National Heavy Vehicle

Inspection Manual
Version 2.3
Acknowledgements
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) would like to The NHVR would also like to thank the following businesses
thank the following organisations for contributing to the for providing some of the diagrams and images displayed in
review and updating of Version 2 of the National Heavy this manual.
Vehicle Inspection Manual. • Brisbane RVs
• Access Canberra, ACT • Brown and Hurley Group
• Australian New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency (ANZPAA) • Jost Australia
• Australian Road Transport Suppliers Association (ARTSA) • Kangaroo Bus Lines
• Australian Trucking Association (ATA)
• Bus Industry Confederation (BIC)
• Commercial Vehicle Industry Association of Australia (CVIAA)
• Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources, TAS
• Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, SA
• Department of Transport, NT
• Department of Transport and Main Roads, QLD
• Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA)
• National Road Transport Association (NatRoad)
• Roads and Maritime Services, NSW
• Truck Industry Council (TIC)
• VicRoads, VIC
• Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC)

Copyright
© National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Version 2.3 July 2018

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/au
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Australia Licence.
To attribute this material, cite National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual.
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content of the National
Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
Contents
Introduction Section 8 Lights and Reflectors
Heavy Vehicle Inspection Checklist Additional Information – Headlight Testing Screens

Heavy Trailer Inspection Checklist Section 9 Mirrors

Section 1 Vehicle Identification Section 10 Windscreens and Windows

Additional Information – Replacing or Repairing Windscreens
Section 2 Brakes
Section 11 Engine, Driveline and Exhaust
Section 3 Couplings
Additional Information – Safety Chains Section 12 LPG, NG and Hydrogen and Electric
Vehicles
Section 4 Steering and Suspension
Section 13 Buses
Additional Information – Shock Absorber
Leakage and Misting Section 14 Trailers
Section 5 Wheels, Tyres and Hubs Additional Information – Safety Chains

Additional Information – Retreaded Tyres Additional Information – Mudguard and Mudflap

Requirements
Section 6 Structure and Body Condition
Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion
Additional Information – Mudguard and
Mudflap Requirements Section 15 Motorhomes, Caravans and Campervans
Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion Section 16 Vehicle Dimensions
Section 7 Seats and Seatbelts Appendix A – Vehicle Category Codes and ADR
Additional Information – ADR Occupant Applicability Tables
Restraint Requirements
Appendix B – Vehicle Modifications

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Introduction
The National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (NHVIM) • Equipment that is not required by the Vehicle Standards
has been revised by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and has no direct effect on the vehicle’s safe operation or
(NHVR) as part of its task to develop and introduce a single the control of its emissions does not have to function, as
national approach to ensuring heavy vehicle roadworthiness. long as it does not interfere with compulsory equipment
The NHVIM applies to all vehicles that have a gross vehicle that is required
mass (GVM) or aggregate trailer mass (ATM) greater than • Manufacturers’ recommendations relevant to the safety of
4.5 tonnes. particular vehicle parts or to the control of emissions must
The aim of the NHVIM is to provide consistent criteria for be considered
when a vehicle should fail a heavy vehicle inspection. The • Test methods or other conditions have not been specified
NHVIM details practical information about wear, damage or except where they are necessary to determine whether
change to important systems regarding vehicle in-service criteria are met
inspections for owners, operators and administrators in each • Examiners will utilise their trade qualifications and
state and territory. experience in vehicle repairs and maintenance and refer to
For a vehicle to be considered roadworthy it must comply with any relevant information regarding vehicle manufacturer’s
the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation specifications to ensure that the vehicle meets the
(known as Vehicle Standards), and the relevant Australian requirements of the Vehicle Standards or ADRs.
Design Rules (ADRs). These contain mandatory requirements Some inspection processes and standards apply only to
for the safe design, construction and maintenance of vehicles certain heavy vehicles. Similarly, a heavy vehicle may have
and for the control of emissions and noise. Relevant legislation been exempted from a Vehicle Standard, dimension or ADR1.
as applicable in each jurisdiction should also be checked
for requirements (e.g. specific regulations for passenger Relevant ADRs are noted at the beginning of each section of
transport vehicles). the NHVIM. Some of the ADRs may have been repealed or
updated since publication of the NHVIM, however, depending
When using the NHVIM, the following principles are relevant: on the age of the vehicle being inspected, the ADR or aspects
• Equipment required by the Vehicle Standards or ADRs to be of the ADR may still be applicable. All relevant documents
part of a vehicle must be present and work properly should be consulted for a complete list of the requirements.
• Equipment which is essential for compulsory components
to function, the safe operation of a vehicle, or the control of
its emissions, must be kept in good condition 1
An ADR, Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation or Heavy
Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation developed after
publication of the NHVIM may allow a variation or exemption.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Purpose For the present, authorised officers and AVEs will be
requested to refer to the original manufacturer specifications
The purpose of the NHVIM is to provide authorised officers
in the absence of failure criteria.
(including transport inspectors and police) and approved
vehicle examiners (AVEs) with a nationally consistent set of It is important to note that the Vehicle Standards, including
failure criteria to be applied when conducting a heavy vehicle the ADRs and the original heavy vehicle manufacturer’s
inspection. specifications take precedence over the requirements of the
NHVIM.
Scope
Objectives
The NHVIM will provide guidance to Authorised Officers
and AVEs on the national failure criteria for heavy vehicle The use of the same failure criteria in all jurisdictions for heavy
roadworthiness. vehicle inspections will ensure a more consistent approach to
the management and detection of vehicles which are unsafe.
The NHVIM is intended to apply to in-service heavy vehicles.
Where heavy vehicles have been modified, Authorised As a general rule the application of consistent failure criteria
Officers and AVEs will need to assess the vehicle against will prevent duplication of effort within and between
whatever approvals have been issued for the heavy vehicle in jurisdictions and through mutual recognition lead to a more
question. These may be in the form of an engineer’s report, efficient transfer of heavy vehicles between states and
a Vehicle Standards exemption, a second stage manufacturer territories.
identification plate or a modification plate or label which
signifies that the modifications have been carried out to an Consultation
accepted standard. The failure criteria set out in the NHVIM reflect current
The NHVIM will be supplemented by administrative processes consultation with road user groups, road transport
and procedures. authorities, police agencies, manufacturers and suppliers.
The NHVR seeks to continually update and improve the
The NHVIM at present does not cater for some vehicle NHVIM. Contributions and feedback may be made by sending
considerations such as smart braking. The NHVR has included an email to [email protected]
these types of considerations into a forward work program
for consideration in future revisions to the NHVIM.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
© National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Heavy Vehicle Inspection Checklist
This checklist has been provided as a guide to the types of information that may need to be collected, or components that need
to be inspected, during a vehicle inspection. This checklist is not a reason for rejection.

Vehicle Identification
Registration Number VIN/Chassis Number

Compliance Plate Seating Capacity

Make/Model Body Type

Main Body Colour Engine Number

Cylinders Odometer Reading (where fitted)

Brakes
Brake Components Air/Vacuum System (including trailer breakaway
protection)
Service Brake Park Brake

Couplings
Fifth Wheel/Ballrace Pin Couplings/Pintle Hooks

Towbar Towing Attachments

Safety Chains/Cable Attachments

Steering and Suspension

Steering Wheel Free Play

Arms/Linkages/Components Steering Box/Pump

Shock Absorbers Air Bag/Spring/Coil

Wheels, Tyres and Hubs

Wheels/Rims Wheel Nuts/Fasteners

Tyres Hubs

Wheel Bearings

Structure and Body Condition

Body Panels/Fittings Body and Mounting

Mudguards Mudflaps

Rear marking plates (as per VSB12) Cabin/Body Condition

Number Plates Front Underrun Protection

Electrical Equipment Horn

Chassis

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Heavy Vehicle Inspection Checklist (cont.)
Seats and Seatbelts
Seats Seatbelts

Child Restraint Anchorages

Lights and Reflectors

Headlights (high/low beam) Fog Lights

Front Position Light Daytime Running Lights

Direction Indicator Lights Clearance/End Outline Marker Lights (front/rear)

Reflectors (front/side/rear) Brake Lights

Tail Lights Reversing Lights

Number Plate Light Side Marker Lights

Mirrors
Rear View Mirror(s)

Windscreen and Windows

Glazing Wipers/Demisters/Washers

Windows

Engine, Driveline and Exhaust

Exhaust System Noise Emissions

Engine/Driveline Gearbox/Differential/Power Steering

Fuel Tank Oil Leaks

LPG and NG Vehicles

LPG/NG Compliance Plate LPG/NG Number Plate Labels

Container

Buses
Fire Extinguisher School Bus Warning System (if required)

Entrances/Exits Emergency Exits/Signs

Doors/Steps Guard Rails

Motorhomes, Caravans and Campervans

Fire Extinguisher Sleeping Berths

Cooking Facilities Doors

Toilets/Urinals/Showers/Sinks Ventilation

Electrical/Gas Certification

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Heavy Trailer Inspection Checklist
This checklist has been provided as a guide to the types of information that may need to be collected, or components that need
to be inspected, during a vehicle inspection. This checklist is not a reason for rejection.

Vehicle Identification
Registration Number VIN/Chassis Number

Compliance Plate ATM

Make/Model Body Type

Main Body Colour

Brakes
Brake Components Breakaway Protection

Service Brake Park Brake

Brake Connections
Couplings
Drawbar Towing Attachments

Skid Plates Kingpin

Safety Chains
Steering and Suspension
Axles Springs/Air Bags

Hangers Pins

Bushes Shock Absorbers

Wheels, Tyres and Hubs
Wheels/Rims Wheel Nuts/Fasteners

Tyres Hubs

Wheel Bearings
Structure and Body Condition

Mudguards Mudflaps

Chassis/Sub-frame Number Plate

Rear marking plates (as per VSB12) Tray/Body Condition (if applicable)
Lights and Reflectors
Brake Lights Direction Indicator Lights

Tail Lights Reversing Lights (optional)

Reflectors (front/side/rear) Front Position Light

Number Plate Light Clearance/End Outline Marker Lights (front/rear)

Side Marker Lights

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 1

Vehicle
Identification

Objective:
To ensure that the vehicle being inspected is authentic and correctly identified. Note: Where a vehicle fails the
identity inspection in this section, the
Australian Design Rules relevant to this section: Tiered Identity Inspection Regime of
ADR 61 Vehicle marking the jurisdiction should be applied or
the matter referred to the police.

1.1 Check the identity of the vehicle

e) No engine number present
Reasons for rejection
f) A motor vehicle manufactured from 1 August 1972 that
a) No VIN/chassis number present
is not fitted with an Australian identification (compliance)
Note: A chassis number is the identifying number of a plate and has not been previously registered in Australia
vehicle that was built prior to 1 July 1989. The number can
be any combination of letters or numbers and can be any g) A trailer manufactured from 1 August 1984 that is not
length. fitted with an Australian identification (compliance) plate
and has not been previously registered in Australia
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the unique
identifying number of a vehicle that was built from 1 July Note: Where a motor vehicle or trailer mentioned in (f)
1989. The number can be any combination of letters and or (g) is not fitted with an identification plate, but proof
numbers (excluding the letters i, o and q) and must be of previous registration in Australia is provided, this is
17 digits in length. not a reason for rejection.

b) VIN on identification (compliance) plate differs from that h) For a vehicle that is used in a road train or B-double
stamped into body or chassis combination, the vehicle plate does not include the words
“ROAD TRAIN” and/or “B-DOUBLE”; and for a trailer
Note: Second edition ADR vehicles may have a chassis
designed for use in a road train, the words “ROAD TRAIN
number stamped into the chassis that is different to the
TRAILER”
chassis number on the vehicle plate. Provided that one of
the chassis numbers stamped into the chassis matches the i) For a vehicle that has been modified for use in a road train
vehicle plate, this is not a reason for rejection. or B-double combination, the vehicle is not fitted with
a modification plate certifying it to code S8 (Road Train
c) VIN/chassis number has been altered or tampered with
Prime Mover), S9 (B-double Prime Mover) or S11 (Road
d) Engine number has been altered or tampered with Train Trailer) of VSB6.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) 7am to 5pm (AEST)
Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Vehicle Identification 1 1 of 2
 V2.3 July 2018
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
2 of 2 1 Vehicle Identification National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 2

Brakes

Objective:
To ensure that the brakes operate effectively and are correctly adjusted.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 35 Commercial vehicle brake systems
ADR 38 Trailer brake systems
ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 64 Heavy goods vehicles designed for use in road trains and B-doubles

2.1 Check brake components g) Abrasions or cuts on brake hoses penetrate further than
the outer protective covering
Reasons for rejection
h) Brake pipes, hoses and connections are not securely
a) Brake pedals do not have an anti-slip surface across
mounted, or are cracked, broken, kinked, crimped,
the complete surface
damaged by heat, or have visible signs of leakage,
b) Brake pedals or handles are broken, missing or are outside swelling or bulging
the scope of manufacturer’s original design
i) Air reservoirs in the vehicle’s braking system do not have
c) Brake control mountings, pivots, cables or links are kinked, an automatic or manual condensate drain valve at the
missing, loose, broken, excessively worn or binding lowest point of each air brake reservoir
d) Vehicle is not equipped with an effective mechanical Note: Automatic condensation drain valves must have a
park brake means to allow water from the compressed air reserve to
be drained manually.
e) The locking device on a park brake handle or lever is
missing or not operational j) Brake drums or discs are not fitted or have missing
pieces, or cracks other than short heat cracks inside
f) Park brake control is not designed to minimise risk of
the drums or in the disc
inadvertent release (e.g. requiring two separate or
distinct movements)

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) 7am to 5pm (AEST)
Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Brakes 2 1 of 6
 k) Brake pad or shoe material does not come in full contact Figure 2.1 Drum and disc brake components
with brake disc or drum friction surface, excluding any
crowning Brake shoe
Shoe retainer
Note: Brake pad or shoe material should not protrude spring
from the drum by more than 3mm. Return spring
l) Drums or discs are worn beyond manufacturer’s
specifications
Backing
m) Any caliper, wheel cylinder or master cylinder leaks plate
n) Friction material of the linings or pads are contaminated
with oil, grease, brake fluid or another substance that will Anchor pins
Cam rollers
reduce the friction coefficient of the friction material
o) The thickness of the linings or pads is less than the Brake shoe
manufacturer’s recommended minimum. If this is not
known or is no longer appropriate, the thickness of the Chamber
Pads
linings or pads is less than the following:
• the rivet or bolt head on riveted or bolted linings or
• within 3mm of the friction material mounting surface
on bonded pads or linings.
p) Brake chambers (including chamber clamps) or camshaft
support brackets are loose, bent, cracked or missing
q) Brake linings or pads are missing, broken or loose Caliper
on their shoes or plates Hub
r) Brake components such as springs, anchor pins, cam
rollers or bushes, pull or push rods, clevis pins, retainers Disc
or brake chamber mounting bolts are missing, loose,
damaged or broken 2.2 Check brake adjustment
Note: It is acceptable to have small cracks, blemishes or Reasons for rejection
blisters that do not affect the way the friction materials
are attached or its contact with friction surfaces. a) With any brake fully applied, a brake adjustment indicator
runs out of travel or indicates that adjustment is necessary
s) In the case of hydraulic, or air-over-hydraulic brakes,
the reservoirs, master cylinders or servo units are b) Brake chamber push or pull rods move more than the
loose, cracked, broken, or excessively worn or are brake component manufacturers recommendation or
damaged so that leaks are likely where this is unavailable, 80% of their maximum stroke
when the brakes are fully applied
t) Vehicles equipped with Antilock Braking Systems (ABS)
where the antilock system warning light is inoperative or Further information on long stroke brake chambers can
indicates a system fault or is missing be sought from the brake component manufacturers or
industry advisory documents.
u) In the case of hydraulic, or air-over-hydraulic brakes,
the fluid level in a master cylinder reservoir is below c) With any brake fully applied, any stroke indicator displays
the minimum level. evidence of excessive stroke (known as over-stroking)

Figure 2.2 Example of excessive stroke/over-stroking

Brakes off Brakes on Over-stroked

A B C
Indicator

2 of 6 2 Brakes National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Note: Not all push and pull rods will have a stroke indicator. 2.6 Check vacuum assisted brake system integrity
Not all automatic slack adjusters which travel past 90 degrees Reasons for rejection
are considered over-stroked.
a) With vacuum depleted from the system and with
Further information on slack adjusters can be sought from moderate steady force applied, the brake pedal does not
the brake component manufacturers or industry advisory travel towards the floor when the engine is started
documents.
b) With the engine stopped, one application of the
d) The park brake and/or emergency brake is not capable service brake with a moderate pedal force results in the
of being fully applied without the control running out of low vacuum indicator coming on
available travel
c) If a trailer is connected to the motor vehicle, the trailer
e) The brake adjusters are bent, damaged or excessively vacuum brakes cannot be applied from the normal driving
worn, or are not properly adjusted. position

2.3 Check air compressor/vacuum pump d) A brake pedal that is held depressed while the engine is
running, tends to rise when the engine is stopped
Reasons for rejection
e) Vehicle is not fitted with at least one vacuum storage
a) The air compressor or vacuum pump has loose mounting reservoir or tank
bolts, cracked or broken mounting brackets, braces or
adaptors, or is inoperative f) The reservoir or tank for vacuum is not protected by a
check valve
b) Drive pulleys are cracked, broken or loose
g) Vacuum is not available as soon as the engine starts, or
c) Drive belts are loose, cracked through to reinforcing plies, build up time to reach the low vacuum mark (to deactivate
extensively frayed or missing drive sections the warning device) is longer than 30 seconds
d) For vehicles fitted with compressed air brakes, the air h) Time taken for vacuum to reach normal working level
compressor does not build up air pressure to at least 80% when the vacuum reserve is fully depleted is longer than
of the vehicle’s governor cut-out pressure in five minutes 60 seconds
after the compressed air reserve is fully used up.
i) The vacuum warning device (if fitted) does not deactivate
2.4 Check air filters when the low vacuum mark is reached
Reason for rejection j) The loss of vacuum from its maximum indicated level
a) Any filter units for air compressors or vacuum pumps are exceeds 125mm Hg in 10 minutes when the engine is
not fitted, or are loose, blocked or damaged. stopped

2.5 Check braking system operation k) With the engine stopped and vacuum at its maximum
indicated level, the vacuum gauge reading does not fall
Reasons for rejection progressively with every application of the service brake
a) Any brake failure indicators do not operate l) With the engine stopped, there is insufficient level of
b) Any brake air or vacuum storage system is not fitted with vacuum to allow at least two assisted service brake
a visual or audible warning device to warn the driver, applications.
whilst seated in the normal driving position, of a lack of
air pressure or vacuum 2.7 Check air brake system integrity (including air
over hydraulic)
c) Any compulsory pressure, vacuum or low level warning
devices or gauges do not operate These checks require the assistance of another person to
operate the vehicle controls.
d) The brake controls do not cause the corresponding brake
to apply when they are operated (with the engine running Use chocks to prevent accidental movement of the vehicle.
if necessary). Observe manufacturer’s shut-down instructions before
switching off the engine (e.g. to avoid turbo-charger damage).
Reasons for rejection
a) A visual or audible warning device connected to the brake
system does not provide a warning to the driver when the

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Brakes 2 3 of 6

 air pressure is lowered to less than the following levels, m) Where ADR 35 applies, when the air-pressure in one (and
unless the manufacturer specifies a different level: only one) sub-circuit is fully drained any brake connected
• 65% of average operating pressure or to the other sub-circuit fails to operate when the service
brake is applied
• 420kPa (60psi) for ADR 35 vehicles, or
• 300kPa (45psi) for pre-ADR 35 vehicles. n) Where ADR 35 applies, spring brakes (if fitted) apply when
one sub-circuit is fully drained.
b) The cut-out pressure is more than 1120kPa (160psi),
or less than 720kPa (100psi) unless other values are Note: ADR 35 and UNECE Regulation 13 both require
recommended by the manufacturer brake tests to be conducted with the engine running.

c) The governor cut-in pressure is less than 550kPa For certain vehicles spring brakes may apply if the engine
(80psi), unless another value is recommended by the is not running and the service brake circuit has been fully
manufacturer depleted of air.

d) With the brake system fully charged, the engine stopped In a single circuit service brake system, energy to hold off
and the service brake applied, the air brake pressure spring brakes is supplied by a separate dedicated reservoir.
drops more than 20kPa (3psi) per minute. An additional In a dual circuit service brake system, spring brakes are
drop per minute of 5kPa is allowed for each trailer that normally held off by residual line pressure. Repeated
may be attached applications of the service brake will cause the spring
e) With the engine stopped and the service brake released, brakes to apply, which is acceptable.
the air brake pressure drops more than 15kPa per minute. Some vehicles may have an alternative test procedure. If
An additional drop per minute of 5kPa is allowed for each the vehicle fails the procedures outlined here, advice from
trailer that may be attached the manufacturer may be required.
f) With the brake system fully charged and the engine
2.8 Check hydraulic brake system integrity
stopped, five applications of the service brakes results in
the reservoir pressure dropping to less than 50% of the Reasons for rejection
maximum value a) When a constant force is applied to the brake pedal for 10
g) Spring brakes (if fitted) activate before the low pressure seconds:
warning device activates • after the initial travel, the service brake pedal travels to
h) The parking brake is inoperative or on a vehicle with a the floor, or
reserve air tank is unable to be released at least once • the brake system failure indicator comes on.
i) Air reservoir drain valves are inoperative b) When the service brakes are firmly applied, less than 20%
of the pedal travel remains (unless the brake system is
j) Excessive oil drains from the reservoir (this usually
designed for greater travel)
indicates a faulty compressor)
c) When soft pumping makes the brake pedal travel to
k) Where a pressure protection valve is fitted, the valve is
the floor.
damaged or broken
l) For a motor vehicle built from 1 July 1998 and designed 2.9 Service brake test with a decelerometer
to tow a trailer, the air supply to the trailer is not Decelerometer standards should be read in conjunction with
automatically stopped when at least one of the prime the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
mover circuits drops below 420kPa or when the trailer is
disconnected On some vehicles with light axle loads, or when testing in
wet weather, it might be difficult to obtain a brake test result
Note: Although it is usually a sign of neglected brake because of wheel lockup. In these cases the pedal pressure
maintenance, excessive water in a reservoir is not a should be reduced to a point where only the minimum
reason for rejection, provided that it is fully drained during specified deceleration rates are achieved.
the check.
Set up a suitable decelerometer in the vehicle cabin. Drive
When performing a dynamic emergency brake test, care the vehicle to a speed of at least 35km/h. If the vehicle has
is to be taken not to damage components (e.g. tail shaft a manual transmission, put the transmission into neutral;
mounted emergency brakes). automatic transmission vehicles may remain in gear. With
hands on the steering wheel, bring the vehicle to a halt as
rapidly as possible in a safe manner with one sustained and
smooth application of the service brakes.

4 of 6 2 Brakes National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Reasons for rejection Note: ‘Average’ is the average deceleration recorded over the
test. This is not an averaging of peak decelerations recorded
a) The application of the brakes causes the vehicle to swerve
during the test. ‘Peak’ is the maximum deceleration recorded
from a straight line path
during the test.
b) The service braking system decelerates the vehicle at less
than the performance requirement specified in Table 2.1 2.11 Parking brake test for vehicles designed to ADR 35
c) Individual wheel locking cannot be controlled. Parking brake test for vehicles designed to ADR 35 or vehicles
fitted with tandem master cylinder/dual circuit brakes.
Table 2.1 Service brake performance
Apply the park brake and attempt to drive forward using a
Type of vehicle Average Peak light throttle.

GVM exceeding m/s2 %g m/s2 %g Note: A parking brake means the brake usually used to keep a
4.5 tonnes vehicle stationary while the vehicle is parked.
2.8 29 4.4 45
Reason for rejection
Note: ‘Average’ is the average deceleration recorded over the
test. This is not an averaging of peak decelerations recorded a) The parking brake does not provide any retardation.
during the test. ‘Peak’ is the maximum deceleration recorded 2.12 Brake testing with a skid plate tester
during the test.
This section should be read in conjunction with the equipment
2.10 Emergency brake test with a decelerometer manufacturer’s instructions.
Emergency brakes are required to be fitted to vehicles not Using a skid plate tester, check the performance of the vehicle’s
designed to ADR 35 or vehicles not fitted with a tandem braking system in accordance with the manufacturer’s test
master cylinder/dual circuit brakes. procedure.
Note: An emergency brake means a brake designed to be used Reasons for rejection
if the vehicle’s service brake fails. Generally these are found on
a) There is more than 30% difference in the brake
vehicles built prior to 1980.
performance between the wheels on the same axle
To test the emergency brakes with a decelerometer, install
b) The service braking system decelerates the vehicle at less
the decelerometer, drive the vehicle to a speed of at least
than the performance requirements specified in Table 2.1
35km/h. If the vehicle has a manual transmission, put the
transmission into neutral; automatic transmission vehicles c) In other than ADR 35 vehicles, or vehicles fitted with
may remain in gear. Bring the vehicle to a halt as rapidly as a tandem master cylinder/dual circuit brakes, the
possible in a safe manner with one sustained and smooth emergency brake decelerates the vehicle at less than the
application of the emergency brake. performance requirements specified in Table 2.2.
Hand brakes fitted to drive shaft or gearbox are not tested 2.13 Brake testing with a roller brake tester
using this method, tests should instead be conducted to
manufacturer’s specifications. This section should be read in conjunction with the equipment
manufacturer’s instructions and the National Roller Brake
When performing a dynamic emergency brake test, either in testing Procedure: www.nhvr.gov.au/nrbt
accordance with the above method or the manufacturer’s
specifications, care is to be taken not to damage components Using a roller brake tester, check the performance of
(e.g. tail shaft mounted emergency brakes). the vehicle’s braking system in accordance with the
manufacturer’s test procedure.
Reason for rejection
Release all brakes, place transmission in neutral (not ‘park’ for
a) The emergency brake decelerates the vehicle at less than automatic transmission) and slowly apply the service brake
the performance requirement specified in Table 2.2. until maximum force is attained, or wheel slip occurs.
Table 2.2 Emergency brake performance Reasons for rejection
a) There is more than 30% difference in the brake
Type of vehicle Average Peak
performance between the wheels on the same axle
GVM exceeding m/s2 %g m/s2 %g
b) The service braking system decelerates the vehicle at less
4.5 tonnes 1.1 11 1.5 15 than the performance requirements specified in Table 2.1

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Brakes 2 5 of 6

 Note: On some vehicles the brake performance b) An advanced braking system component (wheel speed
requirement might not be reached as the vehicle will be sensor, etc) is missing or damaged to an extent where it
lifted out of the rollers or lock the wheels. Similarly, it does not perform its intended function.
might not be reached if a load proportioning valve is fitted
c) Advanced braking system wiring or connectors are
to the axle group. In both cases it is considered a pass if
corroded, damaged, not insulated or are not securely
the brake balance is within the specified limit.
fastened.
c) Any parking brake assembly that when applied does not
d) Electrical wiring is located where it can:
give a reading, or the vehicle does not lift out of the rollers
• become exposed to excessive heat
Note: For park brakes that operate independently of the
• come into contact with moving part
service brakes, care should be taken when performing
roller brake testing. When testing using a brake roller is not e) An advanced braking system component or system has
possible, the parking brake should be tested in accordance been modified outside of manufacturer’s specifications.
with the manufacturer’s testing procedures. f) A truck fitted with an advanced braking system is not
2.14 Check trailer brakes and breakaway protection fitted with a compliant ABS/EBS connector to attach an
ABS/EBS equipped trailer.
The examiner should seek the assistance of another person in
order to make a thorough check of the breakaway protection. 2.16 Road testing of service brakes
Reasons for rejection Use a suitable level area with a hard level surface that is free
from gravel or loose material and is at least 350 metres in
a) A truck trailer interconnecting flexible hose and coupling
length for testing of heavy vehicles. Drive the vehicle to
is not properly mated or secured
35km/h then put the transmission into neutral; automatic
b) The trailer brakes are not capable of being applied and transmission vehicles may remain in gear. With both hands
released from the normal driving position on the steering wheel bring the vehicle to a halt as rapidly
as possible in a safe manner with one sustained and smooth
c) For a towing vehicle that is configured to tow a trailer
application of the service brakes.
with air or vacuum assisted brakes, there is no visible or
audible warning device to alert the driver of the towing Reasons for rejection
vehicle, while the driver is in a normal driving position, of
a) The application of the brakes causes the vehicle to swerve
a lack of air or vacuum
from a straight line path
d) In an air operated brake system when any trailer hose
b) For vehicles built after 1930, the service braking system
coupling or connection is disconnected to simulate a
fails to bring the vehicle to a stop within the distance
breakaway situation, the rate of loss in air pressure in the
specified in Table 2.3.
towing vehicle’s service brake system is more than 15kPa
per minute after stabilisation. Table 2.3 Service brake stopping distance
Note: If an invasive inspection of brake components is
Type of vehicle Distance
necessary, it should be carried out in accordance with the
procedure in Australian Standard AS 3617 Parameters for GVM exceeding 4.5 tonnes 16.5 metres
the machining and reconditioning of brake drums and discs.
Note: The maximum stopping distance in this table is intended
2.15 Advanced Braking Systems to cover a wide range of vehicles including some older vehicles
with older braking systems. If a modern vehicle is found to
This section covers vehicles which have advanced braking only just comply with the prescribed values then the owner
systems such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic should be informed that the brakes are likely to be in need of
braking systems (EBS), electronic stability control (ESC), etc. maintenance.
Reasons for rejection For vehicles built before 1930, no service brake performance
a) An advanced braking system warning lamp: requirements apply, but the on-road brake test should
• is missing be conducted to assist in determining whether a brake
maintenance problem exists. Such problems should be
• does not illuminate as required when ignition is
followed up by visual inspection of the brake components.
switched to the on position
• indicates a fault with a system

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
6 of 6 2 Brakes National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 3

Couplings

Objective:
To ensure that all tow couplings and associated components
are in a serviceable condition and that they provide the Note: This section should be read in conjunction with ADR
necessary load carrying capacity. 62, relevant Australian Standards and manufacturers’
specifications for minimum requirements.
Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:
Installation of an aftermarket coupling is a modification.
ADR 62 Mechanical connections between vehicles Please refer to Appendix B – Vehicle Modifications.
ADR 63 Trailers designed for use in road trains

3.1 Check fifth wheels and turntables e) Fifth wheel or turntable mounting plate or sub-
frame assembly securing bolts are not ISO Class 8.8
In this section, the term ‘fifth wheel’ refers to the upper
(SAE Grade 5) or stronger
surface of the coupling that directly articulates with the skid
plate of a semitrailer. A ‘turntable’ is the rotating part of the f) Fifth wheel or turntable mounting is not done in
coupling mount that allows the fifth wheel to rotate, for accordance with manufacturers’ specifications, Australian
example a ballrace. Standards or VSB6 Section P2
Reasons for rejection g) There is movement between the fixed mounting
components
a) The fifth wheel does not display the manufacturer’s
name/trademark, nominal size (e.g. 50mm) and the h) There is more than 5mm horizontal movement between:
‘D-value’ rating • the pivot bracket pin and bracket, or
b) The top and bottom mounting flanges have insufficient • a slider bracket and slide base.
or ineffective fasteners i) There are cracks in mounting angles or plates, pivot
c) Fasteners either side of the mounting frame, plate or brackets, slider components or coupler plates except for
pivot brackets are insufficient or ineffective casting shrinkage cracks
d Fifth wheel or turntable mounting plate or sub-frame j) The fifth wheel pivot bracket pin/s or bushes are missing,
assembly securing bolts are missing, broken or loose, or insecure or worn beyond manufacturer’s specifications
the fasteners are U-bolts

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 k) The locking mechanism on either side of a sliding coupling 3.2 Check pin couplings and pintle hooks
is missing, inoperative or worn beyond manufacturer’s
Reasons for rejection
specifications
a) Where ADR 62 applies, a 50mm pin type coupling does
l) End stops on slides are missing or insecure
not display the manufacturer’s name/trademark, rated
m) Kingpin locking mechanism parts are missing, worn vertical load and the ‘D-value rating’
or adjusted beyond manufacturer’s specifications,
b) The tow ball or hook assembly (127mm or hook type) is
or damaged to the extent that the kingpin is not
not legibly and indelibly marked with the manufacturer’s
securely held
name or trademark and the rated ‘D-value’
n) The top and bottom plates, flanges and welds are loose,
c) Deformed or cracked fasteners including welds
cracked, missing or broken
d) Any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads have
o) Ball bearing type turntables are worn beyond the
advanced corrosion
manufacturer’s specifications, or to the extent that the
upper and lower flanges or bearing halves touch each e) The area that the pin coupling or pintle hook is mounted
other or the ball bearings seize. on is loose or cracked or any locking mechanism is not
fitted or is inoperative
Note: The fifth wheel feet shall be secured to the base
plate either using bolts or by welding. Bolting is preferred f) The pin coupling or pintle hook welds have cracks
– welding is only permitted if the manufacturer g) Pin couplings or pintle hooks are worn beyond the
recommends this method. manufacturer’s limits. If the manufacturer’s limits are not
Trailer skid plates and kingpins are covered in Sections known, any dimension on a wear surface of the horn of a
14.5 and 14.6 of this manual. pintle hook or pin coupling is worn more than 5% of the
original diameter (see Figure 3.3)
Figure 3.1 Fixed base fifth wheel assembly Towing Eye Pi
Figure 3.3 Typical tow devices Lockin

Drawbar
Drawbar EyeEye
Towing Eye
Pintle Hook
Pintle Hook
Locking Pin

Drawbar Eye

Towing Pintle Hook

Towing Eye Eye
Locking Pin

Drawbar Eye

Figure 3.2 Ballrace base fifth wheel assembly

*Typical wear surfaces

h) Any wear on the diameters of each of the coupling pin and

the drawbar eye bush greater than 1.5mm.
Note: Wear should be checked by direct measurement,
or by the use of a gauge. Allowable dimensions for worn
components are as per manufacturers’ specifications. If
manufacturers’ specifications are not available, allowable
dimensions are given in Table 3.1.

2 of 6 3 Couplings National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Table 3.1 Allowable dimensions in millimetres for worn 3.3 Check towbar
components
Reasons for rejection
Component Standard Allowable Gauge a) The towbar is not securely mounted or is bent or cracked
dimension wear limit* Sizes
b) Any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads have
Coupling pin 48.7 OD 47.2 min 47.1
advanced corrosion or cracks
Drawbar eye bush 50.0 ID 51.5 max 51.6
c) Where ADR 62 applies, the towbar and towing ring does
*
When the wear of components is checked by direct not display: the manufacturer’s name/trademark, the
measurement, it should be noted that an elliptical wear rating and the make and model of the vehicle/s for which
pattern is generated on the bore of the drawbar eye bush, it is designed
and on the outside of the pin.
d) Where any part of the towbar is removable (the bolts,
Figure 3.4 Measurement of coupling pin and drawbar studs, nuts etc.), fastening those parts do not have a
eye bush wear locking device such as a U-clip, split pin or nylon lock nut
Coupling pin dimension
e) Towbar assembly (except for vehicles designed for use in
road trains) is not fitted with two safety chain attachments
mounted one on either side of, and adjacent to, the tow
Coupling pin dimension
coupling
Coupling pin dimension f) Safety chain attachments are not affixed to part of the
tow assembly that is permanently attached to the vehicle.
Coupling pin dimension Drawbar eye Note: Always check the underside of drawbar and drawbar
bush dimension eye for excessive wear and cracks.
Drawbar eye
bush dimension 3.4 Check towing attachments
Reasons for rejection
a) Any towing attachment (such as a tow-ball or pintle hook),
any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads are loose,
cracked, broken or extensively corroded
i) Any transverse or circumferential welds on the drawbar
eye block b) Safety chain/s or cables (if required) are able to be
connected or affixed in such a way that the safety chain/s
j) For bolt-in drawbar eyes, the castellated nut is loose or or cables are liable to accidentally disconnect
insecure or the split pin is missing or not intact.
c) Safety chain or cable retaining brackets are cracked,
deformed or insecure
d) Safety chain or cable retaining brackets do not meet
required standards
e) The tow coupling capacity does not equal or exceed the
aggregate trailer mass (ATM) of any trailer being towed
(if applicable).
Note: For further information on safety chains, refer to
Additional Information – Safety Chains.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Couplings 3 3 of 6

 Additional Information – Safety Chains
Table 3.2 Safety chain size selection
Safety chains for:
Vehicles manufactured before 1 July 1998
• trailers in excess of 3.5 tonnes ATM
• trailers in excess of 2.5 tonnes GTM Gross trailer Chain size Minimum chain
with fixed or rigid drawbars and automatic pin type mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load
couplings. (tonnes)
2.5–4.27 7.1 6.4
4.27–7.5 9.5 11.6
All fixed or rigid drawbar pig trailers (other than a converter
dolly) and any other trailers without breakaway brakes, require 7.5–13.5 12.7 20.4
safety chains to be fitted. 13.5–21.5 15.9 32.0
It is strongly recommended that all other trailers be fitted 21.5–30.0 19.0 46.4
with safety chains, especially vehicles used in severe >30.0 22.0 63.2
conditions, e.g. quarry vehicles which are jackknifed regularly
for unloading. Vehicles manufactured from 1 July 1998 to 31 December 2008
Safety chains complement the safety features of the trailer’s Aggregate trailer Chain size Minimum chain
breakaway braking system, allowing the driver to maintain mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load
control of the truck and trailer combination following a (tonnes)
coupling failure or disconnection.
Over 3.5 and up 7.1 6.4
Safety chains MUST be supplied and fitted to comply with the to 4.3
following requirements: Over 4.3 and up 9.5 11.6
to 7.5
Type of chain
Over 7.5 and up 12.7 20.4
Safety chains fitted to a trailer with an ATM over 3.5 tonnes, to 13.5
must be manufactured from alloy steel with a minimum
breaking stress of 800MPa to conform with the mechanical Over 13.5 and up 15.9 32.0
properties of Grade T chain as specified in Australian Standard to 21.5
AS 2321 Short-link chain for lifting purposes. Over 21.5 and up 19.0 46.4
to 30.0
Required number and size of chains
Over 30.0 22.0 63.2
Two separate chains must be used.
Vehicles manufactured from 1 January 2009
The minimum breaking strength or size of each chain used
on the trailer must meet or exceed the values listed for the Aggregate trailer Chain size Minimum chain
maximum gross trailer mass or aggregate trailer mass as mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load
indicated in Table 3.2. (tonnes)
Over 3.5 and up 6 5.1
to 5.0
Over 5.0 and up 8 8.2
to 8.0
Over 8.0 and up 10 12.8
to 12.5
Over 12.5 and up 13 21.7
to 21.5
Over 21.5 and up 16 32.8
to 32.5
Over 32.5 19 46.5

4 of 6 3 Couplings National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Arrangement of chains Chain attachment brackets
Safety chains must be arranged so that: The dimensions and configurations of typical chain retention
• the chains are attached to the trailer brackets are shown in the following table and diagram:
• the chains are crossed to support the drawbar and prevent
Table 3.3 Typical bracket dimensions
it from dropping to the ground in the event of coupling
failure or disconnection Minimum Minimum Bracket dimensions
• the points of attachment to both the towing vehicle and Chain length of
the trailer must be as near as practicable to the coupling (mm) fillet weld
and arranged so as to maintain direction of the trailer in the Size length (T1) (T2) (B) (C) (D)
event of coupling failure or disconnection.
9.5 6 x 200 16 16 4 x M12 19 *
Ensure that the attachment fittings do not foul on the rear 12.7 6 x 360 20 20 4 x M16 25 *
of the towing vehicle or trailer drawbar under any possible
operating conditions. 15.9 8 x 420 25 20 4 x M20 32 *
19.0 10 x 480 25 25 4 x M20 38 *
Attachment of chains
Safety chains must be attached so that: * Dimension ‘D’ to suit coupling link plus minimum clearance
to prevent binding.
• the attachments to the towing vehicle and the trailer are
capable of withstanding the specified breaking load of each Figure 3.6 Typical attachment of chains
chain A typical attachment of chains
• the attachments to the towing vehicle and the trailer are
separate from the coupling and its fasteners
B
• any safety chain attachment point affixing a safety chain to
a drawbar must be located as near as practicable to the
coupling. Where two points of attachment are required
they must be mounted one on either side of the centreline
of the drawbar
• the chain and coupling links are NOT WELDED, DEFORMED
OR ELECTROPLATED subsequent to its manufacture.
A
Figure 3.5 “Berglok” coupling link

A. To the trailer
Pin welded to prevent chain loss
“Berglok” coupling link
Shackles are not permitted. T1
C
Ramshorn type hooks are not permitted.
T2
T1
Note: Chain coupling attachment bracket and dimensional
recommendations appear in Table 3.3. B. To the towing vehicle
T1 D
T2 T2
T1
or
B C
T2 B

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Couplings 3 5 of 6

 Attachment pins
All pins used to connect safety chains to trailers and towing
vehicles must be manufactured from steel bar with a minimum
specification of 4140 or 4150 grade (Ultimate tensile strength
– 1040MPa) unless otherwise approved.

Figure 3.7 Typical pin design

Typical Pin Design

Hole suitable for Lynch Pin or similar

(nominal diameter Ø12)
12 10 8
3

Effec
ve Length

Material – Steel 4140 (Alternative 4150)

– Ultimate tensile strength – 1040MPa
Note: Standard agricultural 3-point linkage pins are NOT
suitable because they are manufactured from a lower
grade of steel and will not meet the load requirements. It
is acceptable to use a metric class 10.9 bolt of the correct
diameter providing that the threaded portion of the bolt is
clear of the brackets.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
6 of 6 3 Couplings National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 4

Steering and
Suspension

Objective:
To ensure that the steering and suspension is in good working order and allows the driver effective control of the vehicle.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 43 Vehicle configuration and dimensions

4.1 Check steering components inside cabin 4.2 Check steering free play
Reasons for rejection Reason for rejection
a) Steering wheel is not located in the centre or to the a) With the road wheels in the straight ahead position and
right-hand side of the vehicle unless the vehicle is built the engine running (if the vehicle has power steering),
and used for a purpose other than the transportation of rotational free play measured at a point on the steering
goods or people wheel exceeds the limits in Table 4.1, without road wheel
movement.
b) The steering wheel is loose on the shaft
c) The steering column is insecure Table 4.1 Steering wheel diameter and free play

d) The steering wheel structure is fractured or the hub, rim, Steering wheel diameter (mm) Movement (mm)
moulding or spokes are loose
up to 450 75
e) Any steering component is missing, loose, cracked, over 450 100
heated, bent, welded, damaged or inoperative.

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 4.3 Check steering components under the bonnet Figure 4.1 Idler arm free play
and under the vehicle
Reasons for rejection Idler pivot axis

a) Any steering component is missing, cracked or broken Idler arm

b) Any steering component fouls another component under

any combination of steering and/or suspension travel 8mm
maximum
c) Any threaded, splined or tapered joint is loose free play

d) Any free-play due to wear in a ball-joint exceeds

manufacturer’s specifications. Where these are not p) Free play at the steered road wheel rim in a horizontal
known or are no longer appropriate, the free-play or vertical plane (excluding any necessary wheel bearing
exceeds 3mm play) exceeds manufacturer’s specifications. Where these
Note: Some ball type steering joints are spring loaded or specifications are not known or are no longer appropriate,
are designed to have a certain amount of play. free play exceeds the limits in Table 4.2

e) Any steering component can be seen to have been Table 4.2 Rim diameter and free play
repaired or modified by heating or welding
Rim diameter (mm) Free play (mm)
Note: Except where an original component has been fitted
by the manufacturer or repairs have been conducted to up to 405 7.0
the manufacturer’s specifications. over 405 to 455 10.0
f) Any nut, bolt or locking device is missing or insecure over 455 13.0

g) Where steering forces are wholly supplied by energy Figure 4.2 Typical ‘I’ beam axle
sources other than a driver’s muscular effort, visible
indicators for steering failure or defect are not fitted Horizontal free play

h) The power steering pump has loose mounting bolts Front axle U-bolt
cracked or broken mounting brackets, braces or adaptors,
Spring centre bolt
or is inoperative Kingpin thrust Kingpin support arm
(max 3mm movement)
Semi ellipc
Stub axle
i) Power steering pump pulleys are cracked, broken leaf spring

or loose
j) Power steering pump belts are loose, cracked through
to reinforcing plies, extensively frayed or missing drive Kingpin & bush

sections Jacking point

‘I’ beam axle
k) Evidence of oil or fluid leaking from any power steering
components q) Any noticeable movement due to wear in any component
Note: Dampness or staining around seals is acceptable. exceeds manufacturer’s specification, or 3mm where this
is unknown
l) With the wheels off the ground, the steered road wheels
do not turn freely to the left and right through their r) Tyres come into contact with any part of the vehicle
normal range of travel through normal range of travel.

m) Steering shaft is not securely connected to the steering

box or rack, or is incorrectly aligned or adjusted
n) Steering box, rack and pinion assembly, mounting
brackets, bolts or couplings are cracked or not securely
fixed to the vehicle
o) Play at the end of the idler arm exceeds 8mm

2 of 4 4 Steering and Suspension National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Figure 4.3 Steering linkage typical of most heavy vehicles

Steering arm
‘I’ beam axle
FRONT
Steering arm

Tie rod end

Tie rod Drag link

adjustment sleeve Sector sha

Tie rod Steering box Drag link end

Steering sha Pitman arm

4.4 Check suspension components

Reasons for rejection
a) U-bolts or other spring to axle or spring pack clamp bolts,
centre bolts, spring eyes or hangers, torque, radius or
tracking component assemblies, control arms, sway bars,
bushes or any parts used to attach them to the vehicle
frame or axle are cracked, loose, broken, missing or worn
beyond manufacturers’ limits
Note: Superficial crazing is acceptable on rubber bushes.
This is often present on rubber suspension components
even when new.
Some vehicle suspensions are designed to move within
their rubber bushing considerably.
b) Springs are cracked, broken, missing or damaged
c) Springs (including air bags) are sagged or air bag/
components leak
d) Leaves in a leaf spring are displaced sideways more than
10% of their width or so that they contact wheels,
brakes or the frame
e) Shock absorbers, if originally fitted, are missing, loose,
inoperative or leaking
Note: Shock absorber misting is not considered leaking.
For further information refer to Additional Information –
Shock Absorber Leakage and Misting.
f) Any suspension component is not correctly aligned or is
damaged, cracked, loose or broken
g) Any nut, bolt or locking mechanism is insecure or missing
h) Suspension components are missing, or repaired or
modified by heating or welding unless it’s a manufacturer’s
approved repair technique.
Note: Repairs using either heating or welding may
adversely affect the strength of suspension components.
Any such repairs should only be affected in consultation
with the vehicle or component manufacturer.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Steering and Suspension 4 3 of 4

 Additional Information – Shock Absorber Leakage and Misting

Misting Leaking
By design, the piston rod carries a film of oil through the rod Rod seals may leak as a result of extreme wear, contamination,
seal to lubricate the seal lips, thereby reducing friction and or defect. A leaking shock will show clear signs of oil leaking in
wear at the seal contact area, and prolonging seal life. Misting streams from the upper seal down the shock body and may
occurs when the hot piston rod is drawn out of the shock body drip from the shock. Leaking is not acceptable and is a reason
and the microscopic film of hot oil on the rod turns to vapour. for rejection.
This vapour, or mist, condenses when it reaches the cooler
outside air, and forms a film on the outside of the shock body.
Figure 4.5 Examples of leaking shock absorbers
The film will attract road dust and debris, and will often coat
the entire body of the shock. Misting is normal and is not a
reason for rejection.

Figure 4.4 Examples of misting shock absorbers

Note: Some minor streaking of oil may appear on a new

shock body during initial stroking. This is the result of the seal
‘setting’ and purging any oil (from assembly) from the seal.
This is not to be mistaken as a failure, as it is temporary and
totals only a few millilitres of oil.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 4 Steering and Suspension National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 5

Wheels, Tyres
and Hubs

Objective:
To ensure that road wheels and tyres are of a suitable type and condition and that they provide the necessary load
carrying capacity, speed rating and control of the vehicle.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 42 General safety requirements

5.1 Check wheels and rims g) Wheels fail to rotate freely

Reasons for rejection h) Hubs seals are leaking
a) Any wheel or rim: i) Excessive end-play in hubs.
• is loose 5.2 Check wheel/rim fasteners
• is cracked
Reasons for rejection
• is buckled
• has pieces of casting missing a) Wheel nuts and bolts do not have a thread engagement
length at least equal to the thread diameter (except where
• has elongated stud holes specified by the vehicle manufacturer), or the fitting of
• has weld repairs not in accordance with relevant the wheel nut does not match the taper of the wheel
industry practice. stud hole
b) Any wheel contacts unrelated vehicle components at any b) Any hub has missing, cracked, stripped or broken wheel
point through its full range of travel mounting nuts, studs or bolts
c) Spindle nuts and washers are missing, cracked, stripped c) Spacer plates are used between hub and wheels, except
or broken where fitted by the vehicle manufacturer
d) Spiders have cracks across a spoke, hub or area d) Fasteners are not of the correct type for the wheel being
e) Wheels are not compatible with hubs used or allow a rim to slip on its spider

f) Required valve protection lugs are missing

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 e) Any item that is fitted to the tyre, rim or wheel (other g) Any tyre is not of a type constructed for unrestricted
than tyre pressure monitoring or inflation) which is not road use
technically essential to the vehicle, protrudes from any
h) Any retreaded or remoulded tyre is not marked with
part of the vehicle so that it is likely to increase the risk of
the words “RETREAD” or “REMOULD”, and where speed
bodily injury to any person
limited the words “MAX. SPEED XX KM/H” or “SPEED
f) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel (other than LIMITED TO XX KM/H” (XX means the max speed i.e.
tyre pressure monitoring or inflation) which is technically 125km/h)
essential to the vehicle, is not designed, constructed and
Note: For more information on retreaded tyres, refer to
affixed to the vehicle in a way that does not minimise the
Additional Information – Retreaded Tyres.
risk of bodily injury to any person.
i) The speed rating of all tyres is not of at least 100km/h or
5.3 Check retaining rings the vehicle’s top speed, whichever is the lesser, unless a
Reason for rejection lower rating has been specified by the manufacturer

a) Lock or side rings are incorrectly seated, sprung, j) A tyre fitted to a vehicle with a GVM of more than 4.5
mismatched, bent, broken or cracked. tonnes is not suitable for road use if the tyre load ratings
are less than the minimum ratings specified originally by
5.4 Check tyres the vehicle manufacturer
Reasons for rejection k) Dual tyres contact each other
a) A tyre does not have at least 1.5mm tread depth l) Any tyre on a vehicle contacts the body, chassis, frame,
in a continuous band which runs around the whole braking, steering or suspension components at any point
circumference of the tyre and extends across at least 75% through its full range of travel
of the width of the tyre m) A tyre has cleats or other gripping devices that could
Note: Tread wear indicators are built into most tyres to damage road surfaces
indicate when tread depth reaches about 1.5mm. The n) Tyres are not compatible with the rim to which they
depth of the tyre tread above these indicators is not are fitted.
included in the assessment of tread depth around the
circumference of a tyre.
In effect, these requirements allow a tyre to be worn
to less than 1.5mm tread depth on its edges, provided
that at least 75% of the remaining width of the tyre has
a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm around the whole
circumference.
b) The tyres do not match the manufacturer’s tyre placard (if
fitted) or modification approval.
c) A tyre (including sidewalls) has deep cuts,chunking,
bumps, bulges, exposed cords or other signs of carcass
failure
d) A tyre has been re-grooved (except where indicated on
the side wall that the tyres are suitable for re-grooving)
e) When in the straight ahead position, the sidewall of any
tyre projects beyond the extreme width of the mudguards
Note: This excludes elevations due to labelling, decoration
or protective bands.
f) The vehicle has been fitted with a non-OEM front wheel
(i.e. rim and tyre) that has not been approved as a
modification
Note: For further information on modifications refer to
Appendix B – Vehicle Modifications.

2 of 4 5 Wheels, Tyres and Hubs National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Additional Information – Retreaded Tyres
The use of retreaded tyres retreaded must be in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1973 Pneumatic tyres – Passenger car,
light truck, and truck/bus – Retreading and repair processes. The details listed below advise of the requirements listed in
AS 1973 to ensure compliance.

Marking of retreaded tyres Note: After major repairs have been carried out in the
crown area, regrooving may be performed to reinstate
Marking on one side:
tread grooves.
Each retreaded tyre must bear on at least one side wall or
d) For speed limited truck or bus tyres:
shoulder the following marking:
i) The original speed symbol must be removed from
a) The nominal size of the tyre the tyre
b) The word ‘RADIAL’ or ‘R’ in the size designation, for a ii) Each speed limited tyre must bear on both side walls or
radial ply tyre shoulder of the retreaded tyre the following marking,
c) The word ‘TUBELESS’, if applicable ‘max. speed 80km/h’ or ‘speed limited to 80km/h’.

d) The maximum load rating, ply rating, or service description Method and position of marking:
of the tyre. All new marking (except for date code) on a retreaded tyre
Note: In the case of a remould, the service description is must be in letters not less than 4mm high, be permanently
to be clearly identified as the original service description and legibly marked in the shoulder or upper side wall of the
applicable to the tyre when new. tyre, and be durable for the life of the retread. Date coding
must be a digit week/year code. Branding with a hot iron is not
Marking on both sides: permitted on light truck tyres.
Each retreaded tyre must bear on both side walls or shoulders Removal of marking:
the following marking:
The following information must be removed from the tyre
a) The word ‘RETREAD’ or ‘REMOULD’, if applicable during retreading:
Note: The maximum speed rating must be placed adjacent a) The word ‘TUBELESS’ if a tyre originally designated as
to ‘Retread’ or ‘Remould’, as applicable. tubeless has been converted to tube type
b) For light truck tyres, the maximum speed rating, b) The word ‘REGROOVABLE’ if the retread is not designed
expressed as follows: for regrooving
i) For tyres having an original speed category when
c) Any previous retreader’s name or registered trademark
new of ‘L’ (120km/h) or higher, ‘MAX SPEED 120km/h’,
or ‘MAXIMUM SPEED 120km/h’, or ‘SPEED LIMITED d) Any marks of approval.
120km/h’ Removal or mutilation of any original tyre speed category
ii) For tyres having an original speed category when new symbol is not required on light truck tyres.
of less then ‘L’ (120km/h), the original speed category. Any original speed category for truck/bus tyres must not
Note: The maximum speed rating must be placed adjacent be removed.
to ‘Retread’ or ‘Remould’, as applicable. Marking on repaired tyres:
c) For truck/bus tyres: Repaired tyres must be marked as follows:
i) The speed equivalent to the original speed category. a) All major repairs must be marked, in a legible and
Note: Retention of the original speed category on both permanent manner, with the identification of the
side walls is sufficient to satisfy this requirement. repairer and the date on which the repair was
ii) If structural belts have been replaced, the word carried out
‘REBELTED’, and Note: Marking is not required for unreinforced repairs.
iii) The word ‘REGROOVABLE’ if the retread is specifically b) The word ‘TUBELESS’ must be removed if the tyre,
designed for regrooving. Only tyres marked regroovable originally designed as tubeless, has been converted to
are permitted to be regrooved. tube type.
Branding with a hot iron is not permitted on light truck tyres.

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Tyres and Hubs 5 3 of 4
 Definitions
Retreading: is the process of reconditioning a worn tyre by
topcapping, fullcapping, remoulding, or the
application of a pre-cured tread.
Remoulding: is a retreading process in which new rubber is
applied to the casing extending from bead area
to bead area.
Topcapping: is a retreading process in which tread rubber
is applied only to the tread area of the buffed
casing.
Fullcapping: is a retreading process in which new tread rubber is
appliedtotheareaofthecasingnormallyincontact
with the road and extending over the shoulder
area.
Shoulder: is the transitional area of a tyre between the
side wall and the crown.
Precured is the process by which a previously cured
retreading: and patterned tread is cured to the casing.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 5 Wheels, Tyres and Hubs National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 6

Structure and
Body Condition

Objective:
To ensure the vehicle body is free of protrusions, structurally sound and free from any defects or additional fittings that are
likely to increase the risk of bodily injury to any occupant and other road users.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 18 Instrumentation
ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 43 Vehicle configuration and dimensions
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward
ADR 59 Omnibus roll-over strength
ADR 63 Trailers designed for use in road trains
ADR 64 Heavy goods vehicles designed for use in road trains and B-doubles
ADR 84 Front underrun impact protection

6.1 Check exterior body panels and fittings c) Mudguards are not properly fitted to provide protection
over the full width of the wheels and tyres and any
Reasons for rejection
mudguard does not extend inboard over the full width of
a) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel (other the tyre/s (except where part of the body of the vehicle
than tyre pressure monitoring or inflation) which is not acts as a mudguard)
technically essential to the vehicle, protrudes from any
d) The bottom edge of mudguard and/or mudflap at the rear
part of the vehicle so that it is likely to increase the risk of
of any vehicle is higher off the ground than 37% of the
bodily injury to any person
horizontal distance between the centre of the axle and
b) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel which is the mudguard
technically essential to the vehicle, is not designed,
Note: The height of the mudguard and/or mudflap from
constructed and affixed to the vehicle in a way that does
the ground need not be less than 230mm, or for a vehicle
not minimise the risk of bodily injury to any person
to be used off-road 300mm.

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 e) Any motor vehicle which is 2.2 metres or more in width c) Rear marking plates are faded, damaged or incorrectly fitted.
and fitted with a body which is less than 300mm in height Note: For more detailed information on rear marking
at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body plates refer to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 12 (VSB12)
above the ground to the highest point, does not have the National Code of Practice: Rear Marking Plates. A copy
rear face of any rear mudguards silver or white in colour of VSB12 may be obtained from the NHVR website at
Note: Reasons for rejection (e) does not apply when a www.nhvr.gov.au/vehiclestandards
vehicle is correctly fitted with rear marking plates.
6.3 Check cabin and body condition
f) Any vehicle over 12 tonnes GVM manufactured on or
Reasons for rejection
after 1 January 2012 is not fitted with front underrun
protection (FUP). a) Any structural member of a body, cabin or chassis such as a
cross-member, door sill, pillar, seat or seatbelt anchorage,
Note: FUP is not mandatory on heavy vehicles under
roof rail and floor panel is cracked, broken or corroded to
12 tonnes GVM or off-road vehicles.
an extent that weakens the strength of the vehicle or any
A vehicle is considered to be off-road in relation to the safety system, or allows the entry of engine fumes into an
fitment of FUP, either if the wheels are designed to be driven occupant space
simultaneously, including vehicles where the drive to one
b) Any cabin, body, sleeper compartment, load carrying area
axle can be disengaged, or if the following requirements
or compartment is loose on the chassis or has missing
are satisfied:
fasteners
• at least half the wheels are driven
c) Any load carrying area or compartment is damaged,
• there is at least one differential locking mechanism or at
deteriorated, corroded or distorted so that any part of the
least one mechanism having a similar effect
load is not retained
• the vehicle can climb a 25% gradient calculated for a
solo vehicle d) Any door, gate, hatch, bonnet or compartment latch, latch
control, or hinge is damaged, excessively worn, insecure
• at least four of the following six requirements
or inoperative in any latching position
are satisfied:
–– the approach angle must be at least 25° e) Any body repairs on the vehicle have not been carried out
in accordance with recognised industry repair methods
–– the departure angle must be at least 25°
and standards
–– the ramp angle must be at least 25°
f) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel (other
–– the ground clearance under the front axle must than tyre pressure monitoring or inflation) which is not
be at least 250mm technically essential to the vehicle, protrudes from any
–– the ground clearance between the axles must part of the vehicle so that it is likely to increase the risk of
be at least 300mm bodily injury to any person
–– the ground clearance under the rear axle must be g) Any component that adversely affects the safety of the
at least 250mm. vehicle, and, in particular, obscures the drivers view.
For further information on mudguard requirements, Note: For further information on rust and body condition,
refer to Additional Information – Mudguard and Mudflap refer to Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion.
Requirements.
6.4 Check number plates
6.2 Check rear marking plates
Reasons for rejection
Reasons for rejection a) Any number plate is obscured, for example, by a towing
a) any vehicle with a GVM over 12 tonnes not fitted with attachment, goose neck or tow ball
retroreflective rear marking plates, except: b) Any number plate cover is tinted, reflective,rounded or
• a bus fitted with hand grips or similar equipment for bubble-like
standing passengers to hold
c) Any number plate is not issued or approved by the state
• a vehicle fitted with conspicuity markings or territory road transport authority, is damaged or faded
b) Rear marking plates are not fitted in locations specified to the extent that the registration number is not legible
by VSB12 from a distance of 20 metres

2 of 6 6 Structure and Body Condition National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

d) The number plates are not substantially parallel to the • sagging
vehicles axles • loose, broken, or
e) Any number plate is fitted to a hinged plate that enables • affected by extensive or advanced rust.
the plate to hinge whilst the vehicle is in motion
Note: Refer to Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion
f) Any number plate is mounted more than 1300mm from for a detailed explanation of checking for rust.
the ground
b) Any fastenings between frame members, including welds,
Note: State or territory road transport authorities may are missing, loose, distorted or cracked
allow a number plate to be attached more than 1300mm
c) Any chassis or sub-frame repairs on the vehicle have not
from the ground if the design of the vehicle does not
been carried out in accordance with recognised industry
allow it to be installed at the required height. For more
repair methods and standard
information about this requirement, contact the state or
territory road transport authority. d) Frame members in load areas are missing or damaged to
an extent that the load area is not properly supported or
g) Characters on any number plate are not clearly visible
the members are likely to fall out or contact moving parts
from a distance of 20 metres at any point within an arc of
45 degrees from the surface of the number plate above or e) Any vehicle wheelbase that has been lengthened or
to either side of the vehicle shortened without certification to Section C and H of VSB6
h) A rear number plate is positioned so that it is not f) Body mounting is not done to manufacturers’
illuminated by at least one number plate light. recommendations, VSB6 or:
• Body mounting brackets bolted to the flange of the
6.5 Check electrical equipment chassis rail
Reasons for rejection • U-bolts used, and vehicle does not have a box type
a) A warning device (horn) that is capable of providing frame, or metal spacers are not inserted between the
sufficient audible warning to other road users is not top and bottom flanges of the chassis rail to prevent
fitted or is not operational or the tone is not of a constant distortion of the flanges below the U-bolts
amplitude or frequency • Wooden runners are used, and they are not protected
b) A warning device (horn) is not clearly audible and the from damage by the U-bolts by steel capping or shaped
actuating mechanism is not located within the reach of spacers under the bolts
the driver in the normal seated position • U-bolts are used, and less than four outrigger brackets
or fishplates used, with one on each side of the vehicle
c) Electrical wiring or connectors are corroded, damaged,
at the front and rear.
not insulated or are not securely fastened at least every
600mm or are located in such a way that would cause Note: For further information on modifications, refer to
danger to the operation of the vehicle Appendix B – Vehicle Modifications.
d) Electrical wiring is located where it can: Figure 6.1 Example of critical structural components
• become exposed to excessive heat
• hinders driver or passenger movement
This area to be free
• come into contact with moving parts of cracks or damage
• cause a fire hazard.
e) Batteries are not securely mounted, leak or are situated
in an occupant space without adequate protection from
spillage and fumes.

6.6 Check chassis

Reasons for rejection
a) Any part of the chassis or sub-frame is:
• cracked
• distorted

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Structure and Body Condition 6 3 of 6

 Additional Information – Mudguard Additional Information – Rust and
and Mudflap Requirements Corrosion
Effective mudguards must be fitted for all wheels on all Classification of rust
vehicles. However, this does not apply to a vehicle if the
construction or use of the vehicle makes the fitting of The extent of corrosion in a vehicle can range from light
mudguards unnecessary or impractical. Examples are: surface rust to the total breakdown of parent metal.
• pole type trailers used to carry timber Depending on the individual vehicle’s design, there are many
• most road making plant different ways in which corrosion can begin and the degree
to which a material or structure is attacked can vary widely.
• some agricultural equipment.
In general, though, the formation of rust and resultant loss
Mudguards and mudflaps must be capable of deflecting of metal occurs in areas which retain moisture because of a
downwards any mud, water, stones or any other substance build-up of road dirt and mud, for example.
thrown upward by the rotation of the wheels. As outlined in
In order to simplify identification and classification when
Figure 6.2, mudguards must be fitted to the vehicle in such a
carrying out a vehicle inspection, this publication classifies
manner that provides continuous protection between a point
the extent of corrosion in three different stages.
in area A and a point in area B and must be provided for the
overall tyre width of all tyres. Stage 1 - Surface rust
Notwithstanding the requirements specified above, the Light, powdery corrosion on the surface of a section of metal
mudguard, including a mudflap (if fitted), does not need to is termed surface rust and is sometimes the first indication
come any lower than 230mm from the ground, or for an off- of corrosion that can be observed; it should warn the owner
road vehicle, 300mm. of the vehicle to take steps for preventing the rust from
spreading. Surface rust can occur on or behind any body
Figure 6.2 Mudguard and mudflap protection area panel of a vehicle particularly if the protective coating is
scratched or damaged.

30O Stage 2 - Advanced rust

Surface rust, if left unattended, will develop into an advanced
form of corrosion which can usually be seen as an eruption
of oxidised metal, either on bare metal or under paint.
This eruption occurs because the rust reaction involves an
increase in volume so that pitting or bubbling of paint is the
usual indication of penetration.
A
20O Stage 3 - Extensive rust
The final stage of the corrosion process is the formation
B
of heavy encrustation of oxidised metal which completely
replaces the parent metal. This results in a hole or series of
holes in the body panel or structural member of the vehicle
230mm when the rust is removed. This category of rust can usually
only be rectified by replacement of the affected body panels
and parts.

Classification of vehicle structures

Vehicle structural components can be categorised according
to their importance to safety. For instance, sub-frames and
other basic structural sections have to be absolutely free of
rust because their failure could make a vehicle difficult to
control and might cause it to crash. As already mentioned,
such failures will also probably reduce the chances of survival
in a crash.

4 of 6 6 Structure and Body Condition National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Primary structure Typical secondary structure components
This category includes any structure or component which, if 1. Mudguards or fenders
it collapsed, would make the vehicle uncontrollable or would 2. Roof
considerably reduce occupant safety in a crash. Examples of
3. Bonnet and doors (areas within 100mm of mounting and
components in this category are illustrated below.
locking points are primary structures and must be free of
Typical primary structure components advanced or extensive rust)
1. Main structural members such as sub-frames and 4. Exhaust system.
chassis rails
Figure 6.4 Secondary structure components
2. Suspension mountings and parts
3. Steering component mounting points
4 2
4. Door sills and pillars
5. Door hinges and latch mounting points
6. Seat anchorage points
7. Seatbelt anchorage points
8. All floor panels
9. Bulkheads.

Figure 6.3 Primary structure components

8 7 3
6 1

Reasons for rejection

The following table summarises the acceptability of rusted
components in terms of the categories of rust and structures
described so far. Remember that it is a general guide only and
that in some cases it might be necessary to depart from the
2 table.
1 9 5 Table 6.1 Acceptability of rusted components
4 1, 3
Type of Category of structure
Secondary structure corrosion
The second category includes any structure or component Measure Primary Secondary
which, if it collapsed, would not immediately affect a vehicle’s Surface rust Acceptable Acceptable
controllability or the protection provided by its built-in safety Advanced rust Not acceptable Acceptable
systems. Normally, surface rust or advanced rust would not (See Note A)
be a cause for rejection in these components but extensive
Extensive rust Not acceptable Not acceptable
rust is usually either hazardous to persons in or near the
(See Note B)
vehicle because of its sharp edges or because exhaust fumes
can get into the vehicle. In such cases, extensive rust must Note A: Areas within 100mm of hinges and locks (e.g. bonnet
therefore be rejected. The illustration below shows examples and doors), are considered primary structures and must be
covered by this category. free of advanced and extensive rust.
Note B: Extensive rust is not acceptable in secondary
components if it has resulted in hazardous conditions to
persons in or near the vehicle e.g. sharp edges, loose panels
or, in the case of exhaust system, gas leaks.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Structure and Body Condition 6 5 of 6

 Inspection method Repairs
Visual inspection is usually adequate since advanced corrosion is Surface rust on a component or structure is not immediately
almost always associated with an eruption of oxidised metal and dangerous and is not a reason for rejection. However, if it is
pitting or bubbling of paint. observed, the owner should be advised to have it rectified
before it becomes serious. Rectification is simply a matter
However, this method may not be adequate in all cases. In under
of completely removing the deposit and applying a rust-
body areas prone to rusts, such as steering and suspension
proofing coating or oil as is appropriate (body panels should
mounting points and major structural components which
be repainted using a good quality re-finishing system).
include chassis, floor, structural sills and sub-frames, presence
of rust should be checked by probing with a rod. This method It should be noted that repairs made to primary structure
should also be used to check for presence of rust in other areas components solely by using body filling compounds are not
where cosmetic damage is not a problem, such as inside wheel acceptable. However, plastic filler or fibreglass can be used
arches. to smooth a non-structural component. A vehicle must not
pass an inspection if it is found that a repair to a primary
In using this technique, great care must be taken to ensure that
component is carried out by methods which do not restore
sound panels or paint work are not scratched or damaged in any
the original strength of the component or part. A good way
way. It should be remembered that the purpose of such checks
to check for continuity of structure if a fibreglass repair is
is to find out whether rust is present, not to determine its extent.
suspected, is to run a magnet over the surface.
When checking for advanced rust, you should pay particular
Extensive rust in structural members can only be repaired by
attention to seam welds and spot weld. These frequently
replacing the affected member or by completely removing all
corrode through from the interior and can result in the eventual
rusted material and reinforcing it so that the original strength
detachment of panels. Any panel which is made insecure by such
of the affected structural member is re-established.
corrosion must be repaired even if it is an area of the component
where rust holes are not an immediate danger. Where a primary structure is found to be in need of repair
and the repaired component would normally be coated with a
bituminous coating or covered by another vehicle component
such as a seat or a floor mat, it is quite in order to ask the
owner to resubmit the repaired vehicle before the repairs are
obscured so that the adequacy of the repairs can be assessed.
A note to this effect should be made on the inspection report
if this is required.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
6 of 6 6 Structure and Body Condition National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 7

Seats and
Seatbelts

Objective:
To ensure that all seating and restraints fitted to the vehicle provide a safe and secure position for passengers to travel in the
vehicle and the driver to control the vehicle.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 3 Seat and seat anchorages
ADR 4 Seatbelts
ADR 5 Anchorages for seatbelts
ADR 34 Child restraint anchorages and child restraint anchor fittings
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward
ADR 66 Seat strength, seat anchorage strength and padding in omnibuses
ADR 68 Occupant protection in buses

7.1 Check seats d) Any seat has an exposed sharp edge or other parts that
protrude due to damage
Reasons for rejection
e) Any reduction or increase in seating capacity is not
a) Seat frames or attaching points are loose, cracked, broken
approved
or have fasteners missing
b) Seat cushions and backrests are not fitted
c) A seat slide or other seat control used for adjustment of a
seating position is not operational and does not hold any
selected position allowed for in the mechanism’s design

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 7.2 Check seatbelts Table 7.1 Seatbelt requirements
Reasons for rejection Minimum seatbelt requirements for goods vehicles
a) Seatbelt assemblies are not securely attached to the Medium goods vehicles with a GVM exceeding 4.5 tonnes and
respective anchorage point or show signs of distortion, up to 12 tonnes GVM (ADR Category NB2)
cracks, fractures, or other damage likely to cause failure
1 July 1977 à Lap belts in front outboard seating
b) Any retractor, locking mechanism, buckle, tongue or 30 June 1992 positions
adjustment device is inoperative 1 July 1992 à Lap/sash belts with safety locking retractors
c) Seatbelt webbing that is: in all front outboard seating positions and
• damaged lap belts in all other positions.
Heavy goods vehicles with a GVM exceeding 12 tonnes (ADR
• frayed
Category NC)
• stretched
1 July 1977 à Lap belts in front outboard seating
• tied in a knot 30 June 1992 positions
• twisted
1 July 1992 à Lap belts with safety locking retractors in
• split 30 June 2008 front outboard seating positions and lap
• torn belts in all other positions
• altered or modified 1 July 2008 à Lap/sash belts with safety locking retractors
• severely deteriorated in all front outboard seating positions and
lap belts in all other positions.
• burnt
• not correctly and firmly secured to each end fitting Note: For further information on seatbelts, refer to Additional
• not the appropriate seatbelt for the type of seat Information – ADR Occupant Restraint Requirements.
mechanism fitted. 7.3 Child restraint anchorages
d) Seatbelts are not fitted in accordance with Table 7.1. Reasons for rejection
Note: Discolouration alone is not reason for rejection, a) The vehicle structure within 100mm of a child restraint
however if there is a texture change as well it should anchorage (CRA) point is cracked or has advanced rust
be rejected.
b) A 5/16”- 18 TPI UNC bolt and suitable spacer installed is not
fitted to each CRA point
c) A CRA fitting is not readily accessible or cannot be attached
or unclipped by hand
d) A CRA fitting is missing, loose or damaged
e) For an MD4 category vehicle built from 1 July 1995 or ME
category vehicle built from 1 July 1994, at least six rear
seating positions are not equipped with a CRA point.
Note: For further information about ADR vehicle categories,
refer to Additional Information – ADR Occupant Restraint
Requirements.

2 of 4 7 Seats and Seatbelts National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Additional Information – ADR Occupant Restraint Requirements
This additional information provides a guide to the minimum Vehicles within each category, manufactured on or after the
requirements for seatbelts and their anchorages. date shown must be fitted with the correct type of seatbelt.
The precise requirements are made under the applicable Application tables
Australian Design Rules (ADRs).
Each vehicle category manufactured on or after the date
The requirements are determined by the vehicle type and shown in the following tables must be fitted with seatbelts
its date of manufacture and outlined in the following tables. as indicated.

Table 7.2 MD4 – Omnibus (GVM exceeding 4.5 tonnes but not 5 tonnes)

ADR 32A ADR 5/00 ADR 5/01 ADR 5/02 ADR 5/03 ADR 5/04(5) ADR 5/05(5)
Vehicle built between 1 July 1987 1 July 1988 1 July 1990 1 July 1992 1 July 1 January 1 July 2008
à 30 June à 30 June à 30 June à 30 June 1996 à 31 2000 à 30 à
1988 1990 1992 1996 December June 2008
1999

Driver L L L R R R R

Front row Outboard

L - - R(2) R(2) R(2) R
passenger
Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Second Outboard - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

row Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Outboard - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Other rows
Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Table 7.3 ME – Heavy Omnibus (GVM exceeds 5 tonnes)

ADR 32A ADR 5/00 ADR 5/01 ADR 5/02 ADR 5/03 ADR 5/04(5) ADR 5/05(5)
Vehicle built between 1 July 1987 1 July 1988 1 July 1990 1 July 1992 1 July 1 January 1 July 2008
à 30 June à 30 June à 30 June à 30 June 1996 à 31 2000 à 30 à
1988 1990 1992 1996 December June 2008
1999

Driver L L L L-R L-R L-R R

Front row Outboard

L - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R
passenger
Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Second Outboard - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

row Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Outboard - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

Other rows
Centre - - - L(1) L(1) L(1) R(3)

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Seats and Seatbelts 7 3 of 4

 Table 7.4 NB2 – Medium Goods Vehicle (GVM exceeding 4.5 tonnes but not 12 tonnes)

ADR 32 ADR 32A ADR 5/00 ADR 5/01 ADR 5/02 ADR 5/03 ADR 5/04 ADR 5/05
Vehicle built between 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 January 1 July
1977 à 1987 à 1988 à 1990 à 1992 à 1996 2000 à 2008 à
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June à 31 30 June
1987 1988 1990 1992 1996 December 2008
1999
Driver L L L L R R R R

Front row Outboard

L L L L R R R R
passenger
Centre - - - - L L L R(4)

Second Outboard - - - - L L L L
row Centre - - - - L L L L

Other Outboard - - - - L L L L
rows Centre - - - - L L L L

Table 7.5 NC – Heavy Goods Vehicle (GVM exceeds 12 tonnes)

ADR 32 ADR 32A ADR 5/00 ADR 5/01 ADR 5/02 ADR 5/03 ADR 5/04 ADR 5/05
Vehicle built between 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 July 1 January 1 July
1977 à 1987 à 1988 à 1990 à 1992 à 1996 2000 à 2008 à
30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June 30 June à 31 30 June
1987 1988 1990 1992 1996 December 2008
1999
Driver L L L L L-R L-R L-R R

Front row Outboard

L L L L L-R L-R L-R R
passenger
Centre - - - - L L L R(4)

Second Outboard - - - - L L L L
row Centre - - - - L L L L

Other Outboard - - - - L L L L
rows Centre - - - - L L L L

Key: General Notes:

L Lap type seatbelt (i) See ADRs 4/-- and 5/-- for seatbelt and seatbelt anchorage requirements
L-R Lap type seatbelt with a retractor (ii) See ADR 68/-- for child restraint and child restraint anchorage (CRA)
R Lap-sash type seatbelt with a retractor requirements
(1) Other than route service omnibus, anchorages required for non- (iii) Lap seatbelts are acceptable if there is no suitable permanent structure
protected above and to the rear of the seating positions of some vehicles
(2) If a protected seat, lap anchorages are acceptable (iv) Lap seatbelts are acceptable for the third and further rows of seats of
(3) A lap type seatbelt may be acceptable if the vehicle is configured and some vehicles if the seat is adjustable for conversion to luggage or goods
certified to comply with UNECE Regulation 80 space. See ADRs 4/-- and 5/-- for more information
(4) A lap type seatbelt may be acceptable if the vehicle’s windscreen is in (v) Side facing seats may only be fitted with a lap seatbelt.
the seating reference zone as per UNECE Regulation R16/06 called up
under ADR 4/05
(5) If the vehicle complies to ADR 68/00, requirements only apply to the
driver’s seat.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 7 Seats and Seatbelts National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 8

Lights and
Reflectors

Objective:
To ensure that all compulsory lights, reflectors and other electrical lighting components as required by prescribed
standards are operational.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 1 Reversing lamps
ADR 6 Direction indicators
ADR 13 Installation of lighting and light-signalling devices on other than L-group vehicles
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements
ADR 45 Lighting and light-signalling devices not covered by ECE regulations
ADR 46 Headlamps
ADR 47 Retroreflectors
ADR 48 Devices for illumination of rear registration plates
Note: In this section the description
ADR 49 Front and rear position (side) lamps, stop lamps and end-outline ‘yellow’ is used as a more modern
marker lamps term instead of the description
ADR 51 Filament lamps ‘amber’ which is used in earlier
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward legislation and some ADRs.
ADR 74 Side marker lamps In this section the description ‘parking
ADR 75 Headlamp cleaners lights’ is used as a more modern
term instead of the description ‘front
ADR 76 Daytime running lamps
position lamps’ which is used in
ADR 77 Gas discharge headlamps earlier legislation and some ADRs.
ADR 78 Gas discharge light sources

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 8.1 Check lights and reflectors f) Daytime running lights fitted to a vehicle built from
1 October 1991:
Reasons for rejection
• are not white
a) Compulsory reflectors are damaged, obscured, • are less than 250mm or more than 1500mm from the
deteriorated, not installed in the correct location or are ground, or
not fitted
• on a vehicle that is at least 1300mm wide, the distance
b) Any of the following lights are inoperative, obscured, between the inner edge of the lights is not at least
deteriorated, insecure or not fitted where required, or are 600mm, or
an incorrect colour: • on a vehicle that is less than 1300mm wide, the
• headlight (high/low beam) (white) distance between the inner edge of the lights is not at
• daytime running lights (white) least 400mm
• front fog lights (white or yellow) g) Daytime running lights fitted to a vehicle built prior to
• front park lights (white) 1 October 1991:
Note: A front park light may be yellow if the light • Are not white or yellow
functions as a front park light and side marker light. • are installed so the centre of light is more than 510mm
• tail lights (red) from the nearer side of the vehicle
• brake lights (red) • on a vehicle that is at least 1300mm wide, the distance
• reversing lights (where fitted, mandatory on motor between the inner edge of the lights is not at least 600mm
vehicles after 30/06/1975) (white) • on a vehicle that is less than 1300mm wide, the distance
• direction indicator lights (yellow) between the inner edge of the lights is not at least 400mm
• clearance/end-outline marker lights (white/yellow to h) Any rear light other than a reversing light is installed or
front, red to rear) damaged to the extent that white light shows
• number plate light (white) i) Any yellow clearance light or front turn signal is damaged
• side marker lights (yellow or yellow to front, red to rear) so that it shows white light (except vehicles prior 7/73)
• compulsory tell-tale lights j) The number plate light is not directing light onto the
• step lights (for buses), except in the case of an external surface of the rear number plate
access step to a single row of seats for a small bus k) Any optional light or reflector interferes with the effective
having a seating capacity of not more than 15 adults, operation of any compulsory light or reflector
including the driver
l) Any light has a tinted cover over it that affects its intended
• interior bus lights.
operation
c) Any reflector on the vehicle, other than conspicuity
m) Any light that is not clearly visible under all normal
markings:
conditions and of a consistent intensity, and are affected
• show white to the side or rear by dirty or damaged lenses or poor electrical contact
• show red to the side or front n) Lenses and light reflectors are not securely mounted, are
Note: The rearmost side reflector can be red if it is faded or discoloured and are not free from cracks, holes,
grouped with the rear position lamp, the rear end-outline or other damage which would allow the entry of moisture
marker light, the rear fog light, the stop light, the red or dirt to impair the efficiency of the light or reflector
rearmost side-marker light or the rear retro-reflector.
o) There is any other type of opaque cover over a headlight
• show yellow to the front or rear which cannot be readily removed
• show a colour other than red, yellow or white.
p) A bus that is not a school bus is fitted with either the lights
d) Daytime running lights are not wired so: and/or signs required by the school bus warning system
• they are off when a headlight, other than a headlight Note: Refer to Section 13 Buses, for further information on
being used as a flashing signal, is on, or school bus warning systems.
• if included as part of a combination light, they dim q) Lighting does not comply with the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle
when a headlight other than a headlight being used as Standards) National Regulation
a flashing signal, is on.
r) All low beam headlights with a luminosity of more than
e) More than two daytime running lights are fitted 2000 lumens are not self-levelling and self-cleaning

2 of 4 8 Lights and Reflectors National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

s) More than four driving lights are fitted The centreline of the headlight passes through the centre
of the globe filament, or equivalent.
t) Driving lights or additional headlights are not installed
symmetrically about the centre of the vehicle For information regarding headlight testing screens, refer to
Additional Information – Headlight Testing Screens.
u) For an LED type light more than 30% of the individual
LEDs do not function. 8.4 Backlit badges
Note: For example, if an LED light bar is made up of 10 Reasons for rejection
LEDs, at least seven of the LEDs must be working. If only
a) The light source is not integrated within, and contained
six LEDs work, this is a reason for rejection.
totally within, the badge/logo
8.2 Check headlights b) The badge/logo shows:
Reasons for rejection • white to the rear of the vehicle
a) Headlight reflector is tarnished or peeling to the extent • red to the front of the vehicle
that headlight performance is impaired • a colour other than red, white or yellow
b) Headlight lens is cracked or broken c) The luminous intensity is more than 60 candela
c) Headlight assembly is not secured or is out of position d) The light flashes
d) Headlight does not project white light e) The badge/logo and light source is within 200mm of
e) Headlight lens or reflector is internally contaminated by another lamp
dirt or moisture f) The light can be seen, either directly or by reflection, by
f) A device to indicate to the driver that the headlights are in the driver when in the normal seated driving position
the high beam position is not fitted and operational g) The light source is not connected so that it only operates
g) A dipping device to change the headlights from the high with the front lighting system
beam position to the low beam position and operated from h) The light is overly large so as to affect the prominence
the normal driving position is not fitted and operational of other mandatory lamps.
h) Headlights do not comply with the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle 8.5 Check conspicuity markings
Standards) National Regulation.
Conspicuity markings are optional reflective markings that
8.3 Check headlight aim (includes driving lights and can be fitted to a heavy vehicle intended to improve visibility
alternative headlights) of the vehicle.
This section should be read in conjunction with the equipment Reasons for rejection
manufacturer’s instructions. a) Reflective material used for conspicuity markings:
Reasons for rejection • shows white to the rear
a) The aim of the headlight is adjusted such that, when on • shows red to the side or front
high beam and measured at an effective distance of 8 • shows yellow to the front
metres, the projected centre of the beam is to the right of • shows a colour other than red, yellow or white.
the headlight centre and/or is above the headlight centre
b) Markings do not continue for at least 80% of the length or
b) When measured at an effective distance of 8 metres, width of the vehicle
any part of the top edge of the high intensity portion of
the low beam pattern is above, and to the right of the c) Markings on the side of the vehicle do not come within at
centreline of the headlight. least 600mm of the front or rear of the vehicle
Note: The markings do not need to continue in the gap
Note: In the region above and to the right of the centreline
between the cabin and the body
of the headlight the luminous intensity must not exceed
437 candela. d) The lowest part of the markings is less than 250mm or
The portion of the beam to the left of the centreline of the more than 1500mm from the ground
light may extend above the height of the centreline of the Note: Where the design of a vehicles does not allow for
headlight. fitting within 1500mm, the marking may be fitted up to
2100mm from the ground

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Lights and Reflectors 8 3 of 4

 e) For full or partial contour markings that are fitted to the Note: All lines to be black except centre vertical which is to be
side of the vehicle, markings at the top are more than red. The thickness of all lines is to be as small as possible and
400mm from the upper extremity of vehicle consistent with good visibility for an observer at a distance
of 8 metres from the screen during test of headlights. The
f) For full or partial contour markings that are fitted to the
heights of the horizontal lines above the level of surface upon
rear of the vehicle, markings:
which vehicle is standing during test are to be clearly marked
• on the sides of the vehicle are more than 400mm from with black figures, as shown, of a size to ensure good visibility
the outer edge of the vehicle for an observer at a distance of 8 metres from the screen
• at the top of the vehicle are more than 400mm from the during test of headlights.
upper extremity of vehicle
g) Markings do not comply with Australian Design Rule 13/.. 3 Layout of the testing space

For additional information regarding conspicuity markings, 3.1 The ground on which the vehicle stands shall be marked
refer to the Australian Trucking Association’s Technical with a centreline which passes through the centreline
Advisory Procedure on Heavy Vehicle Visibility. of the screen and a transverse line which intersects
the centreline and is 8000mm from the screen (the
headlights of the tested vehicle are positioned directly
Additional Information – Headlight over this line). Additional longitudinal lines in the region
Testing Screens where the vehicle standing would assist alignment and
their use is recommended.
1 Scope 3.2 The bottom of the screen is at the same level as the
1.1 This specification describes requirements for the surface on which the vehicle stands.
headlight testing screen and the layout of the headlight
3.3 The screen and testing space must be adequately
testing space.
shielded from extraneous light.
2 Headlight testing screen 3.4 The testing space must be clear of obstruction.
2.1 The surface of the screen should be ‘flat’ white (gloss Figure 8.2 General arrangement of the headlight testing
finish should be avoided). The screen shall be at least space
1300mm in height and 2400mm in width and shall be
marked with horizontal and vertical lines. Horizontal lines
shall be spaced 75mm apart and vertical lines shall be Screen
spaced 300mm apart. Horizontal lines shall be labelled
with their height starting from the bottom of the screen. Centreline
clearly marked
Headlights vertically above
Figure 8.1 Headlight testing screen transverse line during test
8000
1275 25

1200 Vehicle wheel 75

position lines 150
1125
1050
4600
975
1600
900
825
750 Note: All dimensions in the diagram are in millimetres.
675
525
450
375
300
225
150
75
Level of surface upon
FRONT ELEVATION OF SCREEN which the vehicle is
standing during test. V2.3 July 2018
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 8 Lights and Reflectors National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 9

Mirrors

Objective:
To ensure that the mirrors and associated components are in such a condition that the driver has a clear field of vision at all
times under the normal range of climatic conditions.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 14 Rear vision mirrors
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward

9.1 Check mirrors g) Folding mirrors protrude more than:

Reasons for rejection • 230mm beyond the overall width of the vehicle when
not folded
a) Any reflective surface of a compulsory rear view mirror:
• 150mm beyond the overall width of the vehicle when
• has a missing section folded
• is cracked Note: Convex mirrors that meet the vision requirements of
• is deteriorated, blemished or tarnished reducing the UNECE Regulation 46 are acceptable.
the view to the rear of the vehicle
UNECE R46 allows external rear vision mirrors to exceed
• is obscured. 230mm, however no more than necessary to achieve the
b) Side mirrors do not have a surface of at least 150cm2 (e.g. field of view as shown in Figure 9.1.
10cm by 15cm)
Figure 9.1 Mirror field of vision requirements
c) Mirrors are not securely mounted or missing
30m
d) Mirrors are not fitted to both sides of the motor vehicle
4m
e) Any compulsory mirror does not provide a clear view of Ground level 5m
1m
the road to the rear of the vehicle
f) Non-folding mirrors protrude more than 150mm beyond
1m
the overall width of the vehicle Ground level 5m
Driver’s eye points

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 V2.3 July 2018
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
2 of 2 9 Mirrors National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 10

Windscreens
and Windows

Objective:
To ensure that the windscreen, windows and associated components are in such a condition that the driver has a clear field
of vision at all times under the normal range of climatic conditions.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 8 Safety glazing material
ADR 15 Demisting of windscreen
ADR 16 Windscreen wipers and washers
ADR 42 General safety requirements

10.1 Check windscreen and windows Note: Grooves in windscreens that are designed specifically
to clean the wiper blades are not regarded as damage unless
Reasons for rejection
they affect the driver’s view. Approved grooving is usually
a) The wiped area of the windscreen in front of and on the identified by the installer.
same side of the vehicle as the driver, (shown in Figure
The fitment of windscreen stone shields is permitted provided
10.1 as area A), has:
the driver’s view of the road to the front and side of the vehicle
• damage (such as scoring, sandblasting or severe is not reduced.
discolouration) that interferes with the driver’s view
For further information on windscreens, refer to Additional
• any bulls-eye or star fracture that exceeds 16mm in Information – Replacing or Repairing Windscreens.
diameter, or either of the following:
–– hairline crack exceeding 30mm long
–– a crack from the edge of the windscreen exceeding
75mm long.

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 Figure 10.1 Driver’s field of vision j) If a bus does not have ventilation additional to that
provided by its windows
k) Ladder racks, external roll bars and cages, or similar
accessories:
A
Area A
• have uprights with a diameter of more than 50mm, or
Top of • are positioned in a way that can reflect the vehicle’s
steering
wheel
Top of seat
lights into the drivers eyes and they do not have a matt,
non-reflective black finish.
10.2 Test the light transmittance level of the
Figure 10.2 Cracks in field of vision windscreen, side and rear windows
This section should be read in conjunction with the light
Centreline A hairline crack up to 30mm long
meter manufacturers’ instructions.
The light meter may have up to a 5% measuring inaccuracy.
A crack from edge up to A vehicle may be accepted if the readings are up to 5% lower
75mm long
than the minimum light transmittance.
In this section, the term tinting refers to both a film applied
to glazing to reduce the luminous transmittance and ‘tinted
A bullseye crack up to 16mm diameter
glass’ where the glazing is manufactured with tinting material
b) Any cracks in a laminated windscreen penetrate more between the layers of glass.
than one layer of glass or are more than 150mm long Reasons for rejection
c) Any glazing used in any motor vehicle is not safety glass a) Any windscreen glazing has any coating which reduces
and where ADR 8 applies, the glass does not display an its light transmittance
identification mark or symbol
Note: Coating that reduces light transmittance may be
d) Glazing is loose in its frame or cracked to the extent that fitted to either the area above the highest point of the
sharp edges are exposed windscreen that is swept by a windscreen wiper or the
e) Glazing, other than the windscreen, that is necessary for upper 10% of the windscreen, whichever is greater.
the driver to see the road is discoloured, obscured, badly b) The visible light transmittance of any glazing (including
scratched, sandblasted or fractured to the extent that it any applied film) is less than that detailed in Table 10.1
interferes with the driver’s view
c) Tint films are not free of bubbles, scratches or other
f) Items that obscure the driver’s view are placed in area A defects that significantly affect the driver’s vision
shown in Figure 10.1 or the corresponding area on the
d) Tint films have a reflectance in excess of 10% (e.g. mirror
other side of the windscreen with the exception of a
tints)
driver’s aid
e) Not fitted with exterior rear view mirrors on both sides of
Note: A driver’s aid is a visual display unit that assists
the vehicle.
the driver of the vehicle. Driver’s aids include dispatch
systems, navigational equipment (e.g. GPS), rear view
screens, ticket-issuing machines and vehicle-monitoring
devices.
g) At least half the number of windows must be capable of
being opened or the vehicle must be provided with an
alternative method of ventilation
h) Windscreens are removed and not replaced
i) For a bus that is not adequately ventilated by means of a
fan forced ‘jet air’ or fan forced air-conditioning system,
moveable windows are not fitted with a suitable device
for opening and closing

2 of 4 10 Windscreens and Windows National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Table 10.1 Light transmittance requirements Additional Information – Replacing
Glazing Minimum light Vehicles NOT TO or Repairing Windscreens
transmittance BE REJECTED until
meter readings Introduction
are LESS than
Windscreen damage or defects may impair a driver’s forward
Windscreen 70% 65% vision, create a potential safety hazard and affect road safety.
All other windows However, windscreens will be subject to some damage
70% 65%
(no tinting) such as sandblasting, cracks, and stone chips during normal
All other windows operation, therefore some deterioration from new condition
level with or forward is allowable.
35% 30%
of the drivers seated A windscreen should be clean and free of damage that might
position (with tinting) impair the driver’s view to the front of the vehicle.
All other windows
0% 0% Is a damaged windscreen safe?
(with tinting)
When a damaged windscreen is examined the following
Figure 10.3 Window tinting requirements factors should be considered:
• the location of the damage
Trucks Buses - 10 or more seang posions
• the size of the damage
• effect on the mechanical strength of the windscreen.
To determine if a windscreen should be replaced or repaired,
the area of windscreen swept by the wipers may have
Windscreen
• No film at all allowed on the lower part of the windscreen bullseyes and star fractures up to 16mm in diameter and
• Minimum 70% VLT cracks up to 150mm long which do not penetrate more than
• Tinted or opaque band allowed at the top of the windscreen. It is not to one layer of the glass in a laminated windscreen, provided
extend below the poron swept by the wipers or 10% of the depth
of the windscreen they do not interfere with the driver’s vision.
Windows In addition, the ‘primary vision area’ (the area of the
• Minimum 35% VLT
windscreen which is swept by the windscreen wipers) must
• Must be no more than 10% reflecve
• Film must not be damaged, bubbled or discoloured
not be cracked, scored, chipped, sandblasted or otherwise
damaged to the extent that it impairs the driver’s vision or
Windows rearward of driver damages the wiper blades.
• No minimum VLT specified for rear windows
• Must be no more than 10% reflecve It is recommended that all defects be repaired as soon
as possible.
10.3 Check windscreen wipers, demisters and washers
Figure 10.4 Cracks in field of vision
Reasons for rejection
a) The windscreen wipers are not operational at all speeds A hairline crack up to 30mm long
Centreline
and do not return to their normal parked position
b) Wiper blade rubbers are cracked, hardened, frayed,
A crack from edge up to
curled, torn or missing 75mm long

c) Windscreen washers are inoperative or incorrectly aimed

(where applicable)
A bullseye crack up to 16mm diameter
d) Windscreen demister is inoperative or does not blow air
onto the windscreen (where applicable)
e) The windscreen washer and wipers are not able to be Repairing windscreen damage
operated from a normal driving position. Repairing a damaged windscreen, if undertaken correctly, is
an acceptable means of reinstating a windscreen to a safe
condition.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Windscreens and Windows 10 3 of 4

 Repaired windscreens must comply with the following Windscreens fitted (either new or as a replacement) to motor
requirements: vehicles manufactured on or after 1 July 1971, are required
• when inspected from the inside of the vehicle, the repair by law to be made from glass which has a light transmittance
should not exhibit any significant optical defects which of no less 75%. Aftermarket tint film may be applied to the
would distort or distract the vision of the driver and should upper portion of the windscreen. The tinting must not extend
restore clarity to the damaged area. (Acceptable limits of lower than a horizontal line contacting the uppermost point
repairs are outlined in Note 1) of the arcs swept by the vehicle manufacturer’s original wiper
blades. The tinting may be of any shade but must not have a
• any repair to the windscreen should not reduce the
reflectance of more than 10%.
effectiveness of the windscreen wipers
• windscreen repair material must be used in accordance Types of windscreens available
with the manufacturer’s instructions.
AUSTR
TO A
If a repair has been unsuccessful or is unlikely to be effective, D

LI
E
FACTUR

AN
the vehicle owner is responsible for replacing the windscreen

STANDA
in order to meet the necessary safety requirements.

U
AN

R
M D

Note: In a repaired windscreen, a faint outline of the repair, or 2080

in some cases, a slight dull spot may be visible where the repair AS 2080 Lic 000

has been performed. A repaired crack may also be detectable Standards Australia

by a fine hairline surface mark. These are acceptable and

should not cause a vehicle to fail an inspection provided the There are two types of replacement windscreens available for
damaged windscreen has been repaired to a standard which motor vehicles, laminated or tempered.
complies with the requirements outlined in this document. Laminated glass windscreens are manufactured like a
To date, the extent of windscreen damage considered to be sandwich with glass on the outside and inside surfaces and
repairable has not been defined. Improved technology has a clear plastic film between. A laminated screen is more
increased the scope of repairable damage and acceptability resistant to breakage than tempered glass and even when
can only be determined (in accord with the above standards) fractured it remains almost transparent.
after the repair has been completed. Tempered glass is specially treated so that, when broken,
It is recommended that repairs of cracks longer than 350mm it shatters into tiny fragments instead of jagged splinters.
be avoided. Unfortunately, when the windscreen shatters, it is
The Australian Standard AS 2366 Repair of laminated glass difficult to see through.
windscreens fitted to road vehicles is a voluntary code of Motor vehicles manufactured on or after 1 January 1994
practice for the repair of automotive windscreens that gives must be fitted with laminated glass windscreens. Whilst
recommended practices regarding the repair of laminated motor vehicles built before 1 January 1994 do not have to
windscreens. The use of the Australian Standard is not meet this requirement, it is strongly recommended that
mandatory. when a replacement windscreen is needed, laminated
glass be used.
Replacement windscreens
To ensure the safety of all motor vehicle occupants, Remember
replacement windscreens must be of an approved Windscreen damage or defects could seriously impair a
safety glass. driver’s ability to see clearly, thereby presenting a safety
The glass must always bear an identification mark indicating hazard.
the standard to which the glass has been manufactured
(e.g. AS 2080, BSAU178, JISR3211, UNECE R43, ANSI-Z26.1)
and have a standards mark etched or indelibly printed on
the glass.
Windscreens which do not comply with these recognised
standards may shatter easily and unexpectedly, creating areas
of distorted vision.
Windscreens that do not have a standards mark are illegal.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 10 Windscreens and Windows National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 11

Engine, Driveline
and Exhaust

Objective:
To ensure the engine, driveline and associated components provide a controlled transmission of power to the driving wheels.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward
ADR 65 Maximum road speed limiting for heavy goods vehicles and heavy omnibuses
ADR 80 Emission control for heavy vehicles
ADR 83 External noise

11.1 Check exhaust system • at least 40mm past the outermost joint of the floor
pan that is not continuously welded or permanently
Reasons for rejection
sealed, or
a) Any component of the exhaust system is not securely • where the body of the vehicle is permanently enclosed
mounted and not fitted with a vertical exhaust system, to the
b) The exhaust system does not incorporate an effective edge of the vehicle.
silencing device that all exhaust gases pass through e) The exhaust outlet on a bus:
c) The exhaust system contacts any unrelated part of the • is not as near as practicable to the rear of the vehicle
vehicle • extends past the edge of the vehicle at its widest point
d) The exhaust outlet on a heavy motor vehicle, other than f) Exhaust pipe outlet is not rearward of all rear passenger
a bus or goods carrying vehicle with a GVM less than 12 doors or sleeper compartment that may allow the ready
tonnes, does not extend: entrance of exhaust gases
• beyond the rear most seating position, and g) There is any leak in the exhaust system (excluding
manufacturers’ drain holes in the mufflers)

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 h) A vertical exhaust does not extend at least 150mm above This section must be read in conjunction with National
the cab of the vehicle. Stationary Exhaust Noise Test Procedures for In-Service Motor
Vehicles which can be obtained from the National Transport
i) The outlet on a vertical exhaust does not discharge the
Commission website at www.ntc.gov.au
exhaust flow straight up:
• at an angle above the horizontal; and Reasons for rejection
• towards the rear, or right, of the vehicle a) Any noise reducing or absorbing equipment is missing
j) A catalytic converter and/or particle filter is missing, Note: Changes to the original design of the engine, fuel
bypassed or has a missing heat shield system, air inlet system, or exhaust system all have the
potential to affect compliance of the vehicle with noise
Note: Not all heavy vehicles are built with heat shields,
standards. Where any such modifications have been
catalytic converter and/or particle filters.
carried out a noise test may be necessary to ensure that
k) Any exhaust component that fouls any part of the steering, the vehicle complies with the exhaust noise limits.
suspension, brake or fuel system
Such modifications could also affect compliance with
l) Any part of the exhaust system liable to be contacted by a exhaust emission requirements and the operator may be
person touching or leaning on vehicle that is not protected directed to have the vehicle tested.
by a suitable guarding
b) For a vehicle certified to comply with ADR 83, the vehicle
m) For a bus, flammable material is located 100mm of the exceeds the certified noise level for the vehicle by more
exhaust without shielding. than 5dB(A)
11.2 Check noise emissions Note: Stationary noise level values for vehicles can be
found on the Road Vehicle Certification System website:
Where it is evident that a vehicle is emitting significantly
http://rvcs.infrastructure.gov.au
higher noise than normal, the vehicle must not pass the
inspection. The operator must be referred to a facility where c) For a vehicle not certified to comply with ADR 83,
a stationary noise test must be conducted in accordance the noise level from the vehicle exceeds the figure
with Table 11.1. in Tables 11.1 or 11.2 (as applicable).

For a vehicle that has a silencing device designed to be

adjusted by the vehicle’s operator, the device must be tested
in the worst-case configuration.

Table 11.1 Noise limits for diesel-powered heavy vehicles

Gross Vehicle Mass (kg) Height above ground of Manufacture period Noise
end of exhaust pipe (mm) level dB(A)
Before 1/7/80 103
More than 4500, but not more
1500 or more On or after 1/7/80 and before 1/7/83 100
than 12,000
On or after 1/7/83 97
Before 1/7/80 107
More than 4500, but not more
less than 1500 On or after 1/7/80 and before 1/7/83 104
than 12,000
On or after 1/7/83 101
Before 1/7/80 105
More than 12,000 1500 or more On or after 1/7/80 and before 1/7/83 102
On or after 1/7/83 99
Before 1/7/80 109
More than 12,000 less than 1500 On or after 1/7/80 and before 1/7/83 106
On or after 1/7/83 103
Note: Appropriate tolerances on noise values should be applied.

2 of 4 11 Engine, Driveline and Exhaust National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Table 11.2 Noise limits for heavy vehicles with spark ignition k) Crankcase gases escape into the atmosphere (applies
engines to petrol engines fitted with positive crankcase
ventilation only)
Height above Manufacture period Noise level
ground of end of dB(A) l) The engine lets out sparks, flames, oil or fuel residue
exhaust pipe (mm) m) Air cleaners are not fitted
Before 1/7/83 98 n) Fuel injection equipment, engine speed governor
Less than 1500
On or after 1/7/83 95 or any other part of an engine is adjusted so that it
increases smoke
Before 1/7/83 94
1500 or more o) The following types of vehicles, which must comply with
On or after 1/7/83 91
ADR 65, the maximum road speed limiting is greater than
Note: Appropriate tolerances on noise values should be applied. 100km/h or there is evidence of tampering or modification
11.3 Check engine and driveline of road speed limiting device:

Reasons for rejection • a bus with a GVM over 14.5 tonnes that was built after
1987 must comply with third edition ADR 65
a) Engine and driveline mounts or driveline components
• a prime mover with a GVM over 15 tonnes that
are loose, cracked, broken or are missing components or
was built after 1987 must comply with third edition
fasteners
ADR 65.
b) A bus fitted with a transmission that incorporates a
Note: Rejection reason (o) does not apply to:
longitudinal drive shaft is not fitted with a device that
prevents the front of the drive shaft from contacting the • an ambulance, police vehicle or Australian Defence
road in the event of becoming detached from its normal Force vehicle; or
position (tail shaft guard) • a vehicle built or permanently modified for fire fighting
c) Any universal joint or securing bolts are loose or missing or emergency rescue purposes, or
• a bus fitted with hand grips or similar equipment for
d) Constant velocity joints, universal joints, support
standing passengers to hold, or
bearings, splines, and other driveline components
are not secure, excessive wear, back lash (as per • a two-axle prime mover if:
manufacturer’s specifications) or seizure which could 1) it was built after 1987 but before July 1991, and
cause component failure 2) its operator is a person who uses it for agriculture,
e) Engine and transmission controls are inoperative horticulture or other primary production activities,
except forestry, fishing and mining.
f) A vehicle fitted with an automatic transmission is capable
of being started when the transmission control is in a p) If a vehicle manufactured after 1 July 1988 is not fitted
position to drive the vehicle with an operational speedometer, which indicates vehicle
speed only in kilometres per hour
g) A vehicle fitted with a compression ignition engine (diesel)
that is not fitted with a device that prevents the engine q) If a vehicle manufactured after 1 July 1988 but before
from inadvertently being started 1 July 2006 is not fitted with an operational odometer,
which indicates distance travelled in 1 kilometre units (or
h) Seals on covers between the engine and the passenger
less) from 1 to 999,999 kilometres.
compartment are missing, distorted or damaged in a way
that allows fumes to enter the passenger compartment Note: Adjustments or modifications to components of
the fuel system have the potential to affect compliance
i) Engine emits excessive smoke for at least 10 seconds
of a vehicle with emission standards. The manufacturer’s
continually at or near the discharge end of the exhaust pipe
advice should be sought to ensure the vehicle is kept within
j) Vehicles manufactured with emission control devices do prescribed limits. A test to determine compliance with
not have all emission control equipment properly located, National Diesel Emission Standards may be undertaken in
connected or are damaged, deteriorated or altered in any jurisdictions that have the necessary test equipment.
way to reduce effectiveness
Note: Modifications to emission equipment can affect
smoke emission.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Engine, Driveline and Exhaust 11 3 of 4

 11.4 Check oil leaks
Reasons for rejection
a) Oil leaks from the engine, gearbox, differential, brake
system, power steering or any joint or seal:
• on to brake friction surfaces, or
• on to the exhaust system, or
• on to the road surface.

11.5 Check fuel tanks and system (non LPG/NG)

Reasons for rejection
a) Any leakage from the fuel system
b) Fuel lines are in contact with moving parts or a heat
source, are kinked, cracked or not secure
c) Fuel tanks are not securely mounted, straps, supports,
mounting brackets or fasteners are missing, cracked,
broken or loose
d) Fuel filler cap is missing or not suitable for the type of tank
e) Fuel filler cap seal is damaged or missing.

11.6 Visually inspect fire extinguisher

This section only applies to a vehicle if it is mandatory for the
vehicle to carry a fire extinguisher.
Reasons for rejection
a) Fire extinguisher is not filled, charged or under current
inspection
b) Handles, nozzles or hoses of fire extinguisher are missing
or damaged
c) The extinguisher is not securely mounted in the vehicle
d) The extinguisher is not securely mounted in a readily
accessible location in the vehicle in accordance with
Australian Standard AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers –
Selection and location.
Note: Fire extinguishers can become ineffective even
though they appear properly charged. For example
powder type extinguishers subject to vibration can fail due
to compacting of the powder.
Australian Standard AS 1851.1 Portable fire extinguishers,
contains suitable procedures for inspecting and testing
fire extinguishers.
AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers – Selection and
location outlines the appropriate type, size and location of
fire extinguishers for vehicles.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 11 Engine, Driveline and Exhaust National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 12

LPG, NG, Hydrogen

and Electric Vehicles

Objective:
To conduct a visual inspection of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)/natural gas (NG) fuel system and the associated components.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements
ADR 80 Emission control for heavy vehicles
Note: ADR 80 applies to vehicles operating on LPG or NG with a GVM in excess of 3500kg as of 1 January 2004.
Compressed natural gas (CNG) is also known as natural gas for vehicles (NGV).
Natural gas (NG) means both CNG and liquid natural gas (LNG).
Hydrogen powered vehicle means a vehicle powered by and fitted with one or more hydrogen fuel containers
Electric powered vehicle means a vehicle that is powered by one or more electric or traction motors.

! Important note
The Australian Design Rules and Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation requires gas fuel systems fitted to
vehicles to comply with the relevant Australian Standards.
Inspection of a gas system as part of a vehicle safety inspection is a visual inspection only. Should a person inspecting a gas
system have concerns over the system or require more information about gas systems, please contact a licensed gas fitter/
installer in your state or territory.
If a gas system inspection is required for registration purposes, and a copy of a current gas system certificate issued by a
licensed gas fitter/installer is provided, inspection of the gas system during the vehicle safety inspection is not necessary.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) 7am to 5pm (AEST)
Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual LPG and NG Vehicles 12 1 of 4
 12.1 Visually inspect for the presence of an approved The following are examples of acceptable compliance plates
LPG or NG system identification that have been fitted by vehicle manufacturers:
Visually inspect for the presence of an approved LPG or NG Figure 12.1 Acceptable LPG or NG compliance plate examples
compliance plate and number plate labels. for in-service fitments
A vehicle which has an LPG or NG fuel system fitted must
LIQUIFIED PETROLEUM GAS COMPLIANCE PLATE
have a metal plate (compliance plate) fitted in a prominent LIQUIFIED PETROLEUM GAS COMPLIANCE PLATE
The autogas installation to which this notice is affixed complies with the
The autogas installation to whichZealandthis notice is affixed complies1425.with the
position near the installation, showing: requirements of Australian/New
requirements of Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1425.
Standard AS/NZS
INSTALLATION DATE ....................................... STATE ...................................................
INSTALLATION DATE ....................................... STATE ...................................................
•
a statement that the installation complies with the COMPLIANCE NO .........................................................................................................
COMPLIANCE NO .........................................................................................................
Standards Australia code for the fuel type (Australian/ INSTALLED BY ...............................................................................................................
INSTALLED BY ...............................................................................................................
NAME ............................................................ LIC/AUTHORIZATION NO .....................
New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1425 for LPG and Australian NAME ............................................................(REP.
LIC/AUTHORIZATION
NO.) NO .....................
(REP. NO.)
WORKSHOP NO ............................................................................................................
Standard AS 2739 for NG) WORKSHOP NO ............................................................................................................
VIN NO...........................................................................................................................
VIN NO...........................................................................................................................
• the date the installation was commissioned CONTAINER(S) SERIAL NO(s)..........................................................................................
CONTAINER(S) SERIAL NO(s)..........................................................................................
CONTAINER TEST STATION STAMP DATE........................................................................
• the state or territory where installation was made CONTAINER TEST STATION STAMP DATE........................................................................

• the vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number

NG COMPLIANCE PLATE
NG COMPLIANCE PLATE
•
the identification number of the suitably qualified The NG installation to which this notice is affixed complies with the requirements
The NG installation
of AS/NZ 2739 to which this notice is affixed complies with the requirements
installer. of AS/NZ 2739
INSTALLATION DATE .......................................... STATE INSTALLED ..............................
INSTALLATION DATE .......................................... STATE INSTALLED ..............................
There is no requirement for a modification plate to be fitted COMPLIANCE NO .........................................................................................................
COMPLIANCE NO .........................................................................................................
INSTALLED BY ...............................................................................................................
to a vehicle with an approved LPG or NG system unless INSTALLED BY ...............................................................................................................
NAME ............................................................ LIC/AUTHORIZATION NO .....................
structural modifications were undertaken to the vehicle to NAME ............................................................ LIC/AUTHORIZATION NO .....................
VEHICLE NO ..................................................................................................................
VEHICLE NO ..................................................................................................................
install the LPG or NG system.
Reason for rejection Figure 12.2 Acceptable LPG or NG compliance plate
a) Vehicle does not have an approved LPG or NG compliance examples for OEM fitments
plate. Acceptable plates are either:
• A plate fitted by a state or territory authorised/licensed LOGO
LOGO MANUFACTURER
MANUFACTURER
gas fitter/installer, or
• A plate fitted by the vehicle manufacturer, where the THELPG
LPGSYSTEM
SYSTEMCOMPLIES
COMPLIESWITH
WITHADR44/01
ADR44/01&&AS1425-1989
AS1425-1989
THE
LPG or NG system was installed by the original vehicle INSTALLEDBY
BYLICENCED
LICENCEDWORKSHOP
WORKSHOPNo.
No.AFR
AFR00050
00050
INSTALLED
manufacturer. V.I.N. ____________________________
____________________________
V.I.N.
ENGINE
ENGINE No. No._______________________
_______________________ DATE
DATE // //
L.P.GSERIAL
L.P.G SERIALNo.
No.____________________________
____________________________

LPG INSTALLATION
LPG INSTALLATION
MANUFACTURER
MANUFACTURER
MODEL
MODEL
MODEL
MODEL
INSTALLATIONREFERENCE
INSTALLATION REFERENCENo.
No.__________________________
__________________________
DATE OF INSTALLATION /
DATE OF INSTALLATION / / / STATE/TERRITORY ________
STATE/TERRITORY ________
THISINSTALLATION
THIS INSTALLATIONCOMPLIES
COMPLIESWITH
WITHADR44/01,
ADR44/01,AS1425-1989
AS1425-1989AND
AND
MANUFACTURER’S
MANUFACTURER’S INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS
ODOMETER_________________________________________
ODOMETER _________________________________________
V.I.N _______________________________________________
V.I.N _______________________________________________
ENGINENo.
ENGINE No._________________________________________
_________________________________________
WORKSHOP _____________________________ (LICENCE
WORKSHOP _____________________________ (LICENCENo.)
No.)
FITTER ______________________________ (CERTIFICATE
FITTER ______________________________ (CERTIFICATE No.)No.)

b) For installations after 1999, a vehicle does not have

acceptable, durable and reflective number plate labels
fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle indicating it is
LPG or NG fuelled.

2 of 4 12 LPG and NG Vehicles National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Acceptable number plate labels are shown in Figure 12.3. 12.2 Visually inspect for the presence of an approved
Figure 12.3 Acceptable LPG, NG, Hydrogen or Electric hydrogen number plate label
number plate label examples Visually inspect for the presence of an approved hydrogen
number plate labels.
For vehicles fuelled with LPG:
Acceptable hydrogen number plate labels are shown in
(a) The metal plate and label size shall be
Figure 12.3.
not less than 25mm square mounted
as a diamond Reasons for rejection
LPG (b) The label colour shall be retroreflective a) A vehicle manufactured from 1 January 2019 does not
red, complying with AS/NZS 1906.1, have acceptable, durable and reflective number plate
Class 2 labels fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle indicating
(c) The label shall have only the letters it is hydrogen fuelled.
‘LPG’ in white at least 10mm in height.
b) The number of labels on the front and rear number plates
For vehicles fuelled with CNG: number do not correspond with:
(a) The metal plate and label size shall be • 1 acceptable label on each number plate if the vehicle is
a circle not less than 35mm diameter fitted with 1 hydrogen fuel container; or
• 2 acceptable labels on each number plate if the vehicle
CNG (b) The label colour shall be retroreflective
red, complying with AS/NZS 1906.1, is fitted with 2 or more hydrogen fuel containers.
Class 2
12.3 Visually inspect for the presence of an approved
(c) The label shall have only the letters electric vehicle number plate label
‘CNG’ in white at least 10mm in height.
Visually inspect for the presence of an approved electric
For vehicles fuelled with LNG: vehicle number plate labels.
(a) The metal plate and label size shall be Acceptable electric vehicle number plate labels are shown in
a circle not less than 35mm diameter Figure 12.3.
LNG (b) The label colour shall be retroreflective
standard green, complying with AS/
Reasons for rejection
NZS 1906.1, Class 2 a) A vehicle manufactured from 1 January 2019 does not
(c) The label shall have only letters ‘LNG’ in have an acceptable, durable and reflective number plate
white at least 10mm in height. labels fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle indicating
its means of propulsion is electric powered/assisted.
For vehicles fuelled with hydrogen:
(a) The metal plate and label size shall be a 12.4 Visually inspect the LPG or NG system
regular pentagon shape Reasons for rejection

H (b) The label colour shall be retroreflective

yellow, complying with AS/ NZS 1906.1,
Class 2
a) The container has:
• advanced corrosion or fire damage
• cuts or dents which penetrate the surface of the
(c) It is marked ‘H’ in a black capital letter
container
that is at least 10mm in height
• any dent on the container which is deeper than 10% of
For vehicles fuelled with using electricity the width of the dent, or which is located on a weld and
as a means of propulsion: exceeds 6.5mm in depth
(a) The metal plate and label size shall be • any sharp impression or crease on the container
an equilateral triangle shape which is longer than 75mm or is deeper than 25% of the
(b) The label colour shall be retroreflective wall thickness.
EV blue, complying with AS/ NZS 1906.1, b) The statutory life of the container has expired:
Class 2
• LPG every 10 years
(c) It is marked ‘H’ in a black capital letter
• NG steel containers every 5 years
that is at least 10mm in height

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual LPG and NG Vehicles 12 3 of 4

 • Fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) containers every g) If fitted the sleeving of any fuel line routed under the
3 years. vehicle is damaged such that the fuel line is exposed
Note: It is a statutory requirement for an LPG or NG h) Any supporting clips (required to be spaced at intervals
container to be checked for continued service life. of 600mm) are missing or do not provide effective
c) Any metal parts contact the container (excluding clamping support to the fuel line
bands) i) Any provision has been made to allow use of the gas fuel
d) The container: for purposes other than as automotive fuel
• is not securely restrained j) Any fuel lines, joints, connections or gas carrying
• is only restrained by a single strap components leak
• is restrained by straps that are damaged or Note: Extreme caution should be taken if a gas leak
have deteriorated is identified. If possible shut/close-off the manual gas
isolation valve and contact local emergency services.
• is not attached to the vehicle structure at least
at 4 points. k) Any other component of the fuel system is cracked,
broken, distorted, missing or corroded to the point where
e) Wiring is not insulated or is secured at intervals of more
it is weakened or failure is likely to occur
than 600mm
l) The container or gas carrying components are located
f) Where the vehicle body or chassis members do not
within 150mm of a heat source and there is no heat
provide protection for fuel lines under the vehicle, the
shield.
piping is not shielded or encased in a protective sleeve

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 12 LPG and NG Vehicles National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 13

Buses

Objective:
To ensure that buses and associated components are fitted in accordance with
the Vehicle Standards (including ADRs) and operate in a safe manner. Note: The general roadworthiness of
buses has been included within the
Australian Design Rules relevant to this section: standard vehicle inspection process
ADR 3 Seat and seat anchorages outlined in each section.
ADR 4 Seatbelts This section deals only with those
ADR 42 General safety requirements items that apply exclusively to buses.
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements Additional vehicle requirements
ADR 58 Requirements for omnibuses designed for hire and reward may be imposed by jurisdictional
passenger transport legislation.
ADR 59 Omnibus roll-over strength
These requirements are not covered
ADR 66 Seat strength, seat anchorage strength and padding in omnibuses by this section.
ADR 68 Occupant protection in buses

13.1 Check safety equipment and interior fittings c) The exit is broken, distorted or damaged in a way
that stops it working properly
Any requirement for a fire extinguisher in this section only
applies to a bus if it is mandatory for the bus to carry a Note: Some emergency exits are designed to be used only
fire extinguisher. once. Do not operate them for testing purposes.

Reasons for rejection d) Any controls for passenger access doors do not
work properly
a) Any emergency exits do not have clear access, or
identification signs and operating instructions, where e) Any warning device to indicate the operation or condition
required, are not clearly visible of the exit is not in working order

b) Equipment necessary to operate an exit, such as brake

glass hammers, are not present

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) 7am to 5pm (AEST)
Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Buses 13 1 of 6
 f) Any interior body panel or fitting in a bus is not securely Table 13.1 Fire Extinguisher requirements in accordance
mounted or has exposed sharp edges due to damage, with AS 2444
including corrosion or separated joints, that could injure a
person who comes into contact with them Type of vehicle Minimum Minimum
rating and number of
g) Any floor covering is: classification of extinguishers
• torn, worn or loose to an extent that it could trip extinguishers
passengers, or
Passenger-carrying
• not finished with a skid resistant surface. vehicle
h) Any handgrip, handrail or hand-strap is loose or damaged In urban areas or on 2A:20B 1
short trips outside (fitted with hose)
i) Any passenger stop signal is inoperative urban areas
j) Any step is damaged to an extent that it could trip or 2A:20B 2
Outside urban areas
injure a person (fitted with hose) (one to be
or when fitted with
mounted near
k) Seatbelts are not fitted (where applicable) integral luggage the under-floor
compartment area or engine)
l) Where fitted, any seatbelt is not functional
m) Fire extinguisher is not filled, charged or under current Note: Consideration should be given to all extinguishers
inspection, if required having an E rating where electrical hazards may be found
in vehicles, if capable of being connected to 240V a.c.,
n) Handle, nozzle or hose of a fire extinguisher is missing e.g. caravans, campervans and the like.
or damaged
p) The extinguisher does not have the Standards Australia
o) The extinguisher is not securely mounted in a readily approval marking, having a fire test rating (as defined in
accessible location in the vehicle in accordance with the standard) of at least 20B and fitted with a hose.
Australian Standard AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers –
Selection and location. 13.2 Check school bus warning system
Note: Fire extinguishers can become ineffective even A school bus is a bus used solely or principally for the
though they appear properly charged. For example conveyance of children to or from school.
powder type extinguishers subject to vibration can fail due
For any bus that is fitted with lights and signs indicating that
to compacting of the powder.
it is a school bus, the following reasons for rejection apply.
Australian Standards AS 1851.1 Portable fire extinguishers,
Not all state or territory road transport authorities apply the
contains suitable procedures for inspecting and testing
national requirements. Apply local requirement if different to
fire extinguishers.
national approach (e.g. New South Wales).
AS 2444 Portable fire extinguishers – Selection and
location outlines the appropriate type, size and location of SCHOOL BUS WARNING SIGNS
fire extinguishers for vehicles. Reasons for rejection (Does not apply in New South Wales,
Victoria or Tasmania - see local inspection manual for
rejection reasons)
Applies to buses fitted with warning lights after July 1999.
a) A rectangular sign bearing either the words ‘SCHOOL BUS’
in black capital letters at least 100mm high or an image
of two children in the same proportions as the children in
Australian Standard AS 1743 Road signs – Specifications,
image W6-3, with the image of the taller child at least
230mm high, is not displayed at the front and rear of
the bus
b) Either sign is not at least 550mm long and 400mm high
if the warning lights are on the sign or 400mm long and
250mm high if the warning lights are not on the sign

2 of 6 13 Buses National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

c) There are not two lights at each end of the bus Table 13.2 Luminous intensity values
d) If the lights are on the warning sign and obscure the words Horizontal angle from centre of light
or image on the signs
-300 -200 -100 -50 00 50 100 200 300
e) The signs do not have a black border and graphics or have
a yellow surface complying with Class 1 or 2 of Australian/ 100 50 80 50
New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1906 Retroreflective 500 180 320 350 450 350 320 180
materials and devices for road traffic control purposes
00 75 450 1000 1250 1500 1250 1000 450 75
f) The lights are not at least 300mm apart
-50 40 270 450 570 600 570 450 270 40
g) The lights are more than 100mm from the edge of the
warning sign -100 75 75 75
h) The lights are not on each side of, and the same distance
from, the centre of the warning sign 13.3 Check ordinary entrances and exits
i) The lights are not at the same height and mounted as high Reasons for rejection
as practicable a) No ordinary entrance door fitted on the left hand side
j) The lights are mounted with the lowest point on the lens b) Must not have an entrance or exit on the right side of the
of each light at least midway between the highest and bus other than:
lowest points on the bus body
• a mandatory emergency exit, or
k) Each light does not have an effective lit lens area of at • the driver’s door.
least 60cm2
c) The entrance door is:
l) If the centres of the warning lights are less than 1.8
• less than 1800mm high, or
metres above ground level no part of the warning lights
or warning sign is to be on the left side of the bus • less than 550mm wide.

m) If the warning lights, when switched on, do not emit a d) A stairway on a double-deck bus:
flashing yellow-coloured light and flash between 90 and • is less than 400mm wide, or
180 times per minute
• has no guard rail or panel.
n) If the warning lights, when switched on, do not flash
alternately at the same end of the bus 13.4 Check emergency exits
o) If the warning lights, unless turned off, do not operate Reasons for rejection
automatically when a door on the bus opens and for at a) If the bus is not fitted with at least the number of
least 10 seconds, and not more than 20 seconds, after all emergency exits shown in Table 13.3.
the doors on the bus have closed
Table 13.3 Number of required emergency exits
p) The bus does not have an audible or visible signal that
tells the driver of the bus in the normal driving position Number of occupants, including Minimum number
when the warning lights are flashing the driver and standees, for each of emergency exits
q) The bus is not fitted with a switch that allows the driver component deck or section
of the bus to turn the warning lights off from the normal Less than 26 4
driving position
26–36 5
r) Each light does not have a luminous intensity (in candela)
of at least the values mentioned in Table 13.2 when Greater than 36 6
measured at the angles mentioned in the table. b) An emergency exit on at least three of the following
surfaces:
• roof front face
• rear faceleft hand side
• right hand sidefloor (top deck of a double-deck
bus only).

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Buses 13 3 of 6

 c) If an emergency exit is not fitted: 13.5 Check doors
• for a single deck bus—at the extreme rear of the Service doors that also function as emergency exits must meet
bus or in the rear half of the roof of the passenger the requirements in this section, as well as the requirements
compartment for emergency exits.
• for a double-deck bus—at the front or rear face of each
Reasons for rejection
deck.
If a bus is fitted with:
d) If an emergency exit does not meet the minimum
dimensions in Table 13.4 a) An interior door that separates the space normally used
by passengers from the access doors or emergency exits,
Table 13.4 Emergency exit dimensions or

Type of emergency exit Dimension Minimum b) An inward opening door other than a ‘jack-knife’ or
‘glide-away’ door which is so constructed that no part
Height 1250mm of it extends beyond the back of the lowest step of the
Emergency door
Width 550mm entrance or exit where it is located

Area 0.4m2 c) A forward opening (suicide) door.

Emergency window Height 500mm 13.6 Check steps
Width 600mm
Reasons for rejection
Area 0.4m2
a) If any step within the vehicle is not securely fitted
Escape hatch Height 500mm
b) If the height of the tread of the lowest step from the
Width 600mm
ground is over 410mm or under 250mm
e) If there is no suitable means of opening any exit at c) The height of any step, in relation to an adjacent step is
all times more than:
f) An emergency exit is not capable of being operated from • for an off-road (all-wheel drive) bus—450mm except a
both the inside and outside of the vehicle rear step that may be no more than 500mm
g) Emergency hammers are not fitted for breakable • for a small bus having a single row of seats with an
glass exits occupant capacity of 15 persons or less, including the
driver—450mm
h) There is no ‘EMERGENCY EXIT’ sign displayed on the exit
both inside and outside the bus • for any other bus—300mm.

Note: A bus is not required to be fitted with an emergency d) The transverse depth of the tread of each step in a small
exit if it: bus is less than 180mm
• is designed and constructed to seat not more than 12 e) The transverse depth of the tread of each step in a large
adults, including the driver, and bus is less than 225mm
• is fitted with one or more doors on each side and these f) The width of the tread of the lowest step is less than the
doors are fitted with an emergency release, and width of the entrance
• has an overall width of not more than 2 metres. g) The width of each step, other than the lowest step, is less
A hinged and latched door fitted to a small bus with a than 450mm
seating capacity of not more than 15 adults, including
h) If each step is not fitted with skid-resistant tread
the driver, may be regarded as an emergency exit if it is
capable of being opened outwards from inside the bus. i) If step treads and risers are not directly illuminated,
except in the case of an external access step to a single
row of seats for a small bus having a seating capacity of
not more than 15 adults, including the driver.

4 of 6 13 Buses National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

13.7 Check interior height Figure 13.1 Measuring obstructions for opposite facing seat
Reasons for rejection 1200mm
a) For a bus with a longitudinal aisle the measurement from
the floor to the centreline of its roof is less than:
• for a small bus with an aisle length not over 2
metres—1.2 metres
• any other small bus—1.35 metres
• for each deck of a double-deck bus—1.65 metres
610mm
• for a large bus that is not involved in frequent
stops for the purpose of picking up or setting down
passengers—1.65 metres
• for a large bus that is involved in frequent stops for the Figure 13.2 Measuring obstructions for non-opposite facing
purpose of picking up or setting down passengers— seats
1.8 metres.
660mm (min) 660mm
b) For a bus without a longitudinal aisle the measurement
from the floor to the centreline of its roof is less than:
• for a large bus—1.5 metres
• for another bus—1.2 metres.

13.8 Check aisle width

610mm
Reasons for rejection
a) If the width of an aisle is less than:
• for a small bus—300mm d) There is any obstruction in front of each seating position
• for a large bus used only to carry seated passengers— for a space 200mm horizontally forward of the seat
300mm cushion, and 300mm in width but not extending beyond
• for another large bus—380mm. the nominal seat width, and between the floor and the
level of the seat cushion
13.9 Check passenger seating
Note: The spaces described by this requirement shall not
Reasons for rejection intersect each other or any other spaces designated for
a) Any passenger seating position does not have a dimension standing passengers or required minimum aisle width.
of at least 400mm when measured along the front of the e) The average height of each unloaded seat cushion relative
seat cushion to the floor exceeds 500mm or is less than:
b) The distance from the foremost point of each seat squab • for a large bus—400mm
to the foremost point of its corresponding seat cushion is • other buses—380mm
less than 350mm
• if the floor level is interrupted by a wheel housing and/
c) There is any obstruction horizontally forward of the seat or engine housing or similar structure—300mm.
squab for a distance, when measured on the centreline
f) Any seat interrupts the minimum access and clearance
of the seating position and between the top of the seat
dimensions
cushion and any point up to 610mm above the floor,
within: g) Any seat is not securely attached to the vehicle
• in the case of opposite facing seating positions h) The minimum concave radius of any seat squab is less
(as shown in Figure 13.1)—1200mm, or than 450mm for a route service omnibus or 300mm for
• in the case of other seating positions (as shown in any other omnibus, when measured in any horizontal
Figure 13.2)—660mm. plane between the top of the seat cushion and 610mm
above the floor and within 150mm on either side of the
centreline of the seating position

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Buses 13 5 of 6

 i) Where luggage racks are fitted above any seating position, • by a distance not less than 900 mm, so that they are not
the distance between the lowest part of the rack and exposed to excessive heat and that in the event of any
the top of the seat cushion is less than 950mm on the fuel spillage during filling operations or leaks from the
centreline of the seat. filler cap connection, fuel cannot fall on to the engine or
exhaust system.
13.10 Check driver seating
c) The fuel tank filler inlet:
Reasons for rejection
• allows accumulation of overflow or leakage
a) If the driver’s seat on a bus is not: • projects beyond the overall width of the body
• securely attached to the bus, and • is less than 900mm from an access opening or
• designed and fitted in such a way that the driver can emergency exit, except in the case of a small bus having
have control of the bus. an occupant capacity of up to 15 persons, including the
driver
13.11 Safety and guard rails
• is not beneath an access opening or emergency exit,
Reasons for rejection except in the case of a small bus having an occupant
a) A bus is not fitted with a suitable rail or partition in front capacity of up to 15 persons, including the driver
of any seat located on the left side of the bus immediately • is located in the interior of the bus unless protected by a
behind a step so as to prevent persons from falling into a sealed cover that does not allow leakage, or
step well • is located in the engine compartment.
b) A bus with a centre or rear door, suitable rails and/or d) The engine compartment:
partitions are not in place to stop passengers coming into • contains insulating materials that could be or are
contact with the rear face of the opening door contaminated with oil or fuel
c) The driving position on a large bus is not separated from • does not have drainage holes for fluids
the passenger compartment with either a suitable guard • does not have heat-resisting material on surfaces
rail or other structure so as to inhibit passengers from: adjoining the rest of the bus.
• coming into contact with the driver or the controls, or
e) The fuel system including lines and fittings:
• obstructing the drivers view.
• are located such that leaks would contact the exhaust
13.12 Engine and fuel system and no shield is provided, or
Reasons for rejection • provides for gravity feed to the engine.

a) Where the transmission incorporates any longitudinal

drive shafts, couplings, or intermediate shafts, there is
no guard that prevents the front end of any such shaft or
coupling contacting the road in the event of detachment
of the front end from its normal position
b) Fuel tank or components are located:
• in the passenger, engine or driver compartment
• less than 1.2 metres from the front of the bus, or
• outside the overall width of the bodywork.
Note: A fuel tank is considered to be separated from the
engine compartment if it is separated by a chassis rail or
by a fuel resistant partition.
A filler pipe, including the filler inlet, is considered to
be separated from the engine compartment if it is
separated by:
• a fuel resistant partition; or

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
6 of 6 13 Buses National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 14

Trailers

Objective:
To ensure that all components and associated systems are in a serviceable condition and meet all legislative requirements.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 1 Reversing lamps
ADR 6 Direction indicators
ADR 38 Trailer brake systems
ADR 42 General safety requirements
ADR 43 Vehicle configuration and dimensions
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements
ADR 45 Lighting and light-signalling devices not covered by ECE regulations
ADR 47 Retroreflectors
ADR 48 Devices for illumination of rear registration plates
ADR 49 Front and rear position (side) lamps, stop lamps and end-outline marker lamps
ADR 62 Mechanical connections between vehicles
ADR 63 Trailers designed for use in road trains

14.1 Check brake components c) Brake control mountings, pivots, cables or links are
missing, frayed, kinked, loose, broken, excessively worn or
Reasons for rejection
binding
a) Abrasions or cuts on brake hoses penetrate further than
d) Brake drums or discs are not fitted, or have missing pieces,
the outer protective covering
or cracks other than short heat cracks inside the drums
b) Brake pipes, hoses and connections are not securely
e) Drums or discs are worn beyond the manufacturer’s
mounted, are cracked, broken, kinked, crimped, damaged
specification
by heat or have visible signs of leakage, swelling or bulging

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) 7am to 5pm (AEST)
Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 1 of 12
 f) Any caliper, wheel cylinder or master cylinder leaks Figure 14.1 Example of excessive stroke (over-stroking)
g) Friction material of the linings or pads are contaminated Brakes off Brakes on Over-stroked
with oil, grease, brake fluid or another substance that will
reduce the friction coefficient of the friction material
h) The thickness of the linings or pads is less than the
manufacturer’s recommended minimum. If this is not
known or is no longer appropriate, the thickness of the A B C
Indicator
linings or pads is less than the following:
• the rivet or bolt head on riveted or bolted linings, or r) Brake chamber push rods or pull rods move more than
• within 3mm of the friction material mounting surface 80% of their maximum stroke or travel over centre with
on bonded pads or linings. the brakes fully applied
i) Brake chambers (including chamber clamps) or camshaft Note: The push or pull rod may travel further on long
support brackets are loose, bent, cracked or missing stroke brake chambers.
j) Brake linings or pads are missing, broken or loose on their Further information on long stroke brake chambers can
shoes or plates. Brake components such as springs, anchor be sought from the brake component manufacturers or
pins, cam rollers or bushes, pull or push rods, clevis pins, industry advisory documents.
retainers or brake chamber mounting bolts are missing,
s) Brake adjusters are not properly adjusted, are bent,
loose, damaged or broken
damaged or excessively worn
k) The brake controls of the towing unit do not cause
t) The truck/trailer interconnecting flexible hose and
the corresponding trailer brake to work when they are
coupling is not properly mated or secured
operated
u) Any wiring for electric brakes is frayed, bared or
l) There are any air/vacuum or hydraulic leaks
not secure
m) Where the trailer is fitted with air/vacuum brakes it does
v) Any handle of a parking/hand brake fitted to a trailer that
not have at least one reservoir
is not fitted with a locking device capable of holding in any
n) Any reservoir or tank for vacuum or air storage is not position
protected by a check valve with manual function
w) Brake components are mismatched on the same axle
o) Reservoirs are not secured or their mountings are i.e. booster size and volume.
deteriorated
14.2 Check trailer brakes and breakaway protection
p) Air reservoir drain valves on reservoirs do not work
properly cannot be readily operated by the driver/ The examiner should seek the assistance of another person in
operator or the valve is not fitted at the lowest point of order to make a thorough check of the breakaway protection
the reservoir systems.
q) With any brake fully applied, any stroke indicator displays Reasons for rejection
evidence of excessive stroke (known as over-stroking). a) For trailers with a gross trailer mass (GTM) in excess
Note: Not all automatic slack adjusters which travel past of two tonnes, the trailer brakes do not operate
90 degrees are considered over-stroked. immediately when the trailer is disconnected from
the towing vehicle and do not remain fully applied for at
Further information on slack adjusters can be sought from
least 15 minutes
the brake component manufacturers or industry advisory
documents. b) A trailer’s service brakes do not apply automatically
when any trailer service hose coupling or connection is
disconnected or the operating pressure falls below the
recommended operating level
c) A truck trailer interconnecting flexible hose and coupling
is not properly mated or secured
d) For trailers with a GTM in excess of two tonnes, the trailer
brakes are not capable of being applied and released from
the normal driving position.

2 of 12 14 Trailers National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

14.3 Advanced Braking Systems h) Any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads have
advanced corrosion
This section covers trailers which have advanced braking
systems such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic i) Any sliding drawbar latching mechanism is inoperative
braking systems (EBS), electronic stability control (ESC), etc. j) One or more stops on a sliding drawbar are missing or are
Reasons for rejection inoperative
a) An advanced braking system warning lamp: k) A sliding drawbar has more than 6mm of movement
• indicates a fault with the trailer’s system between the slider and the housing

b) An advanced braking system component (wheel speed l) Air or hydraulic cylinders, hoses or chambers on sliders
sensor, etc) is missing or damaged to an extent where it leak (other than normal weeping of hydraulic seals).
does not perform its intended function.
14.5 Check towing attachments
c) Advanced braking system wiring or connectors are
Reasons for rejection
corroded, damaged, not insulated or are not securely
fastened. a) Any towing attachment, mounting bolts, fasteners or weld
beads are loose, cracked, broken or extensively corroded
d) Electrical wiring is located where it can:
• become exposed to excessive heat b) Any ball coupling locking device is broken or inoperative.
• come into contact with moving parts. c) For a trailer designed for use in a road train, the rear
coupling overhang exceeds:
e) An advanced braking system component or system has
been modified outside of manufacturer’s specifications. • For a semitrailer, 30% of the distance from the point of
articulation at the front of the trailer to the centre of
f) A trailer, fitted with an advanced braking system, which the rear axle group; or
has the capability of having another trailer coupled behind
• For another type of trailer, 30% of the distance from the
(i.e lead trailer in a b-double) is not fitted with a ABS/EBS
centre of the front axle group to the centre of the rear
connector which allows to attach an ABS/EBS equipped
axle group.
rear trailer.
Note: ‘Rear coupling overhang’ is the distance from the
14.4 Check drawbar centre of the rearmost axle group to the pivot point of the
Reasons for rejection coupling near the rear of the vehicle.

a) Drawbar is extensively corroded, cracked, bent or 14.6 Check skid plates

insecurely mounted
Reasons for rejection
b) Where any part of the drawbar is removable the bolts,
a) Any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads have
studs, nuts etc. fastening those parts do not have a locking
advanced corrosion
device such as a U-clip, split pin, spring washer or nylon
lock nut b) Skid plate is cracked or has missing or loose bolts
c) There is more than 6mm of free movement between the c) Skid plate flatness is outside the limits of Australian/ New
sub-frame and hinged drawbar at the attachment point Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4968.3 Heavy road vehicles
(compression of any flexible bush is to be excluded) – Mechanical coupling between articulated vehicle
combinations:
d) Drawbar eye is elongated by wear, cracked or worn more
than 5% of the original diameter • is bowed downwards (convex) by more than fifth wheel
designated effective diameter (mm) divided by 150
e) Drawbar eye bush is worn through, insecure or is attached
• is bowed upwards (concave) by more than fifth wheel
by welding (unless manufacturer specifies welding)
designated effective diameter (mm)divided by 300
f) Drawbar eye/block has been welded contrary to • bowing exceeds limits shown in Figure 14.2.
manufacturer’s specification or recognised welding
guidelines d) A Wedge block fitted to a trailer for use with a ballrace
type coupling is excessively worn, cracked or attachment
g) Where ADR 62 applies, the drawbar eye does not display bolts are missing
the manufacturer’s name/trademark and the rating

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 3 of 12

 Figure 14.2 Skid plate flatness limits Table 14.1 Kingpin maximum wear limits

6.5 max Size (mm) F (mm) G (mm) H (mm)

3.0 max
50 49 71 73
75 73 100 73.3
90 86 112 62

R 250
Note: Dimensions F, G and H are illustrated in Figure 14.3.
R 480 Figure 14.3 Kingpin wear dimensions
1.5 max
G

Skid plate

Ø960
H
Dimensions in millimetres

Note: The above diagram has been extracted from AS/NZS

4968.3:2011.
e) Skid plate is worn more than 20% or 2mm whichever is
the lesser.
F
14.7 Check kingpin
Reasons for rejection
Note: The above table and diagram has been extracted from
a) The kingpin does not display the manufacturer’s name/ AS/NZS 4968.3:2011.
trademark, nominal size in millimetres (e.g. 50mm) and
the ‘D-value’ rating in kilonewtons (kN) 14.8 Check safety chains, cables and brake connections
b) For trailers used in a road train, the kingpin is not rated to Reasons for rejection
at least 162kN
a) Safety chains, cables or brake connections are stretched,
c) The vertical or horizontal movement between the nicked, frayed, worn, cracked or extensively corroded
upper and lower fifth wheel halves of coupled vehicles
b) Any safety chain that has insecure attachment points,
exceeds 13mm
clamps or fasteners, and is liable to accidentally disconnect
d) The kingpin is worn or loose or is not readily detachable from the towing vehicle
e) Any mounting bolts, fasteners or weld beads have c) Safety chains attachment on a trailer exceeding 3500kg
advanced corrosion ATM involves welding or deformation of the chain
f) An adaptor is used to fit a kingpin to a fifth wheel coupling d) Safety chain retaining brackets are cracked, deformed or
g) Kingpin has missing or loose bolts not secure

h) Any welding performed to the kingpin not carried out in e) Safety chain retaining brackets do not meet the
accordance with the requirements of Australian Standard requirements of ADR 62 (where applicable).
AS 2175 Note: Safety chains should be inspected in accordance
i) A Wedge block which forms part of the kingpin for use with the Australian Standards: AS 1872, AS 2321, AS 4177.4
with a ballrace type coupling is excessively worn, cracked as in force at the time the vehicle was manufactured.
or attachment bolts are missing For information on safety chains and the dimensions and
j) The maximum wear limits for kingpins is exceeded. configurations of typical chain retention brackets, refer to
Additional Information – Safety Chains.

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14.9 Check suspension components 14.11 Check wheels/rims
Reasons for rejection Reasons for rejection
a) U-bolts or other spring to axle or spring pack clamp bolts, a) Any wheel or rim:
centre bolts, spring eyes or hangers, torque, radius or • is loose
tracking component assemblies, control arms, bushes
• is cracked
or any parts used to attach them to the vehicle frame or
axle are cracked, loose, broken, missing or worn beyond • is buckled
manufacturer’s limits • has pieces of casting missing
b) Nuts do not fully engage U-bolts • has elongated stud holes
• has weld repairs not in accordance with relevant
c) Any suspension component is not correctly aligned or is
industry practice.
damaged, loose or broken
b) Any wheel contacts unrelated vehicle components at any
d) Any nut, bolt or locking mechanism is insecure or missing
point through its full range of travel
e) Springs are cracked, missing or broken
c) Spiders have cracks across a spoke, hub or area
Note: Superficial crazing is acceptable. This is often
d) Wheels are not compatible with hubs
present on rubber suspension components even when
new. e) Required valve protection lugs are missing
f) Air bags leak or sag f) Wheels fail to rotate freely
g) Leaves in a leaf spring are displaced sideways more than g) Hubs seals leaking
10% of their width or so that they contact wheels, brakes h) Excessive end-play in hubs.
or the frame
h) Any walking beam type heavy vehicle suspension has 14.12 Check wheel fasteners
signs of damage to beam Reasons for rejection
i) Shock absorbers, if originally fitted, are missing, loose, a) Wheel nuts and bolts do not have a thread engagement
inoperative or leak length at least equal to the thread diameter, except
Note: Shock absorber misting is not considered leaking. where specified by the vehicle manufacturer or the fitting
For further information refer to Section 4 – Steering and of the wheel nut does not match the taper of the wheel
Suspension, Additional Information – Shock Absorber stud hole
Leakage and Misting. b) Any hub has missing, cracked, stripped or broken wheel
j) Shock absorber mountings or bushes are not secure or mounting nuts, studs or bolts
damaged. c) Fasteners are not the correct type for the wheel being
Note: Repairs using either heating or welding may used or allow a rim to slip on its spider
adversely affect the strength of suspension components. d) Spacer plates are used between hub and wheels, except
Any such repairs should only be affected in consultation where fitted by the vehicle manufacturer
with the vehicle or component manufacturer.
e) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel (other
14.10 Check sliding axles than tyre pressure monitoring or inflation) which is not
technically essential to the vehicle, protrudes from any
Reasons for rejection part of the vehicle so that it is likely to increase the risk of
a) Sliding axles do not lock securely in position or have lock bodily injury to any person
pins missing or not engaging f) Any item that is fitted to the tyre/rim/wheel which is
b) Secondary securing devices and locking indicators do not technically essential to the vehicle, is not designed,
work properly constructed and affixed to the vehicle in a way that does
not minimise the risk of bodily injury to any person.
c) Lock pins are excessively worn, cracked or damaged.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 5 of 12

 14.13 Check retaining rings • the tyres on an axle are not of the same carcass
construction (e.g. cross ply, radial ply or bias belted)
Reason for rejection
• dual tyres contact each other
a) Lock or side rings are incorrectly seated, sprung,
• the tyres or wheels on a vehicle contact the body,
mismatched, bent, broken or cracked.
chassis, frame or braking or suspension components.
14.14 Check tyres
14.15 Check exterior body panels and fittings
Reasons for rejection
Reasons for rejection
a) A tyre does not have at least 1.5mm tread depth
a) Exterior body work including mudguards on a vehicle have
in a continuous band which runs around the whole
exposed sharp edges (including corrosion or accident
circumference of the tyre and extends across at least 75%
damage) that could injure a person who comes into
of the width of the tyre
contact with the vehicle
Note: Tread wear indicators are built into most tyres to
b) Mudguards are not properly fitted to provide protection
indicate when tread depth reaches about 1.5mm. The
over the full width of the wheels and tyre(s) and any
depth of the tyre tread above these indicators is not
mudguard does not extend inboard over the full width of
included in the assessment of tread depth around the
the tyre/s (except where part of the body of the vehicle
circumference of a tyre.
acts as a mudguard)
In effect, these requirements allow a tyre to be worn
c) The bottom edge of the mudguard and/or mudflap at the
to less than 1.5mm tread depth on its edges, provided
rear of any vehicle is higher off the ground than 37% of
that at least 75% of the remaining width of the tyre has
the horizontal distance between the centre of the axle
a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm around the whole
and the mudguard
circumference.
Note: The height of the mudguard and/or mudflap from
b) The overall diameter of dual tyres on the same side of an
the ground need not be less than 230mm or for a vehicle
axle is not matched within 25mm
built to be used off-road 300mm.
c) A tyre (including sidewalls) has deep cuts, chunking,
d) Any motor vehicle which is 2.2 metres or more in width
bumps, bulges, exposed cords or other signs of carcass
and fitted with a body which is less than 300mm in height
failure
at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body
d) A tyre has been re-grooved (except where indicated on above the ground to the highest point, does not have the
the side wall that the tyre is suitable for re-grooving) rear face of any rear mudguards silver or white in colour
e) When in the straight ahead position, the tyres of a vehicle Note: Reasons for rejection (d) does not apply when a
project beyond the extreme width of the mudguards vehicle is correctly fitted with rear marking plates or
f) Any tyre is not of a type constructed for unrestricted conspicuity markings.
road use e) Any after-market fittings attached to the exterior of the
g) Any retreaded or remoulded tyre is not marked with trailer that could cause injury to a person coming into
the words “RETREAD” or “REMOULD” and where speed contact with that part of the trailer.
limited the words “MAX. SPEED XX KM/H” or “SPEED Note: For information on mudguard or mudflap
LIMITED TO XX KM/H” (“XX” means the maximum speed requirements, refer to Additional Information – Mudguard
i.e. 125kph) and Mudflap Requirements.
h) The speed rating of all tyres is not of at least 100 km/h or 14.16 Check rear marking plates
the vehicle’s top speed, whichever is the lesser, unless a
lower rating has been specified by the manufacturer Reasons for rejection

i) A tyre fitted to a heavy vehicle is not suitable for road a) Retroreflective rear marking plates or conspicuity
use if: markings are not fitted to a trailer with a GTM greater
than 10 tonnes
• the tyre load ratings are less than the minimum ratings
specified originally by the vehicle manufacturer b) Rear marking plates or conspicuity markings are not fitted
• tyres are not compatible with the rim to in locations specified by VSB12
which they are fitted

6 of 12 14 Trailers National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

c) Rear marking plates or conspicuity markings are faded, • come into contact with combustible substances
damaged or incorrectly fitted. • become exposed to excessive heat
Note: For more detailed information on rear marking • come into contact with moving parts.
plates refer to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 12 (VSB12)
National Code of Practice: Rear Marking Plates. A copy 14.19 Check chassis
of VSB12 may be obtained from the NHVR website at Note: Refer to Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion for
www.nhvr.gov.au/vehiclestandards a detailed explanation of checking for rust.
14.17 Check number plate Reasons for rejection
Reasons for rejection a) Any part of the chassis or sub-frame is weakened or failure
of a component is likely to occur from being:
a) The number plate is obscured, for example, by a towing
attachment, goose neck or tow ball • cracked
• distorted
b) Number plate covers are tinted, reflective, rounded or
bubble like • sagging
• broken
c) The number plate is not issued or approved by the state
or territory road transport authority • loose
• affected by extensive or advanced rust.
d) The number plate is damaged or faded to the extent that
the registration number is not legible from a distance of b) Any fastenings between frame members, including welds,
20 metres are loose, distorted or cracked
e) The number plate is fitted to a hinged plate that enables c) Any chassis or sub-frame repairs on the vehicle that
the plate to hinge whilst the vehicle is in motion have not been carried out in accordance with recognised
industry repair methods and standards
f) The number plate is not substantially parallel to the
vehicle’s axles d) Frame members in load areas are missing or damaged to
an extent that the load area is not properly supported or
g) The number plate is mounted more than 1300mm from
the members are likely to fall out or contact moving parts
the ground
Note: State or territory road transport authorities may e) Trailer chassis has been altered without certification of
allow a number plate to be attached more than 1300mm compliance with Section H of VSB6.
from the ground if the design of the vehicle does not Note: For further information, refer to Appendix B –
allow it to be installed at the required height. For more Vehicle Modifications.
information about this requirement, contact the state or
territory road transport authority. 14.20 Check lights and reflectors

h) Characters on the number plate are not clearly visible Reasons for rejection
from a distance of 20 metres at any point within an arc of a) Compulsory reflectors are damaged, obscured, deteriorated,
45 degrees from the surface of the number plate above or not installed in the correct location or are not fitted
to either side of the vehicle
b) Any of the following lights are inoperative, obscured,
i) The number plate is positioned so that it is not illuminated deteriorated, insecure or not fitted where required or are
by at least one number plate light. an incorrect colour:
• tail lights (red)
14.18 Check electrical equipment
• brake lights (red)
Reasons for rejection
• reversing lights (where fitted) (white)
a) Any electrical wiring or connector is: • turn signal indicator lights (yellow)
• corroded • clearance/end outline marker lights (white/yellow to
• damaged front, red to rear)
• not insulated or securely fastened so that it could be • number plate light (white)
damaged. • side marker lights (yellow to front, red to rear).
b) Electrical wiring is located where it can:
c) Any reflector on the vehicle, other than conspicuity markings:

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 7 of 12

 • show white to the side or rear Additional Information – Safety Chains
• show red to the side or front
Note: The rearmost side reflector can be red if it is grouped
with the rear position lamp, the rear end-outline marker Safety chains for trailers:
light, the rear fog light, the stop light, the red rearmost • in excess of 3.5 tonnes ATM
side-marker light or the rear retro-reflector. • trailers in excess of 2.5 tonnes GTM with fixed or rigid
• show yellow to the front or rear drawbars and automatic pin type couplings.
• show a colour other than red, yellow or white.
d) Any rear light other than a reversing light is damaged to All fixed or rigid drawbar pig trailers (other than a converter
the extent that white light shows to the rear of the vehicle dolly) and any other trailers without breakaway brakes, require
e) Any yellow clearance light, side marker light or turn signal safety chains to be fitted.
indicator is damaged so that it shows white light It is strongly recommended that all other trailers be fitted
f) The number plate light is not directing light onto the with safety chains, especially vehicles used in severe
surface of the rear number plate conditions, e.g. quarry vehicles which are jackknifed regularly
for unloading.
g) Any light has a tinted cover over it that affects its intended
operation Safety chains complement the safety features of the trailer’s
breakaway braking system, allowing the driver to maintain
h) Any light not clearly visible under normal conditions and
control of the truck and trailer combination following a
of a consistent intensity, or affected by dirty lenses or
coupling failure or disconnection.
poor electrical contact
i) Lenses and light reflectors are not securely mounted, are Safety chains MUST be supplied and fitted to comply with the
faded or discoloured and are not free from cracks, holes, following requirements:
or other damage which would allow the entry of moisture Type of chain
or dirt to impair the efficiency of the light or reflector
Safety chains fitted to a trailer with an ATM over 3.5 tonnes,
j) Lighting does not comply with the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle
must be manufactured from alloy steel with a minimum
Standards) National Regulation
breaking stress of 800MPa to conform with the mechanical
k) For an LED type light, more than 30% of the individual properties of Grade T chain as specified in Australian Standard
LEDs do not function. AS 2321 Short-link chain for lifting purposes.
Note: For example, if an LED light bar is made up of 10
LEDs, at least 7 of the LEDs must be working. If only Required number and size of chains
6 LEDs work, this is grounds for rejection. Two separate chains must be used.
The minimum breaking strength or size of each chain used
on the trailer must meet or exceed the values listed for the
maximum gross trailer mass or aggregate trailer mass as
indicated in Table 14.2.

Table 14.2 Safety chain size selection

Vehicles manufactured before 1 July 1998

Gross trailer Chain size Minimum chain

mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load (tonnes)
2.5–4.27 7.1 6.4
4.27–7.5 9.5 11.6
7.5–13.5 12.7 20.4
13.5–21.5 15.9 32.0
21.5–30.0 19.0 46.4
>30.0 22.0 63.2

8 of 12 14 Trailers National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Vehicles manufactured from 1 July 1998 to 31 December Attachment of chains
2008
Safety chains must be attached so that:
Aggregate trailer Chain size Minimum chain • the attachments to the towing vehicle and the trailer are
mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load (tonnes) capable of withstanding the specified breaking load of
Over 3.5 and up 7.1 6.4 each chain
to 4.3 • the attachments to the towing vehicle and the trailer are
Over 4.3 and up 9.5 11.6 separate from the coupling and its fasteners
to 7.5 • any safety chain attachment point affixing a safety chain to
Over 7.5 and up 12.7 20.4 a drawbar must be located as near as practicable to the
to 13.5 coupling. Where two points of attachment are required
they must be mounted one on either side of the centreline
Over 13.5 and up 15.9 32.0 of the drawbar
to 21.5
• the chain and coupling links are NOT WELDED, DEFORMED
Over 21.5 and up 19.0 46.4 OR ELECTROPLATED subsequent to its manufacture.
to 30.0
Over 30.0 22.0 63.2 Figure 14.4 “Berglok” coupling link

Vehicles manufactured from 1 January 2009

Aggregate trailer Chain size Minimum chain

mass (tonnes) (millimetres) breaking load (tonnes)
Over 3.5 and up 6 5.1 “Berglok” coupling link
Shackles are not permitted.
to 5.0 Ramshorn type hooks are not permitted.
Over 5.0 and up 8 8.2 Note: Chain coupling attachment bracket and dimensional
to 8.0 recommendations appear in Table 14.3.
Over 8.0 and up 10 12.8
to 12.5 Chain attachment brackets
Over 12.5 and up 13 21.7 The dimensions and configurations of typical chain retention
to 21.5 brackets are shown in the following table and diagram:
Over 21.5 and up 16 32.8
Table 14.3 Typical bracket dimensions
to 32.5
Over 32.5 19 46.5 Minimum Minimum Bracket dimensions
Chain length of
Arrangement of chains (mm) fillet weld
Safety chains must be arranged so that: Size length (T1) (T2) (B) (C) (D)
• the chains are attached to the trailer 9.5 6 x 200 16 16 4 x M12 19 *
• the chains are crossed to support the drawbar and prevent 12.7 6 x 360 20 20 4 x M16 25 *
it from dropping to the ground in the event of coupling 15.9 8 x 420 25 20 4 x M20 32 *
failure or disconnection
19.0 10 x 480 25 25 4 x M20 38 *
• the points of attachment to both the towing vehicle and
the trailer must be as near as practicable to the coupling *Dimension ‘D’ to suit coupling link plus minimum clearance
and arranged so as to maintain direction of the trailer in the to prevent binding.
event of coupling failure or disconnection.
Ensure that the attachment fittings do not foul on the rear
of the towing vehicle or trailer drawbar under any possible
operating conditions.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 9 of 12

 Figure 14.5 Typical attachment of chains Note: Standard agricultural 3-point linkage pins are NOT
A typical attachment of chains suitable because they are manufactured from a lower
grade of steel and will not meet the load requirements. It
is acceptable to use a metric class 10.9 bolt of the correct
B diameter providing that the threaded portion of the bolt is
clear of the brackets.

Additional Information – Mudguard

and Mudflap Requirements
Effective mudguards must be fitted for all wheels on all
A vehicles. However, this does not apply to a vehicle if the
construction or use of the vehicle makes the fitting of
mudguards unnecessary or impractical. Examples are:
• pole type trailers used to carry timber
A. To the trailer • most road making plant
Pin welded to prevent chain loss • some agricultural equipment.
T1 Mudguards and mudflaps must be capable of deflecting
C
downwards any mud, water, stones or any other substance
T2 thrown upward by the rotation of the wheels. As outlined in
T1
Figure 14.7, mudguards must be fitted to the vehicle in such a
B. To the towing vehicle manner that provides continuous protection between a point
T1 D in area A and a point in area B and must be provided for the
T2 T2 overall tyre width of all tyres.
T1
or
B C Notwithstanding the requirements specified above, the
T2 B
mudguard, including a mudflap (if fitted), does not need to
come any lower than 230mm from the ground, or for an off-
road vehicle, 300mm.
Attachment pins
Figure 14.7 Mudguard and mudflap protection area
All pins used to connect safety chains to trailers and towing
vehicles must be manufactured from steel bar with a minimum
specification of 4140 or 4150 grade (Ultimate tensile strength
– 1040MPa) unless otherwise approved.
30O

Figure 14.6 Typical pin design

Typical Pin Design

Hole suitable for Lynch Pin or similar

(nominal diameter Ø12)
12 10 8
3

A
3
20O

B
Effec
ve Length

230mm
Material – Steel 4140 (Alternative 4150)
– Ultimate tensile strength – 1040MPa

10 of 12 14 Trailers National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Additional Information – Rust and Corrosion
Classification of rust Primary structure
The extent of corrosion in a trailer can range from light surface This category includes any structure or component which,
rust to the total breakdown of parent metal. if it collapsed, would make the vehicle uncontrollable or
would considerably reduce safety in a crash. Examples of
Depending on the individual trailer’s design, there are many
components in this category are shown in Figure 14.8.
different ways in which corrosion can begin and the degree
to which a material or structure is attacked can vary widely. Typical primary trailer structure components
In general, though, the formation of rust and resultant loss 1. Main structural members such as sub-frames and
of metal occurs in areas which retain moisture because (for chassis rails
example) of a build-up of road dirt and mud.
2. Suspension mountings and parts
In order to simplify identification and classification when 3. Steering component mounting points (where applicable)
carrying out a vehicle inspection, this publication classifies
the extent of corrosion in three different stages. 4. All floor panels.

Stage 1 - Surface rust Figure 14.8 Primary trailer structure components

Light, powdery corrosion on the surface of a section of metal

is termed surface rust and is sometimes the first indication of 4
corrosion that can be observed; it should warn the owner of
the trailer to take steps for preventing the rust from spreading.
Surface rust can occur on or behind any body panel of a trailer
particularly if the protective coating is scratched or damaged.

Stage 2 - Advanced rust

Surface rust, if left unattended, will develop into an advanced
form of corrosion which can usually be seen as an eruption
of oxidised metal, either on bare metal or under paint. 2
This eruption occurs because the rust reaction involves an 1 3
increase in volume so that pitting or bubbling of paint is the
usual indication of penetration.
Secondary structure
Stage 3 - Extensive rust The second category includes any structure or component
The final stage of the corrosion process is the formation which, if it collapsed, would not immediately affect a vehicle’s
of heavy encrustation of oxidised metal which completely controllability or the protection provided by its built-in safety
replace the parent metal. This results in a hole or series of systems. Normally, surface rust or advanced rust would not be
holes in the body panel or structural member of the trailer a cause for rejection in these components but extensive rust
when the rust is removed. This category of rust can usually is usually either hazardous to persons in or near the vehicle
only be rectified by replacement of the affected body panels because of its sharp edges. In such cases, extensive rust must
and parts. therefore be rejected. Examples covered by this category are
shown in Figure 14.9.
Classification of vehicle structures
Typical secondary trailer structure components
Vehicle structural components can be categorised according
1. Mudguards or fenders
to their importance to safety. For instance, sub-frames and
other basic structural sections have to be absolutely free of 2. Roof (where applicable).
rust because their failure could make a vehicle difficult to
control and might cause it to crash. As already mentioned,
such failures will also probably reduce the chances of survival
in a crash.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Trailers 14 11 of 12

 Figure 14.9 Secondary trailer structure components In using this technique, great care must be taken to ensure that
sound panels or paint work are not scratched or damaged in any
way. It should be remembered that the purpose of such checks
is to find out whether rust is present, not to determine its extent.
When checking for advanced rust, you should pay particular
attention to seam welds and spot weld. These frequently
corrode through from the interior and can result in the eventual
detachment of panels. Any panel which is made insecure by such
corrosion must be repaired even if it is an area of the component
2
where rust holes are not an immediate danger.

Repairs
1
Surface rust on a component or structure is not immediately
dangerous and is not a reason for rejection of a vehicle.
Reasons for rejection However, if it is observed, the owner should be advised to
The following table summarises the acceptability of rusted have it rectified before it becomes serious. Rectification
components in terms of the categories of rust and structures is simply a matter of completely removing the deposit and
described so far. Remember that it is a general guide only applying a rust-proofing coating or oil as is appropriate (body
and that in some cases it might be necessary to depart from panels should be repainted using a good quality re-finishing
the table. system).
It should be noted that repairs made to primary trailer
Table 14.4 Acceptability of rusted components
structure components solely by using body filling compounds
Type of Category of structure are not acceptable. However, plastic filler or fibreglass can be
corrosion used to smooth a non-structural component. A vehicle must
Measure Primary Secondary
not pass an inspection if it is found that a repair to a primary
trailer structure component is carried out by methods which
Surface rust Acceptable Acceptable do not restore the original strength of the component or part.
Advanced rust Not acceptable Acceptable A good way to check for continuity of structure, if a fibreglass
(See Note A) repair is suspected, is to run a magnet over the surface.
Extensive rust Not acceptable Not acceptable Extensive rust in structural members can only be repaired by
(See Note B) replacing the affected member or by completely removing all
Note A: Areas within 100mm of hinges and locks (e.g. bonnet rusted material and reinforcing it so that the original strength
and doors), are considered primary structures and must be of the affected structural member is re-established.
free of advanced and extensive rust. Where a primary trailer structure is found to be in need
Note B: Extensive rust is not acceptable in secondary of repair and the repaired component would normally be
components, if it has resulted in hazardous conditions to coated with a bituminous coating or covered by another
persons in or near the vehicle e.g. sharp edges or loose panels. vehicle component, it is quite in order to ask the owner to
resubmit the repaired vehicle before the repairs are obscured
Inspection method so that the adequacy of the repairs can be assessed. A note
Visual inspection is usually adequate since advanced corrosion is to this effect should be made on the inspection report if this
almost always associated with an eruption of oxidised metal and is required.
pitting or bubbling of paint.
However, this method may not be adequate in all cases. In
under body areas prone to rust, such as steering and suspension
mounting points and major structural components which include
chassis, floor, structural sills and sub-frames presence of rust
should be checked by probing with a rod. This method should
also be used to check for presence of rust in other areas where
cosmetic damage is not a problem, such as inside wheel arches.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
12 of 12 14 Trailers National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 15

Motorhomes,
Caravans and Campervans

Objective:
To ensure that motorhomes, caravans and campervans and associated Note: This section only provides
components operate in a safe manner. for requirements that are specific
to motorhomes, caravans
Australian Design Rules relevant to this section: and campervans. For general
ADR 42 General safety requirements requirements for other components
such as seatbelts, brakes etc. please
ADR 43 Vehicle configuration and dimensions
refer to the relevant section.
ADR 44 Specific purpose vehicle requirements

15.1 Visually inspect the living quarters

Reasons for rejection f) There is no fire extinguisher fitted with a minimum rating
of 5B and compliant with Australian Standard AS 2444
a) There are no permanently affixed sleeping berths
Portable Fire Extinguishers
b) There are no permanently affixed cooking facilities
g) The fire extinguisher is not securely mounted in the living
c) There is no table affixed quarters or is higher than 1.2 metres from the floor
Note: A table can be designed to be easily removed i.e. to h) A motorhome does not have at least one designated
convert the area to sleeping accommodation. seating position for each sleeping berth
d) There are no storage facilities i) A designated seating position that swivels in a motorhome
e) A motorhome or caravan manufactured after 1 July 1988 is not capable of being securely locked into position for
does not have at least one outward opening or sliding travelling
door on the left hand side or rear of the vehicle j) Where gas appliances are fitted, there is no installation
Note: Outward security doors fitted over bi-fold or inwards compliance certification for the vehicle supplied by a
folding doors are not categorised as outward opening licensed gas installer
doors for this purpose.

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Email [email protected]  www.nhvr.gov.au National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Motorhomes, caravans and campervans 15 1 of 2
 k) Where mains wiring is fitted, there is no electrical safety
certificate showing compliance with Australian/New
Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3001 Electrical installations –
Transportable structures and vehicles including their site
supplies
Note: Typically compliance certificates or labels can be
found in the electrical switchbox, in the owner’s manual
or glovebox.
l) Where a toilet or urinal is present a catchment tank (black
water tank) is not fitted or the tank is not vented directly
to the atmosphere
m) Water tanks used for fresh, grey and black water are not
securely mounted to the vehicle
n) A sink or shower drains:
• into a toilet pan or urinal or into any tank which a toilet
pan or urinal empties, or
• into a tank that does not vent directly to the atmosphere.
o) At least half the number of windows are not capable
of being opened unless the vehicle is provided with an
alternative method of ventilation.
Note: If an alternative method of ventilation is required
the following is considered acceptable:
• an inlet vent and at least two rotary vents, or
• a hatch in the roof towards the rear of the passenger
compartment, or
• the vehicle is air-conditioned.

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
2 of 2 15 Motorhomes, caravans and campervans National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Section 16

Vehicle
Dimensions

Objective:
To ensure that vehicles do not exceed the legislative dimension requirements as prescribed in the Heavy Vehicle (Mass,
Dimension and Loading) National Regulation.

Australian Design Rules relevant to this section:

ADR 43 Vehicle configuration and dimensions

16.1 Width 16.2 Height

Reason for rejection Reasons for rejection
a) The width exceeds 2.5 metres. a) The height of a double deck bus exceeds 4.4 metres
Note: This is to be measured without taking into account b) The height of a livestock carrier exceeds 4.6 metres
any of the following:
Note: A livestock carrier is a vehicle that operates under
• anti-skid devices mounted on wheels a Notice issued under the Heavy Vehicle National Law
• central tyre inflation systems which allows a heavy vehicle, that is higher than 4.3
• side mounted lights and reflectors metres but not higher than 4.6 metres and is built to carry
prescribed livestock, to operate.
• rear vision mirrors
• signalling devices At the time this section was published, the national
notice for livestock carriers was the National Class 2
• tyre pressure gauges
Heavy Vehicle 4.6m High Livestock Carrier Authorisation
• permanently fixed webbing assembly-type devices, (Notice) 2014 (No. 1) available from the NHVR’s website
such as curtain side devices, if the maximum width at www.nhvr.gov.au/national-notices
across the vehicle and including the devices,
does not exceed 2.55 metres. c) The height of a vehicle built with at least two decks for
carrying vehicles exceeds 4.6 metres
d) The height of any other vehicle exceeds 4.3 metres.

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 16.3 Length g) For a dog trailer or converter dolly, the drawbar exceeds
5.0 metres from the centre of the coupling to the front
Reasons for rejection
articulation point.
Heavy motor vehicle
Note: The front articulation point for a dog trailer is the
a) The length of an articulated bus exceeds 18 metres vertical axis of rotation of the front axle group, or single
b) The length of a non-articulated bus exceeds 14.5 metres axle, of the trailer.

c) The length of any other vehicle exceeds 12.5 metres. Pig trailers

Semitrailer and dog trailers h) The drawbar exceeds 8.5 metres from the centre of the
coupling to the rear overhang line.
d) The distance from the point of articulation to the rear
overhang line exceeds: Road train trailers

• for a refrigerated semitrailer not used in a road train or i) For a trailer used in a road train, the drawbar is not at least
B-double combination— 9.9 metres; or 3.0m long from the centre of the coupling to the front
• for another semitrailer or dog trailer—9.5 metres articulation point.

e) The distance from the point of articulation to the rear of a 16.4 Rear overhang
trailer exceeds: ‘Rear overhang’ of a vehicle, means the distance between
• for a refrigerated semitrailer not used in a road train or the rear overhang line and the rear of the vehicle, inclusive
B-double combination—13.6 metres; or of any load.
• for a semitrailer not used in a road train or B-double Rear overhang line
combination—13.2 metres; or
a) For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising
• for another semitrailer or dog trailer–12.3 metres
only one axle, a line running along the centreline of the
Figure 16.1 Semitrailer axle.
b) For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising
12.3m maximum
two axles, one of which is fitted with twice the number of
9.5m maximum tyres as the other, a line running parallel to the axles that is:
• closer to the axle carrying the greater number of tyres
than it is to the other axle; and
Point of articulation • located at one-third of the distance between the
Rear overhang line
two axles.
c) For a vehicle with any other axle group at the rear, a line
1.9m radius
running along the centre of the axle group.
Note: If an axle or axle group includes at least one steerable
axle, steerable axles are to be disregarded except when all
Figure 16.2 Refrigerated trailer the axles are steerable.
Reasons for rejection
13.6m maximum
Heavy motor vehicle
1.9m radius a) The rear overhang exceeds either 60% of the distance
from the front axle to the rear overhang line or 3.7 metres,
9.9m maximum
whichever is the lesser.

f) For a semitrailer, if any part forward of the trailers front

articulation point protrudes outside a 1.9 metre arc
when measured from the front articulation point

2 of 4 16 Vehicle Dimensions National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Figure 16.3 Rigid truck a) The rear overhang exceeds either 60% of the distance
from the front articulation point to the rear overhang line
or 3.7 metres, whichever is the lesser.

Figure 16.6 Semitrailer

Each axle fitted with the same
number of tyres

12.3 m

Wheelbase Rear
overhang Each axle fitted with the same
number of tyres

Dog trailer
a) The rear overhang exceeds either 60% of the distance
from the front articulation point to the rear overhang line “S dimension” Rear
or 3.7 metres, whichever is the lesser. overhang

Figure 16.4 Dog trailer

Pig trailer

12.3m

Wheelbase Rear
overhang

a) The rear overhang exceeds either the distance between

the front of the trailers body or load carrying area and
rear overhang line or 3.7 metres, whichever is the lesser.

Figure 16.5 Pig trailer

Semitrailer

Load-carrying area, Rear overhang

forward of the rear 3.7m maximum
overhang line.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Vehicle Dimensions 16 3 of 4

 V2.3 July 2018
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
4 of 4 16 Vehicle Dimensions National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)
Appendix A – Vehicle Category Codes and ADR Applicability Tables

The Australian Design Rules (ADRs) set out the minimum Table A.2 Third edition ADR vehicle categories
safety and environmental standards that heavy vehicles
Vehicle code Vehicle category
operating on public roads are required to comply with at the
date of manufacture and during on-road operation. The ADRs MB Forward Control Passenger Vehicle (up to
have been developed for the purpose of: 9 seats)
MC Off-Road Passenger Vehicle (up to 9 seats
• reducing the possibility of accidents occurring through such
with off road capabilities)
measures as improving lights and signals, drivers visibility
and braking standards etc. MD4 Light Omnibus (more than 9 seats)
• mitigating the effects of those accidents that do occur, exceeding 4.5 tonnes GVM and up to 5.0
through such measures as seatbelts, energy absorbing tonnes GVM
steering columns, head restraints and occupant protection ME Heavy Omnibus (more than 9 seats)
measures exceeding 5.0 tonnes GVM
• reducing the effects of motor vehicles on the environment NB2 Medium Goods Vehicle exceeding 4.5
by limiting the noise and pollutants emitted. tonnes GVM and up to 12 tonnes GVM
Many of the features associated with the ADRs are not readily NC Heavy Goods Vehicle exceeding 12 tonnes
apparent by visual inspection and evidence of a vehicles GVM
compliance with these requirements is demonstrated by the TB Light Trailer, GTM exceeding 0.75 tonne
fitment of an identification (compliance) plate to the vehicle. but not more than 3.5 tonnes
The ADRs are set out in two editions, being the second TC Medium Trailer, GTM exceeding 3.5 tonnes
and third editions. The second edition ADRs cover vehicles up to 10 tonnes
manufactured between 1 January 1969 and the 30 June
TD Heavy Trailer, GTM exceeding 10 tonnes
1988. The third edition ADRs cover vehicles manufactured on
or after 1 July 1988. Definitions
For the purpose of the ADRs vehicles are classified into Aggregate trailer mass (ATM) – the total mass of the laden
various categories dependent on the type of vehicle. Each trailer when carrying the maximum load recommended by
category is identified by two letters (e.g. NB - medium goods the ‘manufacturer’. This will include any mass imposed onto
vehicle) and in some cases each category is further broken the drawing vehicle when the ‘combination vehicle’ is resting
down using a number system following the letters (e.g. NB2 on a horizontal supporting plane.
– over 4.5 tonnes GVM and up to 12 tonnes GVM). The ADRs
apply to vehicles in accordance with the applicability dates Gross vehicle mass (GVM) – the maximum laden mass of a
set out at the beginning (usually in an applicability table) of motor vehicle as specified by the manufacturer.
each standard. The vehicle category codes are as follows: Gross trailer mass (GTM) – the mass transmitted to the
Vehicle category codes ground by the ‘axle’ or ‘axles’ of the trailer when coupled to a
drawing vehicle and carrying its maximum load approximately
Table A.1 Second edition ADR vehicle categories uniformly distributed over the load bearing area, and at
which compliance with the appropriate ADRs has been or can
Vehicle code Vehicle category be established.
OM Omnibus
The ADRs can be accessed online at:
OM4 GVM over 4.5 tonnes www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/design
HG Heavy Goods Vehicle, over 4.5 tonne GVM

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Vehicle Category Codes and ADR Applicability Tables A 1 of 3
 Table A.3 Second edition ADR applicability table

ADR PC PD FC1 FC2 PM OM1 OM2 OM3 OM4 CY MOPED LG HG

1 Reversing signal lamps 1/72 1/72 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 7/75 - - 7/73 7/75
2 Door latched and hinges 1/71 1/71 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/83 7/83 - - - - 7/74 7/75
3 Seat anchorages 1/71 1/72 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/83 7/83 - - - - 7/74 -
3A Seat anchorages 1/77 - 1/86 1/86 - 1/87 - - - - - - -
4 Seatbelts - front seats 1/69 1/69 - - 1/70 - - - - - - 1/70 -
Seatbelts- front and rear seats 1/71 1/71 - - 1/71 - - - - - - 1/71 -
4A Seatbelts 1/74 1/74 - - 1/74 - - - - - - 7/74 -
4B Seatbelts 1/75 1/75 - - 1/75 - - - - - - 7/75 -
4C Seatbelts 1/76 1/76 1/85 1/85 1/76 7/83 7/83 - - - - 7/76 -
4D Seatbelts 1/84 - 1/86 1/86 - 1/87 - - - - - - -
5A Seatbelt anchorages - front 1/69 1/69 - - 1/69 - - - - - - 1/71 -
Seatbelt anchorages
1/71 1/71 - - 1/71 - - - - - - 1/71 -
- front and rear
5B Seatbelt anchorages 1/75 1/75 1/85 1/85 1/75 7/83 7/83 - - - - 7/75 -
6 Direction turn signal 1/73 1/73 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 - - 7/73 7/73
6A Direction turn signal - - - - - - - - 7/81 - - - 7/81
7 Hydraulic brake hoses 1/70 1/70 1/85 1/85 1/70 1/70 1/70 1/70 1/70 7/75 7/75 1/70 1/70
8 Safety glass 7/71 7/71 1/85 1/85 7/71 7/71 7/71 7/71 7/71 - - 7/71 7/71
Applies between 1/72 and 1/76 for all vehicles except motorcycles, mopeds and forward control
9 Automatic transmissions
passenger vehicles.
10A Steering columns 1/71 1/71 - - - - - - - - - - -
10B Steering columns 1/73 1/73 - - - - - - - - - - -
11 Internal sunvisors 1/72 1/72 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 - - - 7/73 -
ADR PC PD FC1 FC2 PM OM1 OM2 OM3 OM4 CY MOPED LG HG
12 Glare reduction 1/73 1/73 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 7/73 - - 7/73 7/73
14 Rear view mirrors 1/72 1/72 1/85 1/86 1/73 1/87 - - - - - - -
15 Demisting of windscreens 1/71 1/73 1/85 1/85 1/73 7/83 7/83 - - - - 7/73 7/76
16 Windscreen wipers & washers 1/73 1/73 1/85 1/86 1/74 1/87 - - - - - - -
17 Fuel systems- goods vehicles - - - - - - - - - - - - 7/75
18 Location and visibility of
1/73 1/73 - - - - - - - - - - -
instruments
18A Location and visibility
1/81 1/81 - - - - - - - - - - -
of instruments
20 Safety rims 7/70 7/70 1/85 1/86 1/73 1/87 - - - - - - -
21 Instrument panel 1/73 1/73 - - - - - - - - - - -
22 Head restraints 1/72 1/72 - - 1/74 - - - - - - - -
22A Head restraints 1/75 1/75 1/85 1/86 1/75 1/87 - - - - - - -
23 Pneumatic car tyres 1/74 1/74 - - 1/74 - - - - - - - -

23A Pneumatic car tyres 1/84 1/84 1/85 - 1/84 - - - - - - - -

23B Pneumatic car tyres 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/87 - - - - - - -

24 Tyre selection 1/73 1/73 1/85 - 1/73 - - - - - - - -

2 of 3 A Vehicle Category Codes and ADR Applicability Tables National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual
Second edition ADR applicability table (cont.)

24A Tyre selection 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/86 1/87 - - - - - - -

25 Anti-theft locks 1/72 1/72 - - 1/73 - - - - - - - -
25A Anti-theft locks 1/78 1/78 1/85 1/86 1/78 1/87 - - - - - - -
26 Engine emission control 1/72 - - - - - - - - - - - -
27 Engine emission control 1/74 - - - - - - - - - - - -
27A Engine emission control 7/76 7/76 - - - - - - - - - - -
27B Engine emission control 1/82 1/82 - - - - - - - - - - -
27C Engine emission control 1/83 1/83 - - - - - - - - - - -
28 Motor vehicle noise- petrol 1/74 1/74 - - 1/74 7/74 7/74 7/74 7/74 7/75 7/75 7/74 7/74
Motor vehicle noise- diesel 1/74 1/74 - - 1/74 7/75 7/75 7/75 7/75 7/75 7/75 7/75 7/75
28A Motor vehicle noise 1/81 1/81 1/85 1/85 1/81 7/80 7/80 7/80 7/80 - - 7/80 7/80
29 Side door strength 1/77 - - - - - - - - - - - -
ADR PC PD FC1 FC2 PM OM1 OM2 OM3 OM4 CY MOPED LG HG
30 Diesel engine smoke emissions 7/76 7/76 1/85 1/85 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76 7/76
31 Hydraulic braking system 1/77 - - - - - - - - - - - -
32 Seatbelts for heavy vehicles - - - - - - - - - - - - 7/77
32A Seatbelts for heavy vehicles - - - - - - - 7/87 7/87 - - - 7/80
33 Motorcycle and moped
- - - - - - - - - 3/76 3/76 - -
braking systems
34 Child restraints anchorages 7/76 - - - - - - - - - - - -
35 Braking systems- commercial
- 1/79 - - 7/79 7/79 7/79 7/79 - - - 7/79 -
vehicles
35A Braking systems- commercial
- 1/81 1/85 1/85 7/80 7/80 7/80 7/80 7/80 - - 7/80 7/80
vehicles
36 Exhaust emission control - - 1/85 1/85 1/79 7/78 7/78 7/78 7/79 - - 7/78 7/79
37 Vehicle emission control 1/86 1/86 - - - - - - - - - - -
38 Heavy trailer braking systems Applies to heavy trailers only.
39 Motorcycle and moped noise - - - - - - - - - 3/85 3/85 - -
39A Motorcycle noise - - - - - - - - - 3/88 - - -
40 Light duty vehicle emission
- - 1/88 - 1/88 7/88 - - - - - 7/88 -
control
41 Mandatory operation on
- - - 1/88 1/88 - - 7/88 7/88 3/88 3/88 - 7/88
unleaded petrol

Third edition ADR applicability table

The third edition ADR applicability summaries can be accessed
online at:
https://infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/design/adr_
online.aspx
Please note these summaries are a guide only. The ADRs
apply to vehicles in accordance with the applicability dates
set out at the beginning (usually in an applicability table) of
each standard.

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Vehicle Category Codes and ADR Applicability Tables A 3 of 3
 Appendix B – Vehicle Modifications

A modification to a heavy vehicle is any change that is made Modifications under the Code of Practice
to the vehicle, including by adding or removing a component,
These modifications are more complex than minor
which changes the vehicle from the manufacturer’s
modifications and can affect the safety of a vehicle, or
specifications.
compliance with the Vehicle Standards, if not performed
The Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) creates a system that properly. The standards for modifications included in the
classifies modifications to heavy vehicles by how complex NHVR Code of Practice for the Approval of Heavy Vehicle
they are and the type of approval they need. Under this Modifications are based on accepted vehicle engineering
system heavy vehicle modifications fall into three distinct practices and the requirements of the Vehicle Standards.
categories:
These modifications require approval by an AVE who will issue
1. Minor modifications do not require approval provided the a modification certificate and ensure a modification plate is
vehicle continues to comply with the HVNL and ADRs. affixed to the vehicle if it passes inspection.
2. Modifications under the NHVR Code of Practice for At the time this manual was published, the modifications
the Approval of Heavy Vehicle Modifications (Section shown in Table B.1 were included in the NHVR Code of
86 of HVNL) require approval by an Approved Vehicle Practice for the Approval of Heavy Vehicle Modifications
Examiner (AVE).
The National Code of Practice for Heavy Vehicle Modifications,
3. Complex modifications not covered by the NHVR Code of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (known as VSB6) may be obtained
Practice for the Approval of Heavy Vehicle Modifications from the NHVR website at www.nhvr.gov.au/vsb6
(Section 87 of HVNL) require approval by the NHVR and
Complex Modifications
an AVE.
These are modifications not covered by the NHVR Code of
Minor modifications
Practice for the Approval of Heavy Vehicle Modifications that
Minor modifications are simple modifications, including the are usually significant or extensive modifications that have
fitment of optional equipment or alterations to a vehicle the potential to seriously affect the safety of the vehicle and
within manufacturer’s specifications, that do not cause the its operation on the road by changing the vehicle’s design,
vehicle to be non-compliant with the ADRs or the Heavy strength, structural integrity and handling characteristics.
Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation (known as Complex modifications can only be approved by the NHVR.
Vehicle Standards).
Approval by the NHVR requires an application to, and
Minor modifications do not require approval provided the assessment by, the NHVR. An engineering analysis
vehicle continues to be within manufacturer’s specifications (certification) by a suitably qualified person may also be
and comply with the Vehicle Standards. Examples of minor required depending on the extent of the modification and
modifications include: additional lighting, aerials, air the potential effect of the alterations on the vehicle’s safe
conditioning, alarm systems, plastic shields for lamps and operation and compliance with the Vehicle Standards.
windscreens, and manufacturer’s wheel/tyre options (that do
not affect the gross vehicle mass or gross combination mass
rating of the vehicle).

1 of 2 B Vehicle Modifications National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

Table B.1 VSB6 modification codes

Code Modification Code Modification

A1 Engine Substitution J1 Body Mounting
A2 Air Cleaner Substitution or Additional Fitting J2 Truck Bus Body Fitment
A3 Turbocharger Installation K1 Seating Capacity Alteration and Seatbelt Installation
A4 Exhaust System Alteration K2 Certification of Seat Anchorage and Certification of
Seatbelt Anchorage
A5 Road Speed Limiter Installation
K3 Cabin Conversion
B1 Transmission Substitution or Additional Fitting
K5 Installation of Wheelchair Occupant Restraint System
C1 Tail Shaft Alterations
M1 Fuel System Alterations
D1 Rear Axle(s) Installation
P2 Fifth Wheel Kingpin Installation
D2 Differential Substitution
Q1 Installation of Truck Mounted Lifting Systems – Slewing
E1 Front Axle(s) Installation
R1 Goods Loading Device Installation
E2 Steering Alteration
R2 Wheelchair Loader Installation
E3 Fitment of Non-Standard Front Wheel Components
S1 Rating of Gross Vehicle Mass or Gross Combination
F1 Suspension Substitute Mass to S2 or S3 Approved Design or Within the
F2 Trailer Suspension Modifications Vehicle Manufacturer’s Specification
G1 Air Brake System – Relocation of Air S2 Rating of Gross Vehicle Mass Approved Design
Brake Components Certification for Modified Vehicles or for Special
Purpose Vehicles e.g. Motorhomes
G2 Installation of Trailer Braking Controls – Air Brakes
S3 Rating of Gross Combination Mass Approved Design
G3 Trailer Brake System Upgrading Certification for Modified Vehicles
G4 Brake System Certification S7 Rating of Aggregate Trailer Mass to S12 Approved
G5 Auxiliary Brakes – Engine, Exhaust or Retarder Type Design or Within Trailer Manufacturer’s Specification

G6 Air Operated Accessories S8 Rating of Prime Mover for Use in Road Train

G7 Brake System Substitutions or Wheel Base Extension – S9 Rating of Primer Mover and Trailers for Use in
Powered Vehicles B-Double

G8 Trailer Brake System Upgrading – Approved Design S11 Rating of Trailers for Use in Road Train
Certification for Non-Standard Trailers S12 Rating of Aggregate Trailer Mass – Design Certification
H1 Wheel Base Extension Outside the First for Modified Trailers
Manufacturer’s Option T1 Construction of Tow Trucks
H2 Wheel Base Reduction Less Than First Manufacturer’s T2 Design of Tow Trucks
Option
Queensland specific codes
H3 Wheel Base Alterations Within First Manufacturer’s
Option S10 Concessional Livestock Loading – Vehicle Rating
H5 Trailer Chassis Frame Modification S13 Bus Life Vehicle Rating
Certification of Front Underrun Protection on Heavy
H6 Vehicles and Certification of Bullbars for Fitting to
ADR 84/00 Compliant Vehicles

V2.3 July 2018

Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of
the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal advice.
© National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2018)

National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual Vehicle Modifications B 2 of 2

3
For more information
www.nhvr.gov.au
Email [email protected]
Tel 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487)
7am to 5pm (AEST), standard 1300 call charges apply
(please check with your phone provider).

Post National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

PO BOX 492, Fortitude Valley Qld 4006