OOSC, Part II, Item 8. Fuel Systems, a. Liquid Fuels

The liquid fuel tank requirements in 393.67(c)(7)(v) state that "Each fill pipe must be fitted with a cap that can be fastened securely over the opening in the fill pipe. Screw threads or a bayonet-type point are methods of conforming to the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section." Many newer vehicles (such as Ford and Chevrolet Pickups) are being manufactured without fuel a cap, instead they are using a spring loaded flap that covers the fill pipe to prevent fuel from spilling out. Often times these fill pipes are even marked as "Capless".

It does not seem like these "capless fuel system" vehicles meet the fuel cap requirements of 393.67(c)(7)(v) since they are not equipped with a screw or bayonet-type fuel caps. A motor carrier could be cited for a critical a violation for missing fuel cap despite the vehicle being manufactured and sold without one.

The 393.67(c)(7)(v) regulation is outdated. Some guidance is needed as to whether these vehicles that are manufactured without fuel caps meet the fuel cap requirements of 393.67. If these capless fuel systems do meet the requirements, would a damaged or stuck "flap" constitute a violation? There is an exemption in 393.67(f)(4) that exempts certain vehicles, including the Ford and Silverado pick ups, from fuel tank certifications and markings but there is no exemption (that I'm aware of) for the fuel cap requirements.