Q I operate a 1955 Leyland Beaver which
Page 73
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
was originally a platform lorry operating with a drawbar trailer. But the lorry has been converted into an articulated tractive unit with a 12ft Sin. wheelbase. How will it stand as regards plating and will the trailer have to go for testing with it Incidentally, I do not intend to have this trailer plated as it is too old and heavy and too near the end of its useful life.
Also must this tractive unit have rear lights fitted to it?
AAs your Leyland Beaver tractive unit is a conversion it will not appear in the MoT Standard Lists used in connection with plating at annual tests. It will therefore be considered a special case and you will only 'know the position as regards plating when it has completed its test.
There is no regulation requiring a vehicle to go with its trailer for its annual test. But this may be requested by the testing station and this request would then have to be complied with although the test procedure will be carried out on the tractive unit. It may be, however, that because of the condition of the trailer, as you describe it, the Ministry may refuse to test it because it is not in a suitable' state.
As to your last point, the tractive unit must have rear lights fitted.