Interpretation ID: aiam2334
Wayne Daniel Truck
Inc.
P.O. Box 303
Mt. Vernon
MO 65712;
Dear Mr. Daniel: This responds to your June 18, 1976, request for permission t substitute pre-121 brake components for certain components of the brake systems on trucks and trailers you own that were manufactured in conformity with Standard No. 121, *Air Brake Systems*.; From your description, I assume that you intend to remove portions o the brake system that were installed in satisfaction of the requirements of S5.3.1 of Standard No. 121. Section 108(a)(2)(A) of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act (15 U.S.C. S 1397(a)(2)(A)) prohibits, with one exception, knowing disconnection of the antilock system by a manufacturer, distributor, dealer, or repair business.; A person that does not fall into these categories is not prohibite from disconnection of the systems. Thus, it would be permissible for you to make such modifications on your own trucks and trailers. Other State or Federal requirements, such as those of the Bureau of Motor Carrier Safety for operation in interstate commerce, may prohibit disconnection. In any case, the NHTSA urges that you not disconnect safety devices without consulting the vehicle manufacturer with regard to the safest configuration of the vehicle.; Sincerely, Frank Berndt, Acting Chief Counsel