Crossover Line Protection

Any part of the crossover line which is within four inches of any part of the exhaust system should be shielded from the heat of that system.

The Master Freight Agreement negotiated between the Teamsters Union and the motor carriers requires that any crossover line be 7.5 inches from the road surface in order to minimize its damage in the event of a tire failure. This Recommended Practice also recommends that the crossover line be higher than the bottom of the fuel tank and - where the vehicle design permits - higher than the front steer axle I-beam so the front axle will provide some protection from road hazards.

FMCSR 393.65 requires that any crossover line extending below the fuel tank or sump be protected against impact. The regulation also requires that any crossover line which extends more than two inches below the fuel tank or sump be completely enclosed in a protective housing.

In addition to the requirements of FMCSR 393.65, it is recommended that any crossover line which is less than 1.8 inches in diameter be supported by protective structure for that portion of the line which is between the boundaries of the frame rails. This structure should protect the line from road debris coming from the front and bottom.

Crossover lines greater than 1.8 inches in diameter should be protected by a structure located below and in front of the crossover line and as close as practicable to the crossover line.