Sva

[Guest Petemate]

I've seen some info lately regarding missing locktab failures on steering column fittings.

Regarding the whole matter of security, does anyone know what SVA feel about the use of wire-locking, as opposed to spring/tab washers?

During my years in the RAF, wire-locking was considered as the ultimate in nut/bolt security.

Pete(Oldgit)

[Guest morty]

Pete,

 

Having watched "A Chopper Is Born", wire locking seems to be used in aeronautical circles so that if parts should fail/shear, they remain attached to something else (or at least that's what I interpreted it as) - it's a bit of a bugger if your rotor jams at 1000 feet! It's a fair old way down, and the journey goes by quickly I'll bet.

 

Due to that, while it probably is the most secure way of locking stuff together, it's probably overkill in a car - still, better safe than sorry if you have the time

 

Morty

[Guest Petemate]

Hi Morty

Thanks for your reply. Now at work, and cleared the backlog, checked the forum.

Yes, I have the time and the inclination. Also my lad (of Dax-building fame) is keen on locking things like the prop bolts etc. So am I. Question is, will SVA accept this instead of spring washers? With some bolts bearing on aluminium components, I just DON'T like spring washers. :angry:

Pete(Oldgit)

[Guest morty]

Pete,

 

As far as I can see, wire locking is a far more effective way of locking fastners than any spring washer, as they simply can't turn, so in my eyes, it should be a pass.

 

HOWEVER, as it has been said many a time, just because it obeys all sense, safety and logic doesn't mean it's a pass, and would probably end up as a discretionary point. I'd get yor SVA centre to give you it in writing before going to the trouble, to find they'll fail you on it.

 

Can't wait till I'm in your position!

 

Morty

[Guest Battery Bill]

Can't wait till I'm in your position!

 

What you mean, you cant wait till your an "old git"?

Stop wishing your life away Morty.

[Guest stevey]

Well gents my view on this is that,yes wire locking is a VERY secure means of fastening (another old RAF lag here)BUT and it is a big but do the automotive industry use this method? I don't think so. I kept being reminded at my SVA that things like silicone sealer was not used by the manufacturers(they are wrong on that I have tubes of Ford and VW silicone with part Nos)and was therefore not acceptable I had a row with the examiner about lock washers being needed behind caliper retaining bolts. So to sum up I would ask your local SVA centre their view and obtain the guys name for test time

Steve

[Guest daveg]

All

 

Wire locking is used on the race track...you have to lock oil fillers etc.

 

Anywhere a split pin is used can be locked with wire...but I wouldn't use it on a prop shaft due to balance. Use locking fluid instead.

 

Dave

[Guest Ant]

So to sum up I would ask your local SVA centre their view and obtain the guys name for test time

 

I couldn't agree more with you on that. I found myself argueing with a retest examiner about things which the tester on my first SVA had specifically said were not just fine, but "good".

 

I've nothing against the SVA test, or the people inforcing it - they're only human like the rest of us, but there are lots of places for interpretation to enter the SVA rules and regs. Asking people on this board always gets a variety of answers - some saying they've passed with things which others have failed with. There are usually a few do's and don't which apply most of the time, but the only way to get a definite answer is to ask a tester, show them photos or describe things, and get their name (and the time / date of the call or whatever) and then insist that they stick to what they've said.

 

Ant

[Guest Petemate]

Thanks for all the feedback guys. I will probably contact SVA at Leighton Buzzard - they were very helpful on a couple of previous queries.

Pete(Oldgit)