TECH EXTRA
As is the case with many product groups, DOT regulations make labeling as important to achieving full compliance as the quality of the product itself
“ The purpose of the standard is to reduce deaths and injuries”
packaging for mention of DOT FMVSS-106 compliance. Another means of checking is to look in manufacturer and / or distributor catalogs for product descriptions. Because DOT compliance is such a huge deal, not to mention a well-earned accomplishment, for marketing purposes, one would think that any savvy manufacturer’ s or marketer’ s catalog ad copy will surely make mention of compliance. However, the best way to know for sure is to look for the proper identification, or“ labeling”, on the brake hose assembly itself. There are three options manufacturers have to accomplish this:
Option 1
A band may be attached so as to move freely along the length of the assembly. It shall be etched, embossed, or stamped with both the symbol DOT and the manufacturer’ s designation or symbol.
Option 2
The brake hose may be labeled directly in block capital letters and numerals with the symbol DOT, the manufacturer’ s designation or registered symbol, the date of manufacture, the outside diameter( OD) of the hose, and HR to designate its volumetric expansion rating.
Option 3
At least one end fitting of the hydraulic brake hose assembly is etched, stamped or embossed with a designation that identifies the manufacturer and is filed with NHTSA.
Some manufacturers’ brake lines are TÜV approved. Basically, this means that a TÜV station or department( Technical Inspection Association) provides European accreditation by overseeing compliance with domestic and international guidelines, standards and directives. In this case, they oversee the process of testing and documentation associated with DOT FMVSS-106 criteria. The takeaway from this article is that DOT FMVSS-106 compliance matters and is the primary way to ensure the safety of the rider, given that brake lines are integral to the safe operation of the motorcycle.
“ Dealers may be deemed negligent in the event of failure”
We at Magnum Shielding Corporation feel that it’ s important for you to know the details of what to be aware of and what to look for when ensuring the protection of both your customers’ safety and your hard-earned business. Stay tuned for Part 2- the tests and testing procedures that must be passed to make the finished line and achieve compliance.
The Three Reasons Why DOT Matters
1
In the United States brake hose assemblies are covered under an FMVSS. If intended for sale via cataloged on-road applications, then by law they must be compliant.
2
If an injury occurs where non-compliant brake line failure is argued to be a contributing factor, the dealer may face liability.
3
How can a dealer tell, via inspection, if the brake lines they are installing or selling for a licensed motorcycle are FMVSS-106 compliant? Not by testing them, but rather by the labeling found on the assemblies( the hose, fittings, or band).
MAGNUM SHIELDING Pittsford, New York, USA Tel: 585 381 8380 info @ magnumshielding. com www. magnumshielding. com
Stripes
Stripes are also included in DOT labeling requirements and must be placed on the brake hose parallel to its longitudinal axis to prevent twisting during assembly and installation. If you do not see this printed stripe on an aftermarket assembly, the brake line is not FMVSS-106 compliant. Per the Standard, aftermarket assemblies are NON-OEM hose assemblies, and torque stripes are required.
Exception
The only exception to this labeling rule is if the brake hose is OEM and manufactured for use only in a brake line assembly whose end fittings prevent its installation in a twisted orientation.
Using multiple PLC controlled pressure testing stations such as the one shown above, all brake hose assemblies are pressure and flow tested as part of Magnum ' s quality control procedures. This added step further supports Magnum Shielding ' s commitment to providing safe and compliant products under the guidelines of FMVSS.
58 AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE DEALER- JUNE 2018 www. AMDchampionship. com