2018 FORD F-150 5.0L COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS CONVERSION SYSTEM INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
2018 F-150 5.0L INSTALLATION MANUAL Page 4
Attaching Accessories to Aluminum Panels and Structure
Originator: BBAS Page 1 of 2 Date Issued: 07/22/14
Path/Filename: Bulletins/bulletin originals/Q222/Q-222.pdf
Attaching Accessories to Aluminum Panels and Structure
Models Affected: 2015 MY and later F-150
Background:
The high-strength aluminum alloy in the all-new F-150 does not produce red rust like steel. We have gone to great lengths
to develop coatings to inhibit corrosion. However, customers should take note that when installing aftermarket equipment,
aluminum can still corrode if the aluminum is attached to dissimilar metals. This type of corrosion is called “galvanic
corrosion” and it occurs where there is contact between different metals, like steel or stainless steel fasteners.
Protecting against galvanic corrosion
When installing aftermarket equipment, it is necessary that the installer pay special attention when drilling or clamping
dissimilar metals to the aluminum body.
• Anytime the factory paint is damaged, it is recommended that the paint be repaired with a suitable coating prior to
installing aftermarket equipment (i.e. splash guards, bug shields, tool boxes, etc.)
• When installing fasteners into the mounting hole the fastener should not have contact or have an interference fit
with the sheet metal
• For zinc coated steel bolts and screws, an aluminum washer should be used
• For further protection, an isolation layer should be used between the two dissimilar metals
• When clamping onto the truck, a polypropylene or urethane tape can be used as the isolating layer
Paint, Isolator, and Fastener Recommendations
We have tested many combinations of fasteners and coatings that are widely used in the aftermarket and have provided a
list of approved products to help ensure durability, strength and quality.
** For small repair of factory paints around mounting hole. Follow manufacturer’s directions for use.
Approved Anti-Corrosion Coatings**
Motorcraft PM13-A NOX-Rust 7703-W Zinc Rich Primer
Recommended Acrylic Lacquer Touch-up Paints**
Motorcraft Duplicolor Rustoleum
SVE BULLETIN
SPECIAL VEHICLE ENGINEERING – BODY BUILDERS ADVISORY SERVICE
E-Mail via Website: www.fleet.ford.com/truckbbas (click "Contact Us")
Toll-free: (877) 840-4338
Q-222
Originator: BBAS Page 2 of 2 Date Issued: 07/22/14
Path/Filename: Bulletins/bulletin originals/Q222/Q-222.pdf
Approved Fasteners
Aluminum Clamps
Aluminum Pop Rivets
Plastic Scrivets
Plastic Push Pins
Aluminum Rivnuts
Zinc coated steel fasteners used with an aluminum washer
Isolator Recommendations
Aluminum washer Urethane tape Polypropylene tape
Examples
In this section we illustrate some best practices to isolate steel from coming in contact with aluminum. Using the
previously listed fasteners and coatings in addition to good isolation techniques will help ensure durability, strength and
quality of your F150.
Note: The following illustrations are not vehicle specific and are intended for reference only.
Figure 1 shows a plastic accessory attached to the aluminum sheet metal and the fastener properly isolated from contact
with the aluminum sheet metal.
Figure 2 shows a steel accessory and steel fastener properly isolated from contact with the aluminum sheet metal.
Note: both figures show the fastener using an aluminum washer and having an oversize hole providing an air gap to the
aluminum sheet metal.
Important: Fasteners or coatings that should be avoided
The items listed below can accelerate galvanic corrosion in aluminum and should be avoided. If a steel fastener must be
used it is necessary to properly isolate from contact with the aluminum.
self-tapping screws
steel rivnut
steel pop rivets
steel spring clips
RTV silicone
stainless steel fastener
If you have any questions, please contact the Ford Truck Body Builders Advisory Service as shown in the header of this
bulletin.
Figure 1 Figure 2
