Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.

2
Introduction 1 of 9
Publishing information Contents
Copyright Introduction to VSB6 3
Purpose of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 3
Copyright © National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (2025) Scope 3
Version 3.2 Implementation 3
Definitions 3
[Link] Previous versions and references 3
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike Structure and format of VSB6 3
3.0 Australia Licence. Availability 3
Australian legislation, design rules and standards 4
To attribute this material, cite Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6):
Compliance with VSB6 4
National Code of Practice for Heavy Vehicle Modifications Version 3.
Relation to other Australian legislation and authorities 5
The diagrams and images used in VSB6 are the licensed content of the Modifications not covered by VSB6 5
organisations that contributed them and must not be used or Retention of records 5
reproduced without the express written permission of the license Appendix 1 — Contents of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6) 6
owner. Appendix 2 — Glossary 7
Units of measurement 8
Figures 25, 26 and 27 in Section P – Tow couplings are reproduced from
Appendix 3 — Referenced documents 9
AS/NZS 4968.3:2011. © Standards Australia Limited. Copied by the
Australian Design Rules — Third Edition 9
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator with the permission of Standards
Second Edition Australian Design Rules 9
Australia under Licence 1707-c037.
First Edition Australian Design Rules 9
Acknowledgments Australian Standards 9
This manual has been reviewed by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator International Standards 9
(NHVR) in cooperation with the VSB6 Working Group under the auspices
of the Australian Motor Vehicle Certification Board (AMVCB) and the
Technical Liaison Group (TLG). It utilises work previously undertaken by
the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR on
behalf of AMVCB) and the Commercial Vehicle Industry Association of
Queensland (CVIAQ) on behalf of the Commercial Vehicle Industry
Association of Australia (CVIAA).
The following participants from government and industry contributed to
the redrafting of this manual:

Government participants
• Access Canberra, ACT
• Department of Infrastructure Transport, Regional
Development, Communications, and the Arts, Federal
• Department for Infrastructure and Transport, SA
• Department of State Growth, TAS
• Department of Transport and Main Roads, QLD
• Department of Transport, NT
• Transport for New South Wales, NSW
• VicRoads, VIC
Industry participants
• Australian Road Transport Suppliers Association (ARTSA)
• Australian Trucking Association (ATA)
• Commercial Vehicle Industry Association of Australia (CVIAA)
• Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA)
• National Road Transport Association (NatRoad)
• Truck Industry Council (TIC)
• Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC)
• Waste, Recycling Industry Association (Qld)
Images and diagrams
The NHVR would like to recognise the generous contribution of the
following industry partners who contributed to the images and diagrams
in this document:

• Hendrickson Asia Pacific

• Jost Australia
• Knorr-Bremese
• Paccar Australia
• Western Star Trucks.
Disclaimer
Please note: While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy
of the content of this manual, it should not be relied upon as legal
advice.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 2 of 9
Introduction to VSB6
Purpose of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 Previous versions and references
Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6): National Code of Practice for VSB6 is a mature industry standard that was first published in the
Heavy Vehicle Modifications outlines minimum design, early 1990s as a consolidation of technical standards published by
construction, installation and performance requirements for industry and state and territory road transport authorities.
modifications to heavy motor vehicles and trailers.
It has been determined that this version of VSB6 will be referenced
VSB6 is designed for use throughout Australia by heavy vehicle as Version 3.2, as it is the second revision of the third distinct
regulators as well as businesses and individuals involved in the iteration of the document. The NHVR considers that Version 1 was
modification of heavy vehicles. It is intended to provide a single the document as originally published and was in use until 30 June
national technical standard to ensure that modified heavy vehicles 2015. Version 2 was published on 1 July 2015 and was in use until
are safe and that they comply with relevant Australian Design Rules 31 August 2017.
(ADRs) and legislative and regulatory requirements.
Since originally published, VSB6 has been referenced in a number
Scope of ways. These may include:
Subject to federal government laws, national heavy vehicle laws • as published by, or available from, the Federal Office of Road
and the laws of the states and territories of Australia, VSB6 applies Safety
to the modification of: • as published by, or available from, the Department of
• any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) greater than Infrastructure, Regional Development and Local Government
4.5 tonnes and • as published by, or available from, the Department of
• any trailer with an aggregate trailer mass (ATM) greater than 4.5 Infrastructure and Regional Development
tonnes. • as published by the Australian Motor Vehicle Certification Board.

For the most part, VSB6 only applies to modifications made to To remove any doubt, a previous reference to VSB6 in whatever
vehicles after their supply to the market. form, is to be taken as a reference to the version of VSB6 that was
in force at the time.
However, modifications carried out in accordance with the
requirements of VSB6 may be performed on a heavy vehicle after Structure and format of VSB6
it has been entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) but
VSB6 consists of the following sections, each of which addresses
before it has been provided to a consumer of the first time.
requirements for modifications to a specific vehicle component or
More information about the RAV or when a vehicle is considered to system.
be provided to a consumer of the first time in Australia, can be Section A Engines
found online at: [Link].
Section B Transmissions
Section C Tail shafts
 Key notes for VSB6 Section D Rear axles
• VSB6 does not supersede a vehicle manufacturer’s and, in Section E Front axle steering wheels and tyres
most cases, a component manufacturer’s modification Section F Suspension
guidelines. If a vehicle manufacturer or component Section G Brakes
manufacturer has published guidance on how a Section H Chassis
modification is to be performed it must be followed in lieu
Section J Body
of VSB6. Where a component manufacturer’s requirements
Section K Cabin
do not supersede VSB6, this will be specifically stated.
Section M Fuel systems
• All vehicles must continue to comply with ADR’s and other
regulations applicable to the vehicle. Section P Tow couplings
• Wherever a modification covered by VSB6 is made, it must Section R Vehicle mounted lifting systems
be assessed by an accredited approved vehicle examiner Section S Vehicle rating
(AVE), and if approved, a modification plate must be fitted Section T Tow trucks
to the vehicle.
Modification Sections
Each section consists of an introductory chapter followed by one or
Implementation more modification codes that outline requirements for specific
The requirements of this revision of VSB6 apply to all vehicles aspects of the system or component.
modified on or after 1 July 2023.
Checklists and reports
VSB6 will continue to be improved and updated in response to
Blank checklists and modification reports have also been provided
changes to legislation and technology. Where VSB6, or a section of
to assist AVEs perform and report on inspections. There is at least
VSB6, is updated or revised, an implementation date for the revised
one checklist for each modification code to help ensure that the
or updated version will be clearly stated.
design and construction are of a satisfactory standard and relevant
Definitions factors have been considered. Some modifications may require
more than one checklist: one for design and another for the
The terms used in VSB6 have the meanings given either by the
modification.
Glossary (Appendix 2), the ADRs or the relevant act or regulation.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 3 of 9
 Introduction to VSB6

Availability In-service vehicle legislation

VSB6 is produced in electronic format only and can be downloaded In-service vehicle legislation applies to matters relating to vehicles
as a PDF or in Microsoft Word format from the NHVR website. once they have been provided to a consumer for the first time in
Australia. These matters include vehicle standards, mass,
The document can be printed in either of these formats, as a whole dimensions, loading, fatigue management, heavy vehicle
or by section. As VSB6 is a live document and may be subject to accreditation and on-road enforcement.
regular updates, any paper copy held will not necessarily represent
the most recent version of VSB6. In participating jurisdictions
In the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland,
Australian legislation, design rules and standards South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria, the relevant in-service
The requirements of VSB6 are based on, and subject to, Australian vehicle legislation is the Heavy Vehicle National Law and the
Design Rules (ADRs), federal laws, the Heavy Vehicle National Law National Regulations made under that Law. This includes the Heavy
(HVNL) and the laws of the states and territories of Australia. VSB6 Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation and the Heavy
also adopts a number of national and international standards, such Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation.
as Australian standards. In Western Australia and the Northern Territory
Where a requirement of VSB6 is inconsistent with an applicable In Western Australia and the Northern Territory local legislation
ADR, Australian standard, act or regulation, the requirement of the applies to all in-service vehicle matters, including vehicle standards
ADR, standard, act or regulation is to be applied. and modifications. As at 1 September 2017 the relevant legislation
is the:
In relation to heavy vehicle standards and modifications, the • Road Traffic (Vehicles) Act 2012 (WA) and applicable regulations
following legislation may be of relevance: in Western Australia; and
Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) • Motor Vehicles Act (NT) and applicable regulations in the
The Federal Transport Department responsible for administering Northern Territory.
the national road vehicle standards as required by the RVSA. At the Australian and national standards
time of publication this department was the Department Transport,
VSB6, the ADRs, and relevant vehicle standards regulations, adopt a
Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts. The RVSA
number of Australian and other standards, including Australian
implements the ADRs that apply to all road vehicles supplied to the
Standards (AS), British Standards (BS), Japanese Industrial
Australian market.
Standards (JIS), German Institute for Standardisation (DIN) and
Vehicles must comply with the RVSA before they are entered on International Organization for Standardisation (ISO).
the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) and provided to a
Where an adopted standard includes a reference to a particular
consumer. While the RVSA does permit a vehicle to be modified
version (e.g. a year), that version of the standard must be applied.
after it is entered on the RAV but before it is provided to a
If the adoption of a standard does not reference a specific version:
consumer for the first time in Australia it is only in certain
• the version that was current at the time the modification was
circumstances. These include modifications carried out:
performed is to be applied, or
• in accordance with the written instructions of the holder of a
• where a standard has been updated within 12 months at the
vehicle type approval; and
time the modification was performed, either the preceding
• during second stage of manufacture in accordance with a vehicle
version or the current version of the standard is to be applied.
type approval.
• during second stage of manufacture in accordance with an Relevant heavy vehicle regulator
applicable Model Report that applies to the vehicle. Responsibility for administering modifications of heavy vehicles lies
• in accordance with Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6), as in with the relevant heavy vehicle regulator in the jurisdiction in which
force in the State or Territory in which the vehicle was modified the modification is being performed.
at the time the modifications were made.
Previously, these requirements were administered through the In these jurisdictions, the relevant heavy vehicle regulator is as
Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (Cth) (MVSA). The RVSA follows:
replaced the MVSA from 1 July 2021
Northern Territory Northern Territory Department of
Once a heavy road vehicle has been provided to a consumer for the Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics
first time in Australia, responsibility for overseeing or administering Western Australia West Australian Department of Transport
modification standards passes to the relevant heavy vehicle
All other states and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
regulator responsible for in-service requirements such as
territories
roadworthiness and vehicle modifications.
Australian Design Rules (ADRs) Compliance with VSB6
ADRs are national standards for vehicle safety, anti-theft and Although VSB6 codes apply to modifications of heavy vehicles as
emissions and cover issues such as occupant protection, structures, defined above, there is no prohibition on their application to other
lighting, emissions and braking. Development and amendment of vehicles types. For example, a state or territory road transport
ADRs is overseen by the Federal Transport Department in authority may allow certification of a light vehicle modification to
conjunction with specialist bodies such as the Strategic Vehicle the requirements set out in VSB6.
Safety and Environment Group (SVSEG); Australian Motor Vehicle
In cases where VSB6 must or should not apply to particular classes
Certification Board (AMVCB) which includes the Technical Liaison
or categories of vehicles it will be stated in the specific modification
Group (TLG); the Transport and Infrastructure Senior Officials'
code.
Committee (TISOC); and the Transport and Infrastructure Council.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 4 of 9
 Introduction to VSB6

Relation to other Australian legislation and Modifications not covered by VSB6

authorities VSB6 addresses requirements and recommendations for a range of
VSB6 has been developed to ensure modifications made to heavy common modifications that supplement vehicle and component
vehicles comply with applicable ADRs and relevant Australian manufacturer recommendations but it cannot address every type
legislative requirements administered by the relevant heavy vehicle of modification or situation possible.
regulator and the Federal Transport Department. For modifications not covered by VSB6, the relevant heavy vehicle
This does not however limit compliance with other legal and regulator should be contacted to determine the requirements for
statutory requirements, nor does it limit the powers and duties of: the modification and, if necessary, obtain approval. Normally a full
engineering analysis by a suitably qualified person, supported by
• a federal, state or territory minister
testing where appropriate, will be necessary before the
• the chief executive officer of a road transport authority
modification can be approved.
• the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator
• any agent or employee of a road transport authority or the Minor modifications, such as the fitting of accessories or other
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. minor changes that do not result in the vehicle departing from the
original equipment manufacturer’s (OEM) specifications, may not
Accordingly, the relevant heavy vehicle regulator may have
require approval. For further information about the requirements
different requirements and those performing modifications should
for minor modification, please contact the relevant heavy vehicle
seek advice from the relevant regulator if there are doubts about
regulator.
compliance.
Precedence of ADRs and manufacturer guidelines  Modifications that are provided for within VSB6 must be
approved, regardless of whether they are within OEM
VSB6 requires that those making modifications to heavy vehicles or
specifications.
certifying them must ensure that these comply with:
• vehicle, and in most cases, component manufacturer’s Retention of records
recommendations, including installation or modification
AVEs certifying modifications must retain all modification records
guidelines such as body builders manuals
relevant to the modification in accordance with the scheme under
• ADRs applicable for the category of vehicle and date the vehicle
which the AVE has accreditation. Typically this is for a minimum of
was manufactured (or later ADR version).
seven years after the modification has been certified. Throughout
If a component manufacturer’s recommendations do not this time these records should be available for inspection by
supersede those of VSB6, it will be advised specifically. officers of the relevant federal, state or territory government
authority or heavy vehicle regulator.
In cases where VSB6 requirements are not consistent with either
ADRs or original vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines the ADRs or the Modification records include but are not limited to, drawings,
manufacturer’s guidelines, if available, override those of VSB6. calculations, test results and copies of appropriate issues of
Australian Standards and ADR’s and may be produced by either:
Manufacturer installation or modification guidelines and other
engineering data is usually available by contacting the • those involved in designing or performing the modifications
manufacturer’s engineering or customer support departments. • those involved in authorising or certifying the design or work
performed.
In all cases those performing modifications are responsible for
making professional engineering judgements, employing sound
work practices that reflect good engineering practices and ensuring
that the vehicle complies with all affected relevant ADRs and
vehicle standards.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 5 of 9
Appendix 1 — Contents of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6)
Section Modification codes Checklists/reports
A – Engines A1 – Engine substitution A1 Checklist — Engine substitution
A2 – Air cleaner substitution or additional fitting A1 Modification report — Engine installation
A3 – Turbocharger installation A2 Checklist — Air cleaner substitution or additional fitting
A4 – Exhaust system alteration A3 Checklist — Turbocharger installation
A5 – Road speed limiter installation A4 Checklist — Exhaust system alteration
A5 Checklist — Road speed limiter installation
B – Transmissions B1 – Transmission substitution or additional fitting B1 Checklist — Transmission substitution or additional fitting
C – Tail shafts C1 – Tail shaft alterations C1 Checklist — Tail shaft modification
C1 Modification report — Tail shaft modification
D – Rear axles D1 – Rear axle installation D1 Checklist — Rear axle installation
D2 – Differential substitution D2 Checklist — Differential substitution
E – Front axle steering E1 – Front axle installation E1 Checklist — Front axle installation
wheels and tyres E2 – Steering alteration E2 Checklist — Steering alteration
E3 – Fitting of non-standard front wheel components E2 Modification report — Front axle and steering
E3 Checklist — Fitting of non-standard front wheel, i.e. tyre or rim
F – Suspension F1 – Suspension substitution F1 Checklist — Suspension substitution
F2 – Trailer suspension modifications F2 Checklist — Trailer suspension modifications
G – Brakes G1 – Relocation of air brake components G1 Checklist — Relocation of air brake components
G2 – Installation of trailer braking controls G2 Checklist — Installation of trailer braking controls: air brakes
G3 – Trailer brake system upgrade G3 Checklist — Trailer brake system upgrade
G4 – Motor vehicle brake system certification G4 Checklist — Brake system certification
G5 – Fitting of auxiliary and endurance brakes G4 Modification report — Brake system: ADR certified vehicle
G6 – Fitting of air operated accessories G4 Modification report — Brake system (pre-ADR vehicle)
G7 – Brake system substitution / wheelbase extension G4 Test report — Brake torque build-up check: adjacent axles
G8 – Trailer brake system upgrade (design) G5 Checklist — Fitting of auxiliary and endurance brakes
G6 Checklist — Fitting of air operated accessories
G7 Checklist — Brake system substitution / wheelbase extension
G8 Checklist —Trailer brake system upgrade (design)
G Modification report — Air system re-charge data sheet
H – Chassis H1 – Wheelbase extension outside OEM options H Calculation sheet — Chassis modification
H2 – Wheelbase reduction outside OEM options H1 Checklist — Wheelbase extension outside OEM options
H3 – Wheelbase alterations within OEM options H2 Checklist — Wheelbase reduction outside OEM options
H4 – Chassis alteration H3 Checklist — Wheelbase alterations within OEM options
H5 – Trailer chassis modifications H4 Checklist — Chassis alteration
H5 Checklist —Trailer chassis modifications

J – Body J1 – Body mounting J1 Checklist — Body mounting

J2 – Fitting of truck-bus body J2 Checklist — Fitting of truck-bus body
J3 – Fitting of roll-over or falling object protection system J3 Checklist — Fitting of roll-over or falling object protection system
J4 - Tipper Bodies (Design) J4 Checklist — Tipper Bodies (Design)
K – Cabin K1 – Seating capacity alteration, seat, seatbelt and K1 Checklist — Seating capacity alteration, seat, seatbelt and
anchorage installation anchorage installation
K2 – Certification of seat and of seatbelt anchorage K2 Checklist — Certification of seat and of seatbelt anchorage
K3 – Cabin conversion K3 Checklist — Cabin conversion
K5 – Installation of wheelchair occupant restraint system K5 Checklist — Installation of wheelchair occupant restraint system
K6 – Child restraint anchorage installation K6 Checklist — Child restraint anchorage installation
M – Fuel systems M1 – Fuel system alterations M1 Checklist — Fuel system alterations
P – Tow couplings P1 – Towbar and coupling installation other than fifth P1 Checklist — Towbar and coupling installation other than fifth
wheels and kingpins wheels and kingpins
P2 – Fifth wheel and kingpin installation P2 Checklist — Fifth wheel and kingpin installation
P2 Evaluation sheet — Fifth wheel and turntable evaluation report
R – Vehicle mounted R1 – Installation of vehicle mounted lifting systems R1 Checklist — Installation of vehicle mounted lifting systems
lifting systems R2 – Wheelchair loader installation R1 Assessment report — Vehicle mounted lifting systems
R2 Checklist — Wheelchair loader installation
S – Vehicle rating S1 – GVM/GCM re-rating S1 Checklist — GVM/GCM re-rating
S2 – GVM re-rating (design) S2 Checklist — GVM re-rating (design)
S3 – GCM re-rating (design) S3 Checklist — GCM re-rating (design)
S7 – ATM/GTM re-rating S7 Checklist — ATM/GTM re-rating
S8 – Motor vehicle road train rating S8 Checklist — Motor vehicle road train rating
S9 – Prime mover B-double rating S9 Checklist — Prime mover B-double rating
S11 – Road train trailer rating S11 Checklist — Road train trailer rating
S12 – ATM/GTM re-rating (design) S12 Checklist — ATM/GTM re-rating (design)
T – Tow trucks T1 – Tow trucks (construction) T1 Checklist — Construction of tow trucks
T2 – Tow trucks (design) T2 Checklist — Design of tow trucks

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Introduction 6 of 9
Appendix 2 — Glossary
ADR Australian Design Rule Dog trailer A trailer with two axle groups of which the front axle
Aggregate trailer The total mass of the laden trailer when carrying the group is steered by connection to the drawing vehicle.
mass (ATM) maximum load recommended by the manufacturer. This Drawbar Portion of a trailer that connects the trailer body to the
includes any mass imposed onto the drawing vehicle coupling for towing purposes.
when the combination vehicle is resting on a horizontal Dual steer A steering system by means of which a vehicle may be
supporting plane. system steered from one of two alternative driving positions.
Approved vehicle The person authorised by the relevant national, state or ERC (established The average braking deceleration calculated when the
examiner (AVE) territory authority to evaluate and certify a particular retardation energy level in the least favoured brakes actuator
type of modification and certify that the modified coefficient) reaches 65% of average operating pressure (AOP) to
vehicle continues to conform to the applicable ADR’s when the vehicle becomes stationary, expressed as a
and other requirements for registration. proportion of the acceleration due to gravity.
Articulated A combination of prime mover and semitrailer. Falling object A system or structure intended to protect the cabin of a
vehicle protection vehicle from falling objects in an off-road environment,
Australian A national standard under section 7 of the Motor system (FOPS) such as a construction or mining site.
Design Rule Vehicle Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth. Fifth wheel A device used with either prime mover or converter
Coupling-hook A device comprising an inverted hook, provided with a dolly to permit quick coupling and uncoupling of a
type coupling lock mechanism, which is attached to the semitrailer and provide for articulation.
drawing vehicle. The hook accepts the bore of a towing Fifth wheel fixed An assembly where the transverse pivot axis of the fifth
eye that is attached to the drawbar on the towed base wheel is always fixed relative to the prime mover.
vehicle. Generally, greater clearances are provided
between these coupling components, and the assembly Fifth wheel lead The distance in side elevation of the articulation point of
allows for significant vertical angular oscillation between the fifth wheel assembly ahead of the centre line of the
the vehicle and trailer. drive axle group.
Coupling-pin A device that uses insertion of a vertical pin through the Fifth wheel A fifth wheel that is readily adjustable in regard to fore
type hole of a drawbar towing eye. The pin is located and sliding and aft position on the vehicle chassis.
retained above and below the towing eye by the Fifth wheel A fifth wheel assembly where the transverse pivot axis is
coupling fork of the towbar. turntable based always fixed relative to the semitrailer. All relative
Critical speed of The propeller shaft rotational speed (self-destruct (stabilised) rotation between the prime mover and the semitrailer
propeller shaft speed) at which the rotational speed is equal to the occurs in the slewing base (turntable).
natural bending frequency of the shaft. Gradeability The maximum road gradient on which the vehicle
Axle One or more shafts positioned in a line across a vehicle, gradient loaded to its GCM, or GVM where the vehicle does not
on which one or more wheels are intended to support have a GCM, with the vehicle already in motion can
the vehicle turn. continue to climb up the gradient.
Axle group Either a single axle, tandem axle group, tri-axle group, Gross The value specified for the vehicle by the manufacturer
quad axle group, or close coupled axle group. combination as being the maximum of the sum of the GVM of the
mass (GCM) drawing vehicle plus the sum of the axle loads of any
Axle load Total load transmitted to the road by all the tyres of all
vehicle capable of being drawn as a trailer.
the wheels whose centres may be included between
two transverse parallel vertical planes less than one Gross trailer The mass transmitted to the ground by the axle or axles
metre apart. mass (GTM) of the trailer when coupled to a drawing vehicle and
carrying its maximum load approximately uniformly
Body The structure added to a chassis or a chassis and cab for
distributed over the load bearing area, and at which
containing the load or other special purpose.
compliance with the appropriate ADRs has been or can
Close coupled May be: two axles with centres not more than one be established.
axle group metre apart and equivalent to a single axle; three axles Gross vehicle The maximum laden mass of a motor vehicle as
with centres not more than two metres apart and mass (GVM) specified by the manufacturer.
equivalent to a tandem axle group; four or more axles
with centres not more than 3.2 metres apart and Guideline A document that establishes a minimum standard for
equivalent to a triaxle group. assessment of modified vehicles.
Combination Either a combination of a rigid goods vehicle and one Heavy vehicle A motor vehicle with a GVM greater than 4.5 tonnes, or
vehicle trailer (other than a semitrailer); or an articulated a trailer with an ATM greater than 4.5 tonnes.
vehicle. Lightly loaded The mass of the unladen vehicle with a full capacity of
Converter dolly A pig trailer with a fifth wheel coupling, designed to test mass lubricating oil and coolant not less than 75% of full fuel
convert a semitrailer to a dog trailer. capacity, but without goods, occupants or options
except those essential for the test procedure specified,
Coupling A mechanical assembly that provides connection
plus additional loading distributed in the seating
between a drawing vehicle and a trailer.
position adjacent to the driver’s seating position so that
Coupling-ball A device that uses a spherically machined cantilevered the mass of such loading plus the mass of the driver and
type ball to which is attached and locked a hemispherical instrumentation mounted in the vehicle is 155 +/- 30kg.
receptacle, forming a coupling between the two. The In the case of a cab and chassis condition, an additional
ball is generally attached to the towbar of the drawing loading not exceeding 7.5% of the GVM must be located
vehicle while the hemispherical receptacle is attached to with its centre of mass within 200mm of the designated
the drawbar of the drawn vehicle. The spherical shape load centre measured in a horizontal plane.
allows unrestricted articulation in the horizontal plane Load sharing An axle group suspension system that utilises hydraulic,
and restricted articulation in the vertical plane. suspension pneumatic or other means to effect equal sharing, by all
D-value The theoretical horizontal reference force between axle group ground contact surfaces and by the axle
towing vehicle and trailer. group total load, and apply effective damping
Departure angle The smallest angle, in a side view of a vehicle formed by characteristics on all group axles. Acceptable load
the level surface on which the vehicle is standing and a sharing suspensions are described in publications
line tangent to the rear tyre arc and touching the prepared by the Commonwealth Department of
underside of the vehicle rearward of the rear tyre. Infrastructure and Regional Development.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 7 of 9
 Glossary

Manufacturer The person or company who accepts responsibility for Semitrailer A trailer having one axle or axle group towards the rear
compliance with the ADRs and to whom a compliance and having means of attachment to a prime mover
plate approval certificate is issued. whereby some of the load is imposed on the prime
Modification A particular type, style or class of modification within a mover.
code vehicle system for which a separate set of detail Single axle Either one axle, or two axles with centres between
requirements and checklist have been devised and transverse, parallel, vertical planes spaced less than one
included in VSB6. metre apart.
Partially A heavy vehicle which has been manufactured to a stage Steering linkage Links and arms of the steering linkage are provided in
completed heavy where, although it is registrable, additional work will be components VSB6 Section E — Front axle steering wheels and tyres.
vehicle necessary to be able to put it into service (e.g. a cab- Startability Maximum road gradient on which the vehicle, loaded to
chassis without a tray). gradient its GCM, or GVM where the vehicle does not have a
Pig trailer A trailer having one axle group near the middle of the GCM, can be set in motion and accelerated up the
length of the goods-carrying surface. gradient.
Platform loader A platform type of goods lift permanently fixed to the Tail shaft Any driveshaft connection between the
vehicle to assist loading and unloading of the vehicle, power/transmission unit and drive axles.
and which is either hydraulically or mechanically Tandem axle A combination of two axles whose centres are not less
operated. Typical platform loaders include: group than one metre and not more than two metres apart.
• underbody stow Towbar A device attached to the drawing vehicle provided for
• folding tailgate connection of the drawing vehicle to the trailer coupling
• folding post. for the towing of the trailer.
Power steering A power steering system in which a force generated by a Tractor A system of supply of breakaway protected power and
— integral secondary power source is applied to the active parts protected air signal air from a tractor mounted source to the brakes
within the steering gear housing. supply of both the tractor and trailer.
Power steering A power steering system in which a force generated by a Tri-axle group A combination of three axles in which the centre of the
— ram type secondary power source is applied to the steering front and rear axles are not less than two metres and
linkage between the steering gear and the road wheels. not more than 3.2 metres apart.
Pre-ADR A vehicle built prior to the date on which an ADR Twin steer axle A combination of two axles, with single tyres, fitted to a
applicable to vehicles of that category came into force. group motor vehicle sharing a steering mechanism and are
Prime mover more than one metre and less than two metres apart.
A rigid motor vehicle designed to tow a semitrailer.
Unladen mass The mass of the vehicle in running order unoccupied
Rear overhang For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising
line and unladen with all fluid reservoirs filled to nominal
only one axle, the rear overhang line is a line running
capacity (including fuel and all standard equipment).
along the centre-line of the axle.
For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear comprising Wheelbase The distance from the centre line of the vehicle’s
two axles, one of which is fitted with twice the number foremost axle to the rear overhang line.
of tyres as the other, the rear overhang line is a line
running parallel to the axles that is: Units of measurement
(a) closer to the axle carrying the greater number of % percent
tyres than it is to the other axle; and
” inch
(b) located at one-third of the distance between the two
axles. ° degree (angle)
For a vehicle with an axle group at the rear that is not an cm centimetre
axle group mentioned above, the rear overhang line is a E Fractions of control air brake signal strength
line running parallel to the axles down the centre of the 1E=650kPa
axle group. ERC Established retardation coefficient (as fraction
For the purposes of determining the rear overhang line, of gravity)
if an axle group includes at least one steerable axle, that [Link] foot pounds
axle is to be disregarded unless:
g gravity (9.81m/s/s)
(a) the group comprises only one axle and that axle is a
steerable axle; or g/min grams per minute
(b) all the axles in the group are steerable axles. kg kilogram
Retractable axle An axle that has means of adjustment to enable it to be km kilometre
raised or lowered relative to the vehicle’s horizontal km/h kilometres per hour
datum to substantially vary the axle load distribution kN kilonewton
between the axles of any axle group. kPa kilopascal
Roadworthy Roadworthy in accordance with the manufacturer’s L litre
componentry specifications, the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules or L/min litres per minute
the Roadworthiness Guidelines. m metre
Roll-over A system or structure intended to protect the cabin of a mm millimetre
protection vehicle during a vehicle roll-over.
system (ROPS) MPa megapascal
Safe working The maximum mass which may be, that is, is permitted mph miles per hour
load (SWL) to be, safely handled. mt metre tonne
Safety chain A chain fitted to a substantial portion on a trailer that N newton
will hold the trailer in tow in the event of failure of, or Nm newton meters
accidental detachment of the coupling. RPM revolutions per minute
Safety lock A mechanical device for securely locking a component s second
or assembly.
Section Individual chapter of VSB6 that deals with a particular
t tonnes (1000kg)
administrative or vehicle system.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

Introduction 8 of 9
Appendix 3 — Referenced documents
These documents are referred to throughout VSB6 and persons Australian Standards
modifying or certifying vehicles must have access to, and use the
current versions of these when modifying or certifying vehicles. Where a modification requires compliance with an Australian
Standard, the version used must be the version current at the
Australian Design Rules — Third Edition time of modification, unless the ADRs or the modification code
applies a specific version, or the standard has been updated
The Third Edition ADRs were developed under the auspices of
within 12 months at the time the modification was performed.
the Australian Transport Advisory Council (ATAC) between
February 1983 and December 1986. They became effective from Where a standard has been updated within 12 months at the
1 July 1988 as national standards for the purposes of the Motor time the modification was performed, either the preceding
Vehicle Standards Act 1989 on 2 August 1989 and for the version or the current version of the standard is to be applied
purpose of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) from 1
Australian Standard AS D8–1971 Hose couplings for use with vacuum
July 2021. Initially the Third Edition ADRs were a combination of
and air pressure braking systems on prime movers, trailers and
active Second Edition ADRs and existing essential design and semitrailers.
construction requirements of the Consolidated Draft
Australian Standard AS 1110 - 2000 ISO Metric Hexagon Precision Bolts
Regulations. They have since been added to and amended, to and Screws.
reflect the further needs of the community.
Australian Standard AS 1418 - Cranes (Including Hoists and Winches)
For Third Edition ADRs a reference to ADR xx/.. , where xx is the Part 1 (1994 and Amendment 1997) - General Requirements
ADR number, means the version of the ADR that is relevant to Part 2 (1997) - Serial Hoists and Winches
the vehicle’s date of manufacture. Some modification codes Part 5 (1995) - Mobile and Vehicle Loading Cranes
require certification to the latest version of an ADR but these are Part 20 (2015) - Cranes Hoists and Winches (when released).
explicitly stated within the modification code requirements. Australian Standard AS 1554.1 - 2011 Welding of Steel Structures.
Australian Standard AS 4968.2:2003 Mechanical coupling between
The Third Edition ADRs are available from the Federal Transport
articulated vehicle combinations – Testing and installation of fifth wheel
Departments website at and associated equipment.
[Link]
Australian Standard AS 2174 - Articulated Vehicles-– Mechanical
px. coupling between prime movers and semitrailers – Interchangeability
requirements.
Repealed Australian Design Rules
Part 1 - 2006 Non-dedicated vehicle combinations
The following Third Edition ADRs have been repealed. Part 2 - 2006 Dedicated vehicle combinations.
Australian Design Rule Repealed date Australian Standard AS 2177 2006 & Amdt 1 2014 Non-destructive
7/00 Hydraulic Brake Hose 9 December 2003 testing - Radiography of Welded Butt Joints in Metal.
12/00 Glare Reduction in Field of View 9 December 2003 Australian Standard AS 2213.2: 2008 - 50 mm Pin-type Couplings and
15/01 Demisting of Windscreen 9 December 2003 Drawbar Eyes for Trailers.
16/01 Windscreen Wipers and Washers 9 December 2003 Australian Standard AS 2739:2009 Natural gas (NG) fuel systems for
17/00 Fuel System 21 July 2005 vehicle engines.
24/02 Tyre and Rim Selection 9 December 2003
Australian Standard AS 2809 - Road Tank Vehicles for Dangerous Goods
36/00 Exhaust Emission Control for Heavy Duty 1 October 2006
Part 1 - 2008
Vehicles
Part 2 - 2008
70/00 Exhaust Emission Control for Diesel Engine 1 October 2006
Vehicles Part 3 - 2008
Part 4 - 2001
Second Edition Australian Design Rules Part 5 - 2001.
Australian Standard AS 3856 – 1998 Hoists and ramps for people with
The Second Edition ADRs first came into effect on 1 January
disabilities - Vehicle mounted – Parts 1 and 2.
1969 and were applied selectively under state/territory law.
Australian Standard AS 4945-2000 Commercial road vehicles -
They were then made part of the national standards by
Interchangeable quick connect/release couplings for use with air-
Determination No 2 of 1989 published in the Commonwealth pressure braking systems.
Government Gazette.
Australian Standard AS 5400:2015 – Tow trucks – Tilt, slide and underlift
Reference to a Second Edition ADR as ADR xx, where xx is the vehicles.
ADR number, is to be interpreted to mean all individual versions Tyre and Rim Association of Australia Standards Manual (Current
of the relevant Second Edition ADR at the date of modification. Edition).
For example, ADR 4 refers to ADR’s 4, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D.
International Standards
The Second Edition ADRs are available from the Federal
British Standard BS AU 217: Part 1 1987 Maximum Road Speed Limiters
Transport Department website at
for Motor Vehicles.
[Link]
Society of Automotive Engineers Standard J726 - 2002 Air Cleaner Test
on_adrs.aspx.
Code.
First Edition Australian Design Rules Society of Automotive Engineers Standard J844 2012 Non-Metallic Air
Brake System Tubing.
The First Edition ADRs were distributed for discussion purposes.
Society of Automotive Engineers Standard J1402 2010 Automotive Air
However, they were not adopted as a legally binding set of Brake Hose and Hose Assemblies.
standards under either national or state/territory law.
Society of Automotive Engineers Standard J1403A 2005 Vacuum Brake
Hose.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 — Version 3.2

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