|
| Frequently
Asked Questions
Are TCK pins safe to use?
Answer: Yes. All TCK's pins are made from the highest quality Australian
steel, heat treated in accordance with Adelaide University's Engineering
Department recommendations.
Do TCK pins comply with national and international standards?
Answer: TCK's pins are Australian Design Rule 62 (ADR62) compliant,
satisfying the requirements of the relevant Australian and European
standards. TCK's pins are also accepted for use by New Zealand and South
African authorities because of that compliance.
How are TCK's pins tested to check compliance?
Our web site has images of a test in progress. The 50mm Ringfeder ™ pin
samples were tested for a
D-rating of 260kN(26 tonne) with a V-loading of 9810N giving our pins
certification for both rigid and hinged draw bars. 260kN is the highest
possible test load listed and certifies our pins suitable for use in any
application . Each sample must be subjected to two million repetitive
cycles at the determined load followed by a crack testing sequence to
determine any deterioration of the parent metal. Certification follows the
successful completion of each test.
Are all pins supplied into the market by other suppliers for the repair
or overhaul of tow couplings certified?
Our research indicates that few suppliers can provide certification of the
pins they supply. TCK can. The certificates for the testing of our
pins to suit Ringfeder's™ 50mm and 40mm couplings are available at the
point of sale or by e mailing our company.
Does the use of a TCK coupling pin maintain the manufacturers “load
rating” integrity of the tow coupling?>
Yes. All tow couplings sold are allocated a Component Registration Number
(CRN) by the Australian Federal Office of Road Safety (FORS). At that
point FORS allocates a “load rating” for that component, an upper
limit of operation. It follows therefore that in order to protect the
manufacturer and communities expectations with regard to safety and
performance, the coupling repairer and users should demand certified
components of the highest quality for repair, capable of meeting those
needs and returning that coupling back into service capable of operating
safely at its maximum load. TCK's pins are certified to meet those needs.
Do I need to install a complete major repair kit every time I do a
repair?
No. The circumstances will dictate. Often the upper and lower bushes will
see out the life of two pins. It depends on the operating environment. TCK
will supply everything you need from each individual part to a complete
major repair kit. Many customers keep a selection of our parts on their
shelf. The wear pads should always be kept up to scratch. The coupling
mouth will become badly damaged if the tow bar gets through wear pad.
How do I know when to replace the coupling pin?
Excessive lateral movement of the pin when supported in the upper and
lower bushes will indicate the need for further examination in that area.
As a guide a maximum of 2mm clearance should only be allowed.
The load bearing area of the pin, where the tow eye
sits, can be best examined with the pin in the down position without a tow
bar in place. A minimum diameter of 46mm on the 50mm pin should be allowed
with 36.5mm on the 40mm pin. Use a TCK “Cool Tool”, a go-no go
gauge, to determine excessive wear. These tools are available from all TCK
stockists or TCK direct.
Why should I buy a TCK tow coupling pin?
| # |
TCK pins are certified. |
|
| # |
TCK pins perform due to
their superior shape. |
| # |
TCK pins will reduce down
time. |
| # |
TCK pins are Australian
made using the highest quality BHP steel. |
| # |
TCK pins and parts are a
cost effective option |
|
|