Australian Capital Territory Numbered Regulations Australian Capital Territory Numbered RegulationsNote 1 The Australian Vehicle Standards Rules 1999 (the Vehicle Standards ), which were approved by the Australian Transport Council on 29 January 1999 , set standards that vehicles must comply with to be driven on roads and road related areas.
This Schedule contains the Vehicle Standards as modified for implementation in the ACT.
The ADRs (Australian Design Rules) are rules for designing and building vehicles. Imported vehicles must also comply with the ADRs.
The Vehicle Standards require a vehicle that is subject to an ADR when built or imported to continue to comply with the ADR.
The Vehicle Standards also apply certain other standards (adopted standards) that are intended to complement the ADRs.
The ADRs do not cover:
• vehicles built before 1969
• combinations of vehicles of any age
• every safety feature for vehicles built between 1969 and 1988.
These matters are covered by the Vehicle Standards.
In most cases, if a vehicle complies with this Schedule, it is suitable for road use.
Note 2 The ACT Inspection Manual for Light Vehicles and the ACT Inspection Manual for Heavy Vehicles , published by the road transport authority, provide information to help people meet the requirements of this Schedule. The manuals are available from Road User Services, Department of Urban Services.
1 Object of this Schedule (VS r 2, NSW sch 4 cl 1)
(1) The object of this Schedule is to set standards, about the construction and performance of motor vehicles, trailers and combinations, that are part of the uniform national road transport legislation envisaged by the National Road Transport Commission Act 1991 (Cwlth).
(2) The standards are intended—
(a) to promote, throughout the life of motor vehicles, trailers and combinations, their safe use and efficiency and the protection of the environment; and
(b) to reduce the cost of transport administration.
2 Diagrams—this Schedule (VS r 4, NSW sch 4 cl 5)
(1) A diagram in this Schedule is part of the Schedule.
(2) A diagram of something (other than the essential diagram in clause 174) is an illustrative example of the thing in black and white, but does not represent its dimensions or the dimensions of any part of it.
Note The essential diagram in clause 174 provides the dimensions required for a 75mm kingpin used in a B-double or road train.
3 References in Schedule to provisions (NSW sch 4 cl 5 (1))
A reference in this Schedule to a part, division, clause, subclause or another provision (other than a regulation or subregulation) is a reference to a provision of this Schedule, unless otherwise expressly stated.
4 Optional items (NSW sch 4 cl 8)
If it is provided or indicated, in a provision of this Schedule, a 2nd edition ADR or a 3rd edition ADR, that an item of equipment is optional and the item is used on a registrable vehicle to which the provision applies, the item must comply with the provision.
5 Special requirements for vehicles used by people with disabilities etc (NSW sch 4 cl 9)
The road transport authority may require or permit a registrable vehicle to be specially built, equipped or adapted in a way not provided for under this Schedule if it is to be used by a person with a physical disability.
PART 2—APPLICATION OF SCHEDULE
Note The requirements of this Schedule apply to registrable vehicles that are used on a road or road related area (see regulation 109 (Motor vehicles not complying with sch 1), 110 (Trailers not complying with sch 1) and 111 (Combinations not complying with sch 1))
6 Application of Schedule to plant (NSW sch 4 cl 2 (2)-(4))
(1) The provisions of this Schedule (other than this clause) do not apply to plant.
(2) However, plant must continue to comply with the technical specifications to which it was built and remain safe for use on roads or road related areas.
Note Although the ACT Inspection Manual for Light Vehicles and the ACT Inspection Manual for Heavy Vehicles do not apply directly to plant, they provide a guide to the maintenance and repair of vehicles generally.
(3) In this clause—
(a) a machine or implement that cannot carry a load, other than tools and accessories usually carried in or on the vehicle; or
(b) a crane or forklift truck.
7 Vehicles to which Schedule does not apply (VS r 10)
This Schedule does not apply to—
(a) a vehicle used only on a railway or tramway; or
(b) a vehicle designed to be controlled by a person walking next to it; or
(c) a vehicle propelled by a motor with a maximum power output of not over 200W; or
(d) a motorised wheelchair that cannot travel faster than 10km/h; or
(e) a vehicle or combination that is being repaired, or is being tested in the course of being repaired, so it will comply with this Schedule; or
(f) a vehicle or combination being driven or towed directly to a place where it is to be repaired so it will comply with this Schedule.
8 Non-application of Schedule—inconsistent ADR requirements (VS r 12, NSW sch 4 cl 17)
A provision of Parts 5 (General safety requirements) to 13 (Mechanical connections between vehicles) of this Schedule does not apply to a vehicle if—
(a) the provision is inconsistent with a requirement of a 2nd or 3rd edition ADR applying to the vehicle; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the requirement.
9
Non-application of Schedule—exemption under other laws
(VS r 11,
NSW sch 4 cl 3)
(1) A provision of this Schedule does not apply to a vehicle or combination if the vehicle or combination is exempt from—
(a) the provision under clause 104 (Road transport authority may exempt vehicle etc from certain provisions); or
(b) the corresponding provision of the law of another jurisdiction.
(2) However, the vehicle or combination is exempt only if all conditions of the exemption (if any) are being complied with.
Example
An exemption permitting a greater dimension limit for a vehicle is subject to conditions about the route where, and times when, the vehicle is permitted to travel, and the escort vehicles needed to accompany the vehicle. A relevant provision of this Schedule does not apply to the vehicle only if the conditions are complied with.
10 Non-application of Schedule—Motor Vehicle Standards Act approvals (VS r 13, NSW sch 4 cl 4)
A provision of Parts 5 (General safety requirements) to 13 (Mechanical connections between vehicles) does not apply to a vehicle if—
(a) the vehicle does not comply with a requirement of an ADR applying to the vehicle; and
(b) the provision of this Schedule corresponds to the requirement of the ADR; and
(c) despite the noncompliance, approval has been given, under subsection 10A (2) or (3) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth), to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(d) the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
Note 1 Subsection 10A (2) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth) deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, but the noncompliance is only in minor and inconsequential respects.
Note 2 Subsection 10A (3) of that Act deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, and the noncompliance is not minor and inconsequential, but the vehicle will be safe to use if conditions are complied with.
PART 3—AUSTRALIAN DESIGN RULES
Note This Part applies the 2nd and 3rd edition ADRs to various vehicles.
Under the Part, a vehicle that is subject to ADRs when it is built generally remains subject to the ADRs throughout its life. However, a vehicle need not comply with a standard if the standard is replaced by, or inconsistent with, a later standard and the vehicle complies with the later standard. Older vehicles may, therefore, be fitted with any equipment allowed on newer vehicles.
Vehicles that are modified must continue to comply with this Schedule.
The following provisions of this Schedule extend the application of particular 2nd or 3rd edition ADRs to vehicles to which the ADRs are not expressed to apply:
• subclause 42 (4) (electrical wiring, connections and installations)
• subclause 126 (3) (rear marking plates)
• subclause 144 (1) and (2) (braking system for prime mover in B-double)
• clause 145 (braking system design for motor vehicles in road trains)
• subclauses 146 (1) and (3) (braking system design for trailers in B-doubles or road trains)
• subclauses 164 (1) and (2) (speed limiting).
The following provisions of this Schedule apply to a vehicle instead of the corresponding ADR requirement:
• subclause 47 (5) (window tinting)
• clauses 54 and 55 (tyre speed category requirements).
An ADR (Australian Design Rule) is a national standard.
12 What is a national standard? (VS r 15)
A national standard is a national standard under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth).
13 References to national standards (VS r 16)
Unless the contrary intention appears, a reference in this Schedule to a national standard is a reference to the national standard as in force from time to time.
14 What is a 2nd edition ADR? (VS r 17)
A 2nd edition ADR is a national standard incorporated in the document described as the Australian Design Rules for Motor Vehicle Safety, Second Edition originally published by the then Commonwealth Department of Transport.
15 What is a 3rd edition ADR? (VS r 18)
A 3rd edition ADR is a national standard incorporated in the document described as the Australian Design Rules for Motor Vehicles and Trailers, Third Edition published by the Federal Office of Road Safety of the Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Development.
Division 3.2—""Compliance with ADRs
16 Compliance with 2nd edition ADRs (VS r 19, NSW sch 4 cl 11)
(1) If a 2nd edition ADR recommends that the ADR should apply to the design and construction of a vehicle, the vehicle must comply with the ADR.
(2) If a 2nd edition ADR contains a requirement for a type of equipment fitted to a vehicle built on or after a stated time, any equipment of the same type fitted to the vehicle after it is built must comply with—
(a) the requirement as in force when the vehicle was built; or
(b) if the requirement is amended after the vehicle is built and before the equipment is fitted—the requirement as in force—
(i) when the vehicle was built; or
(ii) when the equipment was fitted; or
(iii) at any time between when the vehicle was built and the equipment was fitted.
(3) However, a vehicle, or equipment fitted to a vehicle, need not comply with a recommendation or requirement of a 2nd edition ADR if—
(a) the recommendation or requirement is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a requirement of a 3rd edition ADR applying to the vehicle or equipment; and
(b) the vehicle or equipment complies with the requirement of the 3rd edition ADR.
(4) If a 2nd edition ADR allows a vehicle built on or after a stated time to be fitted with equipment, a vehicle built before the time may also be fitted with the equipment.
17 Compliance with 3rd edition ADRs (VS r 20, NSW sch 4 cl 12)
(1) If a 3rd edition ADR applies to the design and construction of a vehicle, the vehicle must comply with the ADR.
(2) If a 3rd edition ADR contains a requirement for a type of equipment fitted to a vehicle built on or after a stated time, any equipment of the same type fitted to the vehicle after it is built must comply with—
(a) the requirement as in force when the vehicle was built; or
(b) if the requirement is amended after the vehicle is built and before the equipment is fitted—the requirement as in force—
(i) when the vehicle was built; or
(ii) when the equipment was fitted; or
(iii) at any time between when the vehicle was built and the equipment was fitted.
(3) However, a vehicle, or equipment fitted to a vehicle, need not comply with a requirement of a 3rd edition ADR if—
(a) the requirement is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a requirement of a later version of the ADR applying to the vehicle or equipment; and
(b) the vehicle or equipment complies with the requirement of the later version.
(4) If a 3rd edition ADR allows a vehicle built on or after a stated time to be fitted with equipment, a vehicle built before the time may also be fitted with the equipment.
18 Exception to compliance with ADRs—vehicles that are not road vehicles (VS r 21, NSW sch 4 cl 13)
A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by subclause 16 (1) or 17 (1) if a determination or declaration under section 5B of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth) provides that the vehicle is not a road vehicle for that Act.
19 Exception to compliance with ADRs— Motor Vehicle Standards Act (VS r 22, NSW sch 4 cl 14)
(1) A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by subclause 16 (1) or 17 (1) if—
(a) despite noncompliance with the ADR, approval has been given, under subsection 10A (2) or (3) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth), to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
Note 1 Subsection 10A (2) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth) deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, but the noncompliance is only in minor and inconsequential respects.
Note 2 Subsection 10A (3) of that Act deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, and the noncompliance is not minor and inconsequential, but the vehicle will be safe to use if conditions are complied with.
(2) A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by subclause 16 (1) or 17 (1) if—
(a) the vehicle may be supplied to the market under subsection 14A (1) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth); and
(b) for a vehicle for which an approval has been given under that subsection—the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
(3) A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by subclause 16 (1) or 17 (1) if—
(a) the vehicle may be used in transport in Australia under subsection 15 (2) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth); and
(b) for a vehicle for which an approval has been given under that subsection—the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
20 Partial exception to compliance with ADRs—personally imported vehicles (VS r 23, NSW sch 4 cl 15)
(1) A personally imported vehicle must be fitted with—
(a) seatbelts that are as effective as seatbelts that meet an Australian Standard or British Standard for seatbelts as in force when this clause commenced; and
(b) seatbelt anchorages that meet the number and location requirements of 2nd or 3rd edition ADR 5; and
(c) child restraint anchorages that meet the number, location, accessibility, thread size and form requirements of 2nd edition ADR 34 or 3rd edition ADR 5 or 34; and
(d) head restraints that meet the number, location and size requirements of 2nd or 3rd edition ADR 22.
(2) However, a personally imported vehicle need only meet the requirements of an ADR mentioned in subclause (1) if the ADR recommends that it should apply, or applies, to a vehicle of the same type.
(3) A personally imported vehicle need not otherwise comply with an ADR applied by subclause 16 (1) or 17 (1).
(4) In this clause—
(a) owned and used the vehicle for the period decided in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth) before the vehicle was imported into Australia; and
(b) when the vehicle is imported, is—
(i) an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident or is a person who has applied to become an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident; and
(ii) old enough to hold a licence or a permit to drive the vehicle; and
(c) within 12 months before the vehicle is landed in Australia, had not imported into Australia another vehicle owned by him or her; and
(d) had the approval of the Minister responsible for the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cwlth) to import the vehicle.
21 Alteration of specifications (NSW sch 4 cl 16)
(1) A vehicle must not be altered from its specifications, as originally built, so that it no longer complies with the requirements of a 2nd edition ADR or 3rd edition ADR applying to that vehicle.
(2) A car, or a car derivative, must also not be altered in any of the following respects:
(a) by fitting a wheel rim that does not comply with the relevant dimensional standards for wheel rims in the Tyre and Rim Standards Manual issued by the Tyre and Rim Association of Australia;
(b) by widening the wheel track of the front or rear wheels by over 25mm (or, for a four-wheel drive built for off-road use, 50mm) beyond the maximum specified by the axle or vehicle manufacturer;
(c) by fitting a wheel nut that does not—
(i) engage the thread of the wheel stud for at least the same length as the wheel nut provided by the vehicle manufacturer; or
(ii) match the taper on the wheel stud hole;
(d) by fitting a tyre that is not appropriate to the wheel rim as specified in the Tyre and Rim Standards Manual issued by the Tyre and Rim Association of Australia;
(e) by fitting a tyre with a section width over 30% (or, for a four-wheel drive built for off-road use, 50%) larger than the largest optional tyre specified by the vehicle's manufacturer;
(f) so that any part of it other than a tyre or wheel rim will contact the road surface if a tyre completely deflates;
(g) by welding or heating an axle, stub axle, steering arm, steering knuckle support or heat degradable component.
(3) If a vehicle is altered from its specifications as originally built, the road transport authority may require the responsible person for the vehicle to supply information about the alterations.
(4) Despite subclauses (1) and (2), a vehicle may be altered from its specifications as originally built if the alteration only gives effect to any subsequent 2nd edition ADR or 3rd edition ADR applying to a vehicle of that type.
22 What is an adopted standard? (VS r 24, NSW sch 4 cl 18)
An adopted standard is a standard, other than a national standard, that is applied, adopted or incorporated by this Schedule.
Example
Subclause 67 (7) adopts Australian Standard AS 1906 Retro-reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes .
23 Exception to compliance with adopted standards (VS r 26, NSW sch 4 cl 19)
A vehicle need not comply with an adopted standard if—
(a) the standard is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a later version of the standard; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the later version of the standard.
24 Reference to adopted standards (VS r 25, NSW sch 4 cl 20)
A reference in a clause or subclause to an adopted standard is a reference to the standard as in force when the clause or subclause commenced.
PART 5— GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
Note For a vehicle to be operated safely, the vehicle needs to be properly designed to minimise the potential for accidents and harm to other road users.
This Part sets out various requirements covering the driver's view from a vehicle, the driver's control of a vehicle, protection of vehicle occupants and other road users, and other general safety features.
25 Steering (VS r 27, NSW sch 4 cl 22)
(1) A motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must have a right-hand drive.
(2) A motor vehicle with a GVM not over 4.5t that is less than 30 years old must have a right-hand drive if the vehicle—
(a) was not registered unconditionally in left-hand drive form in Australia before 1 January 1985; or
(b) is temporarily in Australia under a Commonwealth law or in accordance with an agreement with the Commonwealth.
(3) A motor vehicle has a right-hand drive if the centre of at least 1 steering control of the vehicle is to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the vehicle.
(4) A component of the steering system of a motor vehicle that is essential for effective steering of the vehicle must be built to transmit energy by mechanical means only.
(5) Failure of a non-mechanical component of the steering system must not prevent effective steering of the vehicle.
(6) This clause does not apply to a vehicle if the vehicle is built or used mainly for a purpose other than the transport of goods or people by road.
26 Turning ability (VS r 28, NSW sch 4 cl 23)
(1) A motor vehicle must be able to turn in a circle not over 25m in diameter, measured by the outer edge of the tyre track at ground level.
(2) The vehicle must be able to comply with subclause (1) whether it turns to the left or to the right.
27 Ability to travel backwards and forwards (VS r
29, NSW sch 4
cl 23)
A motor vehicle with an unloaded mass over 450kg must be able to be driven both backwards and forwards when the driver is in the normal driving position.
28 Protrusions (VS r 30, NSW sch 4 cl 25)
(1) An object fitted to a vehicle must be designed, built and fitted to the vehicle in a way that minimises the likelihood of injury to a person making contact with the vehicle.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to an object fitted to a vehicle if—
(a) the vehicle was designed before 1965 and the object was part of the design of the vehicle; or
(b) the object was fitted to the vehicle before 1965 in accordance with the law of the place where the object was fitted.
29 Oil and grease not to be dropped (NSW sch 4 cl 26)
All parts and fittings of a motor vehicle or trailer must designed, built and maintained so that an excessive amount of oil or grease will not be dropped onto the roadway.
30 Driver's view and vehicle controls (VS r 31, NSW sch 4 cl 27)
A motor vehicle must be built—
(a) to allow the driver a view of the road and of traffic to the front and sides of the vehicle so the driver can drive the vehicle safely; and
(b) with its controls located so the driver can drive the vehicle safely.
31 Seating (VS r 32, NSW sch 4 cl 28)
A seat for a driver or passenger in a vehicle must be securely attached to the vehicle.
32 Child restraint anchorages (NSW sch 4 cl 30)
(1) The following vehicles must be fitted with a child restraint anchorage complying with ADR 34:
(a) a car (other than a car with a hinged or folding rear seat or a station wagon) built after June 1976;
(b) a car with a hinged or folding rear seat, or a station wagon, built after 1976;
(c) a forward-control passenger vehicle built after 1985;
(d) a bus built after June 1988 that has a GVM not over 3.5t and not over 12 seating positions (including the driver's).
(2) In subclause (1)—
(a) up to 9 seating positions (including the driver's); and
(b) the centre of the steering wheel in the front quarter of the vehicle's total length (including any bumpers or overriders); and
(c) a GVM not over 3.5t; and
(d) a difference between its tare mass and its GVM that is not more than double the total weight of passengers calculated by multiplying the number of seating positions by 68kg.
33 Door latches and hinges (NSW sch 4 cl 31)
Door latches and hinges on a vehicle must be built so the doors are securely attached to the vehicle and can remain securely fastened when closed.
34 Mudguards and spray suppression (VS r 33, NSW sch 4 cl 32)
(1) A vehicle must have firmly fitted—
(a) a mudguard for each wheel or for adjacent wheels; and
(b) for each
axle group and single axle on a vehicle that is part of a
B-double—spray
suppression devices complying with Parts 1 and 2 of British Standard
AU200-1984 Spray Reducing Devices for Heavy Goods Vehicle .
(2) However, paragraph (1) (a) does not apply to a vehicle if—
(a) the construction or use of the vehicle makes the fitting of mudguards unnecessary or impracticable; or
(b) the body or part of the body of the vehicle acts as a mudguard.
Example of vehicles to which paragraph (2) (a) applies
1. Timber jinkers.
2. Most road plant.
3. Some agricultural equipment.
(3) A mudguard fitted to a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must, when the wheels of the vehicle are in position to move straight ahead—
(a) reduce the danger of a person contacting the moving wheels; and
(b) for the rear wheels—
(i) cover the overall tyre width of the wheel or wheels to which it is fitted; and
(ii) be fitted so the height above ground level of the lowest edge of the rear of the mudguard is not over 1/3 of the horizontal distance between the edge and the centre of the rearmost axle.
(4) However, a mudguard may be up to—
(a) 230mm above ground level; or
(b) on a vehicle built to be used off-road—300mm above ground level.
(5) The outside of a rear mudguard, except a mudflap, of a vehicle that can be seen from the rear of the vehicle must be coloured white or silver if the vehicle—
(a) is at least 2.2m wide; and
(b) has a body the vertical measurement of which is under 300mm at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above ground level to the highest point; and
(c) is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with clause 126.
(6) For paragraph (5) (a), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
35 Horns, alarms etc (VS r 34, NSW sch 4 cl 33)
(1) A motor vehicle must be fitted with at least 1 horn or other device that can give sufficient audible warning to other road users of the approach or position of the vehicle.
(2) A motor vehicle must not be fitted with a device that can make a sound like the sound of a siren, bell, exhaust whistle, compression whistle or repeater horn.
(3) However, subclause (2) does not apply to—
(a) a police vehicle; or
(b) an emergency vehicle; or
(c) a transport enforcement vehicle; or
(d) an Australian Protective Service vehicle; or
(e) an Australian Customs Service vehicle; or
(f) an Airservices Australia vehicle; or
(g) a vehicle at least 25 years old that is fitted as a police or emergency vehicle if—
(i) the vehicle is used for exhibition purposes; or
(ii) it is part of a collection of former police or emergency vehicles; or
(h) an anti-theft alarm if the alarm cannot be operated while the vehicle's ignition is on.
(4) Also, a motor vehicle may be fitted with a device that emits a regular, intermittent sound while the vehicle is reversing or in reverse gear.
(5) The device must not be louder than is necessary so the driver, and a person near the vehicle, can hear the device when it is operating.
(6) In this clause—
36 Rear-vision mirrors (VS r 35, NSW sch 4 cl 34)
(1) A rear-vision mirror or mirrors must be fitted to a motor vehicle as required by this clause so a driver of the vehicle can clearly see by reflection the road behind the vehicle and any following or overtaking vehicle.
(2) At least 1 rear-vision mirror must be fitted to—
(a) a car; and
(b) a motortrike with 2 front wheels; and
(c) a motorbike, or motortrike with 1 front wheel, built before July 1975.
(3) At least 1 rear-vision mirror must be fitted to each side of the following motor vehicles:
(a) a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5t;
(b) a motorbike, or motortrike with 1 front wheel, built after June 1975;
(c) a motor vehicle (other than a station wagon) built to transport goods;
(d) a bus;
(e) a motor vehicle towing a trailer or another vehicle if the towed trailer or vehicle is wider than the towing vehicle;
(f) a motor vehicle if the driver cannot, by using a mirror fixed to the interior of the vehicle, have a clear view of the road to the rear of the vehicle and of any following or overtaking vehicle—
(i) because of the way in which the vehicle is built, equipped or loaded; or
(ii) because the vehicle is towing a trailer or other vehicle; or
(iii) for any other reason.
(4) A motor vehicle with a GVM not over 3.5t (other than a motor vehicle mentioned in subclause (2) or (3)) must be fitted with—
(a) at least 1 rear-vision mirror on the right side of the vehicle; and
(b) at least 1 rear-vision mirror on the left side of the vehicle or inside the vehicle.
(5) A rear-vision mirror fitted to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5t must not project over 150mm beyond the widest part (excluding lights, signalling devices and reflectors) of the vehicle or the combination of which it forms part.
(6) However, the rear-vision mirror may project not over 230mm beyond the widest part of the vehicle or combination if it can fold to project not over 150mm beyond the widest part.
37 Rear-vision mirrors—surfaces (VS r 36, NSW sch 4 cl 35)
(1) A rear-vision mirror required to be fitted to the side of a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5t must have a reflecting surface of at least 150cm 2 .
(2) A rear-vision mirror required to be fitted to the right side of a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5t must have a flat reflecting surface if—
(a) the motor vehicle has only 1 steering control; and
(b) the centre of the steering control is to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the motor vehicle.
(3) The reflecting surface of the rear-vision mirrors that are required to be fitted to a motorbike or moped must—
(a) each be of the same curvature; and
(b) if convex, be part of a notional sphere with a radius of at least 1.2m.
38 Additional rear-vision mirrors (VS r 37, NSW sch 4 cl 36)
A motor vehicle may be fitted with additional rear-vision mirrors or mirror surfaces that are flat or convex or a combination of flat and convex surfaces.
39 Automatic transmission (VS r 38, NSW sch 4 cl 37)
(1) A motor vehicle fitted with an automatic transmission must have an engine starter mechanism that cannot operate when the transmission control is in a position to drive the vehicle.
(2) A vehicle built after 1975 that is fitted with an automatic transmission must have an indicator in the driver's compartment showing the transmission control position.
(3) Subclauses (1) and (2) do not apply to a motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels.
(4) If a motor vehicle (other than a motorbike or implement) built after 1975 is equipped with automatic transmission—
(a) the transmission control lever position, and an indication of the transmission gear ratio selected, must be displayed within the driver's compartment where they will be readily visible to the driver; and
(b) the sequence of transmission control lever positions must—
(i) include a neutral position (in which no power is transmitted to the driving wheels) located between the reverse drive and forward drive positions; and
(ii) if a park position (in which forward or rearward movement of the vehicle is prevented) is included—the park position must be located at the end of the sequence adjacent to the reverse drive position.
(5) If a car, or a car derivative, built after 1975 is equipped with automatic transmission and—
(a) the transmission control lever is located on the steering column—
(i) the movement of the lever from neutral to reverse must be clockwise or, if all lever positions are to the right of the vertical longitudinal plane through the centre of the steering wheel, the movement of the lever from neutral to reverse must be anticlockwise; and
(ii) the movement of the device provided to indicate the transmission gear ratio selected must be generally in the same linear or rotational direction as the movement of the lever; or
(b) the transmission control lever is located in another position—
(i) all lever positions must be to the left of the vertical longitudinal plane through the centre of the steering wheel; and
(ii) the movement of the lever from neutral to reverse must be generally upwards, forward or to the left according to whether the lever is constrained to be moved generally in a vertical, longitudinal or transverse direction, as the case may be.
40 Diesel engines (VS r 39, NSW sch 4 cl 38)
A motor vehicle propelled by a compression ignition engine (commonly known as a diesel engine) must be fitted with a device preventing the engine from being started accidentally or inadvertently.
41 Bonnet securing devices (VS r 40, NSW sch 4 cl 39)
(1) A motor vehicle with a moveable body panel forward of the windscreen must have a device to secure the panel if it covers an engine, luggage storage or battery compartment.
(2) However, if the panel opens from the front in a way that partly or completely obstructs the driver's forward view through the windscreen, the panel must have primary and secondary devices to secure the panel.
42 Electrical wiring, connections and installations (VS r 41, NSW sch 4 cl 40)
(1) The wiring of electrical equipment of a vehicle, except the high-tension ignition wiring, must—
(a) be supported at intervals of not over 600mm, unless the vehicle is a pole-type trailer with a pole with an adjustable length, or an extendible trailer; and
(b) be insulated at each of its joints; and
(c) be located where it cannot—
(i) become overheated; or
(ii) contact moving parts; or
(iii) come near enough to the fuel system to be a fire hazard; and
(d) be protected from chafing.
(2) The electrical connectors between motor vehicles and trailers, for operation of the vehicle lights required by this Schedule, must comply with Australian Standard AS 2513-1982 Electrical Connections for Trailer Vehicles .
(3) A trailer must be equipped with an electrical conductor, independent of the trailer coupling, that provides a return path between the electrical circuits of the trailer and towing vehicle.
(4) The electrical wiring, connections and installations of a semitrailer, dog trailer or converter dolly used in a road train over 19m long must comply with 3rd edition ADR 63, whether or not it was built before the date stated in the ADR for vehicles of that type.
43 Speedometers (NSW sch 4 cl 41)
(1) A motor vehicle (other than a trailer) built after June 1974 that can be driven faster than 50km/h on a level road must be fitted with a speedometer.
(2) The speedometer must—
(a) indicate the speed at which the vehicle is being driven in kilometres per hour; and
(b) indicate, when the vehicle is travelling faster than 40km/h, a speed that is not over 10% less than the actual speed; and
(c) be readily visible to the driver.
44 Television receivers and visual display units (VS r 42, NSW sch 4 cl 42)
(1) A television receiver or visual display unit must not be installed in a vehicle so any part of the image on the screen is visible to the driver from the normal driving position.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to—
(a) a television receiver or visual display unit that cannot be operated when the vehicle is moving; or
(b) a driver's aid in any vehicle or a destination sign in a bus.
Example of driver's aids
1. Closed-circuit television security cameras.
2. Dispatch systems.
3. Navigational or intelligent highway and vehicle system equipment.
4. Rear-view screens.
5. Ticket-issuing machines.
6. Vehicle monitoring devices.
(3) A television receiver, or visual display unit, and its associated equipment in a vehicle must be securely mounted in a position that—
(a) does not obscure the driver's view of the road; and
(b) does not impede the movement of a person in the vehicle.
45 Windows generally (NSW sch 4 cl 43)
(1) A window on a vehicle must be sound and properly fitted.
(2) A movable window on a vehicle must be fitted with a suitable device to open and close it.
(3) At least 1/2 of the side windows on a vehicle must be openable.
46 Windscreens and windows (VS r 43, NSW sch 4 cl 44)
(1) Transparent material used in a windscreen, window, or an interior partition, of a motor vehicle must be of approved material if—
(a) the vehicle was built after June 1953; or
(b) the material was first fitted to the vehicle after June 1953.
(2) However, non-shatterable transparent material may be used in a window or an interior partition of a motor vehicle.
(3) In this clause—
• Australian Standard AS R1-1965 Safety Glass for Land Transport
• Australian Standard AS R1-1968 Safety Glass for Land Transport
• Australian Standard AS 2080-1977 Safety Glass for Vehicles
• British Standard BS 857:1967 Specification for Safety Glass for Land Transport
• British Standard BS 5282:1975 Road Vehicle Safety Glass
• Economic Commission for Europe Regulation No 43 Uniform Provisions Concerning Approval of Safety Glazing and Glazing Materials for Installation on Power Driven Vehicles and their Trailers .
• British Standard BS AU178:1980 Road Vehicle Safety Glass
• Japanese Industrial Standard JIS R 3211-1979 Safety Glasses for Road Vehicles
• American National
Standard ANSI Z26.1-1980 Safety Code for Safety Glazing Materials for
Glazing Motor Vehicles Operating on Land Highway".
transparent material does not include any coating added to the windscreen,
window or partition after its manufacture.
Note Copies of the standards, except the Economic Commission for Europe standard, are available from offices of Standards Australia. The Economic Commission for Europe standard is available from the Federal Office of Road Safety, Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Development, Canberra.
47 Window tinting (VS r 44, NSW sch 4 cl 45)
(1) Glazing used in a windscreen of a motor vehicle must have a luminous transmittance of at least—
(a) for a motor vehicle built after 1971—75%; or
(b) for another motor vehicle—70%.
(2) Windscreen glazing of a motor vehicle must not be coated in a way that reduces its luminous transmittance.
(3) However, subclauses (1) and (2) do not apply to the greater of the following areas of a windscreen:
(a) the area above the highest point of the windscreen that is swept by a windscreen-wiper;
(b) the upper 10% of the windscreen.
(4) Glazing used in a window or interior partition of a motor vehicle must have a luminous transmittance of at least 70%.
(5) Glazing (other than glazing used in the windscreen in a motor vehicle) may be coated to achieve a luminous transmittance of not less than 35%.
(6) Glazing that has been coated to reduce its luminous transmittance must not have a reflectance of over 10%.
(7) The luminous transmittance requirements in subclause (5) apply to a vehicle instead of the corresponding requirements in the relevant ADR.
(8) In this clause—
48 Windscreen-wipers and washers (VS r 45, NSW sch 4 cl 47)
(1) A motor vehicle with 3 or more wheels that is fitted with a windscreen must be fitted with at least 1 windscreen-wiper unless a driver in a normal driving position can obtain an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle without looking through the windscreen.
(2) At least 1 windscreen-wiper fitted to the motor vehicle must—
(a) be able to remove moisture from the part of the windscreen in front of the driver to allow the driver an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle when the windscreen is wet; and
(b) be able to be operated from a normal driving position; and
(c) for a motor vehicle built after 1934—continue to operate until the wiper is switched off; and
(d) for a motor vehicle built after 1959 the driving position of which is nearer one side of the vehicle than the other—
(i) be able to remove moisture from the part of the windscreen in front of the driver, and a corresponding part of the windscreen on the other side of the centre of the motor vehicle, to allow the driver an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle when the windscreen is wet; and
(ii) if the windscreen-wipers are operated by engine manifold vacuum—be provided with a vacuum reservoir or pump to maintain the efficient operation of the wiper or wipers while the vehicle is in motion.
(3) If the motor vehicle was built after 1982 and has a GVM over 4.5t, it must also be fitted with a windscreen-washer that can direct water onto the windscreen within the area swept by a windscreen-wiper so the wiper can spread the water to all of the area swept by the wiper.
Note The ADRs require certain vehicles with a GVM not over 4.5t to be fitted with a windscreen-washer.
(4) The windscreen-washer must be able to be operated from a normal driving position.
49 Wheels and tyres—size and capacity (VS r 46, NSW sch 4 cl 48)
The wheels and tyres fitted to an axle of a vehicle must be of sufficient size and capacity to carry the part of the vehicle's gross mass transmitted to the ground through the axle.
50 Pneumatic tyres generally (VS r 47, NSW sch 4 cl 49)
A vehicle built after 1932 must be fitted with pneumatic tyres.
51 Pneumatic tyres—carcass construction (VS r 48, NSW sch 4 cl 50)
(1) A vehicle with a GVM not over 4.5t must not have pneumatic tyres of different carcass construction fitted to the same axle, but the tyres may have different cord materials and a different number of plies.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to a tyre being used in an emergency as a temporary replacement for a tyre complying with the subclause.
52 Pneumatic tyres—size and capacity (VS r 49, NSW sch 4 cl 51)
The size and capacity of a pneumatic tyre to be fitted to a vehicle must be decided using a cold inflation pressure that is not over the lesser of ¾
(a) the pressure recommended by the tyre manufacturer; and
(b) a pressure of ¾
(i) for a radial ply tyre—825kPa; or
(ii) for another tyre—700kPa.
53 Tyres—defects (VS r 50, NSW sch 4 cl 52)
A tyre fitted to a vehicle must be free of any apparent defect that could make the vehicle unsafe.
54
Tyres for use on vehicles with GVM over 4.5t (VS r 51, NSW
sch 4 cl 53)
(1) A tyre fitted to a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must be suitable for road use at the lesser of—
(a) 100km/h; and
(b) the vehicle's top speed.
(2) This clause applies to a vehicle instead of the tyre speed category requirements in the relevant ADR.
55 Tyres—manufacturer's rating (VS r 52, NSW sch 4 cl 54)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle if the vehicle ¾
(a) has 4 or more wheels; and
(b) was built after 1972; and
(c) has a GVM not over 4.5t.
(2) However, this clause does not apply to a tyre if the tyre—
(a) is recommended by the vehicle builder as suitable for limited use on the vehicle in special circumstances at a speed less than the speed applying to the vehicle under subclause (3); or
(b) is being used in an emergency as a temporary replacement for a tyre complying with this clause.
(3) A tyre fitted to a motor vehicle must, when first built, have been rated by the tyre manufacturer as suitable for road use at the lesser of ¾
(a) a speed of at least—
(i) for a car with special features for off-road use—140km/h; or
(ii) for another car—180km/h; or
(iii) for another motor vehicle—120km/h; and
(b) the vehicle's top speed.
Example for subparagraph (a) (i)
A four-wheel drive.
(4) This clause applies to a vehicle instead of the tyre speed category requirements in the relevant ADR.
56 Retreads (VS r 53, NSW sch 55)
(1) A tyre that is retreaded before the commencement of this clause must not be used on a vehicle if—
(a) Australian Standard AS 1973-1976 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyre or Australian Standard AS 1973-1985 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger and Light Truck Tyre applies to the tyre; and
(b) the tyre was retreaded after publication of the Australian Standard; and
(c) the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1973-1976 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyre , Australian Standard AS 1973-1985 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger and Light Truck Tyre or Australian Standard AS 1973-1993 Pneumatic Tyres—Passenger Car, Light Truck and Truck/Bus—Retreading and Repair Processes .
(2) A tyre that is retreaded after the commencement of this clause must not be used on a vehicle if—
(a) Australian Standard AS 1973-1993 Pneumatic Tyres—Passenger Car, Light Truck and Truck/Bus—Retreading and Repair Processes applies to the tyre; and
(b) the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with the Australian Standard.
Note The Australian Standards mentioned in this clause require various markings on retreaded tyres. These may include a speed rating less than the rating originally marked on the tyre.
57 Tyre tread (VS r 54, NSW sch 4 cl 56)
(1) A tyre on a motor vehicle must not have cleats or other gripping devices that could damage road surfaces.
(2) Except at tread wear indicators, a tyre fitted to the vehicle must have a tread pattern at least 1.5mm deep in a band that runs continuously—
(a) across—
(i) for a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t—at least 75% of the tyre width that normally comes into contact with the road; or
(ii) for another vehicle—the tyre width that normally comes into contact with the road; and
(b) around the whole circumference of the tyre.
(3) A vehicle must not be fitted with a tyre that has been treated by recutting or regrooving the tread rubber, unless the tyre was—
(a) built with an extra thickness of rubber designed for recutting or regrooving; and
(b) labelled to indicate the construction.
Division 5.2—""Additional requirements for motorbikes
58 Steering gear and handlebars (VS r 55, NSW sch 4 cl 57)
(1) The handlebars on a motorbike must extend at least 250mm, but not over 450mm, on each side of the centre-line of the vehicle.
(2) In taking a measurement for subclause (1), mirrors and lights mounted on the handlebars of the motorbike are disregarded.
(3) The lowest part of the handgrip on the handlebars must not be higher than 380mm above the attachment point of the handlebars to the motorbike.
(4) Handgrips on the handlebars must be fitted symmetrically.
(5) If a motorbike has the head stem as the steering pivot point, the horizontal distance from the midpoint between the head stem bearings to the centre of the front wheel must not be over 550mm.
Maximum horizontal distance from
midpoint between head stem
bearings of motorbike to centre of front wheel
59 Footrests (VS r 56, NSW sch 4 cl 58)
A motorbike must be fitted with footrests for the driver, and for any passenger for whom a seating position is provided.
60 Chain guards (VS r 57, NSW sch 4 cl 59)
(1) If the engine power of a motorbike is transmitted to the rear wheel by a chain, the driver and any passenger must be protected from the front sprocket and at least the upper part of the chain by—
(a) the frame or equipment of the motorbike; or
(b) a chain guard.
(2) A chain guard must cover the chain to a point—
(a) at least 300mm to the rear of the rearmost footrest; or
(b) above the centre of the rear drive sprocket.
Note This Part contains requirements for a vehicle that help to identify the vehicle and, if the vehicle is unusually long, to warn other motorists.
61 Vehicle and engine identification numbers (VS r 58, NSW sch 4 cl 60)
(1) In this clause—
(2) A motor vehicle must have an individual engine identification number clearly stamped, embossed or otherwise permanently marked on it.
(3) A motor vehicle built after 1930 must have the engine identification number on its engine block or the main component of its engine.
(4) A vehicle must have an individual vehicle identification number clearly stamped, embossed or otherwise permanently marked on a substantial part of its frame or chassis.
(5) A vehicle or engine identification number must be located where a person can read it easily without having to use tools to remove a part of the vehicle that would otherwise obstruct the person's view.
62 Compliance plate to be attached to certain motor vehicles (NSW sch 4 cl 61)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle (other than a tractor, trailer or implement) registered for the first time after July 1972.
(2) The vehicle must have securely and prominently attached within the engine compartment, or another position approved by the road transport authority, a plate that—
(a) is approved by the motor vehicle certification board or the administrator of vehicle standards; and
(b) identifies the vehicle; and
(c) indicates that, at the time the plate was attached, the vehicle met the standards and procedures administered by the motor vehicle certification board or administrator of vehicle standards for that class of vehicle.
63 Compliance plate to be attached to certain trailers (NSW sch 4 cl 62)
(1) This clause applies to a trailer built after 1985 that has an individual gross trailer weight rating (as decided by the road transport authority) over 4.5t, but not over 60t.
Note As a semitrailer is a trailer, this clause applies to semitrailers.
(2) At or as soon as practicable after the time of the first registration of the trailer, the trailer must have securely and prominently attached to it, in a position designated by the motor vehicle certification board or administrator of vehicle standards, a plate that—
(a) is approved by the board or the administrator of vehicle standards; and
(b) identifies the vehicle; and
(c) indicates that, at the time the plate was attached, the vehicle met the standards and procedures administered by the motor vehicle certification board or administrator of vehicle standards for that class of vehicle.
64 White or silver band on certain vehicles (VS r 59, NSW sch 4 cl 63)
(1) This clause applies to a vehicle that—
(a) is at least 2.2m wide; and
(b) has a body with a vertical measurement under 300mm at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above ground level to the highest point; and
(c) is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with clause 126.
(2) For paragraph (1) (a), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
(3) The vehicle must have a white or silver band at least 75mm high across the full width of the rearmost part of the body of the vehicle.
65 Warning signs for combinations over 22m long (VS r 60, NSW sch 4 cl 64)
(1) The following vehicles must display road train warning signs complying with this clause and clause 67:
(a) a combination over 36.5m long;
(b) a road train over 30m, but not over 36.5m, long that includes 1 or more dog trailers.
(2) The following vehicles must display road train warning signs, or a long vehicle warning sign, complying with this clause and clause 67:
(a) a road train over 22m, but not over 30m, long that includes 1 or more dog trailers;
(b) a road train over 22m, but not over 36.5m, long that does not include a dog trailer.
(3) Another combination over 22m, but not over 36.5m, long must display a long vehicle warning sign complying with this clause and clause 67.
(4) Subclauses (1), (2) and (3) do not apply to the extent of any inconsistency with a notice or permit issued under the Road Transport (Dimensions and Mass) Act 1990 that applies to the combination.
(5) Road train warning signs must be used in pairs and fitted horizontally, a warning sign at the front and the other at the rear of the combination.
(6) A long vehicle warning sign must be fitted horizontally at the rear of the combination.
66 Warning signs not to be displayed on other vehicles (VS r 61, NSW sch 4 cl 65)
(1) A road train warning sign must not be displayed on a vehicle unless the vehicle is part of a combination or road train mentioned in subclause 65 (1) or (2).
(2) A long vehicle warning sign must not be displayed on a vehicle unless the vehicle is a part of a combination or road train mentioned in subclause 65 (2) or (3).
67 Specifications for warning signs (VS r 62, NSW sch 4 cl 66)
(1) A road train or long vehicle warning sign must be built in 1 or 2 parts from sheet steel 0.8mm thick or another material of at least the same stiffness, unless it is designed to be fixed to a vehicle using an adhesive.
(2) The warning sign must be at least 1.02m wide and at least 250mm high.
(3) A road train warning sign must display the words ‘road train', and a long vehicle warning sign must display the words ‘long vehicle', in black capital letters at least 180mm high in typeface Series B (N) that complies with Australian Standard AS 1744 Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs .
(4) If the warning sign is in 2 parts, 1 word of the expression ‘road train' or ‘long vehicle' must be on one part and the other word of the expression must be on the other part.
(5) The warning sign must display the sign manufacturer's name or logo, and the brand and class of retro-reflective material used, in block letters not over 10mm high.
(6) The warning sign must have a black border.
(7) The warning sign must be coated with yellow retro-reflective material of class 1 or 2 that meets Australian Standard AS 1906 Retro-reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes .
(8) The warning sign must be fitted so—
(a) no part of the sign is—
(i) over 1.8m above ground level; or
(ii) under 500mm above ground level; and
(b) if the sign is in 2 parts—the parts are fitted at the same height above ground level.
Positioning of a warning sign
68 Left-hand drive signs (VS r 63, NSW sch 4 cl 67)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t that has the centre of a steering control to the left of the centre of the vehicle.
(2) The vehicle must display the words ‘left hand drive' on the rear of the vehicle.
(3) The words must be in letters at least 75mm high, and in a colour that contrasts with the background to the words.
PART 7— VEHICLE CONFIGURATION AND DIMENSIONS
Note This Part sets out various requirements covering the suspension on vehicles and size limits for single vehicles and combinations of vehicles, so that they can be operated safely with other traffic, without taking up too much road space or damaging the road and structures on the road.
Generally, the limits in this Part apply to a vehicle and any load it may be carrying.
Particular requirements for loaded vehicles are covered by the Road Transport (Dimensions and Mass) Act 1990 .
69 Axle configuration (VS r 64, NSW sch 4 cl 68)
(1) A motor vehicle, other than an articulated bus, must have only—
(a) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the front of the vehicle; and
(b) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the vehicle.
(2) An articulated bus must have—
(a) on its front section—
(i) only 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the front of the section; and
(ii) only 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the section; and
(b) on another section—only 1 axle group or single axle.
(3) A trailer must have only—
(a) 1 axle group or single axle; or
(b) 2 axle groups, 2 single axles, or 1 axle group and single axle, in the following configuration—
(i) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the front of the vehicle, with all the wheels on the axle group or single axle connected to the steering mechanism for that part of the trailer; and
(ii) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the vehicle.
(4) A semitrailer that is extendible, or is fitted with sliding axles, must—
(a) have a securing device that—
(i) can securely fix the extendible part or sliding axles to the rest of the vehicle in any position of adjustment provided; and
(ii) is located in a position that can prevent accidental or inadvertent release, if the device is mounted on the chassis of the vehicle; and
(iii) is fitted with a visible or audible warning system to indicate to a person standing beside the vehicle that the device is not engaged; and
(iv) is fitted with a way of preventing loss of air from the air brake supply, if the device uses air from the brake system and fails in a way allowing air to escape; and
(v) is held in the applied position by direct mechanical action without the intervention of an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic device; and
(b) be built so the adjustable parts of the vehicle remain connected if the securing device fails.
70 Relation between axles in axle group (VS r 65, NSW sch 4 cl 69)
(1) The axles in an axle group, other than a twinsteer axle group, fitted to a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must relate to each other through a load-sharing suspension system.
(2) In this clause—
(a) is built to divide the load between the tyres on the group so that no tyre carries a mass over 10% over the mass that it would carry if the load were divided equally; and
(b) has effective damping characteristics on all axles of the group.
71 References to length etc in div 7.2
In this Division, a reference to the length, width or height of a vehicle or part of a vehicle is a reference to that dimension of the vehicle or part together with any load or equipment on the vehicle or part.
72 Width (VS r 66, NSW sch 4 cl 70)
(1) A vehicle must not be over 2.5m wide.
(2) For subclause (1), the width of a vehicle is measured without taking into account any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
73 Length of single motor vehicles (VS r 67, NSW sch 4 cl 71)
(1) A motor vehicle, other than an articulated or controlled access bus, must not be over 12.5m long.
(2) A controlled access bus must not be over 14.5m long.
(3) An articulated bus must not be over 18m long.
74 Length of single trailers (VS r 68, NSW sch 4 cl 72 and cl 79)
(1) On a semitrailer or dog trailer—
(a) the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear overhang line must not be over 9.5m; and
(b) the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear of the trailer must not be over 12.3m.
(2) A projection forward of the point of articulation at the front of a semitrailer must be contained within a radius of 1.9m from the point of articulation.
Maximum dimensions of a semitrailer
(3) If a semitrailer has 2 or more points of articulation at the front of the trailer, it must comply with subclauses (1) and (2) when measured at 1 of the points.
(4) A trailer (other than a pig trailer) built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses on 2 or more partly or completely overlapping decks must not have over 12.5m of its length available for the transport of animals.
(5) For subclause (4), the length available for the transport of animals on a trailer is measured from the inside of the front wall or door of the trailer to the inside of the rear wall or door of the trailer, with any intervening partitions disregarded.
(6) A pig trailer must not be longer than 12.5m.
(7) In this clause—
75 Length of combinations (VS r 69, NSW sch 4 cl 73)
(1) A combination must not be over—
(a) for a B-double—25m long; and
(b) for a road train—53.5m long; and
(c) for a combination, other than a road train, designed to carry vehicles on 2 or more partly or completely overlapping decks—25m long; and
(d) for another combination—19m long.
(2) In a B-double built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses, the 2 semitrailers must not have over 18.8m of their combined length available for the transport of animals.
(3) For subclause (2), the length available for the transport of animals on a trailer is measured from the inside of the front wall or door of the trailer to the inside of the rear wall or door of the trailer, with any intervening partitions disregarded.
76 Rear overhang (VS r 70, NSW sch 4 cl 74 and cl 80)
(1) The rear overhang of a semitrailer, or dog trailer consisting of a semitrailer and converter dolly, must not be over the lesser of—
(a) 60% of the distance between the point of articulation at the front and the rear overhang line; and
(b) 3.7m.
(2) A semitrailer with 2 or more points of articulation at the front must comply with subclause (1) when measured at the same point used for measurement for compliance with subclause 74 (3).
(3) The rear overhang of a trailer with only 1 axle group or single axle (other than a semitrailer) must not be over the lesser of—
(a) the length of the load carrying area, or body, ahead of the rear overhang line; and
(b) 3.7m.
(4) The rear overhang of a controlled access bus must not be over the lesser of—
(a) 70% of the distance between the centre of the front axle and the rear overhang line; and
(b) 4.9m.
(5) The rear overhang of a vehicle not mentioned in subclause (1), (3) or (4) must not be over the lesser of—
(a) 60% of the distance between the centre of the front axle and the rear overhang line; and
(b) 3.7m.
77 Trailer drawbar length (VS r 71, NSW sch 4 cl 75)
(1) The distance between the coupling pivot point on the drawbar of a dog trailer, and the centre-line of the front axle group or of the front single axle of the trailer, must—
(a) not be over 5m; and
(b) not be under 3m, if the trailer is used in a road train over 19m long.
Length of a drawbar on a dog trailer
(2) The distance between the coupling pivot point on a drawbar, and the centre-line of the axle group or single axle on a trailer with only 1 axle group or single axle (other than a semitrailer) must not be over 8.5m.
78 Height (VS r 72, NSW sch 4 cl 76)
(1) A vehicle must not be over 4.3m high.
(2) However—
(a) a vehicle built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses must not be over 4.6m high; and
(b) a double-deck bus must not be over 4.4m high; and
(c) a vehicle built to carry vehicles on 2 or more decks must not be over 4.6m high when laden.
79 Ground clearance (VS r 73, NSW sch 4 cl 77)
(1) In this clause—
(2) A motor vehicle or combination must have a ground clearance of—
(a) at least 100mm at any point within 1m of an axle; and
(b) at least 1/30 of the distance between the centres of adjacent axles at the midpoint between them; and
(c) at any other point—at least the distance that allows the vehicle or combination to pass over a peak in the road with a gradient on either side of 1:15, if the wheels of 1 axle of the vehicle or combination are on the slope on one side of the peak and the wheels of the next axle are on the slope on the other side.
(3) However, subclause (2) does not apply to—
(a) a motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels; or
(b) a combination that includes a motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels.
Ground clearance at the midpoint between 2 axles
Ground clearance over a peak in the road
Note This Part deals with how the lights on a vehicle must be fitted and work so that the driver can see the road, pedestrians and other vehicles at night, and can signal to others. The Australian Road Rules provide for when certain lights must be switched on.
In this Part, the description ‘yellow' is used as a more modern term instead of the description ‘amber', which is used in earlier legislation and some ADRs.
Division 8.1—General requirements for lights
80 Certain requirements apply only at night (VS r 74, NSW sch 4 cl 82)
The requirements of this Part for a light, other than a brake or direction indicator light, to be visible over a stated distance apply only at night.
81 Prevention of glare (VS r 75, NSW sch 4 cl 83)
A light, other than a high-beam headlight, fitted to a vehicle must be built and adjusted to provide the necessary amount of light, without dazzling the driver of another vehicle approaching, or being approached by, the vehicle.
82 Pairs of lights (VS r 76, NSW sch 4 cl 84)
(1) If lights are required under this Schedule to be fitted to a vehicle in pairs—
(a) a light must be fitted on each side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and
(b) the centre of each light in a pair must be the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and
(c) the centre of each light in a pair must be at the same height above ground level; and
(d) each light in a pair must project approximately the same amount of light of the same colour.
(2) Subclause (1) applies to a motorbike with an attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
83 Headlights to be fitted to vehicles (VS r 77, NSW sch 4 cl 85)
(1) A motor vehicle must be fitted with—
(a) 1 low-beam headlight if it is a moped, motorbike, or motortrike with 1 front wheel; or
(b) a pair of low-beam headlights if it has 4 or more wheels or is a motortrike, other than a moped, with 2 front wheels.
(2) If a motor vehicle built after 1934 can travel at over 60km/h—
(a) each low-beam headlight mentioned in subclause (1) must be able to work in the high-beam position; or
(b) the vehicle must be fitted with—
(i) 1 headlight that can work in the high-beam position if the vehicle is required to have 1 low-beam headlight; or
(ii) a pair of headlights that can work in the high-beam position.
(3) A motorbike may be equipped with a headlight modulation system that—
(a) varies the brightness of its high-beam headlight or low-beam headlight, but not both, at a rate of at least 200 and at most 280 flashes a minute; and
(b) is designed to operate only in the daylight.
(4) Additional headlights may be fitted to a motorbike or motortrike, or a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that was built before 1970.
(5) Additional pairs of headlights may be fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that was built after 1969.
84 How headlights are to be fitted (VS r 78, NSW sch 4 cl 86)
(1) The centres of low-beam headlights fitted as a pair on a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels must be at least 600mm apart.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to a motor vehicle built before 1970 if the centres of its low-beam headlights—
(a) were under 600mm apart when the vehicle was built; and
(b) are not nearer than they were when the vehicle was built.
(3) Each low-beam headlight of a pair on a motortrike (other than a moped) with 2 front wheels must not be over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(4) The centre of a low-beam headlight fitted to a motor vehicle built after June 1953 must be—
(a) at least 500mm above ground level; and
(b) not over 1.4m above ground level.
85 How single headlights are to be fitted (VS r 79, NSW sch 4 cl 87)
(1) A motorbike or motortrike with a single headlight fitted must have the light fitted in the centre.
(2) Subclause (1) applies to a motorbike with an attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
86 How additional headlights are to be fitted (VS r 80, NSW sch 4 cl 88)
If 2 or more additional headlights are fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, the additional headlights must as far as possible be fitted in pairs.
87 Performance of headlights (VS r 81, NSW sch 4 cl 89)
(1) When on, a headlight, or additional headlight, fitted to a vehicle must—
(a) show only white light; and
(b) project its main beam of light ahead of the vehicle.
(2) Headlights must be fitted to a vehicle so their light does not reflect off the vehicle into the driver's eyes.
88 Effective range of headlights (VS r 82, NSW sch 4 cl 90)
(1) This clause applies to a headlight that is on at night.
(2) A low-beam headlight must illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for at least 25m.
(3) A high-beam headlight must illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for at least 50m.
(4) However, a low-beam headlight fitted to a motor vehicle built before 1931, or a moped, need only illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for 12m.
89
Changing headlights from high-beam to low-beam position
(VS r 83, NSW sch 4 cl
91)
(1) A motor vehicle built after 1934 that can travel at over 60km/h must be fitted with—
(a) a dipping device enabling the driver in the normal driving position—
(i) to change the headlights from the high-beam position to the low-beam position; or
(ii) simultaneously to switch off a high-beam headlight and switch on a low-beam headlight; and
(b) for a vehicle built after June 1953—a device to indicate to the driver that the headlights are in the high-beam position.
(2) A headlight fitted to a vehicle not fitted with a dipping device mentioned in paragraph (1) (a) must operate in the low-beam position.
(3) When a headlight fitted to a vehicle is switched to the low-beam position, any other headlight on the vehicle must operate only in the low-beam position or be off.
90 Parking lights (VS r 84, NSW sch 4 cl 92)
(1) A motor vehicle built after June 1953 must be fitted with—
(a) a pair of parking lights if it is a motortrike with 2 front wheels (other than a moped) or a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels; or
(b) at least 1 parking light if it is a motorbike with an attached sidecar, or a motortrike with 1 front wheel, (other than a moped).
(2) A pair of parking lights fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels must be fitted with the centre of each light—
(a) at least 600mm from the centre of the other light; and
(b) not over 510mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(3) However, a pair of parking lights fitted to a motor vehicle under 1.3m wide may be fitted with the centre of each light not under 400mm from the centre of the other light.
(4) A parking light fitted to a motortrike with 2 front wheels must not be over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(5) A parking light fitted to a motorbike with a sidecar must be fitted not over 150mm from the side of the sidecar furthest from the motorbike.
Location of parking lights on a vehicle
(6) When on, a parking light must—
(a) show a white or yellow light visible 200m from the front of the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 7W.
(7) A parking light fitted to a motor vehicle built after 1969 must be wired so the parking light is on when a headlight on the vehicle is on.
(8) A parking light fitted to a sidecar attached to a motorbike must be wired to operate when a headlight, tail-light or parking light on the motorbike is on.
(9) For subclause (3), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
Division 8.4—""Daytime running lights
91 Daytime running lights (VS r 85, NSW sch 4 cl 93)
(1) A pair of daytime running lights may be fitted to a motor vehicle.
(2) A pair of daytime running lights fitted to a vehicle with 4 or more wheels must be fitted with the centre of each light—
(a) at least 600mm from the centre of the other light; and
(b) not over 510mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(3) However, a pair of daytime running lights fitted to a motor vehicle under 1.3m wide may be fitted with the centre of each light not under 400mm from the centre of the other light.
Location of daytime running lights on a vehicle
(4) When on, a daytime running light must—
(a) show a white or yellow light visible from the front of the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 25W.
Note The 3rd edition ADRs only allow white daytime running lights.
(5) Daytime running lights must be wired so they are off when a headlight, other than a headlight being used as a flashing signal, is on.
(6) For subclause (3), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
92 Tail-lights generally (VS r 86, NSW sch 4 cl 94)
(1) A vehicle must have at least 1 tail-light fitted on or towards the rear of the vehicle.
(2) A motortrike with 2 rear wheels, or a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, built after 1959 must have at least 1 tail-light fitted on or towards each side of the rear of the vehicle.
(3) A trailer built after June 1988 must have at least 1 tail-light fitted on or towards each side of the rear of the vehicle.
(4) The centre of a tail-light mentioned in subclause (1), (2) or (3) must not be over—
(a) 1.5m above ground level; or
(b) if it is not practicable to fit the light lower—2.1m above ground level.
(5) A vehicle may have 1 or more additional tail-lights at any height above ground level.
93 Pattern of fitting tail-lights (VS r 87, NSW sch 4 cl 95)
(1) If only 1 tail-light is fitted to a vehicle, it must be fitted in the centre or to the right of the centre of the vehicle's rear.
(2) Subclause (1) applies to a motorbike with an attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
(3) If 2 or more tail-lights are fitted to a vehicle, at least 2 must be fitted as a pair.
Location of tail-lights on a vehicle
(4) Tail-lights fitted in accordance with this Division may also serve as rear clearance lights if they are fitted to a vehicle in accordance with subclause 91 (3).
94 Performance of tail-lights (VS r 88, NSW sch 4 cl 96)
When on, a tail-light of a vehicle must—
(a) show a red light visible 200m from the rear of the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 7W.
95 Wiring of tail-lights (VS r 89, NSW sch 4 cl 97)
A tail-light of a motor vehicle must be wired to come on, and stay on, when a parking light or headlight on the vehicle is on, unless an external switch is fitted to operate the tail-light.
Division 8.6—""Numberplate lights
96 Numberplate lights (VS r 90, NSW sch 4 cl 98)
(1) At least 1 numberplate light must be fitted to the rear of a vehicle.
(2) When on, the numberplate light or lights must illuminate a numberplate on the rear of the vehicle with white light, so the characters on the numberplate can be read at night 20m from the rear of the vehicle.
(3) A numberplate light—
(a) may be combined with another light; and
(b) must not project white light to the rear of the vehicle except by reflection; and
(c) must not obscure the characters on the numberplate; and
(d) must be wired to come on, and stay on, when a parking light, headlight or tail-light on the vehicle is on.
Division 8.7—""Clearance lights
97 Front clearance lights (VS r 91, NSW sch 4 cl 99)
(1) Front clearance lights may only be fitted to a vehicle that is at least 1.8m wide.
(2) A pair of front clearance lights must be fitted to a motor vehicle that is at least 2.2m wide, or a prime mover.
(3) The centre of a front clearance light must be—
(a) not over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle; and
(b) if the vehicle was built after June 1953—
(i) at least 750mm higher than the centre of any low-beam headlight fitted to the vehicle; or
(ii) not lower than the top of the windscreen.
(4) However, a front clearance light may be mounted on an external rear-vision mirror or a mirror support if, when the mirror is correctly adjusted, no part of the lens of the clearance light is visible to a person in the normal driving position.
(5) When on, a front clearance light must—
(a) show a yellow or white light visible 200m from the front of the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 7W.
98 External cabin lights (VS r 92, NSW sch 4 cl 100)
(1) A motor vehicle fitted with front clearance lights may also have additional forward-facing lights on or above the roof of its cabin.
(2) The additional forward-facing lights must be spaced evenly between the front clearance lights, with their centres at least 120mm apart.
(3) When on, an additional forward-facing light must—
(a) show a yellow or white light; and
(b) not use over 7W.
99 Rear clearance lights (VS r 93, NSW sch 4 cl 101)
(1) Rear clearance lights may only be fitted to a vehicle that is at least 1.8m wide.
(2) A pair of rear clearance lights must be fitted to the rear of a vehicle that is at least 2.2m wide.
(3) The centre of a rear clearance light must be—
(a) not over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle; and
(b) if practicable, at least 600mm above ground level.
(4) When on, a rear clearance light must—
(a) show a red light visible 200m from the rear of the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 7W.
Division 8.8—""Side marker lights
100 Vehicles needing side marker lights (VS r 94, NSW sch 4 cl 102)
(1) A pair of side marker lights must be fitted towards the rear of the sides of a motor vehicle that is over 7.5m long and at least 2.2m wide.
(2) A pole-type trailer, and a motor vehicle built to tow a pole-type trailer, with at least 1 crossbar or bolster must have a side marker light fitted to each side of the back or only crossbar or bolster.
(3) A pole-type trailer with 2 or more crossbars or bolsters may also have a side marker light fitted to each side of the front crossbar or bolster.
(4) At least 2 side marker lights must be fitted to each side of—
(a) a trailer, other than a pole-type trailer, that is at least 2.2m wide and not over 7.5m long; and
(b) a semitrailer that is not over 7.5m long.
(5) At least 3 side marker lights must be fitted to each side of—
(a) a trailer, other than a pole-type trailer, that is at least 2.2m wide and over 7.5m long; and
(b) a semitrailer that is over 7.5m long.
(6) For subclauses (1), (4) and (5), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
101 Location of side marker lights (VS r 95, NSW sch 4 cl 103)
(1) The centre of a side marker light must not be over 150mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(2) A front side marker light fitted to a motor vehicle must be towards the front of the side of the vehicle with no part of the lens visible to the driver.
(3) The centre of a front side marker light fitted to a trailer must be—
(a) within 300mm of the front of the side of the trailer; or
(b) if the construction of the trailer makes it impracticable to comply with paragraph (a)—as near as practicable to the front of the trailer.
(4) The centre of a rear side marker light fitted to a vehicle must be—
(a) within 300mm of the rear of the side of the vehicle; or
(b) if the construction of the vehicle makes it impracticable to comply with paragraph (a)—as near as practicable to the rear of the vehicle.
(5) Side marker lights fitted to a vehicle must, as far as practicable, be evenly spaced along the side of the vehicle.
(6) Subclauses (2) to (5) do not apply to side marker lights fitted to a crossbar or bolster of a pole-type trailer.
(7) Only the side marker lights nearest to the rear need be fitted if complying with subclauses (3) and (4) would result in the front and rear side marker lights being under 2.5m apart.
(8) A side marker light fitted to a vehicle must be fitted so—
(a) its centre is not over—
(i) 1.5m above ground level; or
(ii) if it is not practicable to fit it lower—2.1m above ground level; and
(b) its centre is at least 600mm above ground level; and
(c) it is, as far as practicable, in a row of side marker lights along the side of the vehicle.
(9) Paragraph (8) (a) does not apply to a side marker light that is not required to be fitted to the vehicle by clause 100.
102 Performance of side marker lights (VS r 96, NSW sch 4 cl 104)
(1) When on, a side marker light fitted to a vehicle must—
(a) show a light visible 200m from the vehicle; and
(b) not use over 7W.
(2) When on, a side marker light fitted to a vehicle must show—
(a) to the front of the vehicle—a yellow light; and
(b) to the rear of the vehicle—
(i) if the light also operates as a rear light or reflector—a red light; and
(ii) in any other case—a red or yellow light.
(3) However, if a pole-type trailer with 2 or more crossbars or bolsters has the side marker lights permitted by subclause 100 (3)—
(a) the side marker lights fitted to the front crossbar or bolster may comply with paragraph (2) (a) only; and
(b) the side marker lights fitted to the back crossbar or bolster may comply with paragraph (2) (b) only.
103 Side marker lights and rear clearance lights (VS r 97, NSW sch 4 cl 105)
The side marker light nearest to the rear of a vehicle may also be a rear clearance light for clause 99.
104 Fitting brakelights (VS r 98, NSW sch 4 cl 106)
(1) A brakelight must be fitted to the rear of a vehicle built after 1934.
(2) A pair of brakelights must be fitted to the rear of—
(a) a motor vehicle built after 1959 that has 4 or more wheels; and
(b) a motortrike built after 1959 that has 2 rear wheels; and
(c) a trailer built after June 1988.
(3) The centre of a brakelight must be—
(a) at least 350mm above ground level; and
(b) not over—
(i) 1.5m above ground level; or
(ii) if it is not practicable to fit the light lower—2.1m above ground level.
(4) A vehicle may be fitted with 1 or more additional brakelights.
(5) The centre of an additional brakelight must be at least 350mm above ground level.
(6) If only 1 brakelight is fitted to a vehicle, it must be fitted in the centre or to the right of the centre of the vehicle's rear.
(7) Subclause (6) applies to a motorbike with an attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
Location of brakelights on a vehicle
105 Performance and operation of brakelights (VS r 99, NSW sch 4 cl 107)
(1) When on, a brakelight must show a red light visible 30m from the rear of the vehicle.
(2) A brakelight fitted to a motor vehicle must come on, if it is not already on, when—
(a) for a vehicle with 4 or more wheels or built after 1974—a service brake is applied; or
(b) for another vehicle—the rear wheel brake is applied.
(3) Subclause (3) does not apply if the controls in the vehicle that start the engine are in a position that makes it impossible for the engine to operate.
(4) A brakelight on a trailer must come on when—
(a) the brakelight of the towing vehicle comes on; or
(b) a brake control on the towing vehicle, which independently activates the service brake on the trailer, is operated.
(5) A brakelight may be operated by an engine brake, retarder, or similar device if the device does not interfere with the proper operation of the brakelight.
Division 8.10—""Reversing lights
106 Reversing lights (VS r 100, NSW sch 4 cl 108)
(1) One or more reversing lights may be fitted to the rear of a vehicle and on each side towards the rear of the vehicle.
(2) A reversing light must have its centre not over 1.2m above ground level.
(3) When on, a reversing light must show a white or yellow light to the rear or to the side and rear of the vehicle.
Note 3rd edition ADRs only allow white reversing lights.
(4) A reversing light fitted to a motor vehicle must be wired so it operates only when the vehicle is reversing or in reverse gear.
(5) A reversing light fitted to a trailer must be wired so it operates only when a motor vehicle towing the trailer is reversing or in reverse gear.
(6) A yellow reversing light may also operate as a direction indicator light.
Division 8.11—""Direction indicator lights
107 Direction indicator lights on motor vehicles (VS r 101, NSW sch 4 cl 109)
(1) A motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that was built after 1972 must have—
(a) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its front that face forwards; and
(b) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its rear that face backwards.
(2) A motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels that was built after June 1975 must have—
(a) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its front that face forwards; and
(b) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its rear that face backwards.
(3) A motor vehicle that is not required to have direction indicator lights may have—
(a) 1 or more pairs of direction indicator lights that are visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle; or
(b) both—
(i) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its front that face forwards; and
(ii) a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its rear that face backwards.
108 Direction indicator lights on trailers (VS r 102, NSW sch 4 cl 110)
(1) A trailer built after June 1973 must have a pair of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its rear that face backwards.
(2) A trailer that is not required to have direction indicator lights may have 1 or more pairs of direction indicator lights fitted on, or towards, its rear that face backwards.
109 Location of direction indicator lights (VS r 103, NSW sch 4 cl 111)
(1) A pair of direction indicator lights fitted to a vehicle must have the centre of each light at least—
(a) for a motorbike or the single wheel end of a motortrike—300mm from the centre of the other light; and
(b) for lights fitted at the 2 wheel end of a motortrike—600mm from the centre of the other light, unless the centre of each direction indicator light is not over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle; and
(c) for another vehicle with a width of not over 1.3m—400mm from the centre of the other light; and
(d) for another vehicle with a width of over 1.3m—600mm from the centre of the other light.
(2) The centre of each direction indicator light must be at least 350mm above ground level.
(3) The centre of each light in a pair of direction indicator lights required to be fitted to a vehicle must not be over—
(a) 1.5m above ground level; or
(b) if it is not practicable for the light to be fitted lower—2.1m above ground level.
(4) For subclause (1), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
110 Operation and visibility of direction indicator lights (VS r 104, NSW sch 4 cl 112)
(1) A direction indicator light fitted to a motor vehicle must—
(a) when operating, display regular flashes of light at a rate of not over 120, and—
(i) for a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels—at least 60, flashes a minute; and
(ii) for another motor vehicle—at least 45, flashes a minute; and
(b) be able to be operated by a person in the normal driving position; and
(c) be wired to an audible or visible device in the vehicle that tells the driver that the direction indicator light is operating; and
(d) flash at the same time and rate as any other direction indicator lights fitted on the same side of the vehicle.
(2) A direction indicator light fitted to a side of a trailer must, when operating, flash at the same time and rate as the direction indicator light or lights fitted to the same side of the motor vehicle towing the trailer.
(3) The flashes of light displayed by a direction indicator light must be—
(a) if the light faces forwards—white or yellow; and
(b) if the light faces backwards—
(i) yellow; or
(ii) for a vehicle built before July 1973—yellow or red; and
(c) if the light faces out from the side of the vehicle—
(i) white or yellow towards the front and side; and
(ii) for a vehicle built before July 1973—yellow or red towards the rear and side; and
(iii) for a vehicle built after June 1973—yellow towards the rear and side.
Note The ADRs only allow yellow direction indicator lights.
(4) If a motor vehicle's direction indicator lights display only yellow light, the vehicle may be equipped to allow the lights to operate simultaneously on both sides of the vehicle, if a visible or audible signal tells the driver when the lights are operating simultaneously.
(5) When on, a direction indicator light must be visible 30m from—
(a) if the light faces forwards—the front of the vehicle; or
(b) if the light faces backwards—the rear of the vehicle; or
(c) if the light faces out from the side of the vehicle—that side of the vehicle.
(6) When on, each direction indicator light in at least 1 pair of lights fitted on or towards the front of a prime mover, or a motor vehicle over 7.5m long, must be visible at a point—
(a) 1.5m at right angles from the side of the vehicle where the light is fitted; and
(b) in line with the rear of the vehicle.
111 Front fog lights (VS r 105, NSW sch 4 cl 113)
(1) A pair of front fog lights may be fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels.
(2) A pair of front fog lights, or a single front fog light, may be fitted to a motorbike or motortrike.
(3) A pair of front fog lights fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels must have the centre of each light not over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle unless the centres of the lights are at least 600mm apart.
(4) If the top of the front fog light is higher than the top of any low-beam headlight on the vehicle, the centre of the fog light must not be higher than the centre of the low-beam headlight.
(5) A front fog light must—
(a) when on—
(i) project white or yellow light in front of the vehicle; and
(ii) be a low-beam light; and
(b) be able to be operated independently of any headlight; and
(c) be fitted so the light from it does not reflect off the vehicle into the driver's eyes.
112 Rear fog lights (VS r 106, NSW sch 4 cl 114)
(1) A vehicle may have fitted to its rear—
(a) a pair of rear fog lights; or
(b) 1 rear fog light fitted on, or to the right, of the centre of the vehicle.
(2) Paragraph (1) (b) applies to a motorbike with an attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
(3) A rear fog light must—
(a) have its centre—
(i) not over 1.5m above ground level; and
(ii) at least 100mm from the centre of a brakelight; and
(b) when on, project red light behind the vehicle; and
(c) not use over 27W; and
(d) be wired to a visible device in the vehicle that tells the driver that the rear fog light is operating.
Division 8.13—""Interior lights
113 Interior lights (VS r 107, NSW sch 4 cl 115)
A vehicle may be fitted with interior lights that illuminate any interior part of the vehicle.
Division 8.14—""Reflectors generally
114 General requirements for reflectors (VS r 108, NSW sch 4 cl 116)
(1) A reflector fitted to a vehicle must show a red, yellow or white reflection of light when light is projected directly onto the reflector at night by a low-beam headlight that—
(a) is 45m from the reflector; and
(b) complies with this Schedule.
(2) The reflection must be clearly visible from the position of the headlight.
Division 8.15—""Rear reflectors
115 Rear reflectors (VS r 109, NSW sch 4 cl 117)
(1) A motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, and a trailer, must have a rear-facing red reflector towards each side of its rear.
(2) A motorbike, a sidecar attached to a motorbike, and a motortrike, must have a rear-facing red reflector.
(3) The centre of each reflector must be—
(a) at the same height above ground level; and
(b) not over 1.5m above ground level.
(4) However, subclause (3) does not apply to a reflector fitted to a sidecar attached to a motorbike.
(5) A reflector fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, or a trailer, must not be over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(6) A vehicle fitted with rear-facing red reflectors in accordance with subclause (1) or (2) may be fitted with additional red reflectors at any height above ground level or at any distance from the side of the vehicle.
Division 8.16—""Side reflectors
116 Compulsory side reflectors on pole-type trailers (VS r 110, NSW sch 4 cl 118)
(1) Yellow or red side-facing reflectors must be fitted to the pole of a pole-type trailer so—
(a) 1 reflector is fitted to the middle 1/3 of the left and right faces of the pole; and
(b) the front reflector is not over 3m from the front of the trailer; and
(c) the other reflectors are not over 3m apart.
(2) Additional side-facing reflectors may be fitted to a pole-type trailer in accordance with clause 117.
117 Optional side reflectors (VS r 111, NSW sch 4 cl 119)
(1) A vehicle may be fitted with side-facing reflectors.
(2) A side-facing reflector—
(a) towards the front of the vehicle must be yellow or white; and
(b) towards the rear of the vehicle must be yellow or red; and
(c) on the central part of the vehicle must be yellow.
Division 8.17—""Front reflectors
118 Compulsory front reflectors on trailers (VS r 112, NSW sch 4 cl 120)
(1) A front-facing white or yellow reflector must be fitted towards each side of the front of—
(a) a semitrailer, other than a pole-type trailer; and
(b) the front crossbar or bolster of a pole-type trailer; and
(c) a trailer that is at least 2.2m wide.
(2) Each reflector must have its centre—
(a) at the same height above ground level; and
(b) not over 1.5m above ground level; and
(c) not over 400mm from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(3) Additional front-facing reflectors may be fitted to a trailer mentioned in subclause (1) in accordance with clause 119.
119 Optional front reflectors (VS r 113, NSW sch 4 cl 121)
(1) A motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, or a trailer, may have 1 or more front-facing white or yellow reflectors fitted towards each side of its front.
(2) A motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels may have 1 or more front-facing white or yellow reflectors.
(3) The centre of at least 1 reflector on each side of the front of the vehicle must be—
(a) at the same height above ground level as the centre of the other reflector; and
(b) the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle as the centre of the other reflector; and
(c) at least—
(i) for a vehicle with a width under 1.3m—400mm from the centre of the other reflector; and
(ii) for another vehicle—600mm from the centre of the other reflector.
(4) For paragraph (3) (c), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
Division 8.19— Warning lights and signs on buses carrying children
120 Application of Division (VS r 114)
This Division applies to a bus that is used mainly for carrying children if the bus is fitted with warning lights after June 1999.
Note For warning signs and lights fitted before July 1999, see clause 124.
121 Fitting of warning lights and signs (VS r 115)
(1) Two warning lights and a warning sign must be fitted to the front and rear of the bus.
(2) The warning lights must be fitted—
(a) on each side of, and the same distance from, the centre of the warning sign; and
(b) with the edge of the warning sign not over 100mm from the nearest point on the lens of the warning lights; and
(c) with the distance between the warning lights at least 300 mm at the nearest point; and
(d) so no part of the bus obstructs the light displayed—
(i) to the left and right of the centre of each light; and
(ii) above and below the centre of each light.
(3) The warning lights may be on the warning sign if the words or image on the sign are not obscured.
(4) The warning lights at the same end of the bus must be fitted—
(a) at the same height; and
(b) as high as practicable; and
(c) with the lowest point on the lens of each light not lower than midway between the highest and lowest points on the bus body.
(5) If the centres of the warning lights are under 1.8m above ground level, no part of the warning lights or warning sign may be on the left of the bus.
(6) This rule applies to a bus despite any requirement of a 3rd edition ADR.
122 Operation and performance of warning lights (VS r 116)
(1) When operating, a warning light must display regular flashes of yellow light at a rate of at least 90, and not over 180, flashes a minute.
(2) The warning lights at the same end of the bus must flash alternately.
(3) Unless the driver has turned the warning lights off, they must operate automatically when a door on the bus opens and for at least 10, and not over 20, seconds after all the doors on the bus have closed.
(4) The bus must have a visible or audible signal that tells the driver when the warning lights are operating.
(5) The bus must be fitted with a switch that allows the driver to turn the warning lights off.
(6) A warning light must have—
(a) an effective lit lens area of at least 60cm 2 ; and
(b) a luminous intensity (in candela) of at least the values
mentioned in the following table when measured at the angles mentioned in the
table.
Vertical angle from centre of light |
|
||||||||
-30° | -20° | -10° | -5° | 0° | 5° |
10° | 20° | 30° | |
| 10° | | | | 50 | 80 | 50 | | | |
5° | | 180 | 320 | 350 | 450 | 350 | 320 | 180 | |
| 0° |
75 | 450 | 1000 | 1250 | 1500 | 1250 | 1000 | 450 | 75 |
| -5° |
40 | 270 | 450 | 570 | 600 | 570 | 450 | 270 | 40 |
| -10° | | |
75 | 75 | 75 | | | | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
(7) For paragraph (6) (b), the luminous intensity of a light is to be measured in accordance with the test method mentioned in 3rd edition ADR 6.
123 Specifications for warning signs (VS r 117)
(1) A warning sign at the front of the bus must—
(a) display the words ‘school bus' in capital letters at least 100mm high; or
(b) display an image of 2 children in the same proportions as the children in AS 1743 Road Signs—Specifications (image W6-3), with the image of the taller child at least 230mm high.
(2) A warning sign at the rear of the bus must display an image of 2 children in the same proportions as the children in AS 1743 Road Signs—Specifications (image W6-3), with the image of the taller child at least 230mm high.
(3) The warning sign mentioned in paragraph (1) (b) and subclause (2) must—
(a) be a rectangular shape at least—
(i) if warning lights are on the warning sign—550 mm wide and 400mm high; and
(ii) in any other case—400mm wide and 250 mm high; and
(b) have a black border; and
(c) have black graphics and be coated with yellow retro-reflective material of class 1 or 2 that meets Australian Standard AS 1906 Retro-reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes .
Division 8.20—Other lights, reflectors, rear marking plates or signals
124 Other lights and reflectors (VS r 118)
(1) In this clause—
(a) a police vehicle; or
(b) an emergency vehicle; or
(c) a transport enforcement vehicle; or
(d) an Australian Protective Service vehicle; or
(e) an Australian Customs Service vehicle; or
(f) an Airservices Australia vehicle.
(a) a vehicle built or fitted for use in hazardous situations on a road; or
(b) a vehicle, or combination, that because of its dimensions is permitted to be driven on a road only in accordance with a notice or permit issued under a law of this jurisdiction; or
(c) a vehicle built or fitted to accompany a vehicle, or combination, mentioned in paragraph (b); or
(d) a bus fitted, before July 1999, with a sign telling road users that the bus carries children.
Examples of special use vehicles to which paragraph (a) applies
Tow trucks, vehicle breakdown service vehicles, garbage trucks, cranes, streetsweepers, forklifts, concrete pumps and mobile towers.
(2) A vehicle may be fitted with a light or reflector not mentioned in this Schedule.
(3) However, unless subclause (4) applies, a vehicle must not display—
(a) a light that flashes; or
(b) a light or reflector that—
(i) shows a red light to the front; or
(ii) shows a white light to the rear; or
(iii) is shaped or located in a way that reduces the effectiveness of a light or reflector that is required to be fitted to the vehicle under this Schedule.
(4) Despite any requirement of a 3rd edition ADR, an exempt vehicle may be fitted with any light or reflector, and a special use vehicle may be fitted with 1 or more flashing yellow lights.
125
Use of direction indicator lights as hazard warning lights
(NSW
sch 4 cl 124)
(1) A motor vehicle that has direction indicator lights that show yellow light to the front may be equipped with a device that will cause the direction indicator lights fitted to the front and rear and on both sides of the vehicle, and any trailer connected to the vehicle, to flash simultaneously and regularly at a rate of not less than 60, and not more than 120, flashes per minute.
(2) When all direction indicator lights fitted to a motor vehicle and trailer (if any) are flashing simultaneously, there must be an indicator that will tell the driver, by visible or audible means, that the lights are flashing.
126 Rear marking plates (VS r 119, NSW sch 4 cl 126)
(1) In this clause—
(2) Rear marking plates must be fitted to—
(a) a motor vehicle with a GVM over 12t, except a bus fitted with handgrips or similar equipment for standing passengers to hold; and
(b) a trailer with a GTM over 10t.
(3) Subclause (2) applies to a vehicle even if it was built before the date stated in the ADR.
(4) Rear marking plates may be fitted to a motor vehicle with a GVM not over 12t or a trailer with a GTM not over 10t.
An example of rear marking plates
An alternative pattern for rear marking plates
127 Signalling devices (VS r 120, NSW sch 4 cl 127)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle if—
(a) the vehicle is not fitted with a brakelight or direction indicator light mentioned in Division 8.9 (Brakelights) or 8.11 (Direction indicator lights); and
(b) the construction of the vehicle would otherwise prevent the driver from hand signalling an intention—
(i) to turn or move the vehicle to the right; or
(ii) to stop or suddenly reduce the speed of the vehicle.
(2) The vehicle must be fitted with a mechanical signalling device or a pair of turn signals.
128 Mechanical signalling devices (VS r 121, NSW sch 4 cl 128)
(1) A mechanical signalling device must—
(a) be fitted to the right side of the vehicle; and
(b) be able to be operated by the driver from a normal driving position; and
(c) consist of a white or yellow representation of an open human hand at least 150mm long; and
(d) be built so that the driver of the vehicle can keep the device—
(i) in a neutral position so it is unlikely that the driver of another vehicle or anyone else would regard it as a signal; and
(ii) in a horizontal position with the palm of the hand facing forwards and the fingers pointing out at a right angle to the vehicle to signal an intention to turn or move right; and
(iii) with the palm of the hand facing forwards and the fingers pointing upwards to signal an intention to stop or reduce speed suddenly.
(2) When the mechanical signalling device is in a position mentioned in subparagraph (1) (d) (ii) or (iii), the complete hand must be clearly visible from both the front and the rear of the vehicle, at a distance of 30m.
129 Turn signals (VS r 122, NSW sch 4 cl 129)
A turn signal must—
(a) consist of a steady or flashing illuminated yellow sign at least 150mm long and 25mm wide that—
(i) when in operation—is kept horizontal; and
(ii) when not in operation—is kept in a position so it is unlikely that the driver of another vehicle or anyone else would regard it as a signal; and
(b) be fitted to the side of the motor vehicle at least 500mm and not over 2.1m above ground level, in a position so the driver of the vehicle, from the normal driving position, can see whether the signal is in operation; and
(c) be able to be operated by the driver from the normal driving position; and
(d) when in operation, be visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle at a distance of 30m.
Division 8.21—Maintenance of lights
130 Lights to be maintained on certain vehicles
A light mentioned in this Part that is not an optional fitting, and was fitted by the manufacturer of the vehicle before the date of application of the clause in which the light is mentioned, must be maintained in proper working condition unless the lights fitted to the vehicle comply with a later ADR.
Example
A motor vehicle or trailer built before June 1988 and supplied by the manufacturer with 1 tail-light and 1 brakelight towards each side of the rear of the vehicle must continue to have a tail-light and brakelight fitted towards each side of the rear of the vehicle.
Division 8.22— Vehicles not required to have lights or reflectors
131 Certain vehicles used in daylight (VS r 123, NSW sch 4 cl 130)
This Part does not apply to a vehicle built before 1931 that is used only in the daylight.
132
Certain vehicles used for collection or exhibition purposes
(VS
r 124, NSW sch 4 cl 131)
This Part does not apply to a vehicle built before 1946 that is used mainly for collection or exhibition purposes.
Note This Part sets out the braking system requirements for vehicles to ensure that they can be reliably slowed or stopped even if a part of a braking system fails, and to ensure that a vehicle can be prevented from rolling away when parked.
The Part also includes special requirements for braking systems on B-doubles and road trains to ensure that the braking systems on the component vehicles are compatible. The special requirements do not apply to a road train that is not over 19m long.
Division 9.1—""Brake requirements for all vehicles
133 Parts of a braking system (VS r 125, NSW sch 4 cl 132)
(1) A brake tube or hose fitted to a vehicle must—
(a) be built from a material appropriate to its intended use in the vehicle; and
(b) be long enough to allow for the full range of steering and suspension movements of the vehicle; and
(c) be fitted to prevent it being damaged during the operation of the vehicle by—
(i) a source of heat; or
(ii) any movement of the parts to which it is attached or near.
(2) Each component of the braking system of a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must comply with the design and performance requirements of—
(a) a relevant Australian Standard or British Standard as in force when this subclause commenced; or
(b) a relevant standard approved by any of the following bodies, and as in force when this subclause commenced:
• American Society of Automotive Engineers
• American National Standards Institute
• Japanese Standards Association
• Deutsches Institut für Normung
• International Organisation for Standardisation.
134 Provision for wear (VS r 126, NSW sch 4 cl 133)
The braking system of a vehicle must allow for adjustment to take account of normal wear.
135 Supply of air or vacuum to brakes (VS r 127, NSW sch 4 cl 134)
(1) If air brakes are fitted to a vehicle—
(a) the compressor supplying air to the brakes must be able to build up air pressure to at least 80% of the governor cut-out pressure in not longer than 5 minutes after the compressed air reserve is fully used up; and
(b) for a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t—the air storage tanks must have sufficient capacity to allow 5 applications of the service brakes before the air pressure drops below half the governor cut-out pressure; and
(c) there must be an automatic or manual condensate drain valve at the lowest point of each air brake reservoir in the system; and
(d) any spring brake fitted to the vehicle must not operate before the warning mentioned in paragraph 139 (4) (a) or 142 (3) (a) has been given.
(2) If vacuum brakes are fitted to a vehicle, the vacuum supply must be able to build up vacuum—
(a) to the level when the warning signal mentioned in paragraph 139 (4) (a) or 142 (3) (a) no longer operates within 30s after the vacuum reserve is fully used up; and
(b) to the normal working level within 60s after the vacuum reserve is fully used up.
(3) In this clause—
136 Performance of braking systems (VS r 128, NSW sch 4 cl 135)
(1) One sustained application of the brake of a motor vehicle built after 1930, or a combination that includes a motor vehicle built after 1930, must be able to produce the performance mentioned in subclauses (2) to (7)—
(a) when the vehicle or combination is on a dry, smooth, level road surface, free from loose material; and
(b) whether or not the vehicle or combination is loaded; and
(c) without part of the vehicle or combination moving outside a straight path—
(i) centred on the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or combination before the brake was applied; and
(ii) 3.7m wide.
(2) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass under 2.5t must bring the vehicle or combination from a speed of 35 km/h to a stop within—
(a) 12.5m when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 30m when the emergency brake is applied.
(3) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass of at least 2.5t must bring the vehicle or combination from a speed of 35 km/h to a stop within—
(a) 16.5m when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 40.5m when the emergency brake is applied.
(4) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass under 2.5t must decelerate the vehicle or combination, from any speed at which the vehicle or combination can travel, by an average of at least—
(a) 3.8m/s 2 when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 1.6m/s 2 when the emergency brake is applied.
(5) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass of at least 2.5t must decelerate the vehicle or combination, from any speed at which the vehicle or combination can travel, by an average of at least—
(a) 2.8m/s 2 when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 1.1m/s 2 when the emergency brake is applied.
(6) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass under 2.5t must achieve a peak deceleration of the vehicle or combination, from any speed at which the vehicle or combination can travel, of at least—
(a) 5.8m/s 2 when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 1.9m/s 2 when the emergency brake is applied.
(7) The braking system of a motor vehicle or combination with a gross mass of at least 2.5t must achieve a peak deceleration of the vehicle or combination, from any speed at which the vehicle or combination can travel, of at least—
(a) 4.4m/s 2 when the service brake is applied; and
(b) 1.5m/s 2 when the emergency brake is applied.
(8) The parking brake of a vehicle or combination must be able to hold the vehicle or combination stationary on a 12% gradient.
Division 9.2—""Motor vehicle braking systems
137 What braking system a motor vehicle must have (VS r 129, NSW sch 4 cl 136)
(1) In this clause—
(2) A motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels built, or used, mainly for transporting goods or people by road must be fitted with—
(a) a braking system that—
(i) consists of brakes fitted to all wheels of the vehicle; and
(ii) has at least 2 separate methods of activation, arranged so effective braking remains on at least 2 wheels if a method fails; or
(b) 2 independent brakes, each of which, when in operation, acts directly on at least half the number of wheels of the vehicle.
(3) The braking system of a motor vehicle mentioned in subclause (2) that was built after 1945 must have a service brake operating on all wheels that, when applied—
(a) acts directly on the wheels and not through the vehicle's transmission; or
(b) acts on a shaft between a differential of the vehicle and a wheel.
(4) The braking system of a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels must have a parking brake that—
(a) is held in the applied position by direct mechanical action without the intervention of an electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic device; and
(b) is fitted with a locking device that can hold the brake in the applied position; and
(c) has its own separate control.
(5) The parking brake may also be the emergency brake.
(6) If 2 or more independent brakes are fitted to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, the brakes must be arranged so brakes are applied to all the wheels on at least 1 axle of the vehicle when any brake is operated.
(7) A motorbike or motortrike must be fitted with—
(a) 2 independent brakes; or
(b) a single brake that acts directly on all wheels of the vehicle and is arranged so effective braking remains on at least 1 wheel if a part of the system fails.
(8) Subclause (7) applies to a motorbike with a sidecar attached as if the sidecar were not attached.
(9) A motortrike must have a parking brake that is held in the applied position by mechanical means.
138 Operation of brakes on motor vehicles (VS r 130, NSW sch 4 cl 137)
The braking system on a motor vehicle must be arranged to allow the driver of the motor vehicle to apply the brakes from a normal driving position.
139 Air or vacuum brakes on motor vehicles (VS r 131, NSW sch 4 cl 138)
(1) If a motor vehicle has air brakes, the braking system of the vehicle must include at least 1 air storage tank.
(2) If a motor vehicle has vacuum brakes, the braking system of the vehicle must include at least 1 vacuum storage tank.
(3) An air or vacuum storage tank must be built so the service brake can be applied to meet the performance standards of clause 136 at least twice if the engine of the vehicle stops or the source of air or vacuum fails.
(4) An air or vacuum storage system must—
(a) be built to give a visible or audible warning to the driver, while in a normal driving position, of a lack of air or vacuum that would prevent the service brake from being applied to meet the performance standards of clause 136 at least twice; and
(b) be safeguarded by a check valve or other device against loss of air or vacuum if the supply fails or leaks.
(5) However, paragraph (4) (a) does not apply to a vehicle with a GVM of 4.5t or less that is fitted with an air or vacuum assisted braking system.
(6) If air or vacuum brakes are fitted to a motor vehicle equipped to tow a trailer, the brakes of the vehicle must be able to stop the vehicle, at the performance standards for emergency brakes under clause 136 if the trailer breaks away.
(7) The braking system of a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t equipped to tow a trailer fitted with air brakes must include protection against loss of supply line air or brake control signal air.
(8) The protection mentioned in subclause (7) must—
(a) operate automatically if a brake supply line hose connecting the motor vehicle and a trailer fails; and
(b) maintain enough air pressure to allow the brakes to be applied to meet performance standards for emergency brakes under clause 136; and
(c) include a visible or audible warning to the driver.
Division 9.3—""Trailer braking systems
140 What brakes a trailer must have (VS r 132, NSW sch 4 cl 139)
(1) A trailer with a GTM over 750kg must have brakes that operate on at least 1 wheel at each end of 1 or more axles of the trailer.
(2) A semitrailer or converter dolly with a GTM over 2t must have brakes that operate on all its wheels.
141 Operation of brakes on trailers (VS r 133, NSW sch 4 cl 140)
(1) The braking system of a trailer with a GTM over 2t must allow the driver of a motor vehicle towing the trailer to operate the brakes from a normal driving position.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to an unloaded converter dolly that weighs under 3t if the motor vehicle towing the converter dolly has a GVM over 12t.
(3) The brakes on a trailer with a GTM over 2t must—
(a) operate automatically and quickly if the trailer breaks away from the towing vehicle; and
(b) remain in operation for at least 15 minutes after a breakaway; and
(c) be able to hold the trailer on a 12% grade while in operation after a breakaway.
142 Air or vacuum brakes on trailers (VS r 134, NSW sch 4 cl 141)
(1) If a trailer has air brakes, its braking system must include at least 1 air storage tank.
(2) If a trailer has vacuum brakes, its braking system must include at least 1 vacuum storage tank.
(3) An air or vacuum storage system must—
(a) be built to give a visible or audible warning to the driver of the towing vehicle, while in a normal driving position, of a lack of air or vacuum that would prevent the brakes from meeting the performance standards of clause 136; and
(b) be safeguarded by a check valve or other device against loss of air or vacuum if the supply fails or leaks.
(4) Subclauses (1), (2) and (3) do not apply to a trailer with a GTM of 2t or less.
Division 9.4— Additional brake requirements for B-doubles and long road trains
143 Application of Division to certain road trains (VS r 135, NSW cl 142)
This Division does not apply to a road train, or a vehicle used in a road train, if the road train is not over 19m long.
144
Braking system design for a prime mover in a B-double
(VS r 136, NSW
sch 4 cl 143)
(1) A prime mover used in a B-double must comply with 2nd edition ADR 35A or 3rd edition ADR 35.
(2) A prime mover used in a B-double must also have an anti-lock braking system complying with 3rd edition ADR 64, if the prime mover—
(a) was built after 1989; or
(b) was first used in a B-double after 1993; or
(c) is used in a B-double that includes a road tank vehicle carrying dangerous goods.
145
Braking system design for motor vehicles in road trains
(VS r 137, NSW
sch 4 cl 144)
The performance of the service, secondary and parking braking systems of a motor vehicle used in a road train must comply with 2nd edition ADR 35A or 3rd edition ADR 35 if the vehicle would not otherwise be required to comply with an ADR about braking.
146 Braking system design for trailers in B-doubles or road trains (VS r 138, NSW sch 4 cl 145)
(1) The performance of the service, secondary and parking brake systems of a trailer used in a B-double or road train must comply with 2nd edition ADR 38 or 3rd edition ADR 38 if the trailer would not otherwise be required to comply with an ADR about braking.
(2) A road train trailer to which subclause (1) applies need not be fitted with a mechanical parking brake if it carries wheel chocks that provide a performance equal to the performance standard required for a parking brake system.
(3) A semitrailer, regardless of when it was built, must have an anti-lock braking system that complies with 3rd edition ADR 38/01, if—
(a) it is being used in a B-double that includes a road tank vehicle, whether or not the semitrailer is itself a road tank vehicle; and
(b) the road tank vehicle is carrying dangerous goods.
147 Air brakes of motor
vehicles in B-doubles or road trains
(VS r 139, NSW sch 4 cl 146)
(1) If a B-double or road train is fitted with brakes that operate using compressed air, the braking system of the motor vehicle must comply with subclauses (2) and (3) when—
(a) the pressure is measured in an 800ml vessel connected by a 2m pipe with a bore of approximately 13mm to the coupling head of the braking system; and
(b) the air pressure before the brakes are applied is not under—
(i) the average of the maximum and minimum pressures in the operating pressure range specified by the vehicle's manufacturer; or
(ii) if there is no manufacturer's specification—650 kPa.
(2) The pressure must reach at least 420 kPa within 400ms after the rapid and complete application of the foot-operated brake control.
(3) After the brakes have been fully applied, the pressure must fall, within 0.5s after the release of the foot-operated brake control, to 35 kPa.
148 Air brakes in a B-double or road train: least favoured chamber (VS r 140, NSW sch 4 cl 147)
(1) In this clause—
(2) The pressure in the least favoured chamber of the braking system of a B-double or road train with brakes that operate using compressed air must comply with subclauses (3) and (4) when the air pressure before the brakes are applied is not under—
(a) the average of the maximum and minimum pressures in the operating pressure range specified by the vehicle's manufacturer; or
(b) if there is no manufacturer's specification—650 kPa.
(3) The pressure must reach at least 420 kPa within—
(a) for a B-double—1 second after the rapid and complete application of the foot-operated brake control; or
(b) for a road train—1.5 seconds after the rapid and complete application of the foot-operated brake control.
(4) After the brakes have been fully applied, the pressure must fall to 35kPa, or the pressure at which the friction surfaces cease to contact each other, within—
(a) for a B-double—1 second after the release of the foot-operated brake control; or
(b) for a road train—1.5 seconds after the release of the foot-operated brake control.
149 Recovery of air pressure for brakes in B-doubles and road trains (VS r 141, NSW sch 4 cl 148)
The air pressure in each air brake reservoir in a B-double or road train must recover to at least 420 kPa within 1 minute after 3 full brake applications have been made within a 10 second period if, before the 3 brake applications have been made—
(a) the engine is running at maximum speed; and
(b) the governor cut-in pressure is no higher than—
(i) the pressure specified by the vehicle's manufacturer; or
(ii) if there is no manufacturer's specification—550 kPa; and
(c) the air pressure in the storage tanks of the vehicle is not under—
(i) the average of the maximum and minimum pressures in the operating pressure range specified by the vehicle's manufacturer; or
(ii) if there is no manufacturer's specification—650 kPa.
150 Air supply for brakes in B-doubles and road trains (VS r 142, NSW sch 4 cl 149)
A B-double or road train that uses compressed air to operate accessories must have—
(a) sufficient air compressor capacity and air receiver volume to ensure that the operation of the accessories does not adversely affect brake performance; and
(b) a compressed air system built to ensure that the brake system is preferentially charged.
151 Brake line couplings (VS r 143, NSW sch 4 cl 150)
(1) Brake line couplings on the same part of a vehicle in a B-double or road train must not be interchangeable.
(2) The couplings must be polarised in accordance with Australian Standard AS D8-1971 Hose Couplings for Use with Vacuum and Air-Pressure Braking Systems on Prime Movers, Trailers and Semitrailers if the hoses used with the brake couplings are used for the same purpose as the hoses mentioned in the standard.
152 Simultaneous parking brake application (VS r 144, NSW sch 4 cl 151)
(1) If the parking brake of a motor vehicle in a B-double or road train is applied, the parking brakes of any attached trailer must be applied automatically.
(2) This clause does not apply to a trailer carrying wheel chocks complying with subclause 146 (2).
153 Capacity of air reservoirs (VS r 145, NSW sch 4 cl 152)
(1) The
capacity of the air storage tanks of a motor vehicle used in a
B-double or
road train must be at least 12 times the volume of all the brake activation
chambers on the motor vehicle.
(2) The capacity of the air storage tanks of a trailer used in a B-double or road train must be at least 8 times the volume of all the brake activation chambers on the trailer.
Note This Part sets out requirements to ensure that motor vehicles do not emit too much smoke or noise and that exhaust gases cannot enter the passenger compartment of a vehicle.
Division 10.1—""Crankcase gases and visible emissions
154 Crankcase gases (VS r 146, NSW sch 4 cl 153)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that is powered by a petrol engine and was built after 1971.
(2) The vehicle must be built to prevent, or fitted with equipment that prevents, crankcase gases from escaping to the atmosphere.
155 Visible emissions (VS r 147, NSW sch 4 cl 154)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle that is propelled by an internal-combustion engine and was built after 1930.
(2) The vehicle must not emit excessive visible emissions for a continuous period of at least 10 seconds.
(3) However, this clause does not apply to emissions that are visible only because of heat or the condensation of water vapour.
(4) In this clause—
Division 10.2—""Exhaust systems
156 Exhaust systems (VS r 148, NSW sch 4 cl 155)
(1) The outlet of the exhaust system fitted to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t (other than a bus) must extend—
(a) behind the back seat; and
(b) at least 40mm beyond the outermost joint of the floorpan that is not continuously welded or permanently sealed; and
(c) to the edge of the vehicle, if—
(i) the body of the vehicle is permanently enclosed; and
(ii) the vehicle is not fitted with a vertical exhaust system; and
(d) no further than the edge of the vehicle at its widest point.
(2) The outlet must discharge the main exhaust flow to the air—
(a) if the vehicle is fitted with an exhaust system with a vertical outlet pipe—
(i) at an angle above the horizontal; and
(ii) at least 150mm above the cab of the vehicle; and
(iii) rearwards or to the right of the vehicle; and
(b) in any other case—
(i) horizontally or at an angle of not over 45° downwards; and
(ii) under 750mm above ground level; and
(iii) rearwards or to the right of the vehicle.
(3) An exposed section of a vertical exhaust system fitted to a motor vehicle (other than a bus) with a GVM over 4.5t must be positioned or shielded to prevent injury.
(4) The outlet of the exhaust system fitted to a bus with a GVM over 4.5t must—
(a) be as near as practicable to the rear of the vehicle; and
(b) extend no further than the edge of the bus at its widest point.
(5) The outlet must discharge the main exhaust flow to the air—
(a) if the bus is fitted with an exhaust system with a vertical outlet pipe—
(i) behind the passenger compartment; and
(ii) at an angle above the horizontal; and
(iii) upwards or rearwards; and
(b) in any other case—
(i) horizontally or at an angle of not over 45° downwards; and
(ii) rearwards or to the right of the vehicle.
(6) A vertical exhaust system fitted to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5t must—
(a) if the vehicle is fitted with an exhaust system with a vertical outlet pipe that does not direct the main exhaust flow straight up—direct the flow rearwards at an angle within 0° to 45° of the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle; and
(b) if a rain cap is fitted to the outlet pipe—be installed so the hinge of the cap is at an angle of 90° (plus or minus 10°) to the longitudinal centre-line of the vehicle when viewed from above.
Bus exhaust outlet pipe
Division 10.3—""Noise emissions
157 Silencing device for exhaust systems (VS r 149, NSW sch 4 cl 156)
A motor vehicle propelled by an internal-combustion engine must be fitted with a silencing device through which all the exhaust from the engine passes.
158 Stationary noise levels—car-type vehicles and motorbikes and motortrikes (VS r150, NSW sch 4 cl 157)
(1) In this clause—
(a) a car; or
(b) a utility truck, panel van, or another motor vehicle derived from a car design; or
(c) another motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that is built mainly to carry not over 9 people including the driver.
(2) The stationary noise level of a car-type vehicle, or motorbike or motortrike, must not exceed—
(a) for a car-type vehicle built after 1982—90dB(A); or
(b) for another car-type vehicle—96dB(A); or
(c) for a motorbike or motortrike built after February 1985—94dB(A); or
(d) for another motorbike or motortrike—100dB(A).
(3) However, this clause does not apply before 1 January 2001 to—
(a) a car-type vehicle built after 1982 and before September 1991 if the stationary noise level of the vehicle does not exceed 96dB(A); or
(b) a motorbike or motortrike built after February 1985 and before September 1991 if the stationary noise level of the vehicle does not exceed 100dB(A).
(4) Subclause (3) and this subclause expire on 1 January 2001.
159 Stationary noise levels—other vehicles with spark-ignition engines (VS r 151, NSW sch 4 cl 158)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle (other than a motor vehicle to which clause 158 applies) with a spark-ignition engine.
(2) The stationary noise level of the motor vehicle must not exceed the noise level applying to the vehicle under the table.
column 1 item | column 2 GVM (t) | column 3 exhaust height | column 4
| column 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | < 3.5 |
<1500 | before July 1983 | 92 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 89 |
| 2 |
>3.5 | <1500 | before July 1983 | 98 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 95 |
3 | < 3.5 | > 1500 | before July 1983 | 88 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 85 |
| 4 | >3.5 | > 1500 | before July 1983 | 94 |
| | | |
after June 1983 | 91 |
160 Stationary noise
levels—other vehicles with diesel engines
(VS r 152, NSW sch 4 cl 159)
(1) This clause applies to a motor vehicle (other than a motor vehicle to which clause 158 applies) with a diesel engine.
(2) The stationary noise level of the motor vehicle must not exceed the noise level applying to the vehicle under the table.
column 1 item | column 2 GVM (t) | column 3 exhaust height | column 4
| column 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | < 3.5 |
<1500 | before July 1980 | 105 |
| | | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 102 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 99 |
| 2 | >3.5 but |
<1500 | before July 1980 | 107 |
| | < 12 | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 104 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 101 |
| 3 | >12 |
<1500 | before July 1980 | 109 |
| | | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 106 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 103 |
| 4 | < 3.5 | > 1500 | before July 1980 | 101 |
| | | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 98 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 95 |
| 5 | >3.5 but | > 1500 | before July 1980 | 103 |
| | < 12 | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 100 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 97 |
| 6 | >12 |
> 1500 | before July 1980 | 105 |
| | | | after June 1980 but before July 1983 | 102 |
| | | | after June 1983 | 99 |
161 Measurement of stationary noise levels (VS r 153, NSW sch 4 cl 160)
For this Division, the stationary noise level of a motor vehicle is to be measured in accordance with the test method mentioned in the ACT Inspection Manual for Light Vehicles or the ACT Inspection Manual for Heavy Vehicles , published by the road transport authority that is current at the commencement of this clause.
Note The manuals are available from Road User Services, Department of Urban Services.
PART 11— LPG FUEL SYSTEMS AND UNLEADED PETROL MOTOR VEHICLES
Note This Part sets out requirements to ensure that LPG fuel systems are safely installed in motor vehicles and that vehicles with LPG installed can be identified as LPG-powered vehicles. It also requires unleaded petrol motor vehicles to be fuelled with unleaded petrol.
162 LPG-powered vehicles (VS r 154, NSW sch 4 cl 161)
(1) A motor vehicle equipped to run on LPG must comply with the requirements for the use of LPG in vehicles in—
(a) the version of Australian Standard AS 1425 in force at the commencement of this clause; or
(b) if an earlier version of the standard was current when the vehicle was first equipped to run on LPG—that version.
(2) A vehicle equipped to run on LPG must have fixed conspicuously to the front and rear numberplates a label that is—
(a) made of durable material; and
(b) at least 25mm wide and 25mm high; and
(c) reflective red conforming to Australian Standard AS 1742-1975 Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices , Appendix C, Class 2; and
(d) marked ‘LPGAS' or ‘LPG', or with words or acronyms to similar effect, in capital letters at least 6mm high.
163 Unleaded petrol motor vehicles
An unleaded petrol motor vehicle does not comply with this Schedule if it is fuelled with leaded petrol in contravention of the Environment Protection Act 1997 .
PART 12— MAXIMUM ROAD SPEED LIMITING
Note This Part requires certain heavy vehicles built after 1987, but before July 1991, to have a restricted top speed. However, emergency vehicles, police vehicles and certain 2-axle prime movers owned by farmers and used in primary production are exempt.
164 Speed limiting (VS r 155, NSW sch 4 cl 162)
(1) A bus with a GVM over 14.5t that was built after 1987 must comply with 3rd edition ADR 65.
(2) A prime mover with a GVM over 15t that was built after 1987 must comply with 3rd edition ADR 65.
(3) For 3rd edition ADR 65, the maximum road speed capability of a motor vehicle used in a road train is 90km/h.
Note Vehicle Standards Bulletin 2 contains the requirements of 3rd edition ADR 65. The bulletin is available from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau. The Bulletin is available from Road User Services, Department of Urban Services.
165 Exemptions from speed limiting (VS r 156, NSW sch 4 cl 163)
Clause 164 does not apply to—
(a) an emergency vehicle or police vehicle; or
(b) a bus fitted with handgrips or similar equipment for standing passengers to hold; or
(c) a 2-axle prime mover if—
(i) it was built after 1987 but before July 1991; and
(ii) the responsible person for the prime mover is a person who uses it for agriculture, horticulture, or other primary production activities (except forestry, fishing or mining).
PART 13— MECHANICAL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN VEHICLES
Note This Part sets out various requirements to ensure that the couplings used when operating motor vehicles and trailers in combinations are strong enough to hold them together.
The requirements in this Part about the mechanical connections between vehicles in a road train do not apply to a road train that is not over 19m long.
Division 13.1—""Couplings on all types of vehicles
166 General coupling requirements (VS r 157, NSW sch 4 cl 164)
(1) A fifth wheel coupling, the mating parts of a coupling, a kingpin or a tow bar must not be used for a load more than the manufacturer's load rating.
(2) A kingpin must be used only with a fifth wheel coupling that has a corresponding jaw size.
Example
An adaptor must not to be used to fit a kingpin to a fifth wheel coupling.
(3) The mating parts of a coupling used to connect a semitrailer to a towing vehicle must not allow the semitrailer to roll to an extent that makes the towing vehicle unstable.
167 Drawbar couplings (VS r 158, NSW sch 4 cl 165)
(1) A coupling for attaching a trailer, other than a semitrailer or pole-type trailer, to a towing vehicle must be built and fitted so—
(a) the coupling is equipped with a positive locking mechanism; and
(b) the positive locking mechanism can be released regardless of the angle of the trailer to the towing vehicle.
(2) If the trailer is in a combination and is not fitted with breakaway brakes in accordance with subclause 141 (3), it must be connected to the towing vehicle by at least 1 chain, cable or other flexible device, as well as the coupling required by subclause (1).
(3) The safety connection must be as short as practicable and be built and fitted so—
(a) it is not apt to accidental disconnection but is readily detachable from the towing vehicle; and
(b) it allows normal angular movements of the coupling without unnecessary slack; and
(c) it will prevent the forward end of the drawbar from striking the ground if the coupling is accidentally disconnected; and
(d) if it consists of more than 1 chain or wire rope—the chains or wire ropes are in a crossed-over position.
(4) Any chain or wire rope in the safety connection must—
(a) if a chain—be of welded iron links; and
(b) if a wire rope—have a strength at least that of a chain of the same diameter; and
(c) be of a size mentioned in the following table:
aggregate trailer mass | minimum size of chain or wire rope |
| up to 1t |
6.3mm diameter |
| over 1t but not over 1.6t | 8mm diameter |
| over 1.6t but not over 2.5t | 10mm diameter |
| over 2.5t | 7.1mm diameter |
(5) For a total trailer mass over 2.5t, at least 2 chains or wire ropes must be used.
(6) In this clause—
Division 13.2— Additional coupling requirements for B-doubles and long road trains
168 Application of Division to road trains (VS r 159, NSW sch 4 cl 166)
This Division does not apply to a vehicle, coupling, or part of a coupling, used in a road train not over 19m long.
169 Couplings for B-doubles and road trains (VS r 160, NSW sch 4 cl 167)
(1) A fifth wheel coupling used to connect a towing vehicle to a semitrailer used in a B-double or road train must not be built with a pivot that allows a semitrailer to roll relative to the towing vehicle.
(2) However, subclause (1) does not apply to a fifth wheel coupling if—
(a) the semitrailer design requires torsional stresses to be minimised; and
(b) the roll axis of the fifth wheel coupling is above the surface of the coupler plate; and
(c) the degree of rotation allowed around the roll axis of the fifth wheel coupling is restricted to prevent roll instability.
(3) A trailer with only 1 axle group, or a single axle, (other than a semitrailer or a converter dolly) that is used in a road train must not have a coupling fitted at its rear.
170 Selection of fifth wheel couplings for B-doubles and road trains (VS r 161, NSW sch 4 cl 168)
(1) A fifth wheel coupling used in a B-double or road train must have a D-value complying with Australian Standard AS 1773-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Fifth Wheel Assemblies .
(2) A turntable used in a B-double or road train must have a D-value complying with Australian Standard AS 1773-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Fifth Wheel Assemblies .
(3) If a fifth wheel coupling used in a B-double or road train is built for a 50mm or 90mm kingpin, the coupling must—
(a) meet the dimension requirements in Australian Standard AS 1773-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Fifth Wheel Assemblies ; and
(b) not be worn away more than recommended by the standard.
(4) If a fifth wheel coupling used in a B-double or road train is built for a 75mm kingpin, the coupling must—
(a) be compatible with the kingpin mentioned in subclause 174 (3); and
(b) not be worn away so that it does not comply with clause 171.
171 D-value of a fifth wheel coupling (VS r 162, NSW sch 4 cl 169)
In testing a fifth wheel coupling built for a 75mm kingpin used in a B-double or road train to decide whether its D-value complies with subclause 170 (1), the longitudinal movement (after readjusting the jaws of the coupling using a kingpin built to the dimensions mentioned in subclause 174 (3) (a)) must not be over 4mm.
172 Mounting of fifth wheel couplings on B-doubles and road trains (VS r 163, NSW sch 4 cl 170)
A fifth wheel coupling must be mounted on a prime mover, or a semitrailer used in a B-double or road train, in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1771-1987 Installation of Fifth Wheel and Turntable Assemblies .
173 Branding of fifth wheel couplings and turntables on B-doubles and road trains (VS r 164, NSW sch 4 cl 171)
(1) A fifth wheel coupling on a vehicle built after June 1991 forming part of a B-double or road train must be clearly and permanently marked in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1773-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Fifth Wheel Assemblies with—
(a) the name or trademark of its manufacturer; and
(b) its D-value rating; and
(c) its nominal size.
(2) A turntable used in a vehicle built after the commencement of this clause that forms part of a B-double or road train must be marked with—
(a) the name or trademark of the turntable's manufacturer; and
(b) the D-value rating of the turntable in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1773-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Fifth Wheel Assemblies .
174 Selection of kingpins for B-doubles and road trains (VS r 165, NSW sch 4 cl 172)
(1) A kingpin used in a B-double or road train must—
(a) be a 50, 75 or 90mm kingpin; and
(b) have a D-value complying with Australian Standard AS 2175-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Kingpins .
(2) A 50 or 90mm kingpin used in a B-double or road train must—
(a) be built to meet the dimension requirements in Australian Standard AS 2175-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Kingpins ; and
(b) not be worn away more than recommended by the standard.
(3) A 75mm kingpin used in a B-double or road train must—
(a) be built to meet the dimensions in the following essential diagram; and
(b)
not be worn away more than mentioned in subclause (4). 
Dimensions of a
75mmkingpin
(4) In testing a 75mm kingpin mentioned in the essential diagram in subclause (3) to decide whether its D-value complies with paragraph (1) (b)—
(a) diameter F must not wear over 3mm; and
(b) diameter G must not wear over 2mm; and
(c) height H must not wear over 2.3mm.
175 Attachment of kingpins on B-doubles and road trains (VS r 166, NSW sch 4 cl 173)
A kingpin used in a trailer that forms part of a B-double or road train must be attached in accordance with—
(a) the manufacturer's specifications and instructions; or
(b) the guidelines detailed in Australian Standard AS 2175-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Kingpins .
176 Branding of kingpins on B-doubles and road trains (VS r 167, NSW sch 4 cl 174)
A kingpin used in a trailer built after June 1991 that forms part of a B-double or road train must be clearly and permanently marked on the lower circular face of the kingpin in accordance with Australian Standard AS 2175-1990 Articulated Vehicles–Kingpins with—
(a) the name or trademark of its manufacturer; and
(b) its D-value rating; and
(c) its nominal size.
177 Selection of couplings and drawbar eyes for road
trains
(VS r 168, NSW sch 4 cl 175)
A drawbar-type coupling, or drawbar eye, used in a road train must—
(a) be a 50mm pin type; and
(b) have a D-value complying with Australian Standard AS 2213-1984 50mm Pin Type Couplings and Drawbar Eyes for Trailers ; and
(c) be built to the dimensions mentioned in the standard; and
(d) not be worn away more than is recommended in the standard.
178
Attachment of couplings and drawbar eyes on road trains
(VS r 169, NSW
sch 4 cl 176)
A drawbar-type coupling, or drawbar eye, used in a road train must be built and positioned so—
(a) when the road train is moving, the drawbar can move at least 15° upwards or downwards from the position it occupies when the road train is parked on level ground; and
(b) the pivot point of the coupling is not over 300mm forward of the rear of the trailer to which it is attached; and
(c) it is at a height of at least 800mm, but not over 950mm, when the road train is unloaded and parked on level ground.
179
Branding of couplings and drawbar eyes on road trains
(VS r 170, NSW
sch 4 cl 177)
A drawbar-type coupling, or drawbar eye, used on a vehicle built after June 1991 that forms part of a road train must be clearly and permanently marked in accordance with Australian Standard AS 2213-1984 50mm-Pin Type Couplings and Drawbar Eyes for Trailers with—
(a) the name or trademark of its manufacturer; and
(b) its D-value rating.
180 Tow coupling overhang on road trains (VS r 171, NSW sch 4 cl 178)
(1) In this clause—
(2) The tow coupling overhang of a motor vehicle, other than a prime mover, used in a road train must not be more than the greater of—
(a) 30% of the distance from the centre of the front axle to the centre of the axle group or single axle at the rear of the vehicle; and
(b) 2.7m.
(3) The tow coupling overhang of a semitrailer, or a dog trailer consisting of a semitrailer and converter dolly, used in a road train must not be more than 30% of the distance from the point of articulation to the centre of the axle group or single axle at the rear of the vehicle.
(4) The tow coupling overhang of another dog trailer used in a road train must not be more than 30% of the distance from the centre of the front axle group or single axle to the centre of the axle group or single axle at the rear of the vehicle.
Tow coupling
overhang—semitrailer with
extra coupling at rear
Tow coupling overhang—motor vehicle
Tow coupling overhang—dog trailer
181 Vehicle equipment (VS r 172, NSW sch 4 cl 179)
A vehicle is taken to have equipment mentioned in this Schedule only if the equipment is in working order.
182 Restored vehicles (VS r 173, NSW sch 4 cl 180)
(1) For this Schedule, a restored vehicle is taken to have been built when it was originally built and not when it was restored.
(2) In this clause—
183 Retractable axles (VS r 174, NSW sch 4 cl 181)
(1) For this Schedule, a retractable axle is taken to be an axle only when it is in the lowered position.
(2) In this clause—
184 Measurement of distance between parallel lines (VS r 175, NSW sch 4 cl 182)
For this Schedule, a distance between 2 parallel lines is measured at right angles between the lines.
185 Interpretation of certain 2nd edition ADRs (VS r 176, NSW sch 4 cl 183)
The words ‘left' and ‘right' in the following 2nd edition ADRs have the opposite meaning in the application of the ADRs, in accordance with this Schedule, to a motor vehicle with a left-hand drive—
• ADR 8 Safety Glass
• ADR 12 Glare Reduction in Field of View
• ADR 14 Rear-vision Mirrors
• ADR 16 Windscreen-wipers and Washers
• ADRs 18 and 18A Location and Visibility of Instruments
• ADRs 35 and 35A Commercial Vehicle Braking Systems .
Note The following table contains a list of some terms used in the 3rd edition ADRs and the corresponding term used in this Schedule.
3rd edition ADRs | This Schedule |
|---|---|
| dipped-beam headlamp | low-beam (for a headlight) |
| front fog lamp | front fog light |
| rear fog lamp | rear fog light |
| wheelguard | mudguard |
| main-beam headlamp | high-beam (for a headlight) |
| reversing lamp | reversing light |
| direction indicator lamp | direction indicator light |
| stop lamp | brakelight |
|
rear registration plate lamp | numberplate light |
| front position (side) lamp | parking light |
| rear position (side) lamp | tail-light |
|
end-outline marker lamp | front or rear clearance light |
| external cabin lamp | external cabin light |
| internal lamp | interior light |
| side marker lamp | side marker light |
| daytime running lamp | daytime running light |
| rear reflex reflector, non-triangular | rear reflector |
| front reflex reflector, non-triangular | front reflector |
| side reflex reflector, non-triangular | side reflector |