Tractor Protection System Test - Quick Connect Fitting
| Entry Date | September 8, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Issue Number | 25-083-VEH |
| Name | Larri Tharp |
| Agency | California Highway Patrol C.R.I.F. |
| Address | 8820 South Highway 99La Grand, CA, 95333United StatesMap It (opens in a new tab) |
| Phone | 559-663-6400 |
| Fax | (559) 665-3906 |
| [email protected] | |
| Committee | Vehicle Committee |
| Status | Closed |
| Summary of Issue | Guidance with proper procedure/ documentation conducting "Breakaway/ Tractor Protection System (TPV) simulation/ test" per step 32 of North American Standard Level I Inspection Procedure and Inspection Bulletin 2010-01, with trucks using metal quick-connect fittings instead of regular glad-hands. |
| Justification or Need | When trying to conduct a “Breakaway/ Tractor Protection System simulation/ test” check, as out lined in “Inspection Bulletin 2010-01 – Tractor Protection Systems” the internal check valve on metal quick-connect fittings, prevents the air from escaping the trailer side (Red/ Parking Brake Side) hose. This in turn will not allow the valving on trailers to setup the trailer breaks. This is outlined as an “Out Of Service” condition Per page 27 Trailer Breakaway and Emergency Braking d.(3) North American Standard Out-Of-Service Criteria April 1,2025. |
| Request for Action | In the real-world event of a trailer breaking away form the towed vehicle using metal quick-connect fittings. The trailer would rip the hoses apart, as this type of “Quick Connect” fitting would be much stronger than the hose. The internal “Check Valve” of the quick connect fitting would still be “Open” allowing air to escape and valving should initiate the brakes to actuate as designed. Would this still be considered and out-of-service condition because we are unable to perform the test/simulation? |