Page 40 - Commercial Vehicle Engineer - June 2021

WHEEL NUT SECURITY
However, with such things in place, along with technology like tyre pressure monitoring systems, there is a risk
that operators and drivers can become complacent. “The more [aids] you give drivers, the counter to that is that some stop checking things themselves,” he says.
To combat this, periodic refresher training for drivers on what is needed on things like the daily walkaround checks is useful.
“People are a bit loathe to do it because it’s like teaching granny to suck eggs but as long as it isn’t hours and hours, its fine,” says Lloyd.
“My experience is that people who have done their job the same way for years but not been checked tend to fall into bad habits. Sometimes it is just about watching someone go through the motions, then having a conversation with them afterwards. People tend to do things their way, and if their way
is right, there is no problem, but people can start to miss things and if you
ask them afterwards, they don’t
always realise.”
Martin Kerry, aftersales director
at used car and van dealer www.perrys. co.uk, emphasises that, as with HGVs, the security of wheel nuts on light commercial vehicles (LCV) is the sole responsibility of the designated driver, irrespective of the owner. “Wheel nut security is essential and forms part of the driver’s daily checks, which can be made simple with the use of wheel nut indicators (WNI),” he says. “WNI are an inexpensive and readily available solution in either most motoring shops or online, and can be fitted within minutes, no skill required.
“It’s very important that LCV
wheel nuts are torqued up to the manufacturer’s specification using
a calibrated torque wrench because under-torquing can result in loose wheels, whilst over-torquing can stretch the wheel studs, potentially causing the wheel studs to snap.”
While Kerry admits that it may sound like a chore, it should be done. “Give the wheel nuts the respect they deserve.”
This small device can show the psi of the wheel
40 JUNE 2021 > COMMERCIAL VEHICLE ENGINEER
Wheely-Safe's device fits on a wheel