I'm used to reading 'legalese', but the MSVA guidance notes are a bloomin nightmare! Ambiguity and vague-contradiction comes as standard!

Can someone else have a scan of this and let me know what their thoughts are concerning the requirement for a steering-lock?

As I read it, a steering-lock is NOT mandatory if you only have an 'electrical' security device!


Application
This inspection applies to all vehicles with the exception of mopeds. However, if a device is fitted to a moped it must meet the requirements below.

Notes:

The device may be mechanical or electrical, or an electronic immobiliser or a combination of these in addition to any switch normally used to start the engine.

Mechanical devices must act positively to lock the steering or transmission system or both.

Requirements and Procedures:
1. Check that the vehicle is fitted with an operational device or system intended to prevent the unauthorised use of the vehicle such that it shall be necessary to disable it in order to point, drive or move the vehicle straight ahead.
2. Check that any device fitted does not act on any part of the braking system.
3. Check that the protective device cannot accidentally jam when the vehicle is in motion.

Reasons for Failure:
1. A vehicle not fitted with an operational device preventing unauthorised use of the vehicle or, where a mechanical device is fitted, it does not act on the steering or the transmission or both
2. A device that acts upon the vehicle braking system.
3. The device is likely to jam when the vehicle is in motion.

As I read that there is no requirement for a steering lock, looks like an ignition key and an imobiliser would fit the bill. IMHO Ray

Cheers Ray... that's my understanding too.

tis easy

padlock and chain

BUT you have to have it on the vehicle, I have a tool roll on the trike, with chain and padlock in it, you just fit the chain and padlock round a wheel etc when asked to demonstrate the security

BUT you cant use a disc lock as they act upon the braking system

Fabulous! Cheers Tony!

One other thing... when they talk about the vehicles 'width' in relation to the positioning of rear lights, then is it the width of the widest point of the vehicle, or just the width at the back of the vehicle? (Obviously for a reverse-trike, the width tapers inwards towards the back).