Question for DB or any LEO on here.

Thats a great question. Now I am on a mission to find that out. Thanks. But my first guess would be before he sits the axle back down he would have to get it fixed. Maybe warning no citation I don't think. But who knows now days

 

I would surmise that if it was "on the truck" it should be up to par. Just as the example of having tons of chicken lights..all must be working even though the vast majority aren't required. Having the lift axle up doesn't mean you won't use it. I would think due to liability concerns, if an inspector found an issue with the lift axle it would have to corrected.

 

If it is on the truck it is expected to operate properly. That is what I have always been told.
If I have a light out on my trailer, but it is day light and my lights are not in use, it is still expected to work.
I believe the only way to make a lift axle a non functioning part of the truck is to take the wheels off. That way you can say it will not be used.
But then I am just another driver. And DOT have surprised me before. I will wait for DB to add his 3 cents. Which are worth more than my 1.

 

The axle is not in use? Those brakes are not used? Those brakes are not listed on the inspection. If I see a problem, I let the driver know it and also list that problem in the inspection notes section.
Your example is a great example, and we run into on a daily basis. I don't know how every inspector or State handles this, but this was the way I was taught. Same as if a lift axle has a bad tire. That tire is not in contact with the road, so it's not a violation. It's a good practice to ensure everything on the truck is up to par, like some said. But I can't list it on an inspection. Chrome dome, that's my 1 1/2 cents.

 

Then I would assume you would note it in your pti and write it on your vehicle inspection report. Then check the box that says "Defects need not be corrected for safe operation of the vehicle". Then get it fixed asap before it's needed. ???

I always thought like CD. I drove a dump for a excavating crew one time. Everytime the owner broke a chicken light loading it, he would take a hammer and bust it all the way off. They can't get me now.

 

Look,I agree with you that if it's not in use then it should not matter, but we both know that the situation about being in the bar is totally different. DOT don't stalk the bar parking lots!

Problem with that is I have been told if it has a hole for a light to be there, then it better have one there and it better be in working condition.

 

I don't know the law for inspections, but for tolls, for the axle not to be counted as active and in service it had to be chained in the up position so it could not be used.