49 CFR 393.70 (d)(5) - Coupling Devices and Towing Methods
| Entry Date | March 12, 2010 |
|---|---|
| Issue Number | 10-009-VEH |
| Name | Renn Fairchild |
| Agency | CityServiceValcon, LLC |
| Address | 640 W. Montana, P.O. Box 1Kalispell, MT, 59903United StatesMap It (opens in a new tab) |
| Phone | 406-755-4321 |
| Fax | (406) 756-8592 |
| [email protected] | |
| Committee | Vehicle Committee |
| Status | Closed |
| Summary of Issue | 49 CFR, Subpart F - Coupling Devices and Towing Methods, ?393.70(d)(5) needs to be updated. Subsection (d)(5) regarding safety cables states, "When a single length of cable is used, a thimble and twin-base cable clamps shall be used to form the forward bridle eye." This needs to be updated to reflect upgrades in technology and trailer manufacturing, including sleeve swages appropriately rated to the intended weight of the trailer. |
| Justification or Need | There is inconsistency between enforcement agencies as to whether a swage sleeve is accepted in lieu of twin-base cable clamps. Because CSA 2010 will begin counting roadside inspection violations against carrier safety ratings, it is imperative to have clarification on acceptable configurations as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary detriment to carrier safety ratings. |
| Request for Action | Update CFR 49 393.70(d)(5) to include sleeve swage configurations as well as other accepted configurations that are just as strong as, if not more strong than, the twin-base cable clamp configuration. |