Section 393.45 governs the brake tubing and hose installed on commercial motor vehicles. The hose must be free of chafing, crimping, kinking, leaks, and other conditions that compromise function.
Common findings
- Air hose chafed against the frame or another component to the reinforcement.
- Hose kinked at a connection.
- Audible air leak at a fitting.
- Improper repair (taped patch instead of replacement).
OOS criteria
A brake hose with damage such that hose failure may be imminent is an out-of-service condition per the North American OOS Criteria. The vehicle cannot be operated until repaired.
How to prevent it
- Pre-trip air system check: build pressure, listen for leaks, check protected hoses at every flex point.
- During brake adjustment checks, inspect all hoses at the slack adjusters and chambers.
- Replace any hose that shows reinforcement, regardless of whether it's currently leaking.
How Roadworthy HQ helps
Brake-related DVIR items in Roadworthy HQ are surfaced as priority defects, with required repair documentation before the vehicle returns to service.