During an annual inspection, a truck and three axle dog was issued a major defect notice for a problem with the tow coupling.
The vehicle was presented for an annual heavy vehicle inspection at a National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) facility in Queensland and the auto tow coupling was found to be loose in its boss.
“A major defect notice was issued to the operator after a major defect was detected in the tow coupling assembly. The vehicle was declared unroadworthy and prohibited from operation until the defect was rectified,” said an NHVR spokesperson.
“Defects of this nature pose a serious safety risk as excessive movement in critical coupling components can increase stress on the locknut, heightening the risk of coupling failure which can endanger all road users.”
The NHVR added that tow coupling failures due to insufficient maintenance has been identified as a recurring issue in recent years.
“These incidents highlight the critical importance of proactive maintenance and adherence to manufacturer specifications for all tow coupling components,” the spokesperson added, reiterating the importance of conducting regular inspections, maintenance, and servicing of tow couplings in compliance with the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (NHVIM).
“Consistent and thorough inspections regardless of the type of trailer or coupling are essential to ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of every heavy vehicle operating on Australian roads.”
I imagine it would be a good idea for the government to install vehicle testing stations for all vehicles at roadhouses, while inspection is underway driver could have shower etc and when it is concluded a report is emailed to the transport operator to fix when necessary or given to the owner driver to remedy at the nearest point of repair instead of being jumped by the machinery Cops no where near a repair facility .