FAQs

Special requirements may include, upgrading wheel and Tyre combinations for higher Load ratings to match new GVM. Upgrading Brakes to handle the new load requirements. If the Upgrade is over 3,500Kg’s Cat 6 indicators are required.

Registered Vehicles applying for State Certification need to be inspected by VSCCS engineer and they will advise if track testing is required.

Track Testing will be required for any of the following; Oversize Wheels and Tyres, Increases in Wheel Track or Wheel base.Upgraded suspension packages not covered by CRN number. Modifications including fitment of non ARD standard approved accessories. Modifications to braking systems including upgraded Dual diaphragm Brake booster,Larger size Rotors, Larger Calipers or Disc Brake Conversions.For all additional information contact your local VSCCS certifier.

The best way forward is to undertake an initial engineering compliance inspection of the vehicle prior any major modifications are undertaken. Discussion of the clients requirements and needs. Inspection of the vehicle to determine the proposed upgrades and existing modifications that may require corrective measures. Depending on the scope of your modification this could include: Maximum axle weight loading (Front and Rear) of the vehicle Testing requirements depending the modifications may include, Low and high speed braking, lane change testing, emission testing, noise testing, ultra-sonic testing of welded components and test reports / CRN numbers / for modified components. Initial compliance report on the inspection findings including corrective measures and the statutory requirements for registration. Weighbridge certificate on completed modified vehicle including front and rear axle weights. Final engineering inspection. Issue of compliance certificate. Process at TFNSW.

There are a number of reasons. Larger wheels and tyres are heavier which have greater rolling diameter that effects the safe handling of the vehicle. Larger wheels require larger brakes Vehicle stability is compromised as the centre of gravity changed to the manufactures design height. The height change affects road handling, front zone crash protection, bumper heights to other vehicles, side protrusion protection, air bag crash sensors, electronic stability control and in some cases wheel track. Statutory requirements limitations, VSB 14, ADR,s, brake assessment manual & suspension manual requirements.

Yes. There are many factors to be covered off by such a bus modification, including: axle weight distribution, investigating what bus rules are applicable to the modifications & the service operations for the bus, seat anchorages, seat spacings, if seat belts are applicable, aisle width, emergency exits compliance, and technical specifications. The vehicle insurance cover could also be void if modifications are not certified.

“• The replacement engine being installed into the modified vehicle will have both capacity/size and weight limits to the vehicle being modified. axle weights cannot be exceeded.
• As an example, NCOP3, Section: LA Ver 2.0 Jan 2011, Engines: it states (as one example only).
A vehicle weighing 800 to 1100kgs can have a 4 X OE capacity, as max engine capacity installed. E.g., 1100kgs X 4 = 4400cc engine capacity. Axle limits do apply, braking ability does apply, emissions limits do also apply, exhaust noise limits do apply, etc.- etc.
If the vehicle has a chassis, generally a 4WD will have a chassis. In this case Nil Eng Size limits apply, however, axle capacities must not be exceeded, all other caveats apply as previously discussed. The weight distribution on the front axle when loaded with driver and passengers can be exceeded in a lot of engine conversions. Vichele emissions must be tested to comply with the model vehicle being modified. You cannot install an earlier model engine to a later model vehicle. Unless emissions are compatible. The emission requirements may not be achievable. If the engine has a larger camshaft overlap, i.e., a Sports Camshaft, emission levels will never be met. The engine management if changed to an aftermarket ECU will not meet emissions. A very costly exercise in testing and attempting to adjust engine performance and emissions which may never be satisfactory. Vehicles exhaust must be noise tested [dB] and certified to the year model of the vehicle being modified. dB noise limits do apply. Brakes must be tested to the Brake Assessment Manual Ver 3.0. this is an onerous and costly testing regime. We normally have Track Hire, Driver Hire, Film crew hire, Etc. The vehicle must be thoroughly inspected for correct installation of the engine/transmission. Depending if changed, to meet good engineering practices & VSB-14 or other listed standards.
“

It depends on what modifications are intended, or have been carried out. Plus the travelling, expenses and where testing is involved

No. I need to assess the trailer prior to modifying, and pre-check that the modifications are suitable. Then we can work out a scope of work, and how it is to be done … especially in meeting the requirements of VSB 6

Yes we do write VSCCS Certificate for the classes of vehciels our licences cover