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Q We have removed an 18ft coal-hopper

29th November 1968
Page 67
Page 67, 29th November 1968 — Q We have removed an 18ft coal-hopper
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

body from a medium-wheelbase BMC, and propose to fit our own flat platform. How much overhang are we allowed? The vehicle is a 1963 model fitted with Hydrovac brakes. Will the brakes have to be altered to comply with the new regulations and what will be its gross plated weight?

AThe Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1966 provide that the overhang of a heavy motor car shall not exceed 60 per cent of the distance between the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle which passes through the centre(s) of the front wheel(s), and the foremost vertical plane from which the overhang is to be measured, which in the case of a motor vehicle having not more than three axles, and only one non-steering axle is the centrepoint of the non-steering axle. In plain English, assuming the wheelbase of your BMC measured from axle stub to axle stub is exactly 11ft you may have an overhang of 6ft Sin. measured from the rear axle centre-line.

Whether the brakes will have to be altered depends entirely on the efficiency attainable. A rigid two-axle vehicle built before January 1 1968 will be required to meet 45 per cent efficiency (0.45g) on the main braking system and 20 per cent efficiency (0.2g) on a secondary system which may be the handbrake. If in doubt consult your nearest BMC agent.

As regards the possible plating weight we suggest you consult a copy of Goods Vehicle Plating and Testing Standard List PtV which covers BMC vehicles (price 7s 6d from HMSO). From this you will be able to identify your relevant type.

Although tyre equipment is not specified in the standard lists, "inadequate" tyres (and this includes size and ply rating) may result in down plating.

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