NCT Manual. - National Car Testing Service

NATIONAL CAR TEST (NCT) MANUAL 2012
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CHASSIS/UNDERBODY
Method of Testing
1. Examine main chassis/sub-frame/underbody members for deformation and/or fractures and/or advanced corrosion
(see Page 58 for criteria on corrosion).
2. Examine cross members for deformation and/or fractures and/or advanced corrosion.
3. Examine the welding and/or securing bolts/rivets for soundness and security.
4. Examine frame/cross member junctions for indications of movement.
NOTES
1. The extent of this inspection is limited to that part of the chassis/sub-frame or underbody which can
readily be seen without dismantling any part of the vehicle.
2. Pay particular attention to a chassis or underbody which is encrusted with dirt. There may be cracks or
fractures in high stress areas obscured by this dirt.
3. Pay particular attention to areas around spring and running gear mountings.
4. Page 68 indicates the main chassis members of typical vehicle construction.
5. Where misalignment is suspected it may be necessary to confirm that the frame/chassis is within the
manufacturer’s tolerances.
6. Some cars (e.g. rally) may be fitted with additional non-standard underbody protection. If this covering
inhibits proper inspection more than the manufacturer’s area of cover, it is the responsibility of the
owner/presenter to make components accessible for inspection, otherwise the vehicle will fail due to the
lack of accessibility.
ITEM
Chassis/Sub-frame/Underbody/
Flitch Plates
1 Welds breaking away.
REASONS FOR FAILURE
2 Cracked, insecure or pronounced misalignment.
3 Loose rivets/bolts/bent members.
4 Considerably weakened by holes.
5 Advanced corrosion or other damage.
6 Repairs or modifications obviously not in line
with manufacturer’s recommendations.
Note: While the NCTS manual does not specify a continuous
weld, a judgement must be made as to whether the repair
maintains the manufacturer’s original strength.
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