Convex Mirror on Light Duty Truck

[DAVIDSTECKER]

I would like to have the convex passenger side mirror replaced with a flat,"unit" mirror.
When I approach any of the glass replacement companies with this want they reply that the convex mirror is the law and they can not change the OEM mirror.
After doing some research in the Code of Federal Regulations I find the flat mirror is the law under certine conditions and that the car compaines have been given a waiver to use the convex mirror.
My question is what liablity would the glass company incure by installing the flat mirror if it still meet the CFR?

 

[CESSNA1]

DAVIDSTECKER: I suggest you talk to a knowledgeable attorney. I suspect if any problem arises you may be stuck with trying to convince "12 people who were too stupid to get out of jury duty", that you were not at fault.

Regards
Dave

http://www.wsec1.com

 

[swall]

Federally mandated motor vehicle equipment is required of the OEM's only. Once you own the vehicle, you can remove any equipment you want, as long as you still meet the requirements of the state in which you will be using the vehicle. Except for emissions equipment, that is. But, you might have to do it yourself. Perhaps you can find a company that specializes in glass for antique and collectable vehicles and send them the mirror. Look in Hemmings Motor News. BTW, years ago, I wanted to do this on my BMW motorcycle and found a BMW part number for the Australian market.Got a U.S. dealer to order it for me and I had my flat glass mirror, no problem.

 

[ivymike]

as stated above, you'll have to check the laws in your state, and you'll most likely have to do it yourself (certain of FMVSS do prevent companies from performing many such mods for you, if I remember correctly). At least you're not putting on reflectorless clear taillight assemblies - the mirror will be harder to spot.

 

[evelrod]

David, just do it yourself. Go to any AutoZone or comparable cheapo parts purveyor and buy the flat replacement mirror glass for your particular vehicle and a tube of RTV adhesive, clear is nice. Next is the good part, a small hammer and a scraper is necessary, I'll let you figgure out how it all works. You can get just about any size mirror you could possibly need. It took me all of ten minutes to do my Dodge (I like the convex mirror, myself).

Rod

 

[patprimmer]

If I did it, in the event of serious accident I would be tempted to ensure the mirror came off, never to be found again.

If you give a glazier a template, he should be able to cut the shape. He need never know the application was a motor vehicle

Regards

eng-tips, by professional engineers for professional engineers
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[DAVIDSTECKER]

If you get the time, take a look at CFR 49, Ch. V, paragraph 571.111.
I would not be concerned about being in a wreck since the way I read the CFR; I'd be in greater compliance with the rules by getting rid of the convex mirror.
I have an enclose 18’ cargo trailer and the convex mirror just doesn’t work for those distances in city traffic.
Actually the more I thought about it the C2500’s and similar size trucks have the flat mirrors since they are not part of the waiver the auto makers received for the smaller trucks.

 

[evelrod]

David, like I said, it's a simple diy fix and, according to the fleet mgr (a friend) at the Ford house, legal. I replaced the driver side mirror on my D350 when it "fell off" one day. It took me about ten minutes. I have since replaced the passenger side mirror on my motorhome mirror with a flat glass, too. I, however, use a convex 'spot' mirror on both right and left mirrors on the MH.
Additionally, in referancing Cal DMV,...all my company trucks did NOT have convex mirrors and my Dodge 'extension' mirrors are not convex, either and, in my opinion, for what that's worth,... I see no legal or liability problem since "convex" is not mentioned in any law I can Google up.
I can't address other states regs, but...

Rod

 

[DAVIDSTECKER]

evelrod,
Like I said, the way I read the CFR's, the flat mirrors are prefered. There are certian situations that allow the car companies to use the convex. I just wish that when I am having glass work done for other reasons, like I am having to do today, (Rock chip from the highway) I could get it done at the same time.
I think I'll check the local salvage yard and get one off a 3/4 ton truck.
By the way, are your fleet trucks 3/4 ton or better?
When I used to drive the truck for a local rock band I would put the spot mirrors on if the truck we were leasing didn't already have them. I would put them in the upper outside corners so I could keep an eye on the cargo box.
Thanks to everyone for there suggestions and input.
David