New rules on brakes, axles
Page 50
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
FURTHER amendments to the Motor Vehicles Construction and Use Regulations 1973 have been proposed by Transport Minister William Rodgers.
The proposals deal with a Braking of Agricultural Trailers Regulation 80(4), as amended by Regulation 8, (b) of the Construction and Use (amendment) Regulation 1973 (SI 1976/317) which limits to 3500kg the laden weight of a trailer fitted with an overrun brake, whether or not another brake is fitted.
A trailer which has a brake that meets the requirements of Regulation 70(1) for example, if air-operated brakes are fitted, is not subject to that weight limit.
It is propoged to exempt from the limit those agricultu ral trailers which have nor only an overrun brake whicE complies with Regulation 70(1) provided the trailer i5 being drawn by a land tractor or land locomotive.
Reduced axle spacing
The laden weight limit proved in Schedule 7 of tht Regulations for a two-axlec trailer is 14,230kg where th( distance between the axle; soes not exceed 2.65m; wher spacing exceeds that figure the limit is 16,260kg.
As a result of representation, the DTp has agreed tc allow the use of a drawbar trailer at a maximum permitt• ed weight of 16,260kg wher( the spacing is less than 2.65rr provided certain condition; are observed (draft Regulatior 7(b) is relevant).
Twin oscillating axles
This form of axle configuration has always been treated as one axle for the purpose or computing weight limits, bur the current wording of Regulation 3(6) does not reflect thi; clearly. Minor amendments ir draft Regulations 3, 6, 7 and 8(c) will be made to place th( intention beyond doubt.
Anyone wishing to comment on these draft amend. ments should write to R W Vy Shiers, Room C19/19 Depart merit of Transport, 2 Marsharr Street, London SW1P 3EB.