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