This TSB article is being republished in its entirety to revise the model years and update the plant participants.

ISSUE:

Information regarding Rapgard paint protection programs was previously published as an all-dealer letter. Future information on Rapgard will be communicated through Technical Service Bulletins.

ACTION:

Refer to the following text for program details.

PROGRAM OUTLINE

Each year Ford Motor Company provides paint protection on vehicles shipped to dealers. Rapgard is a (4 mil) plastic film with an adhesive backing. This material was first applied during the 1993 calendar year. Rapgard provides enhanced protection against railroad iron filings and other airborne contaminants.

PROGRAM DURATION

The use of Rapgard will begin on May 1, 1997, and continue through October 31, 1997 (Wixom - Continental/Town Car, shipped west of the Mississippi River, Wixom - Mark VIII, and Flat Rock - Probe, year 'round). All participating assembly plants will adhere to this timing.

PARTICIPATING PLANTS

All plants will participate EXCEPT the following:

• St. Thomas (Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis)
• Atlanta (Taurus, Sable export only)
• Lorain (Econoline)
• Lorain (Thunderbird, Cougar until August 1, 1997)
• St. Louis (Aerostar)
• Kentucky Truck (F-Series over 8500 GVW)
• KIA (Aspire)

HOW IS RAPGARD IDENTIFIED

Rapgard is an opaque plastic film that is cut to size, covering the horizontal surfaces only. The film is white in color and quite visible.

DIRECTIONS FOR STORAGE

Rapgard must remain on the vehicle until it is readied for delivery to the customer. Rapgard should be removed after 4 months. The Warranty and Policy Manual (4.2-4) states that vehicles stored without protection (Rapgard) in exposed locations must be washed and towel dried weekly. Periodic washing will reduce the chance of paint damage caused by environmental contaminants.

RAPGARD REMOVAL INSTRUCTIONS

Rapgard is removed by lifting a corner of the plastic film and peeling back the film. If any residual adhesive is left on the surface of the vehicle, use rubbing alcohol on a rag and rub vigorously to remove the excess adhesive.

DAMAGE UNDER RAPGARD

Generally, damage to new vehicles should be repaired in accordance with the Warranty and Policy Manual (4.1-5 or 4.2-5). These sections would apply where the film has been penetrated. If the film is intact and paint damage is found under the film, repair of this damage should be claimed as warranty.

CLAIMING ENVIRONMENTAL FALLOUT PAINT DAMAGE

If horizontal surface damage is discovered, dealers should repair the damage under warranty following the directions outlined in the Warranty and Policy Manual (5.1-3).

Claims must contain the following:

• Program, R23
• Condition Code, C8 (Industrial/Environmental Fallout)

OTHER

Rapgard is recyclable. The following company can recycle your Rapgard waste: NOVAGROUP, 160 NW 51st, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Rapgard can be disposed of as normal waste or burned as necessary. Check your local regulations concerning the disposal of this product.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES:

NONE

SUPERSEDES:

96-9-1

WARRANTY STATUS:

Information Only

OASIS CODES:

106000, 111000