I tried to ask this simple question on KidsBook, but as usual its too hard a question. Thanks fella's
It is a bit of a grey area however I suspect that it will require certification by an engineer. Fitting the factory non HICAS rear suspension would not require certification. For a definitive answer give RMS Technical Enquiries a call on 1300 137 302.
If you wanted to pick at it one might argue that it falls under item 11 of the RMS guidelines and requires certification for steering system"modified by fitment of fabricated parts".
Any modification can be defected under the pretense "does not comply with standard". Does that answer your question?
That's not true, read the modified vehicle standards information available from the RMS. They are very clear about what is permitted, and what requires certification.
Maybe here in forum world. On the street, where the subject matter actually gets tested, it is true...
Haha listen to you! Out here in the readthe****enlegislation world we have laws that govern what can and can't be done and they're in print for anyone to lookup.... Can I suggest as a starting point the 2013 vehicle standards information document, section light vehicles, available from the RMS. With regard to the steering system for example (seeing as that's what we're talking about) I can fit a bolt in updated steering damper, or I can retrofit steering components designed for a later model vehicle (eg electric HICAS in my 1991) without needing certification. Why? Because that's what the legislation says. If you're arguing that a cop can give you a defect for little more than having a bad day then sure, but that's not what's being asked, is it?
Just had a car go through RWC with HICAS lock-out bar fitted, no issues with lock-out bar but HICAS warning light had to be extinguished, in fact in Qld a car will not pass RWC with any red warning lights illuminated
In the world of defects, it is usually guilty until proved innocent. A cop can, and possibly will defect you for something that they believe is illegal. It is up to you to then prove yourself innocent by taking it to get the defect cleared, where hopefully, the inspector will know what is legal, and what is not. I have the Vehicle Modification guide printed, relevant bits (to my modifications) highlighted, and kept in my car just in case.
In simple terms - in NSW it is illegal. To make it technically legally roadworthy you must do any or either of the following: 1. Be fitted with components that are approved by the manufacturer (Nissan/ Nismo) 2. Be fitted components that comply with Australian Standards (be stamped to that effect) 3. Be approved by an engineer (engineers certificate) 4. ....and it must not contravene any other suspension or steering rules (which it is unlikely to do in this regard anyway) Note: Remember that steering and suspension components are related as they affect each other. Having said that, many cars have passed with them fitted with no problems, things like EGR deletes/ Non Australian standard Suspension upgrades are more of a concern in reality. Go for it!
