Modify a cargo barrier
Submitted: Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 20:29
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stefan P (Penrith NSW)
I got some draws the other day, which are now bolted down and
rock solid.
Was having a look around the shed and have found a cargo barrier from a VN Commodore wagon I used to have.
I am confident that I can make a safe Half barrier out of it, to bolt to the draws ect.
I was wondering if there is any legal/insurance issues here??
as I guess it would not meet the standards (what ever they are) of the original full barrier.
My thoughts it still has to be safer than nothing at all.
Any ideas???
Cheers Stefan
Reply By: Member - Graham H (QLD) - Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 20:38
Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 20:38
I wanted to modify a Milford barrier and contacted them about it.
The answer was the same as with towbars, legally you cant.
But I guess its up to you. If you are happy doing it do it.
As you say it could be better than nothing.
Just hope it doesnt figure in an insurance claim.
AnswerID:
292175
Follow Up By: stefan P (Penrith NSW) - Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 20:54
Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 20:54
'I wanted to modify a Milford barrier and contacted them about it.
The answer was the same as with towbars, legally you cant.'
I would expect that answer from someone with a vested interest in selling you a new one!! LOL
Cheers Stefan
FollowupID:
557534
Reply By: Fragle_Rock (VIC) - Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 21:35
Tuesday, Mar 11, 2008 at 21:35
As far as insurance is concerned, a cargo barrier is considered as an accessory, not a modification. Modifications are items that impact upon a vehicles performance/handling characteristics eg rims sizes, engine modifications, suspensions mods etc. A cargo barrier does not affect how a vehicle performs or handles.
Obviously accessories such as cargo barriers, radios, roof racks impact upon a vehicles value if it is written off due to an accident or stolen and not recovered, that is why it is still important to list them on your policy. If you modify a barrier worst case scenario in the event of a total loss may be that the $$ value for that accessory is not included.
I had a troopy and didn't have any hesitation modifying my barrier to fit a set of draws in.
Cheers
AnswerID:
292201
Follow Up By: stefan P (Penrith NSW) - Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 19:58
Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 19:58
thanks for your input.
Cheers Stefan
FollowupID:
557753
Reply By: MrBitchi (QLD) - Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 08:57
Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 08:57
IMO you're on the money when you say "any barrier is better than none. As for the legality of it, all approved cargo barriers have a placard affixed which states their rating. If you modify the barrier then it no longer complies with the stated rating. Short answer, remove the placard. That way it's no longer a "rated" safety barrier so no one can sue you or the manufacturer about it. Would be the same as hanging a cargo net behind the back
seat, would probably stop most things but if something got past it,
well that's life... or not :-(
Can't see any issues with insurance having a none rated barrier as they aren't compulsory.
AnswerID:
292263
Follow Up By: stefan P (Penrith NSW) - Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 20:03
Wednesday, Mar 12, 2008 at 20:03
Didn't think there would be any issues but sometimes there are little rules hidden away that only come to light when the shyte hits the fan. Just checking! LOL
Cheers Stefan
FollowupID:
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