Codi offers brake testing advice
Codi International has provided guidance for fleet and workshop operators looking to invest in brake testing equipment.
Brake testing of HGVs, or the lack of it, is a theme that DVSA and the Office of the Traffic Commissioner (OTC) return to regularly, the firm points out.
“The OTC expects a minimum of four roller brake tests a year and is putting more emphasis on acting on the results instead of just accepting a marginal pass as satisfactory,” said Codi.
“The DVSA Guide to Roadworthiness states that brakes must be tested at every safety inspection and the results must be kept for a minimum of 15 months.”
The company adds that authorities are also emphasising that vehicles should be tested laden, that a ‘pass’ is the minimal acceptable condition, and that reports should be analysed for brakes giving low or unusual readings which should be investigated further.
“A roller brake tester is an investment, but the returns are good,” said Codi.
“Testing costs are greatly reduced with no travel time to other test facilities, no external fees, no retest costs etc. An operator with a fleet of 20 vehicles tested four times a year would see a complete return on investment in under five years.
“There are earnings from testing other operators’ vehicles, and the recent removal of testing exemptions for several vehicle types has increased this opportunity for this type of work. A properly maintained machine will last many years.
One of the most important things with a brake tester is suitability and ease of use, the firm contends.
“The requirement for record keeping means that most modern brake testers are computer controlled and carry out the test using the DVSA database,” said Codi.
“The user interface should be easy to use and allow the test to be carried out simply and efficiently. It is also important for the tester to be able to see the display screen and careful thought should be given to this. There are several ways to ensure visibility including multiple displays, a single large display [and] wireless in-cab displays.”
A good supplier should be able to advise on the right machine for individual applications, says the company.
“Certain vehicles like buses and trailers can present problems, as well as positioning, test direction etc. Support is also vital with brake testers; modern equipment is complex and capable of carrying out very accurate brake diagnosis, however they also require calibration, software updates, ongoing training and maintenance.
“The support organisation will require the manufacturer’s backing; most manufacturers will only make software access available through their appointed agents.”
Codi International Ltd offers a range of roller brake testers for trucks and buses from AHS Pruftechnik GmbH and Saxon Prüftechnik GmbH.
“Models are available from simple manual test machines to fully approved ATF test lane specification,” said the company.
“There are also special models for cranes, heavy plant, military vehicles etc. and mobile versions are available for situations where a permanent installation isn’t required.
“All the brake testers feature a robustly engineered roller bed with powerful motors and exceptionally durable epoxy roller coating. All machines can be upgraded during or after installation with a range of accessories including axle weigher, roller locking [and] in cab tablet. All can be connected to a PC running the DVSA database allowing the DVSA test to be carried out.”
