Setting up a Class 7 MOT centre entails careful planning and acquiring crucial equipment. MOT Class 7, encompassing larger vans and light commercial vehicles, necessitates specialised tools to ensure comprehensive examination and testing. From diagnostic instruments to lifting machinery, each piece of equipment serves a pivotal role in the inspection process. Class 7 vehicles often have unique components and systems that demand specific attention, underscoring the importance of investing in tailored equipment. By outfitting your centre with the necessary tools, you’re not just meeting regulatory requirements but also enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of MOT assessments for these larger vehicles. This commitment to precision and compliance instils confidence in both your team and your clients, solidifying your reputation as a reliable provider of Class 7 MOT services. In this article, we’ll explore the indispensable equipment necessary to operate a successful Class 7 MOT centre.
A Vehicle Lift For LCVs
In preparing for a Mot Class 7, securing a dedicated vehicle lift is crucial for inspecting the vehicle’s underside thoroughly. This investment, alongside a Brake Tester, is significant and requires careful consideration. Referencing the Government’s MOT Testing Guide for specific requirements is essential to ensure compliance. Key features to prioritise include wheel-supporting platforms with a minimum length of 4.8m, platforms capable of being raised to a height of at least 1.4m, a jacking beam capacity of 2,800kg, a recessed position within the floor, and a Safe Working Load of no less than 3,500kg. These specifications form the foundation for selecting the right vehicle lift to meet the stringent demands of Class MOT.
Brake Testers:
Ensuring precise brake testing is paramount in any MOT inspection, particularly for Class 7 vehicles. To achieve this, your equipment must meet specific criteria. Look for a DVSA-approved brake tester that’s ready for connected equipment integration. It should also be engineered to minimise the likelihood of tyre damage while maintaining durability to consistently deliver accurate results. However, technical specifications alone aren’t sufficient. To further mitigate the risk of human error, opt for a brake tester that prioritises user-friendliness and provides clear, understandable readings.
Jacking Beams
While inspection pits and four-post lifts offer access to the chassis, they don’t allow direct work on the wheels and related systems since the vehicle is supported by its wheels. However, attaching a jacking beam to your pit or lift provides an immediate solution. By lifting the vehicle from the chassis attachment point rather than the wheels, you gain full access to the wheels and suspension without the need to lower or reposition the vehicle. This enhances efficiency and simplifies maintenance tasks during Class 7 MOT inspections.
Play Detectors
In addition to brake testing, assessing suspension wear and tear is essential for Class 7 MOT bays. Integrated play detectors offer a reliable solution for this purpose. Our Totalkare Play Detectors can seamlessly integrate onto your vehicle lift or pit, with controls conveniently placed on the lift post or floor-mounted along with the pit. This setup enables testing of wheels and suspension from a single vehicle position while the vehicle is either raised or parked over the pit. By incorporating play detectors into your inspection process, you ensure thorough evaluation of suspension components, contributing to the overall safety and compliance of Class 7 vehicles undergoing MOT inspections.
Emission Testers:
Completing your Class 7 MOT bay setup, an emissions tester plays a crucial role, not only in ensuring test success but also in aiding vehicles to meet the Euro 6 emissions standards and minimise environmental impact. With an emissions tester in place, you can accurately assess exhaust gas composition, identifying pollutants and ensuring compliance with stringent emission regulations. By adhering to Euro 6 standards, your vehicles contribute to a cleaner environment, reducing harmful emissions and fostering sustainability. Incorporating an emissions tester into your MOT inspection process demonstrates your commitment to environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance, aligning with industry best practices and enhancing your reputation as a conscientious service provider.
Decelerometers
Decelerometers, handheld electronic devices utilised during test drives and brake tests, assess braking efficiency by calculating deceleration rates. They serve as alternatives when plate brake testers or roller brake testers are unavailable or unsuitable for testing. Decelerometers are categorised into three types: Category A approved for all vehicle classes, Category B is approved for class 3, 4, 5, and 7 vehicles, and Category C is approved for class 1 and 2 vehicles. Hence, for a Class 7 MOT Bay, a Category B accelerometer is necessary. It ensures accurate and reliable assessment of braking performance for larger commercial vehicles, meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the safety and compliance of vehicles undergoing MOT inspections.
Conclusion:
Establishing a Class 7 MOT centre requires investment in essential equipment tailored to the specific needs of larger commercial vehicles. From diagnostic tools and lifting equipment to emission testing machinery and brake testers, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in conducting thorough MOT assessments. By equipping your centre with the necessary tools, you ensure compliance with regulatory standards and provide reliable service to your customers, fostering trust and confidence in your facility.
