Mimosatr6 Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 I have just read a number of articles both in the press and online about the new updates to MOT regulations for the UK for VHI. My TR6 is standard apart from having a conversion on the rear that converts the rear suspension for Strut type shock absorbers instead of the original lever style. I personally found using this conversion (in this case with GAZ struts) provides a better and to me safer ride however although more than 40 years old does this mean my vehicle no longer meets the requirements for MOT exemption? The Vehicle of historical interest regulations say - Vehicles of Historical Interest (VHI): Most vehicles manufactured or first registered over 40 years ago will as of 20 May 2018, be exempt from periodic testing unless they have been substantially changed. The criteria for substantial change are: A vehicle will be considered substantially changed if the technical characteristics of the main components have changed in the previous 30 years, unless the changes fall into specific categories. These main components for vehicles, other than motorcycles are; Running Gear - Alteration of the type and or method of suspension or steering constitutes a substantial change. I would always probably have a voluntary MOT anyway but does this mean any TR6 with a shock absorber modification is not exempt to having an MOT? It looks that way. Does the club have any information or view about the rules that now affect us? Quote Link to post Share on other sites
RogerH Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 Hi Adrian, there is a great deal of discussion on here under the search facility. Here are some for starters https://www.tr-register.co.uk/forums/index.php?app=core&module=search&do=search&fromMainBar=1 Roger Quote Link to post Share on other sites
TRseks Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 In my view the change of the rear shocks is not a substantially modification so the car would still qualify for MOT exempt. Magnus Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Fireman049 Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 IF and I mean IF my 3A ever hits the road again I would have it MoT'd as usual. Our Honorable Insurance Companies only need a sliver of an excuse not to pay out!! Tom. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
DaveR Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 I agree with Tom. My Vitesse is now exempt but its going in for an MOT when its due early next year. Dave Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Andy Moltu Posted August 18, 2018 Report Share Posted August 18, 2018 There are two issues. Is this a substantial modification- no the suspension has not been significantly changed in that the trailing arm is retained with its original mounts. It’s not a swap to twin wishbones etc. It remains exempt from the MOT test but it still has to be roadworthy and having an experienced tester glancing at it is wise even if no certificate needs generating. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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