800-ATA-LINE (Ask for item no. M0101.).

Another way is to look for the new e-coated components that some OEMs and component suppliers have started to make available. One example is B-Lock coatings on ArvinMeritor foundation brakes. This product, which is used widely by container operations, is available to over-the-road fleets as an option.

When it comes to the addition of e-coated components, fleets will need to be prepared for an upcharge. However, when compared to the cost of replacing brakes that may still have 80 percent life left but were removed because of rust damage, the upcharge for purchasing e-coated systems may end up being insignificant.