§393.201 Frames

Question 1: Are crossmembers of CMVs considered part of the frame?

Guidance: Yes.

Question 2: Does §393.201 of the FMCSRs apply to trailers?

Guidance: No. Section 393.201 is specific to buses, trucks, and truck tractors.

Question 3: Are welded repairs or modifications to the frame of a CMV violations of the FMCSRs?

Guidance: Welding would not be a violation of the FMCSRs unless the process used for the metals being welded or the location of the weld reduced the safety of operation of the vehicle. The safety of a repaired and/or modified vehicle would depend on the structural design of the frame, as well as the modifications performed. The manufacturer of the vehicle should be contacted for assistance.