Document 2jjwnNjoBawG9B2zNkNYgRM1R

LI c c a 28 77 15 !* / / InlM Company TuramiuiQO and *'!e r nginrai( Mr. G. F. Bolling g. r. p^- Fouruary 23, 1977 e IV, D. L. Block Mr, H, Qroowcll Mr. S. Babich Mr. H. F. Preera Mr. J. V. Guterraon Ur, D, C. Hewitt Itr, H. B. Johnson Mr, 2. A. THLcioO. Mr, (. Stapleton ilr. C. F. Air-rat Ur. J. D, Veite Subject:. Asbestos Usage Reference: Tour Cccmunlcatioa of February 10, 1577 to P. D. Foam, et al, Sfljue Subject Tmaemlasion end Axle Engineering Is concerned that the availability of asbestos containing components from our suppliers may be seriously affected, ii OSEA regulations become unduly restrictive. It seems appropriate to develop a company position regarding the use of asbestos containing materials. Over the last several months, connunientioris have originated from your office, Engineering end Research Stuff, and Personnel and Organisation Staff indicating two extremes: (1) Not to panic as OSUA require ments can be met, or 2) Conipletly eliminate asbestos os being the appropriate approach. Firm Company direction lc needed to protect the products and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Transmission and Axle Engineering has a major mvolven-r.t In aouestos useuje as all the automatic transmission bands and clutch plate facing materials contain ^6 to 25$ asbestoo. An appropriate replacement for asbestos in these friction elements is not readily attainable, and for this mason. Is of major concern. Me estimate a program of one to three years is required for evaluation and durability testing of proposed asbestos substitutions. other asbestos containing items ouoh as gashetr. and phenolic nrlcled converter reactor and. thrust washers can be rs-encineereu, but one year's lead tine and expenditures sf yl-2 million are required. Sc, attachment. It is TranomlaeiOTi and Axle Engineering's recormtendaticn that a CoT-nar&te position on the continued use of asbestos be developed, including a contingency plan for asbestos substitutes/replacements on the affected canponeuts. / JLM:en P. D. fodov 003167 105502 PRODUCED BY FORD