Operational Policy 5 - Raised Lift Axles

Language to be amend Operational Policy 5 to add language to clarify the paragraph for raised lift axles.

The original paragraph in Ops 5 for a raised lift axle was created from action item 07-006. In this there was concern with 393.42 Question 1 for brakes required on all wheels and whether lift axles have to be equipped with brakes. The committee at the time came back with some of the current language. The language that is currently in there is confusing to some inspectors and in a local poll of officers in our area we were finding a difference of opinion on what this paragraph means. As it currently sits if you stop a truck with a raised lift axle and that axle has a hose that is leaking air from an improper connection, a bulge or improper splice that should not be listed as a violation, but rather in the notes section. We had this exact scenario, where a truck was leaking air from an improper connection and because it was leaking on a lift axle we read that it should not be listed as an OOS violation. However any other hose on the truck with an improper connection would constitute an OOS violation because of the potential for a system failure.

The request is to amend the current language to the language below for lift axles. RAISED LIFT AXLE(S) Raised lift axles are to be inspected to ensure all components are secure and for conditions that could adversely affect the vehicle’s operation causing a potential out of service condition if not repaired. (e.g., air leaks in the brake system, such leaks from brake chambers, brake hoses or leaks at other than proper connection.) If a violation could adversely affect the entire vehicles operation it should be listed as a violation at time of inspection. If a critical vehicle inspection item defect is discovered on the raised axle, the vehicle is not eligible to receive a CVSA decal. If a violation that does not adversely affect the vehicles operation is discovered (E.g., Wheel fasteners, brake adjustment, tires) and the defect should be documented in the notes section of the inspection report. The raised lift axle shall not be included in determining the total number of brakes on a vehicle combination for the 20% service brake calculation. If the raised lift axle is required to be lowered to comply with regulatory requirements in order to continue operation, the operator has the option to adjust or offload cargo, otherwise the axle is subject to inspection. If required to lower, then all components and the 20% service brake calculation would then apply under normal procedures.