LOW VOLUME VEHICLE TECHNICAL ASSOCIATION (INC) LVVTANEWSLETTER 25Years1992-2017 TOP STORY: ISSUE 58 PILLARLESS RETROFIT LAP AND DIAGONAL SEATBELT AUG | DEC 2020 SYSTEM. DON’T DIE IN A SURVIVABLE ACCIDENT.

[email protected] | +64 4 238 4343 | WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

CONTENTS

News Pillarless Retrofi t Lap and Diagonal Seatbelt System ...... 03 LVV Certifi cation Costs to Increase by $50.02 on 1 February 2021 ...... 04 Technical New Stainless-Steel Brake Pipe Manufacturer - Classic Tube USA ...... 06 LVVTA Technical Documents go ‘Next-generation’ ...... 06 Welding C-notches and Extensions in Late-model Vehicle Chassis ...... 08 From the CEO Brake Booster Vacuum Hose Requirements ...... 08 Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) - Welded It’s no secret that over the past two years, the Transport Steering Components ...... 09 Agency has identifi ed a lot of concerns with the way in which many Repair certifi cations and Heavy Vehicle LVV Certifiers certifi cations have been carried out. These concerns New Hamilton-based LVV Certifi er ...... 10 have given the Agency no option but to ‘review’ literally hundreds of Repair certifi cation fi les and hundreds of Aftermarket Alert Heavy Vehicle fi les. As a result of what they learnt during Non-compliant Aftermarket Headlights ...... 11 the fi le reviews, a number of Repair Certifi ers and Heavy BVL Seatbelt Recall Update ...... 12 Vehicle Certifi ers have had their authorities suspended or revoked. How many LVV Certifi ers’ fi les have been Safety Alert Reminder reviewed by the Transport Agency? None. That’s because APV Seatbelt Bolt Safety #02-2019 ...... 12 the Transport Agency has a very high level of confi dence in the competence and inspection quality of the Incorrectly Labelled EPMAN-brand Harnesses #01-2020 ...... 13 LVV Certifi ers - because they know that LVVTA Safety Alerts Recently Issued ...... 13 has a number of measures in place to ensure that the problems that have been bubbling away Information Sheet Reminder beneath the surface in other areas don’t exist in the Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Airbags LVV certifi cation space. #01-2020 ...... 14 LVVTA provides the LVV Certifi ers with technical support, Wheelchair Restraints & Docking Station Rating Guide training, LVV Standards, Information Sheets, and Safety #02-2020 ...... 14 Alerts. The desk-top auditing system that LVVTA applies Information Sheets Recently Issued ...... 15 to LVV certifi cation fi les on an everyday basis is something that can frustrate the LVV Certifi ers and the vehicle owners Staff alike – but it’s probably the single biggest reason that the Electrifying Changes ...... 16 Agency has such high confi dence in the LVV certifi cation system. Feedback I guess the message here is that there’s a really big upside Response to Dick Reynolds Tribute ...... 17 to the desk-top auditing system – it’s keeping the LVV Just So You Know ...... 17 certifi cation system in good health, and LVV Certifi ers safe, ...... 18 just as the LVV Certifi ers are keeping the public safe by The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly... doing their LVV certifi cation work so well.

Tony Johnson CEO

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NEWS Pillarless Retrofi t Lap and Diagonal Seatbelt System

wearing lap-only seatbelts and sustained engineered into the B- because there Don’t die unnecessarily in a fatal chest and lung injuries from pivoting isn’t the room to fi t the anchorage, or because the B-pillar isn’t strong enough. survivable accident. forward and impacting the steering wheel. LVVTA has seen a number of cases where, In the case of pillarless , there’s had the driver been wearing a lap and nothing there to attach the anchorage LVVTA is proud to announce an innovative to, so that’s not an option, and in some diagonal seatbelt with a good seatbelt new pillarless lap and diagonal seatbelt cases, the roof isn’t strong enough to anchorage system, he or she would have system, aimed at old pillarless vehicles. have the upper anchorage fi tted into the walked away. Prototype 1 has been completed cant rail. Even if the roof was up to it, and was on display at the 2020 Big Lap and diagonal seatbelts can often be often the owners aren’t. A lot of classic Boys Toys show. retro-fi tted to old cars, but in some cases, enthusiasts love the smooth and an upper seatbelt anchorage can’t be elegant lines of a pillarless design, and While assisting the NZ Police Serious can’t bring themselves to compromise the Crash Unit to inspect old cars involved visual appeal of the car’s body style by in fatal crashes over recent years, LVVTA having a seatbelt hanging down from the has thought about ways of improving the roof and visible through the side window safety of old cars when they’re involved opening. In the case of a , there in an accident. During recent years, some is nowhere to fi t an upper anchorage even people have lost their lives in 1950s and if you wanted to. 1960s cars during a crash - but the real In response to the situation, LVVTA has tragedy has been that these people died in developed a retrofi t solution that what should have been entirely survivable provide a lap and diagonal seatbelt option low-speed accidents. The difference for pillarless vehicles and between life and death in these sad events alike, which mounts to the driveshaft has been, quite simply, the type of seatbelt tunnel and floor, immediately behind the worn. Drivers have died because they were Pillarless seatbelt frame bolted to driveshaft tunnel. front seats. 

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The seatbelt anchorage frame will provide 2021, the new certifi cation plate fee, with the driver and front seat passenger with LVV Certifi cation the addition of the $50.02 increase, will be modern inertia reel lap and diagonal $215.12 (plus GST) or $247.39 (inc GST). seatbelts, which are comfortable, safe, Costs to Increase Improving LVV Certification and mounted out of sight. The seatbelt by $50.02 on anchorage system has been tested to Services simulate a crash situation, and it meets 1 February 2021 Waka Kotahi has recognised the need LVVTA’s stringent safety requirements - for LVVTA to continue doing a good job so the likelihood of front seat occupants of looking after the LVV certifi cation Smell of an Oily Rag surviving an accident will be hugely system, including keeping modifi ed and increased. LVVTA has designed the One of LVVTA’s big challenges for the individually-constructed vehicles safe, system so that any competent car past three decades is that it has been supporting the LVV Certifi ers, and helping modifi er or builder can build the system constantly doing more, but without the LVV Certifi ers to continue operating at in their home garage, by following a set more resources. The Government, the a consistently high level. Waka Kotahi also of specifi cations which will be made LVV Certifi ers, and the LVV certification recognises the value in LVVTA increasing available by LVVTA free of charge. system users all have ever-increasing the range of services that it provides needs and expectations of LVVTA, This is an exciting project, and one that within the LVV space on its behalf. Which, we are confi dent will save lives over the so the LVVTA’s obligations and of course, all takes resources, which costs coming years. By mid 2021, LVVTA will responsibilities sits on a constant money – even for an organisation very have fi nalised the design, and developed slightly-upward trajectory, while its familiar with operating effi ciently on the the build and installation specifi cation, income line (based entirely on a fee smell of an oily rag. which the public will be able to download applied to each LVV certifi cation) Being in a position to continue to deliver from the LVVTA website. stays static. That regulated these initiatives is going to result in a LVV certifi cation plate fee (collected signifi cant increase in overall operating by the LVV Certifi er from the customer) costs for LVVTA, which would mean, has, because LVVTA is an independent using LVVTA’s traditional funding incorporated society rather than a model, a substantial increase in the Government Agency, always been LVV certifi cation plate fee. LVVTA’s only major income source, and so increasing this fee has been the only Contribution from Waka Kotahi way to keep up. NZ Transport Agency The good news however for the ‘Running on the smell of an oily rag’ has modifi cation sector is that Waka Kotahi been the LVVTA mantra for nearly three is now making an annual contribution decades, but that modus operandi has toward the LVVTA’s operating costs, in its shortcomings. order to reduce the amount by which Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency the certifi cation plate fee would have (Waka Kotahi) has been working otherwise had to be increased, so the with the LVVTA over the past year to plate fee increase isn’t going to cost the identify what LVVTA needs in order to consumer as much as was originally operate in a properly-resourced and thought. Whereas the certifi cation plate properly-sustainable manner. It was fee could have increased by over $150 as agreed early in 2020 that LVVTA needed a result of the review of LVVTA’s operating to achieve a signifi cant increase costs, the increase has been kept down in income. to $50.02 (plus GST) as a result of The certifi cation plate fee is currently the annual contribution. set at $165.10 (plus GST), or $189.86 This is great news for the vehicle (inc GST), and the last increase to modifi cation and construction sector, the certifi cation plate fee took place as the support from Waka Kotahi on 1 August 2018, at which time will ensure that the cost of the LVV Above: Pillarless seatbelt frame protection cover. the fee was $142.60 (plus GST) or certifi cation system remains affordable. Below: Pillarless seatbelt front seat. $164.00 (inc GST). On 1 February 

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An additional $50.02 per certifi cation the LVV Certifi er (for the certifi cation is a small price to pay for a plate fi tment as happens currently) will sustainable system where be eliminated. New Zealanders can confi dently continue Additionally, the online NZ Car to build and modify cars into the future. Construction Manual will become free Kane Patena (General Manager Regulatory of charge in February, which provides a Services, Waka Kotahi) has worked closely substantial cost-saving to the public, and with the LVVTA since his appointment and reduces impediments to the public from said, “We’re pleased to have supported understanding the technical requirements LVVTA this year with some additional which must be met when modifying or funding as they’ve developed a more building a car. sustainable funding model. This support, Another benefi t to the modifi ed vehicle along with the increase in plate fees, will sector occurring in February is that Upper Above: The Electronic Data Plate. contribute to their continued good work in Seatbelt Anchorage Declarations (for older the vehicle certifi cation sector.” Other System Improvements in vehicles which can’t be retro-fi tted with February upper seatbelt anchorages) will become Waka Kotahi is focused on ensuring the absorbed into the normal LVV certifi cation The increase to the LVV certifi cation plate transport system is safe for everyone in process, so there will be no separate fee on 1 February 2021 will coincide with New Zealand. It’s important to recognise charge for this service (except in the case the introduction of the new ‘Electronic that a high-quality, safe, and sustainable where the Declaration is being issued to a Data Plate’ system, which will replace LVV certifi cation system isn’t just for the vehicle which has no modifi cations and is the traditional engraved aluminium benefi t of the modifi ed vehicle owners therefore not being LVV certifi ed). certifi cation plate. This Data Plate actually themselves, but also for other members provides a cost-saving of what will likely 2021 will be quite a milestone for LVVTA, of the public who share the roads with be more than the LVV certifi cation plate as, for the fi rst time in its 28 years of these modifi ed vehicles - who would fee increase, because the LVV Certifi er will operation, it will be able to shift away rightly expect that those modifi ed vehicles fi t the Data Plate at the time of inspection, from that oily rag means of operation, and are safe. and the need for further involvement by function in a fully-sustainable manner.

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New Stainless-Steel TECHNICAL Brake Pipe Manufacturer - Classic Tube USA ‘Next-generation’ The Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) has recently assessed and LVVTA Technical Documents approved ‘Classic Tube USA’ as then became the NZ Car Construction a recognised manufacturer of A major re-confi guration of Manual (NZCCM). The HCTM/NZCCM stainless-steel brake lines. LVVTA’s technical document incorporated more detailed requirements The company specialises in for the more complex modifi cations and manufacturing brake lines, and system; principally the scratch-built construction processes produces the stainless-steel LVV Standards and the NZ Car than that which is contained within the hard lines used on Art Morrison Construction Manual Chapters, LVV Standards. Tri-Five Chevy frames. Classic is underway with the fi rst Tube USA has provided the LVVTA However, this solution was not without its changes to take effect on Technical Advisory Committee issues as the LVV Standards typically only (TAC) with details including their 1 February 2021. cover basic modifi cations (e.g., a bolt-in quality assurance manual, an SAE adjustable platform suspension system), document, a sample inspection Looking Back and then refers a modifi er or builder to the form, and a training manual they The LVV Standards have been NZCCM for more detailed requirements use to train staff members. The progressively developed since the (e.g., a complex custom-built TAC were satisfi ed with the level of 1990s. This was the document independent front suspension). This detail provided, and are confi dent methodology chosen back in the early means juggling between two sets that Classic Tube USA are profi cient days from which to provide all the of documentation. in brake pipe manufacturing and necessary technical requirements for flaring processes. As a result, low volume vehicles, and from which Merging Documentation Classic Tube USA has been added to provide the legal platform for the To streamline things, the decision was to the list of LVVTA recognised LVV certifi cation inspection system. The made to incorporate the ‘basic’ technical manufacturers, and their products LVV Standards could be developed one at requirements from the LVV Standards into can be LVV certifi ed, provided that: a time, so the development of them was the NZCCM so modifi ers and builders did a ‘bite-size’ process. Regardless of what  all flares must be as supplied by not have to be working between two sets came in addition to the LVV Standards, Classic Tube USA, and remain of documentation. they provided a good legal and technical unmodifi ed; and starting point for the system we have This allowed a focus on technical  proof of purchase is provided to today. requirements within the NZCCM, and the LVV Certifi er in each case; and avoided ‘cluttering’ the NZCCM with all While the LVV Standards provided all braking components that the LVV Standards’ peripheral ‘legalese’. the legal platform and the necessary have these lines attached have technical requirements, the big drawback In short, this approach provided modifi ers compatible fi ttings (flare type and is they are not user-friendly for our and builders with everything they needed angle), and the LVV Certifi er has target audience; namely the modifi ers in a single comprehensive and convenient ensured that this is the case; and and builders who simply require the document, with no distracting legal guff. the LVV Certifi er has carefully technical requirements captured in a Downside of the Current System inspected and ensured that no single document, in a straight-forward leaks are present in any fi ttings. manner, and with no extra jargon. So, LVVTA successfully met two needs; it provided the users with the technical A full list of recognised To meet this need, LVVTA expanded its manufacturers can be found on documentation. The initial NZHRA Code requirements they wanted, and maintained LVVTA’s website under the Approvals of Construction Manual (COCM) was the important legal framework, by running tab - scroll down to Stainless-Steel developed in 1990, and then some years the two documents (LVV Standards and Brake Pipe Manufacturers. later was replaced by the NZ Hobby Car NZCCM) in parallel. This system has Technical Manual (HCTM). The HCTM worked well over the years. 

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However, with the growth of the LVVTA The NZCCM will remain largely as it  there will be less potential for confusion system, this has proven very ineffi cient has, insofar that it is a purely technical as a result of conflicting requirements between the LVV Standards and the when managing the amendment and document, free of the distractions NZCCM Chapters; and improvement process for the two contained in the LVV Standards. It will be  the development of all of the existing document systems in parallel. developed in such a way that modifi ers documents, and creation of new and builders will not need to revert to the This current system runs a constant risk documents, will all be able to be done of conflict as one document is progressed LVV Standards. more effi ciently into the future as a ahead of the other, and the duplication The existence of the LVV Standard however, result of reduction of duplication; and that currently exists adds a lot of time to is critical from a legal perspective, and for  the concept is directly aligned to the every amendment process, because an the reference of the LVV Certifi ers. Each ‘single source of truth’ philosophy that amendment to an LVV Standard requires Waka Kotahi likes to apply within the LVV Standard will be stripped of technical the same amendment made to the NZCCM, regulatory environment; and and in some cases vice-versa. These detail, and will become a ‘shell’ document,  the concept is directly aligned to the issues would continue exponentially into which will contain only a small number of ‘incorporation by reference’ philosophy, over-arching technical requirements, and the future if the status quo remained. which has traditionally reflected the things that do not change regularly. how the LVV certifi cation system is Resolving the Shortcomings The LVV Standards will be nothing more integrated within the Land Transport During 2020, LVVTA has given a lot of than ‘legal framework’ documents. Should regulatory framework. thought to the best way of streamlining an amendment be required, it will not The fi rst documents that the and simplifying the system further, and affect the NZCCM content, and vice-versa. ‘Next-generation’ philosophy has been how best to future-proof the system. applied to are the LVV Standard The result of that thinking is what is Advantages of the 85-40 (Engine & Drive-train), and the now referred to as the ‘Next-generation’ ‘Next-generation’ System technical document system. corresponding NZCCM Chapter 9 There are many advantages for LVVTA, (Engine & Drive-train), both of which LVVTA engaged with the the LVV Certifi ers, Waka Kotahi, and users take effect on 1 February 2021. NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) of the LVV certifi cation system, including: to see if they supported the ‘Next-generation’ thinking, and  information will be found more easily If you require further information Waka Kotahi agreed that this will represent by users of the LVV certifi cation about the ‘Next-generation’ a big step forward for the LVV system. system; and technical document system, a The NZCCM style of document is what  the system will all become more new LVVTA Information Sheet most LVV systems users want and need, straight-forward, and make better will become available in January.  and this needs to be LVVTA’s core focus. sense to users, and

BIG BOYS TOYS LVVTA SHOW SPECIAL THE WINNER OF THE LVVTA NZCCM HARD COPY IS...

LVVTA’s Justin Hansen (left) and NZ Transport Agency’s Stephen Brown (right).

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 07 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

Welding C-notches and Extensions Brake Booster in Late-model Vehicle Chassis Vacuum Hose

As the use of ultra-high strength steel After investigation into chassis materials Requirements (UHSS) in chassis construction becomes and welding suitability, LVVTA has agreed more popular, vehicle modifi ers and LVV that any chassis made from 440MPA Vehicle modifi ers and LVV Certifi ers are Certifi ers need to be sure of the chassis or less strength material (regardless of reminded that brake booster vacuum construction material before any welding the manufacturer) can be welded for hoses, used between a booster and is carried out and LVV certifi ed. The the purpose of C-notching or extending vacuum source (usually the intake concern with the UHSS used in some the rear of the chassis. However, any manifold), must meet an approved late-model vehicles is that an incorrect chassis made from an unknown, or higher standard as listed in Table 8.4 of the process for welding could alter the strength material must be researched NZ Car Construction Manual (NZCCM). material’s structural properties, and as a further, and LVVTA must be consulted While LVVTA staff and LVV Certifi ers cop a bit of flack for what is seen as result, create brittleness and a signifi cant before any welding commences. Material a bit of an over-the-top demand, this reduction in strength. details, the proposed welding process, and is actually a legal requirement that supporting documents must be provided During 2019, when a 2011 comes directly from the NZTA Land to LVVTA prior to any cutting or welding was presented for LVV certifi cation Transport Rules - and as such, LVVTA taking place. If modifi ers are unsure of with a C-notched chassis, the and LVV Certifi ers cannot simply the type of steel used, LVVTA suggests LVV Certifi er correctly informed the owner ‘opt-out’ of applying it. Nor is it they contact the vehicle manufacturer or that he needed to confi rm the material something that has been recently an NZTA-appointed Repair Certifi er, and of the chassis before certifi cation dreamed up to make things tough on ask for any documentation they may have could proceed. The research found people! LVVTA staff have commonly the chassis was constructed from available relating to the specifi c vehicle heard vehicle owners state that 440MPA high strength steel (HSS) and year, make, and model. ‘nobody sells it’; however, LVVTA not UHSS. Additionally, documentation Please note that this is only for rear can confi rm that many LVV Certifi ers from vehicle collision repair training C-notches and rear chassis extensions, and nationwide parts suppliers hold organisation iCar and Toyota NZ for and all other applicable technical the compliant hose in stock. Vehicle Toyota Hilux’s produced between requirements must also be met. Further owners may contact their local LVV 2005-2015 was provided. These consideration may be needed for other Certifi er, or the LVVTA offi ce for a list of documents showed that common welding chassis modifi cations and welding, and suppliers if required. methods such as MIG and TIG were the LVVTA technical staff should be NZCCM chapter 8 (Braking Systems) approved for this type of chassis material. consulted in this instance. states that a vacuum brake hose fi tted to a low volume vehicle must: a. be of a type purposely designed for automotive applications; and b. incorporate a one-way check valve to prevent unintended loss of vacuum whilst the engine is not running; and c. in the case of a hose that is not sourced from a high-volume vehicle, meet one or more approved standards specifi ed in Table 8.4 (Figure 1). A common mistake that LVV Certifi ers often spot, is that a hose meeting the SAE J1402 standard is being selected for use in a vacuum brake Vehicles such as this 2011 Toyota Hilux which has a chassis produced of 440MPA high strength steel (HSS) hose application, which is a pressure can have a rear C-notch or chassis extension, providing certain criteria are met. However, any chassis made from material rated over 440MPA requires a specifi c welding process to be developed and specifi c hose standard and not rated for use in modifi cations approved before any cutting or welding can take place. vacuum situations. 

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This pressure hose is known to collapse While some vehicle owners may believe a hose simply marked as 'DOT Approved' can and block when under vacuum pressure, be accepted, this is also not the case. While DOT Approved sounds like a benchmark, so ensuring the correct hose standard is it is not an approved standard, and therefore can't be accepted. Only those approved important. Some vehicle modifi ers have standards (or abbreviations thereof) listed in the table below can be accepted. also presented hoses which have been Figure 1. tested to a specifi c vacuum level, but are TABLE 8.4 - VACUUM BRAKE HOSE APPROVED STANDARDS TABLE not marked with the appropriate standard, and as such, these cannot be accepted, as APPROVED STANDARD ABBREVIATION the NZTA Land Transport Rule specifi cally  Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE 40 R3L (light duty) SAE 40 R3L states the hose must be marked to show  Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE 40 R3H (heavy duty) SAE 40 R3H its compliance.  Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE 40 M (heavy duty oil resistant) SAE 40 M SAE J1403, which is rated for use  in automotive vacuum situations, is Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE J1403 (vacuum brake hose) SAE J1403 readily available from a wide range of  British Standard BSAU 109 BSAU 109 local suppliers and is one of the options  Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 106 (Brake hoses) FMVSS 106 detailed in Figure 1, which is copied from  Japan Industrial Standard D2607 JIS D2607 the NZCCM.

Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) - Welded Steering Components

The LVVTA technical staff are fi elding an increasing number of enquiries about electrically power-assisted steering (EPAS) conversions. These conversions place an electric motor within the steering column to decrease the effort a driver must apply when turning. While the technology is great, LVVTA and LVV Certifi ers are fi nding that some readily-available aftermarket electric power-assisted steering kits do not meet LVV requirements. These non-compliant kits feature welding of the internal shafts, or methods of shaft attachment which are precluded by the New Zealand Car Construction Manual (NZCCM), and the modifi cations are often within the housing, so cannot easily be seen without fi rst dismantling the unit. The exception to the no-welding rule is unmodifi ed welds on a vehicle manufacturer’s original equipment steering, that is being used in the same application for which it was originally designed. In short, an original equipment (OE) electric power-assisted steering system from a mass-produced vehicle Many aftermarket electrically power-assisted steering columns feature internal welding, which cannot be that includes welding may be used in its accepted for LVV certifi cation. LVVTA recommends that vehicle modifi ers confi rm their preferred system does not feature internal welding before purchasing. unmodifi ed form in a different vehicle. 

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LVVTA urges prospective purchasers between the vehicle’s A-pillars, with is satisfactory, an LVV Certifi er, or an of EPAS systems to confi rm that the kit the factory mounting tabs on the EPAS LVVTA technical staff member should they are investing in does not include unit mounted to the bar. If a modifi er is be consulted prior to commencing welded components or non-compliant unsure if the proposed mounting method installation. shaft attachment methods before making a purchase. Currently, all aftermarket or ‘kit’-style EPAS units are required to be disassembled to allow for inspection by a category 1D LVV Certifi er for LVV certifi cation to take place. An OE EPAS unit does not require disassembly if an LVV Certifi er confi rms that he has compared it to another identical unit to verify that both input and output shafts are unmodifi ed, and meet all technical requirements. Vehicle modifi ers are also reminded that due to the signifi cant rotational and torsional loads produced by EPAS motors, they should be mounted in such a way that replicates an OE installation. Most commonly, this would include fi tting an When installing an EPAS system, great care must be taken to ensure that the mounting is adequate for the signifi cant rotational and torsional loads produced by EPAS motors. A dash bar that spans between the under-dash support bar that spans A-pillars, such as that shown here, is the recommended mounting method. LVV CERTIFIERS

New Hamilton-based LVV Certifi er

Introducing Tim Charman...

New LVV Certifi er Tim Charman was appointed for the Hamilton area earlier this year. Tim owns TTT Engineering, which is a vehicle fabrication and engineering business, and has built many vehicles. With a reputation of being a ‘Toyota Guru’, he is an Authorised Vehicle Inspector (AVI), approved Motorsport NZ roll cage builder, and an avid mountain biker in his spare time. Tim is another young ‘new generation’ LVV Certifi er who has found his feet quickly, and is doing a great job.

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 10 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

AFTERMARKET ALERT Non-compliant Aftermarket Headlights

LVVTA has been made aware of aftermarket 6-inch round headlamps that claim to have met the required Euro standard, however upon closer inspection, they do not. The lights (shown here) feature the internationally-accepted E4 standard marking, but an extract from the Euro regulation shows the E marking stamped on the headlight lens is too small. The E marking should be half the height of the circle, and the 4 should be a third of the circle height. Although lighting is generally an entry compliance item that does not require LVV certifi cation (unless the vehicle is a scratch-built), LVVTA advises LVV Certifi ers and vehicle modifi ers to be vigilant if they suspect that a vehicle’s lighting does not appear to be a genuine component from a reputable aftermarket manufacturer. While WoF Inspectors and LVV Certifi ers are not required to inspect standards/compliance markings on lamps as part of a WoF or LVV modifi ed production vehicle certifi cation inspection, if they do identify a lamp they believe could be non-compliant, it is suggested that they notify the customer of their concerns. Where LVV Certifi ers are inspecting a scratch-built vehicle, they are required to reject any non-compliant lamps.

FEEDBACK ***** Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association Inc good to know, thank you Above Top Left: A locally produced Hella light showing the correct and acceptable standards marking. for fast reply, keep up Above Top Right: Lights that comply with Euro regulations are required to have the standards marking as your good work. shown here. Bottom: While this headlight claims to have met Euro regulations, as indicated by the E4 marking, it doesn't. Upon closer inspection the marking does not meet the specifi c requirements for E markings, indicating that it is in fact a non-compliant counterfeit, despite what at fi rst glance appears to be genuine paperwork being supplied with it.

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BVL Seatbelt SAFETY ALERT Recall Update

In the LVVTA Newsletter (Issue REMINDER #56), we provided notifi cation that a specifi c model of three-point seatbelt APV Seatbelt Bolt Safety #02-2019 supplied by BVL and manufactured by Changzhou BWD had been recalled During 2019, LVVTA released a Safety were supplied as part of seatbelt due to failures. It was stated at the Alert regarding a recall of seatbelt bolts installation kits provided by APV where time that the recall did not apply to produced by Australian-based seatbelt the belts are date-stamped between any other model of seatbelt being 1 June 2018 and 21 December 2018. supplied by BVL. Following that article, supplier APV Safety Products. Vehicles fi tted with these seatbelts cannot NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) The recall is for a specifi c model of be LVV certifi ed until replacement bolts announced that another seatbelt had 38 mm long Grade-5 silver seatbelt have been installed, and the tags marked been found that did not match their anchorage bolt. The bolts were produced to indicate this, as per APV's instructions. type-approval documentation, and by Fuji Fasteners and found to have Please see Safety Alert #02-2019 must also be failed at inspection. internal defects which occurred during - APV Seatbelt Bolt Recall for further The seatbelts are manufactured the heat-treatment process. The bolts information and remedial instructions. by Jiang Su Jiu Jiu, and are stamped with Approval # 06 9766. They have a large number of differences from their type-approval documentation, as has been confi rmed by the Société Nationale de Certifi cation et d’Homologation (SNCH) that administers homologation of vehicle parts. Affected vehicle owners are being advised to return the belts to where they were purchased from, or contact BVL directly at [email protected], or phone 09 574 6724. For further information, members of the public should read Waka Kotahi’s Safety Alert which can be found at the Waka Kotahi Website: www.nzta.govt. nz.

FEEDBACK “...You were able to tell me straight up what was going on and where we were at; you’ve been there a lot for me on this project, when it came to what I had to do, I’ve rung you a few times and you’ve always been able to give me the answers. Have a good Christmas and New Year" - Steve.

The recalled bolt is 7/16" UNF, silver in colour, 38 mm long Grade-5 with distinctive three lines on the head of the bolt – part number 10185B. A similar bolt in size and head design, but gold in colour is not affected.

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 12 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

Incorrectly Labelled EPMAN-brand SAFETY ALERTS Harnesses Recently Issued #01-2020 #10-2020 (December 2020) LVVTA has become aware of EPMAN-brand harness seatbelt sets Faulty Threads on Aftermarket Suspension Arms being sold with incorrect labels attached. #09-2020 (December 2020) A vehicle fi tted with two sets of 'Heidts'-brand Suspension Arm Issue these harnesses was presented for LVV certifi cation, and during the #08-2020 (December 2020) inspection it was discovered the standard Rear Suspension Failure - AC Cobra Replica markings on the label did not match the harnesses they were attached to. #07-2020 (December 2020) Without valid labelling there can be no Steering Rack Spacers certainty that the seatbelts comply with an approved standard, and therefore their #06-2020 (December 2020) performance in the event of an accident is Multi-piece HICAS Lock-bars unknown. In this case, the EPMAN-brand #05-2020 (December 2020) harnesses were replaced prior to the LVV certifi cation being completed. Y32 and Y33 Nissan Strut Warning Any seatbelt which has an invalid or #04-2020 (September 2020) incorrect label cannot be LVV certifi ed. Sub-standard Suspension Arms For further information on these #03-2020 (September 2020) harnesses, please see LVV Safety Alert #01-2020 – EPMAN-brand Harness MBM-brand Disc Brake Kits Seatbelts. #02-2020 (September 2020) Machined-down Brake Calipers (for wheel clearance)

#01-2020 (September 2020) EPMAN-brand Harness Seatbelts (Article this page)

#06-2019 (September 2020) CPP-brand Welded Aftermarket Pitman Arm Failures

#05-2019 (September 2020) Aftermarket Cast I-beam Axle Failures

For all LVVTA Safety Alerts, visit: www.lvvta.org.nz/safetyalerts.html

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 13 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

INFORMATION SHEET REMINDER Removal of Seats Fitted with Wheelchair Side-impact Airbags #01-2020 Restraints &

LVVTA recently issued an Information of the frontal impact protection system, Docking Station Sheet clarifying the requirements for so it must be retained on vehicles less the replacement of seats fi tted with than 14 years old. Rating Guide side-impact airbags. This Information Once a vehicle is 14 years old, components Sheet supersedes Information Sheet #02-2020 of the frontal impact protection system #07-2009 can be removed, provided the seatbelts LVVTA released an Information Sheet In summary, when a seat originally for any affected seating positions are earlier this year showing a range of equipped with side-impact airbags is replaced with brand new (approved) wheelchair restraints and docking replaced with a seat not equipped with seatbelts. The vehicle must be stations commonly used on vehicles an airbag, LVV certifi cation is required LVV certifi ed for this modifi cation, and the in New Zealand. The Information to ensure the remaining components in relevant requirements are provided within Sheet contains a table which lists the SRS system remain functional. Many LVV Standard 155-30 (Frontal Impact). weight ratings of the restraints to help vehicles fi tted with side-impact airbag equipped seats also have a seatbelt For further information refer to: ensure that they are appropriate for the pre-tensioner device incorporated LVV Information Sheet #01-2020 wheelchair overload in an accident. within the seat. Removal of the seatbelt Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Please note: The ratings given to the pre-tensioner would alter the functionality Airbags. restraints refers to the maximum mass of the wheelchair, and does not include the occupant, even when the restraints incorporate provision for the attachment of a lap belt. For further information, refer to LVV Information Sheet #02-2020 Wheelchair Restraints & Docking Station Rating Guide.

FEEDBACK "...Hi, in this case I wish make a big, no a massive shout for Ken and his calm and kind approach to solving my issues I had with my certifi er. His manner help me get back my motivation to complete the last hurdle in the certifi cation process. Thank you very much Ken".

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 14 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

INFORMATION SHEETS ELECTRONIC Recently Issued DATA PLATES

#05-2020 (December 2020) Tyre Track and Protrusion of Tyres Beyond Mudguards

#04-2020 (December 2020) Spherical Bearing Rod End Conversion for Steering Tie-rod Ends and Unloaded Suspension Ball-joints

8 #03-2020 (September 2020)

9 Re-issue of Amended Lighting Equipment LVV Standard 4 #02-2020 (V2 December 2020) 0 Wheelchair Restraints & Docking Station Rating Guide Detailed on page 14.

#01-2020 (September 2020) Removal of Seats Fitted with Side-impact Airbags (revised) Detailed on page 14.

LVVTA IS CHANGING FROM LVV CERTIFICATION PLATES TO NEW

For all LVVTA Information Sheets, visit: ELECTRONIC DATA PLATES. www.lvvta.org.nz/documents.html#infosheets 1 FEBRUARY 2021.

LVVTA.ORG.NZ FEEDBACK "Wonderful – thanks Chris. We are impressed with your assistance. We are making good progress. You have fi lled in a gap on the brake line issue which is great. We are looking to make the change. Justin has sent guidance on the spindle which I have forwarded to the car builder. It was a welcomed response. Again, many thanks for your ongoing help. Cheers."

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 15 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

STAFF Electrifying Changes

Back in Newsletter 54 (July-December 2017), LVVTA Management Committee Member Graeme Banks informed LVVTA CEO Tony Johnson that he had gone electric and purchased a Nissan Leaf. While Tony’s reply in the newsletter was humorous, it was also a lot tamer than the thoughts he expressed to Graeme in person. However since then, the daily driven fleet at LVVTA’s offi ce has also begun to change to electric, much to Tony’s despair. A lone hybrid in the car park has now been joined by a fully- electric Nissan Leaf, a hybrid , and a second Toyota Prius. Thankfully for Tony’s sanity, the rest of the fleet remains internal combustion powered. Now… about that charging port…

LVVTA WISHES YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR & EVERY SUCCESS FOR 2021

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 16 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

FEEDBACK Response to Dick Reynolds Tribute

Hello Tony I read them and I marvel at the responsible I admire you for your portrayal of the real I am writing to you following your attitude and the technical capacity and Dick Reynolds, of telling the story of how it down-to-earth and humbling tribute to knowledge, of a very dedicated profession, really was, and I hope that your members Dick Reynolds of the Ministry of Transport profession YES - because that is what it will from time to time re-read and absorb and then LTSA in an LVVTA Newsletter a is! I marvel at the depth and fortitude that this record of someone who as you stated your organisation will travel and explore while back after he passed away. that; “… Dick was the right man for the to ensure safety is at the forefront of every time …”. There is probably no one who is more aware aspect of what your members do – of of the situation back in 1989 that existed the monitoring of aftermarket fabricated They were not halcyon days! There was so for the future of hot rods construction, components. Sure there are those that much happening and so much had been or the possible non-construction, than push the limits, I think possibly a lot neglected, policy to research and write on you. Also there is no one who was more due to a lack of knowledge of materials all aspects of both light and heavy vehicle associated with the then regulator of behaviour and so on, but how your staff construction and modifi cation. Dick was the day, than you. What is possibly not keep things in check and apply resolve strictly honest and one of his favourite appreciated by many in your own present and decisiveness when required. What is sayings apart from “… sod off Noddy …”, day fraternity is the rocky/risky path that possibly not appreciated and understood was “… there is no such thing as a free you yourself trod, to work between the by many of the public is that here in New lunch …”, and I can say I learnt a lot of life regulator (Dick Reynolds) and your own Zealand the technical abilities of our skills from Dick. members - to work away tirelessly and technicians, enthusiasts, and others are persistently, to achieve the vision that the equal of anywhere in the world. And As you have stated Dick certainly was both you and Dick shared over time, than the vision born way back in the 80’s and “… the right man for the time …”! those of us who remain. 90’s and shared by both you and Dick has Thank you again Tony for a lovely tribute successfully harnessed that capability. I am sure that if Dick could only read the to Dick. LVVTA Newsletters of today he would As for your comments concerning Dick - I All the best. be immensely proud of what has been feel quite humbled because they were so achieved. I am sure he would be satisfi ed appropriate, they had to be said otherwise BJ (John) Long that all is well with low volume vehicles. he would have passed on unnoticed. NZ Transport Agency (now retired). Just So You Know FEEDBACK "Good page thanks guys good to see u can To Tony and Linda answer questions even if they are silly or good and have of I have offi cially resigned from the Agency. sense of humour to go with it. Seems to make peoples lives During a career there are many highlights and lowlights – I can honestly say a bit easier to understand things with their cars." working with you both and your fantastic team and the LVV certifi ers has been my From Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association Inc - main highlight. I have thoroughly enjoyed "Thanks. We do what we can to be a bit human about it. the relationship/friendship we have formed over the years and I appreciate the There’s a juggling act between it being an offi ce packed full honesty, integrity, professionalism, and of of car guys & girls, who eat sleep and breathe playing with course the laughs we have shared. You guys rock! cars, and also being a legally appointed regulatory body, Thank you so much. who need to have a big set of rules." Jim McDonald Chief Advisor, Project Implementation. NZ Transport Agency (now retired).

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 17 WWW.LVVTA.ORG.NZ

THE GOOD, THE BAD, & THE UGLY...

How brave That's how are you?! you lower it!

Safety fi rst!

Hope it's hardwood!

The longer you look the worse it gets...

Lawn-mowing Texas-style!

LVVTA NEWSLETTER ISSUE 58 PAGE 18