2007 Police Interceptor Modifier Guide - Digital Ally, Inc.

Installation Considerations 3-3Section 3: Installation ConsiderationsPush BumpersEffect On Air Bag DeploymentDifferent push bumper designs may each have different deformation characteristics in a crashsituation that may or may not affect the deployment of air bags. Without the benefit of crash testson vehicles equipped with push bumpers (there are a number of different styles available), it is theopinion of Ford Motor Company that installation of some push bumpers could affect the timing ofthe air bag deployment. Use of a push bumper that mounts solely to the vehicle’s bumper shouldnot have a significant effect upon air bag deployment.Effect On Weight DistributionThe balance and weight distribution of a vehicle is carefully planned to achieve optimal stabilityand handling. Push bumpers can change this weight distribution by adding excessive weight to thefront of the vehicle. There are many different styles of push bumpers available. Depending on themounting and weight of the push bumper to be installed, it could have an adverse effect on thehandling of a vehicle. Always verify the vehicle ride height after the addition of a push bumper. Foradditional information, refer to Section 1: General Information, Bumper Height Verification in thisguide. Adjust the ride height if the measurements are not within specifications.AirflowThe engine cooling system on a vehicle relies on proper airflow through the radiator to keep theengine at its proper operating temperature. When adding a push bumper to a vehicle, make surethis airflow is not obstructed, especially when lights and sirens are mounted on the push bumper.Reduced airflow could put additional strain on the cooling system and shorten the operational lifeof related components. During the installation process, keep the placement of components awayfrom the grille area of the vehicle.Skid PlatesThere are a few different skid plate designs and mounting locations available. When skid platesare mounted under the front of the vehicle covering the underside of the engine compartment,proper airflow that is necessary for the cooling system of the engine could be affected. As withpush bumpers that obstruct the airflow entering the engine compartment, skid plates can obstructairflow exiting the engine compartment. This obstruction may put a strain on the cooling system ofthe engine and shorten the operational life of related components.Siren and Grille LightsThe engine cooling system relies on proper airflow through the radiator to keep the engine at itsproper operating temperature. When adding sirens and grille lights to a vehicle, make sure thisairflow is not obstructed. Reduced airflow could put additional strain on the cooling system andshorten the operational life of related components. During the installation process, keep theplacement of components away from the grille area of the vehicle.2007 Police Interceptor Modifier Guide, 2006