2007 MISSOURI Minimum Standards for School Buses School Governance Section
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
D. Kent King, Commissioner of Education The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Inquiries related to Department programs may be directed to the Jefferson State Office Building, Title IX Coordinator, 5th Floor, 205 Jefferson Street, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480; telephone number 573-751-4212.
DESE 3660-6 Rev 8/06 Foreword....................................................... i Section 1 ­ General Provisions
Effective Date....................................................... 1 Scope ................................................................... 1 Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards............. 1 Used School Buses.............................................. 1 Changes in Specifications ................................... 1 Study of New Equipment ..................................... 1 Section 2 ­ School Bus Types
Types A, B, C and D School Buses..................... 3 Section 3 ­ Bus Chassis Specifications
Air Cleaner ........................................................... 4 Axles..................................................................... 4 Brakes .................................................................. 4 Bumper, Front ...................................................... 5 Certification .......................................................... 6 Clutch ................................................................... 7 Color..................................................................... 7 Drive Shaft ........................................................... 7 Electrical System.................................................. 7 Engine Fire Extinguisher...................................... 9 Exhaust System ................................................... 9 Fenders (Front Type C Vehicles)....................... 10 Frame ................................................................. 10 Fuel System ....................................................... 11 Governor ............................................................ 11 Heating System, Provision For .......................... 11 Horn.................................................................... 12 Instruments and Instrument Panel..................... 12 Oil Filter .............................................................. 13 Openings............................................................ 13 Passenger Load................................................. 13 Retarder System (Optional Equipment)............. 14 Road Speed Control .......................................... 14 Shock Absorbers................................................ 14 Steering Gear..................................................... 14 Suspension Systems ......................................... 14 Throttle ............................................................... 15 Tires and Rims ................................................... 15 Transmission...................................................... 15 Turning Radius................................................... 16 Undercoating...................................................... 16 Hinges ................................................................ 30 Identification ....................................................... 31 Inside Height ...................................................... 32 Insulation ............................................................ 32 Interior ................................................................ 32 Lamps and Signals............................................. 33 Metal Treatment ................................................. 35 Mirrors ................................................................ 36 Mounting............................................................. 36 Overall Length .................................................... 37 Overall Width...................................................... 37 Post Trip Safety Alarm (Optional) ...................... 37 Public Address System ...................................... 37 Retroreflective Material ...................................... 37 Rub Rails ............................................................ 38 Seat and Restraining Barriers ............................ 39 Side Skirts .......................................................... 41 Steering Wheels ................................................. 41 Steps .................................................................. 41 Step Treads ........................................................ 41 Stirrup Steps....................................................... 42 Stop-Signal Arms ............................................... 42 Storage Compartment (Optional)....................... 42 Sun Shield .......................................................... 42 Tailpipe ............................................................... 43 Towing Attachment Points ................................. 43 Traction Assisting Devices (Optional) ................ 43 Trash Container and Holding Device................. 44 Undercoating ...................................................... 44 Ventilation........................................................... 45 Wheelhousing..................................................... 45 Windows ............................................................. 46 Windshield Washers .......................................... 46 Windshield Wipers.............................................. 46 Wiring ................................................................. 46 Section 5 ­ Specifications for Specially Equipped School Buses
Introduction......................................................... 49 Definition ............................................................ 49 General Requirements ....................................... 50 Aisles .................................................................. 50 Glazing ............................................................... 50 Identification ....................................................... 50 Passenger Capacity Rating ............................... 50 Power Lifts and Ramps ...................................... 51 Regular Service Entrance .................................. 54 Restraining Devices ........................................... 54 Seating Arrangements ....................................... 54 Securement and Restraint System for Wheelchairs and Wheelchair-Seated Occupants...................................................... 54 Special Light....................................................... 56 Special Service Entrance ................................... 56 Special Service Entrance Doors ........................ 57 Support Equipment and Accessories................. 58 Technology and Equipment, New ...................... 59 Section 4 ­ Bus Body Specifications
Aisle ................................................................... 17 Back-Up Warning Alarm .................................... 17 Battery ................................................................ 17 Bumper, Front .................................................... 17 Bumper, Rear..................................................... 18 Ceiling ................................................................ 18 Certification ........................................................ 18 Chains, Tire........................................................ 18 Child Safety Alarm (Optional) ............................ 18 Color................................................................... 19 Construction ....................................................... 19 Crossing Control Arm......................................... 19 Defrosters........................................................... 20 Doors.................................................................. 21 Emergency Exits ................................................ 22 Emergency Equipment ...................................... 25 Fire Suppression Systems (Optional)................ 26 Floors ................................................................. 26 Handrails ............................................................ 27 Heating and Air Conditioning Systems .............. 27 Appendices
School Bus Chassis and Body........................... 60 National School Bus Yellow ............................... 60 Bus Body Heating System Test ......................... 60 Noise Test Procedure ........................................ 71 Retroreflective Sheeting/Daytime Color............. 72 Seat Upholstery Fire Block Test ........................ 72 2007 Missouri Minimum Standards for School Buses Committee ............................. 77 FOREWORD
The revised minimum standards for school bus chassis and school bus bodies have been prepared in conformity with the Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo) for school bus transportation. The standards recommended by the 2005 National Conference on School Transportation and the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) promulgated by the U. S. Department of Transportation were used as guides in developing these Missouri standards. The minimum standards appearing herein have been officially adopted by the State Board of Education in compliance with RSMo Section 304.060, which reads in part: "...The state board of education shall adopt and enforce regulations not inconsistent with law to cover the design and operation of all school buses used for the transportation of school children when owned and operated by any school district or privately owned and operated under contract with any school district in this state, and such regulations shall by reference be made a part of any such contract with a school district...Every school district, its officers and employees, and every person employed under contract by a school district shall be subject to such regulations..." The standards herein adopted shall be considered minimum. The writing of specifications and the purchase of equipment may exceed the adopted minimum standards in safety and quality. The standards are adopted to provide statewide minimum standards consistent with safety and economy and to eliminate the manufacture of unsafe school buses. It is believed that these standards are sufficiently flexible to permit opportunity for the use of new inventions and improvements that will ensure greater efficiency and safety. This manual is divided into five sections: Section 1 ­ General Provisions, Section 2 ­ School Bus Types, Section 3 ­ Bus Chassis Specifications, Section 4 ­ Bus Body Specifications and Section 5 ­ Specifications for Specially Equipped School Buses. i SECTION 1 ­ GENERAL PROVISIONS
EFFECTIVE DATE These specifications apply to school buses with a body tag "build date" later than June 30, 2007. SCOPE The specifications contained herein shall apply to all school buses manufactured after the effective date and used to transport Missouri public school students to or from school or any place for educational purposes. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARDS All motor vehicles with a passenger capacity of more than 10, including the driver, used to transport school students are required to meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) school bus specifications. All school buses shall be equipped as required by the minimum specifications contained herein and as required by applicable FMVSS. In the event of a conflict between the requirements of an applicable FMVSS as referred to in this section and the minimum specifications contained in this regulation, the requirements of the FMVSS shall control. USED SCHOOL BUSES A used school bus purchased for use in Missouri by or for a public school district shall meet all of the legal requirements of the Missouri Revised Statutes for motor vehicles, and it shall meet the Missouri Minimum Standards for School Buses that were in effect on the date the vehicle was manufactured plus any changes made on a retroactive basis. CHANGES IN SPECIFICATIONS Any part of these specifications may be changed at any time by addenda adopted by the State Board of Education. STUDY OF NEW EQUIPMENT The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education retains authority for the director of School Governance to authorize testing of new equipment on school buses. A written request to test new equipment must be submitted to the director of School Governance for approval prior to the installation or use of the new equipment. The request shall specify a period of time for the test not to exceed one school year. After receiving a written request, the director of School Governance will analyze the need for the new equipment and the related safety issues involved and will issue a written decision within 15 working days to the 1 individual making the request. Upon completion of the test, a written report by the authorized tester shall be submitted to the director of School Governance for analysis. If the equipment test provides additional safety for students, an addendum to these standards may be issued by the Department. 2 SECTION 2 ­ SCHOOL BUS TYPES 3 SECTION 3 ­ BUS CHASSIS SPECIFICATIONS
AIR CLEANER A. B. A dry element air cleaner shall be provided. All diesel engine air filters shall include a latch-type restriction indicator that retains the maximum restriction developed during operation of the engine. The indicator should include a reset control so that it can be returned to zero when desired. AXLES The front and rear axle and suspension systems shall have a gross axle weight rating (GAWR) at ground commensurate with the respective front and rear weight loads of the bus loaded to its rated passenger capacity. BRAKES (GENERAL) A. The chassis brake system shall conform to the provisions of FMVSS No. 105, Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems; No. 106, Brake Hoses; and No. 121, Air Brake Systems, as applicable. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) provided in accordance with FMVSS No. 105, Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems, or No. 121, Air Brake Systems, shall provide wheel speed sensors for each front wheel and for each wheel on at least one rear axle. The system shall provide antilock braking performance for each wheel equipped with sensors (four-channel system). All brake systems shall be designed to permit visual inspection of brakelining wear without the removal of any chassis component(s). The brake lines, booster-assist lines and control cables shall be protected from excessive heat, vibration and corrosion. They shall be installed in a manner that prevents chafing. The parking-brake system for either air or hydraulic service brake systems may be of a power-assisted design. The power parkingbrake actuator should be a device located on the instrument panel within reach of a seated a fifth-percentile female driver. As an option, the parking brake may be set by placing the automatic transmission shift-control mechanism in the park position. The power-operated parking-brake system may be interlocked to the engine key switch. Once the parking brake has been set and the ignition switch has been turned to the off position, the parking brake B. C. D. E. F. 4 cannot be released until the key switch is turned back to the on position. BRAKES (HYDRAULIC) Buses using a hydraulic-assist brake shall be equipped with audible and visible warning signals, which provide a continuous warning to the driver indicating a loss of fluid flow from the primary source or the failure of the backup pump system. BRAKES (AIR) A. The air-pressure supply system shall include a desiccant-type air dryer installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The air-pressure storage-tank system may incorporate an automatic drain valve. The chassis manufacturer shall provide an accessory outlet for airoperated systems installed by the body manufacturer. This outlet shall include a pressure protection valve to prevent a loss of air pressure in the service brake reservoir. For air-brake systems, an air-pressure gauge capable of complying with commercial driver's license (CDL) pre-trip inspection requirements shall be provided in the instrument panel. Air-brake-equipped buses may be outfitted with a service-brake interlock. If equipped with a service-brake interlock, the parking brake cannot be released until the brake pedal is depressed. Air-brake systems shall include a system for anti-compounding of the service brakes and parking brakes. Air brakes shall have both visible and audible warning devices that alert the driver when air pressure falls below the level at which warnings are required under FMVSS No. 121, Air Brake Systems. B. C. D. E. F. BUMPER (FRONT) A. School buses shall be equipped with front bumpers. The front bumper shall be furnished by the chassis manufacturer for all school bus types unless there is a specific alternate agreement between the chassis manufacturer and body manufacturer. The front bumpers on buses of Type A-2 (with a GVWR greater than 14,500 pounds), Type B, Type C and Type D shall be equivalent in strength and durability to a pressed steel channel at least 3/16 of an inch thick and not less than 8 inches wide (high). It shall extend beyond the forward-most part of the body, grille, hood and fenders; and 5 B. it shall extend to the outer edges of the fenders at the bumper's top line. Type A buses with a GVWR of 14,500 pounds or less may be equipped with an OEM-supplied front bumper. The front bumper shall be of sufficient strength to permit being pushed by another vehicle on a smooth surface with a 5 degree (8.7 percent) grade without permanent distortion. The contact point on the front bumper is intended to be between the frame rails with as wide a contact area as possible. If the front bumper is used for lifting, the contact points shall be under the bumper attachments to the frame rail brackets unless the manufacturer specifies different lifting points in the owner's manual. Contact and lifting pressures should be applied simultaneously at both lifting points. C. Except for breakaway bumper ends, the front bumper shall be of sufficient strength to permit pushing a vehicle of equal gross vehicle weight, per Section B, without permanent distortion to the bumper, chassis or body. Tow eyes or hooks shall be furnished and attached so that they do not project beyond the front bumper. Tow eyes or hooks attached to the chassis frame shall be furnished by the chassis manufacturer. This installation shall be in accordance with the chassis manufacturer's specifications. Tow eyes or hooks shall have an individual strength rating of 13,500 pounds each and a combined rating of 27,000 pounds. For pulling and lifting purposes, tow hooks are meant to be used simultaneously. For pulling, angularity applied to the tow hooks will decrease their capacity. Note: Type A buses are exempt from this requirement for front tow hooks or eyes due to built-in crush zones. Rear tow eyes or hooks are addressed in Section 4, Towing Attachment Points. E. The bumper shall be designed or reinforced so it will not deform when the bus is lifted by a chain passed under the bumper (or through the bumper if holes are provided for this purpose) and attached to both tow eyes or hooks. For the purpose of meeting this specification, the bus shall be empty and positioned on a level, hard surface; and both tow eyes or hooks shall share the load equally. D. CERTIFICATION The chassis manufacturer shall certify that its product meets the state's minimum standards on items not covered by the FMVSS certification requirements of 49 CFR, Part 567, by mailing a certification statement to: Director of School Governance, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, P.O. Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102. 6 CLUTCH A. B. Clutch torque capacity shall be equal to or greater than the engine torque output. A starter interlock shall be installed to prevent actuation of the starter if the clutch pedal is not depressed. COLOR A. The chassis, including the wheels and the front bumper, shall be black. The body, cowl, hood and fenders shall be in National School Bus Yellow (NSBY). The flat top surface of the hood may be non-reflective black or NSBY. (See Appendices, School Bus Chassis and Body.) If used, demountable rims may be silver, gray, white, yellow or black (as received from the wheel manufacturer). B. DRIVE SHAFT The drive shaft shall be protected by a metal guard (or guards) around the circumference to reduce the possibility of the drive shaft whipping through the floor or dropping to the ground if broken. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM A. Battery 1. The storage batteries shall have a minimum cold-cranking capacity rating (cold-cranking amps) equal to the cranking current required for 30 seconds at 0 degrees Fahrenheit, and a minimum reserve capacity rating of 120 minutes at 25 amps. Higher capacities may be required depending upon optional equipment and local environmental conditions. Since all batteries are to be secured in a sliding tray in the body, chassis manufacturers shall mount the battery temporarily on the chassis frame, An exception is that van conversion or cutaway front-section chassis may be secured in accordance with the manufacturer's standard configuration. In these cases, the final location of the battery and the appropriate cable lengths shall be agreed upon mutually by the chassis manufacturer and body manufacturer. However, in all cases the battery cable provided with the chassis shall have sufficient length to allow some slack and shall be of a sufficient gauge to carry the required amperage. 2. 7 B. Alternator 1. 2. All Type A-2 and Type B buses with a GVWR of 15,000 pounds or less shall have minimum 130-amp alternators. Type A-2 and Type B buses over 15,000 pounds GVWR and all Type C and Type D buses shall be equipped with heavyduty truck or bus-type alternators meeting SAE J180, Electrical Charging Systems for Construction and Industrial Machinery. These alternators shall have a minimum output rating of 130 amps or higher and should produce a minimum current output of 50 percent of the rating at engine idle speed. Buses equipped with electrically powered wheelchair lifts, air conditioning or other accessories may be equipped with a device that monitors the electrical-system voltage and advances the engine idle speed when the voltage drops to, or below, a preset level. A belt-driven alternator shall be capable of handling its rated capacity with no detrimental effects on any other driven components. (For estimating required alternator capacity, see School Bus Manufacturers Technical Council's publication, "School Bus Technical Reference," available at http://www.nasdpts.org.) A direct-drive alternator is permissible in lieu of a belt-driven alternator. 3. 4. 5. C. Electrical Components Materials in all electrical components shall contain no mercury. D. Wiring 1. All wiring shall conform to the current applicable and recommended practices of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). All wiring shall use color and at least one other method for identification. The other method shall be either a number code or name code, and each chassis shall be delivered with a diagram that illustrates the wiring of the chassis. The chassis manufacturer of an incomplete vehicle shall install a readily accessible terminal strip or connector on the body side of the cowl, or in an accessible location in the engine compartment of vehicles designed without a cowl. The strip or connector shall contain the following terminals for the body connections: 8 2. a. b. c. d. e. f. g. E. Circuits 1. Main 100-amp body circuit Tail lamps Right-turn signal Left-turn signal Stop lamps Back-up lamps Instrument-panel lamps (rheostat controlled by headlamp switch) An appropriate identifying diagram (in color with a name or number code) for all chassis electrical circuits shall be provided by the body manufacturer for distribution to the end user. Wiring for the headlamp system must be separate from the electronic-controlled body solenoid/module. 2. F. Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) A DRL system shall be provided. ENGINE FIRE EXTINGUISHER The chassis manufacturer may provide an automatic fire-extinguisher system in the engine compartment. EXHAUST SYSTEM A. The exhaust pipe, muffler and tailpipe shall be outside the bus body compartment and shall be attached to the chassis so that other chassis components are not damaged. The tailpipe shall be constructed of a corrosion-resistant tubing material at least equal in strength and durability to 16-gauge steel tubing of equal diameter. Chassis manufacturers shall furnish an exhaust system with a tailpipe of sufficient length to exit at the rear of the bus or at the left side of the bus body no more than 18 inches forward of the front edge of the rear wheelhouse opening. If designed to exit at the rear of the bus, the tailpipe shall extend at least 5 inches beyond the end of the chassis frame. If designed to exit at the side of the bus, the tailpipe shall extend 9 B. C. at least 48.5 inches (51.5 inches if the body is 102 inches wide) outboard from the chassis centerline. 1. 2. On Types C and D vehicles, the tailpipe shall not exit beneath a fuel fill or emergency-door exit. Types A and B chassis may be furnished with the manufacturer's standard tailpipe configuration. (See also Section 4, Tailpipe.) D. E. The exhaust system on a chassis shall be adequately insulated from the fuel system. The muffler shall be constructed using corrosion-resistant material. FENDERS (FRONT-TYPE C VEHICLES) A. The total spread of the outer edges of front fenders, measured at the fender line, shall exceed the total spread of the front tires when the front wheels are in a straight-ahead position. The front fender shall be properly braced and shall not require attachment to any part of the body. B. FRAME A. B. Frame length shall be established in accordance with the design criteria for the complete vehicle. Making holes in top or bottom flanges or side units of the frame and welding to the frame shall not be permitted except as provided or accepted by the chassis manufacturer. The frame shall not be modified for the purpose of extending the wheel base. Any secondary manufacturer that modifies the original chassis frame shall provide a warranty at least equal to the warranty offered by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The secondary manufacturer shall certify that the modification and other parts or equipment affected by the modification shall be free from defects in material and workmanship under the normal use and service intended by the OEM. C. D. 10 FUEL SYSTEM A. Fuel tank(s) having a minimum 30-gallon capacity shall be provided by the chassis manufacturer. Each tank shall be filled from and vented to the outside of the passenger compartment, and each fuel filler should be placed in a location where accidental fuel spillage will not drip or drain on any part of the exhaust system. The fuel system shall comply with FMVSS No. 301, Fuel System Integrity. Fuel tank(s) may be mounted between the chassis frame rails or outboard of the frame rails on either the left or right side of the vehicle. The actual draw capacity of each fuel tank shall be a minimum of 83 percent of tank capacity. Installation of alternative fuel systems, including fuel tanks and piping from the tank to the engine, shall comply with all applicable fire codes in effect on the date of manufacture of the bus. Installation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks shall comply with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code. Installation of compressed natural gas (CNG) containers shall comply with FMVSS No. 304, Compressed Natural Gas Fuel Container Integrity. The CNG fuel system shall comply with FMVSS No. 303, Fuel System Integrity of Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. GOVERNOR An electronic engine-speed limiter shall be provided and set to limit engine speed, not to exceed the maximum revolutions per minute as recommended by the engine manufacturer. HEATING SYSTEM, PROVISION FOR The chassis engine shall have plugged openings for the purpose of supplying hot water for the bus heating system. The openings shall be suitable for attaching 3/4-inch pipe thread/hose connectors. The engine shall be capable of supplying coolant at a temperature of at least 170 degrees Fahrenheit at the engine coolant thermostat opening temperature. The coolant flow rate shall be 50 pounds per minute at the return end of 30 feet of automotive hot water heater hose with a 1-inch inside diameter. (See SBMTC-001, Standard Code for Testing and Rating Automotive Bus Hot Water Heating and Ventilating Equipment.) 11 HORN The bus shall be equipped with a horn(s) of standard make capable of producing a complex sound in bands of audio frequencies between 250 and 2,000 cycles per second and tested in accordance with SAE J377, Horn ­ Forward Warning ­ Electric ­ Performance, Test, and Application. INSTRUMENTS AND INSTRUMENT PANEL A. The chassis shall be equipped with the instruments and gauges listed below: (Telltale warning lamps in lieu of gauges are not acceptable except as noted) 1. 2. Speedometer Odometer ­ The odometer will give accrued mileage to seven digits, including tenths of miles unless tenths of miles are registered on a trip odometer. The odometer should be able to be read without using a key. Tachometer (Note: For Types B, C and D buses, a tachometer shall be installed so as to be visible to the driver while he or she is seated in a normal driving position.) Voltmeter (Note: An ammeter with graduated charge and discharge indicators is permitted in lieu of a voltmeter. When used, the ammeter wiring must be compatible with the current flow of the system.) Oil-pressure gauge Water-temperature gauge Fuel gauge Upper beam headlamp indicator Brake air-pressure gauge (air brakes), brake indicator lamp (vacuum/hydraulic brakes) or brake indicator lamp (hydraulic/hydraulic) Turn-signal indicator Glow-plug indicator lamp (where appropriate) 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12 B. C. All instruments shall be easily accessible for maintenance and repair. The instruments and gauges shall be mounted on the instrument panel so that each is clearly visible to the driver while he or she is seated in a normal driving position. Instruments and controls must be illuminated as required by FMVSS No. 101, Controls and Displays. Multi-function gauge (MFG) 1. 2. The driver must be able to manually select any displayable function of the gauge on an MFG whenever desired. Whenever an out-of-limits condition that would be displayed on one or more functions of an MFG occurs, the MFG controller should automatically display this condition on the instrument cluster. This should be in the form of an illuminated telltale warning lamp, as well as having the MFG automatically display the out-of-limits indications. If two or more functions displayed on the MFG go out of limits simultaneously, then the MFG should sequence automatically between those functions continuously until the condition is corrected. The use of an MFG does not relieve the need for audible warning devices where required. D. E. 3. OIL FILTER An oil filter with a replaceable element shall be provided and connected by flexible oil lines if it is not a built-in or an engine-mounted design. The oil filter shall have a capacity in accordance with the engine manufacturer's recommendation. OPENINGS All openings in the floorboard or firewall between the chassis and the passenger compartment (e.g., for gearshift selector and parking-brakes lever) shall be sealed. PASSENGER LOAD A. Actual gross vehicle weight (GVW) is the sum of the chassis weight plus the body weight, plus the driver's weight, plus total seated student weight. For the purposes of calculation, the driver's weight is 150 pounds and the student weight is 120 pounds per student. The actual GVW shall not exceed the chassis manufacturer's GVWR for the chassis, nor shall the actual weight carried on any axle 13 B. exceed the chassis manufacturer's Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). RETARDER SYSTEM (OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT) If used, a retarder system shall limit the speed of a fully loaded school bus to 19.0 mph on a 7 percent grade for 3.6 miles. ROAD SPEED CONTROL When it is desired to accurately control vehicle maximum speed, a vehicle speed limiter may be utilized. SHOCK ABSORBERS The bus shall be equipped with double-action shock absorbers that are compatible with the manufacturer's rated axle capacity at each wheel location. STEERING GEAR A. The steering gear shall be approved by the chassis manufacturer and shall be designed to ensure safe and accurate performance when the vehicle is operated with a maximum load and at maximum speed. If external adjustments are required, the steering mechanism shall be accessible to make such adjustments. Changes shall not be made to the steering apparatus that are not approved by the chassis manufacturer. There shall be a clearance of at least 2 inches between the steering wheel and the cowl, instrument panel, windshield or any other surface. Power steering is required and shall be of the integral type with integral valves. The steering system shall be designed to provide a means for lubrication of all wear-points that are not permanently lubricated. B. C. D. E. F. SUSPENSION SYSTEMS A. B. The capacity of springs or suspension assemblies shall be commensurate with the chassis manufacturer's GVWR. Rear-leaf springs shall be of a progressive rate or multi-stage design. Front-leaf springs shall have a stationary eye at one end and shall be protected by a wrapped leaf in addition to the main leaf. 14 THROTTLE The force required to operate the throttle shall not exceed 16 pounds throughout the full range of accelerator pedal travel. TIRES AND RIMS A. Rims and tires of the proper size and load rating commensurate with the chassis manufacturer's GVWR shall be provided. The use of multipiece rims and/or tube-type tires shall not be permitted on any school bus with a "build date" after June 30, 1997. Dual rear tires shall be provided on Type A-2, Type B, Type C and Type D school buses. All tires on a vehicle shall be of the same size, and the load range of the tires shall meet or exceed the GVWR as required by FMVSS No. 120, Tire Selection and Rims for Vehicles other than Passenger Car. If the vehicle is equipped with a spare-tire and rim assembly, it shall be the same size as what is mounted on the vehicle. If a tire carrier is required, it shall be suitably mounted in an accessible location outside of the passenger compartment. B. C. D. E. TRANSMISSION A. Automatic transmissions shall have no fewer than three forward speeds and one reverse speed. Mechanical shift selectors shall provide a detent between each gear position when the gear-selector quadrant and shift selector are not steering-column mounted. In manual transmissions, second gear and higher shall be synchronized except when incompatible with engine power. A minimum of three forward speeds and one reverse speed shall be provided. An electronic control, or similar device, may be installed to ensure that automatic transmissions cannot accidentally be moved out of the "neutral" or "park" gear position while the driver is not seated in the driver's seat. B. C. TURNING RADIUS A. A chassis with a wheelbase of 264 inches or less shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 42.5 feet curb-to-curb measurement. 15 B. A chassis with a wheelbase of 265 inches or more shall have a right and left turning radius of not more than 44.5 feet curb-to-curb measurement. UNDERCOATING The chassis manufacturers, or their agents, shall coat the undersides of steel or metallic-constructed front fenders with a rust-proofing compound, for which the compound manufacturer has issued a notarized certification of compliance to the chassis builder that the compound meets or exceeds all performance and qualitative requirements of paragraph 3.4 of Federal Specification TT-C-520B, Coating Compound, Bituminous, Solvent Type, Underbody, using modified tests. 16 SECTION 4 ­ BUS BODY SPECIFICATIONS
AISLE A. All emergency-exit doors shall be accessible by 12-inch minimum aisles. The aisles shall be unobstructed at all times by any type of barrier, seat, wheelchair or tiedown unless a flip seat is installed and occupied. The track of a track-seating system is exempt from this requirement. A flip seat in the unoccupied (up) position shall not obstruct the 12-inch minimum aisle to any side emergency-exit door. The seat backs shall be slanted sufficiently to give aisle clearance of 15 inches at the tops of seat backs. B. BACK-UP WARNING ALARM An automatic audible alarm shall be installed behind the rear axle and shall comply with the published Backup Alarm Standards (SAE J994b) by providing a minimum of 112 dBA; or it shall have a variable volume feature that allows the alarm to vary from 87 dBA to 112 dBA, staying at least 5 dBA above the ambient noise level. BATTERY A. B. The battery is to be furnished by the chassis manufacturer. When the battery is mounted as described in Section 3, the body manufacturer shall securely attach the battery on a slide-out or swingout tray in a closed, vented compartment in the body skirt so that the battery is accessible for convenient servicing from the outside. The battery-compartment door or cover shall be hinged at the front or top and shall be secured by an adequate and conveniently operated latch or other type fastener. Battery cables installed by the body manufacturer shall meet chassis manufacturer and SAE requirements. Battery cables shall be of sufficient length to allow the battery tray to fully extend. The battery compartment is required on all diesel buses. Buses may be equipped with battery shut-off switches. The switch is to be placed in a location not readily accessible to the driver or passengers. C. BUMPER, FRONT If the chassis manufacturer does not provide a bumper on a Type D school bus, the bumper shall be provided by the body manufacturer. The bumper shall conform to the specifications described in Section 3. 17 BUMPER, REAR A. The bumpers on Type A-1 buses shall be a minimum of 8 inches wide (high). Bumpers on Types A-2, B, C and D buses shall be a minimum of 9 and 1/2 inches wide (high). The bumpers shall be of a sufficient strength to permit being pushed by another vehicle of similar size and being lifted by the bumper without permanent distortion. The bumper shall wrap around the back corners of the bus. It shall extend forward at least 12 inches as measured from the rear-most point of the body at the floor line, and it shall be mounted flush with the sides of the body or protected with an end panel. The bumper shall be attached to the chassis frame in such a manner that it may be removed. The bumper shall be braced to resist deformation resulting from impact to the rear or the side. It shall be designed to discourage the hitching of rides by individuals. The bumper shall extend at least 1 inch beyond the rear-most part of the body surface as measured at the floor line. The bottom of the rear bumper shall not be more than 30 inches above ground level. B. C. D. E. CEILING (See Section 4, Insulation and Interior) CERTIFICATION The body manufacturer shall, upon the request of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, certify that its product meets the state's minimum standards on items that are not covered by the FMVSS certification requirements of 49 CFR, Part 567, Certification. CHAINS, TIRE (See Section 4, Wheelhousing) CHILD SAFETY ALARM (OPTIONAL) An audible warning alarm or announcement system may be located near the right front corner of the bus and incorporated into the warning-light system to sound as the stop arms and crossing gate open and close. If installed, the system shall be wired to allow red flasher lights to continue flashing until the alarm completes its cycle. 18 COLOR A. B. C. The school bus body shall be painted National School Bus Yellow (NSBY). (See Appendices, School Bus Chassis and Body.) The body exterior paint trim shall be black. Except for the vertical portion of the front and rear roof caps, the roof of the bus may be painted white. (See an illustration in Appendices, School Bus Chassis and Body ­ Placement of Retroreflective Markings.) CONSTRUCTION A. Side Intrusion Test: The bus body shall be constructed to withstand an intrusion force equal to the curb weight of the vehicle or 20,000 pounds, whichever is less. Each vehicle shall be capable of meeting this requirement when tested in accordance with the procedures set forth below. The complete body structure, or a representative seven-body-section mock-up with seats installed, shall be load-tested at a location 24 ± 2 inches above the floor line, with a maximum 10-inch diameter cylinder, 48 inches long, mounted in a horizontal plane. The cylinder shall be placed as close as is practical to the midpoint of the tested structure, spanning two internal vertical structural members. The cylinder shall be statically loaded to the required force of curb weight or 20,000 pounds, whichever is less, in a horizontal plane with the load applied from the exterior toward the interior of the test structure. When the minimum load has been applied, the penetration of the loading cylinder into the passenger compartment shall not exceed 10 inches from the original point of contact. There can be no separation of lapped panels or construction joints. Punctures, tears or breaks in the external panels are acceptable but are not permitted on any adjacent interior panel. Body companies shall certify compliance with this intrusion requirement and shall include test results as requested. B. Construction shall be reasonably dustproof and watertight. CROSSING CONTROL ARM A. Every school bus that has a gross vehicle weight rating of more than ten thousand pounds, has the engine mounted entirely in front of the windshield, has the entrance door behind the front wheels and is used for the transportation of children in the public school system, shall be equipped with a crossing control arm. The crossing control arm, when activated, shall extend a minimum of 5 feet, 6 19 inches from the face of the front bumper. The crossing control arm shall be attached to the right side of the front bumper and shall be activated by the same controls that activate the mechanical and electrical signaling devices approved by the State Board of Education. The arm will display a signal plainly visible from the front and rear that indicates a direction to stop. All crossing control arms installed as optional equipment on other types of school buses must comply with the specifications and requirements of this section. B. The crossing control arm, when opened, shall extend in a line parallel with the body side and shall be positioned on a line with the right side wheels. All components of the crossing control arm and all connections shall be weatherproofed. The crossing control arm shall incorporate system connectors (electrical, vacuum or air) at the gate and shall be easily removable to allow for towing of the bus. The crossing control arm shall meet or exceed SAE J1133. The crossing control arm shall be constructed of noncorrosive or nonferrous material or treated in accordance with the body sheetmetal specification. (See Section 4, Metal Treatment.) There shall be no sharp edges or projections that could cause hazard or injury to students. The crossing control arm shall extend simultaneously with the stop arms by means of the stop arms controls. An automatic recycling interrupt switch should be installed for temporary disabling of the crossing control arm. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. DEFROSTERS A. Defrosting and defogging equipment shall direct a sufficient flow of heated air onto the windshield, the window to the left of the driver and the glass in the viewing area directly to the right of the driver in order to eliminate frost, fog and snow. (Exception: The requirements of this standard do not apply to the exterior surfaces of double pane storm windows.) The defrosting system shall conform to SAE J381, Windshield Defrosting Systems Test Procedure and Performance Requirements--Trucks, Buses, and Multipurpose Vehicles. B. 20 C. The defroster and defogging system shall be capable of furnishing heated, outside ambient air. However, the part of the system furnishing additional air to the windshield, entrance door and stepwell may be the recirculating air type. Auxiliary fans are not considered defrosting or defogging systems. Portable heaters shall not be used. D. E. DOORS A. The entrance door shall be under the driver's control and shall be designed to afford easy release and provide a positive latching device on manual operating doors that prevent accidental opening. When a hand lever is used, no part shall come together that could shear or crush fingers. Manual door controls shall not require more than 25 pounds of force to operate at any point throughout the range of operation, as tested on a 10-percent grade both uphill and downhill. The entrance door shall be located on the right side of the bus, opposite and within direct view of the driver. The entrance door shall have a minimum horizontal opening of 24 inches and a minimum vertical opening of 68 inches. The entrance door shall be a split-type door and shall open outward. All entrance-door glass shall be approved safety glass. The bottom of each lower glass panel shall be not more than 10 inches from the top surface of the bottom step. The top of each upper glass panel shall be not more than 3 inches from the top of the door. Vertical closing edges on entrance doors shall be equipped with flexible material. All door openings shall be equipped with padding at the top edge. Padding shall be at least 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick, and it shall extend the full width of the door opening. On power-operated entrance doors, the emergency release valve, switch or device to release the entrance door must be placed above or to the immediate left or immediate right of the entrance door and must be clearly labeled. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. 21 EMERGENCY EXITS A. Any installed emergency exit shall comply with the design and performance requirements of FMVSS No. 217, Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release, applicable to that type of exit regardless of whether that exit is required by FMVSS No. 217. Emergency window requirements 1. 2. The rear emergency window shall have a lifting-assistance device that will aid in lifting and holding it open. Side emergency-exit windows, when installed, may be vertically hinged on the forward side of the window. No side emergencyexit window will be located above a stop arm. B. C. Emergency door requirements 1. The upper portion of the emergency door shall be equipped with approved safety glazing, the exposed area of which shall be at least 400 square inches. The lower portion of the rear emergency door on Types A-2, B, C and D vehicles shall be equipped with a minimum of 350 square inches of approved safety glazing. There shall be no steps leading to an emergency door except on Types C and D all-wheel-drive buses. Padding shall be affixed to the top edge of each emergency-door opening. Padding shall be at least 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick and shall extend the full width of the door opening. There shall be no obstruction higher than 1/4 inch across the bottom of any emergency-door opening. The words "EMERGENCY DOOR" in letters at least 2 inches high shall be placed at the top of or directly above the emergency door, or on the door in the metal panel above the top glass, both inside and outside the bus. A lock may be placed on the emergency door only if the engine starting and operating system will not function if the emergency door is locked from either inside or outside the bus. In addition to the audible warning required on emergency doors by FMVSS 217, additional emergency exits shall also be equipped with audible warning devices. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 22 D. Emergency-exit requirements: The use of the following tables is to determine the required number and types of emergency exits to comply with this specification based on the bus manufacturer's equipped seating capacity. 1. 2. Use Table 1 if the bus contains a rear emergency door. Use Table 2 if the bus contains a rear pushout emergency window and a left side emergency door, as required by FMVSS No. 217 for school buses without a rear emergency door. When using either Table 1 or Table 2: a. b. Enter the Table at the appropriate capacity and