|
Post by martijn on Aug 1, 2009 1:17:31 GMT 12
Hi, I just emigrated to NZ and have to get used to the rules and regulations . I imported a Bull bar for a Jeep Wrangler and want to sell it. I get a lot of questions if the Bull bar is certified, if it is airbag compatible or if I have crashtestresults. Is this really necessary? Most airbagsystems have sensors in the frame, and works of inertia of the stop, measuring the forces of gravity. A different bumper or bull bar does not effect the airbagsystem. Based on the LVV Standards, section 4.2 c, a bull bar that does not breach any applicable safety-related legal requirements does not require certification. So, no certification required? Really appreciate an answer!
|
|
|
Post by Dan on Aug 4, 2009 8:44:01 GMT 12
The legislation that applies to this is the Land Transport Frontal Impact Rule, here is the relevant part:
"The performance of a frontal impact occupant protection system must not be affected by any factor, including ... the fitting of additional equipment, or the removal of equipment."
You are right in that airbags work off sensors that react to how quick the vehicle is slowing down. The sensor and airbag computer are tuned for a certain rate of deceleration so the airbags are set off at the right time.
A bull-bar can change the stiffness of the vehicle and this can affect when the airbag is set off, so in this way it breaches the Rule.
The good news is that the Rule does not apply to all 4x4 class vehicles, only those manufactured from 1-Oct-2003 and with a Gross vehicle mass (GVM) under 2500kg. The Wrangler GVM is around 2000kg, so you can fit the bullbar to a Wrangler that was built before 1-Oct-03.
A bullbar does not require certification, it will be checked at the warrant of fitness inspection that it is fit for purpose.
There are bullbars available that have been designed and tested so that they do not affect airbag deployment. The only manufacturer I know of that supplies these to NZ is ARB.
Dan
|
|
|
Post by martijn on Aug 4, 2009 21:01:07 GMT 12
Thanks for your reply Dan. Still have some questions left.... The Jeep Wrangler is designed to fit additional equipment like heavy duty bumpers and Bull Bars. If it is fitted on the existing mounting holes it won't affect the safety or working of the airbag in a negative way. I have imported the Bull Bar from Omix-Ada, one of the largest car parts and accessories distributor for Jeep. They also distribute parts licensed bij JEEP/Mopar. I contacted them and they say that every Bull Bar they sell is specially made for that vehicle, is fitted on existing mounting holes and do not effect the safety in any way. Otherwise they are not allowed to sell the Bull Bars (and bumpers) in the USA. So if the Bull Bar is mounted on existing mounting holes, designed for additional equipment, is it "fit for purpose"? Other question; is there a way that I can get an opinion about the Bull Bars before I sell them. I sell a lot of items/parts and thinking of importing the Bull Bars as well but only if people who buy it don't get problems with the WOF. The Bull Bar is for a Wrangler JK (07-09) so the Rule does apply.... Thanks Martijn
|
|
|
Post by Dan on Aug 5, 2009 13:05:47 GMT 12
As bullbars never require certification, I can't give a definitive answer on Warrant of Fitness requirements - this would officially come from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). Here's my opinion: The information we have gathered from several sources confirms that altering the strength of the front structure can affect airbag deployment. As it is a possibility that there is an effect, then any changes need to be assessed and evidence provided to show compliance to a Warrant of Fitness inspector. One way to satisfy the regulations is to get written confirmation from the supplier or from Jeep that this bullbar will not affect airbag deployment (and that this is relevant to a right hand drive model). Bear in mind that the regulations in the US may be different to that in NZ. Another way would be to conduct testing, as ARB have done. Their website has some information on this: www.arb.com.au/products/arb-protection-equipment/100bull-Bar-Design-&-Engineering.php It's a very good idea to get an approval before you sell any bullbars. If you can get proof from the manufacturer then New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) should be able to verify that it is sufficient for Warrant of Fitness standards. Dan
|
|
|
Post by martijn on Aug 6, 2009 0:20:02 GMT 12
Thanks for your answer and opinion. I have work to do! Cheers, Martijn PS: Like the forum and the way the questions are answered. Makes life on the road (a bit) easier!
|
|
|
Post by Dan on Aug 6, 2009 10:05:53 GMT 12
Thanks for the good feedback Martijn, we want the forum to build up and be a worthwhile resource of low volume vehicle information.
Dan
|
|