Changes to CAMS regulations for 2009.

CAMS has relaxed a number of regulations that affect everyone who competes in a Speed event, so in preparation for the 2009 competition year, here is a quick summary:-

Fire Extinguishers:

There is no longer an age expiry requirement.  As long as the pressure needle is in the green zone on the gauge, and the powder inside has not compacted, the extinguisher is OK to use.  A check on the powder can be made by shaking the extinguisher lengthways, and the powder can be felt to move inside.  If in doubt, ask a Club scrutineer to check it for you.  Keep in mind that the extinguisher must be mounted in a metal bracket, which itself must be firmly bolted to the car (not with self tappers), and within reach of the driver when seated in the car and belted in. Remember that if your car catches fire, this is all that may save it, so if in doubt, buy a new one.  It’s cheap insurance.

Seat belts:

The age expiry on all FIA homologated (8853/98) seat belts has been extended to 5 years past the expiry date shown on the tags sewn on to each strap of the belt. This concession does NOT apply to seatbelts homologated by the US based SFI organization (SFI 16.1), and these belts, recognized by their “latch and lift” buckles, will still expire on the date shown on their tags.   Remember also that you can use 4 point full harness belts homologated to the Australian standard AS2596 in sprints and hillclimbs, and that these belts, recognized by their thinner 2” webbing and push type buckles, have no age expiry.  Of course, the MINIMUM seatbelts acceptable for sprits and hillclimbs are the road going 3 point (lap/sash) belts.  Lap belts are only acceptable for OST’s and motorkhanas.  Please note that the scutineers will continue to reject belts that have no identifying tags, or are frayed.

If you have any doubts on any aspect of your car’s standard for a Club event, contact any of the Club’s scrutineers via the Competition Committee.