Interpretation ID: aiam1783
Trail-O-Matic
Inc.
P.O. Box 2367
Jacksonville
FL 32203;
Dear Mr. Chancey: This responds to Trail-O-Matic's January 21, 1975, question whether trailer manufactured from the running gear and suspension of an existing trailer and a newly- fabricated frame and upper structure would qualify as a rebuilt vehicle that would not have to be certified as conforming to the requirements of Standard No. 121, *Air brake systems*.; The answer to your question is no. In determining that a buildin operation constitutes the repair of an existing vehicle, and not the manufacture of a new vehicle, the NHTSA requires that, as a minimum, the running gear and frame of the existing vehicle be used in the building operation. For your information, I have enclosed a letter which discusses a similar operation in the trailer industry.; Standard No. 121, therefore, applies to the manufacture of trailer described in your letter.; Yours truly, Richard B. Dyson, Assistant Chief Counsel