Vehicle Regulations

INTRODUCTION

Cars competing in road rallies are governed by tight technical controls, mostly designed to prevent any major modification from standard. Cars eligible for road rallies can basically be divided into two categories; modified and standard production. The rules pertaining to vehicle specification are covered in three sections of the MSA General Regulations. Section E covers general rules covering all areas of motorsport; Section K.22 is specific to road rallies and Section Q deals with safety issues.

These notes are designed as a guide to the rules, they are not a definitive rule set. Please Use Current Edition of the MSA Blue Book.

RULES COVERING ALL CARS

This first set of rules are general rules governing all vehicles

Bodywork

The car must:

• Be fitted with bodywork including a driver (and passenger) compartment isolated from the engine, wet batteries, gearbox, hydraulic reservoirs, transmission shafts, brakes, road wheels, their operating linkages and attachments, petrol tanks, water header tanks and catch tanks. (E.12.2.1).
• Have a bonnet or casing of metal or solid non-flammable material covering and surrounding the main engine structure (E.12.2.2).
• Have a protective bulkhead of non-flammable material between the engine and the driver/passenger compartment capable of preventing the passage of fluids or flame. Gaps must be sealed with GRP or with putty that completely closes any gap at all times (E.12.2.3).
• Magnesium is prohibited for bulkheads (E.12.2.3).
• Have a complete floor of adequate strength rigidly supported within the driver/passenger compartment (E.12.2.4).
• Not have the space normally occupied by passengers encroached upon (E.12.2.5).
• Have bodywork providing a minimum transverse cockpit opening width of 81cm. This width may not be interrupted (E.12.2.6).
• Be equipped on all wheels with mudguards which present no sharp edeges and cover the complete wheel (flange+rim+tyre) around an arc of 120 degrees (E.12.2.7). This minimum coverage must be:
  1. be achieved with a continuous surface of rigid material uninterrupted by any gaps, holes, slots or vents
  2. extend forward ahead of the axle line
  3. extend downward behind the wheel to not more than 7.5cm above the axle line
• Aerofoils or spoilers may not be fitted (E.12.2.8).
• Doors, boots and hatchbacks must be secured in the closed position during events (E.12.2.9).
• Have effective means of ventilating closed cars (E.12.2.10).
• Tinted glass in any window which can affect through vision (either in or out) is prohibited (E.12.2.11).
• For all vehicles constructed after 1.1.99 with the driver seated normally the soles of his/her feet, resting on the pedals in the inoperative position, shall not be situated to the fore of the vertical plane passing through the centre line of the front wheels (E.12.2.12).

Seating

• The vehicle must have a normal adequate seat for the driver (E.12.3.1).
• The seat must be rigidly located within the compartment and must not tilt, hinge or fold unless it is a production seat fitted with a serviceable locking mechanism preventing independent operation (E.12.3.1).
• The seat must support and retain the driver within the vehicle (E.12.3.1).
• The seat cushion (i.e. the part on which the occupant sits) when uncompressed, must not be less than 15.25cm below the top edge of the adjacent body side or door (E.12.3.1).
• Any other seats fitted must similarly comply and all seats must face forward (E.12.3.1).

Engines

• If forced induction is used, the coefficient will be 1.7:1 unless stated otherwise in Specific Technical Regulations or SRs (E.12.4.1).
• Be equipped with a positive method of throttle closing by means of external spring/springs so that in the event of failure of any part of the throttle linkage the throttle(s) are sprung closed (E.12.4.2).

Suspension

• The vehicle must be fitted with spring suspension between the wheels and chassis (E.12.4.1).
• Suspension must be controlled to avoid fouling of wheels on chassis or bodywork (E.12.4.1).

Brakes

• The vehicle must be fitted with brakes that are operative and capable of stopping the vehicle as required (E.12.6.1).
• Carbon disc brakes are prohibited (E.12.6.1).

Steering

• The vehicle must have a steering wheel with a continuous rim not incorporating any reflex angles in its basic shape (E.12.7.1).
• Steering wheels with flat rim segments i.e. 'D' shape wheels are permitted (E.12.7.1).
• Specifically not permitted are wheels having a non-continuous rim shape (E.12.7.1).
• The vehicle must have steering movement controlled to avoid fouling of wheels on chassis or bodywork (E.12.7.2).
• Rear wheel or four wheel steering is prohibited unless fitted on a Production vehicle by the manufacturer (E.12.7.3).

Wheels

• The vehicle must have not less than four road wheels and tyres (excluding the spare) (E.12.8.1).
• Not be fitted with any wheel spacer exceeding 2.5cm in thickness or of less than hub diameter (E.12.8.2).
• Multiple or laminated spacers are prohibited (E.12.8.2).
• Have all hub nave plates and wheel embellishers removed (E.12.8.3).

Tyres

• The vehicle must have tyres complying with Construction and Use Regulationsfor the duration of the event (E.12.9.1).
• Tyres must have not less than 1.6mm of tread remaining at the start of an event (E.12.9.2).
• Where freedom of choice of tyres is left to the Competitor, the responsibility rests with each Competitor to ensure that the tyres to be used are of adequate rating having regard to the potential speed of their vehicle and the nature of the event (E.12.9.3).
• The fitment and/or use of pressure control valves to wheels and/or tyres is not permitted (E.12.9.4).
• Tyres marked "for Racing Purposes only", are prohibited on all rallies (R.2.2.h).

Cooling

• The vehicle must have any fluid carrying lines or tubes carrying coolants through the driver/passenger compartment painted red, and if non-metallic to be internally or externally metal braided hydraulic pressure hose (E.12.10.1).

Transmission

• The vehicle must have the transmission outside the driver/passenger compartment (E.12.11.1).
• Must be equipped with a reverse gear in normal working order (E.12.11.2).

Oil Systems

• The vehicle must have any oil lines passing through the driver/passenger compartment protected and, if non-metallic, to be internally or externally metal braided hydraulic pressure hose (E.12.12.1).

Fuel Systems

• The vehicle must have any fuel lines passing through the driver/passenger compartment protected and, if non-metallic, to be internally or externally metal braided hydraulic pressure hose. They may only be joined by screwed sealing joints (E.12.13.1).
• If fitted with fuel fillers in a closed boot, or under closure, have collector/spill trays incorporated to drain outside the vehicle (E.12.13.2).
• Tank fillers and caps must not protrude beyond the bodywork or be situated within the driver/passenger compartment (Q.6)
• The fuel cap(s) must have an efficent locking action to reduce the risk of opening during an accident and to ensure closing after refuelling (Q.6).

Electrical Systems

• The vehicle must have any wet batteries in the driver/passenger compartment enclosed in a securely located leak-proof container (E.12.14.1).
• Must have batteries duly protected to exclude leakage of acid and to protect terminals from short circuiting and producing sparks (E.12.14.2).
• Must be equipped with battery, generator, self-starter, side, tail and brake lights. All this equipment to be in normal working order (E.12.14.3).
• Must have headlights in normal working order with glasses of minimum 182.5 sq cm unless SRs permit their removal (E.12.14.4).
• Have the battery earth lead, if not readily distinguishable, identified by a yellow marking (E.12.14.5).
• All wiring should be secured and well protected to reduce the risk of fire from electrical short circuits (Q.14.1.1.b).
• Must be able to demonstrate during the competition that the self-starter is capable of starting the engine (E.12.14.6).
• Must be fitted with suppressors as required by the Wireless Telegrapgy Regulations (E.12.14.7).

Exhausts

• The vehicle must have the exhaust system isolated from the driver/passenger compartments (E.12.16.1).
• Have no part of the exhaust system protruding to the rear of the bodywork more than 15cm (E.12.16.2).
• Have all exhaust outlets terminating behind the mid-point of the wheelbase of the vehicle and outside the bodywork periphery in plan view (E.12.16.6).
• Side exhausts not to protrude more than 4cm (E.12.16.6).

Silencing

• Temporary silencers, by-pass pipes or the inclusion of temporary part to achieve silencing requirements are prohibited (E.12.17.5).
• Officials may refuse to carry out Siund Checks on vehicles utilising temporary parts in exhaust systems. Organisers are empowered to exclude in such situations (E.12.17.5).

Miscellaneous

• Vehicles must be of sound construction and mechanical condition and be well maintained (E.12.19.1).
• Have positive fastenings for all doors and all hinged or detachable parts of the bodywork (E.12.19.2).
• Have no temporary parts incorporated in their construction (E.12.19.3).
• Any exposed sharp ends of bumpers etc. must be protected (E.12.19.4).
• Be prohibited from carrying cameras/video equipment unless authorised by the Chief Scrutineer or Event Organiser (E.12.19.5).
• Not be a vehicle of commercial type, such as a van/pick-up which was initially intended solely for commercial or goods carrying, unless permitted by SRs (E.12.19.6).
• Have a minimum distance of 183cm between the centre lines of the foremost front and rearmost rear substantial load-carrying wheels (E.12.19.7).
• Be fitted with a windscreen (E.12.19.8).
• If a plastic windscreen, sidescreens or rear windows are fitted the thickness must not be less than 4mm (E.12.19.8).
• Not carry or pass any liquids in or through any tubes comprising part of the chassis structure or safety roll-over bar (E.12.19.11).

MODIFIED CARS SPECIFIC RULES

Bodywork

• Have bodywork that represents the manufacturer’s original profile and which may include any optional extras available directly from that manufacturer (K.22.1.1).
• Bumpers must be fitted (K.22.1.1)
• Paintwork must be one colour or the manufacturer’s original colour scheme. No primer is to be visible (K.22.1.1)
• The car must not have wheel arch extensions, unless they were fitted by the manufacturer as a standard manufacturing item to the body shape (K.22.1.2)
• All major internal trim as fitted to the body type by its original manufacturer when offering it for sale must be retained. This trim will include headlinings, inside door panels, carpets and rear seats. Front seats may be improved or replaced (K.22.1.3)

Engine

• Have a maximum of four cylinders (K.22.2.1)
• Have a maximum of two carburettor chokes (two single or one double) (K.22.2.2)
• Have a maximum of one camshaft per bank of cylinders (K.22.2.3)
• Not have forced induction (K.22.2.4)
• Not have fuel injection unless it was standard equipment as fitted by the manufacturer in that body type (K.22.2.5)
• A standard Wankel unit will be considered as three cylinders – twin Wankel units are prohibited (K.22.2.6)
• Engine noise cannot exceed 98dB(A) at a distance of 0.5m, 86dB(A) at 2.0m or 74dB(A) at 8.0m (E.12.17). The test will normally be taken at 0.5m from the end of the exhaust pipe.
• Have induction air filters elements fitted that ensure the vehicle complies with the noise regulations outlined in the previous note (K.22.2.8)

Wheels and Tyres

• The size of wheels and tyres is free but they must fit within the standard unmodified wheel arch (K.22.3.1)
• The car must be fitted with tyres that are always legal for use on the public highway (K.22.3.2)
• All spare wheels must be securely fastened into position (K.22.3.3)
• The car must not be fitted with spiked or studded tyres or any non-skid attachments, other than chains if these are permitted in an event’s Supplementary Regulations (K.22.3.4)

Electrical Systems

• The car can have a maximum of four forward facing beams as well as two side and indicator lights, unless further restrictions are specified in an event’s Supplementary Regulations (K.22.4.1)
• All lights must be fitted and used according to motor vehicle lighting regulations (K.22.4.3)
• External navigational or marshal lights are not permitted (K.22.4.4)

Miscellaneous

• The car must be currently registered and taxed as a Private Car (K.22.5.1)
• The car must comply with all statutory regulations as to the Construction and Use of vehicles (especially regarding brakes, lighting, tyres, warning devices, rear view mirror, silencer, speedometer, wings and windscreen) (K.22.5.2)
• The car must not have any advertising except for event sponsor decals which must be incorporated within the rally plates (K.22.5.4)
• The car must be equipped with an effective method of stopping the fuel supply, operable by the driver when normally seated - the ignition switch would normally cover this requirement (K.22.5.5)
• The car must use pump fuel complying to one of the following definitions (K.22.5.6 and Section P Pump Fuel):
  • Motor Gasoline of the type on sale to the general public from UK roadside filling stations, complying with BS4040 (leaded) subject to possession of a valid permit for use, BS 4040 LRG (unleaded) in lieu of a BS or EN Standard (TBA), BS EN 228 (unleaded) and BS7800 (super-unleaded).
  • Liquid Petroleum Gas which is of 99% wt. Min. hydrocarbon composition and which is entirely gaseous at atmospheric temperature and pressure
  • Diesel Automotive Gas Oil (DERV) on general sale to the public at roadside filling stations in the UK, complying with EN 590 and EU Directive 98/70 EC.
• The use of power boosting or octane boosting additives by competitors in any fuel is prohibited (Section P Pump Fuel)

STANDARD PRODUCTION CAR SPECIFIC RULES

Bodywork

• Have bodywork that represents the manufacturer’s original profile and which may include any optional extras available directly from that manufacturer (K.22.1.1). No changes or additions may be made to the side or plan silhouettes to that offered by the manufacturers in either standard form or manufacturer’s optional extra form (K.22.7)
• The replacement of any body panel with one constructed of different material from that fitted by the manufacturer is prohibited (K.22.7)
• Front and rear bumpers must be retained and be of the same dimensions and constructed of the same material as those fitted by the manufacturer. (K.22.1.1 and K.22.7).
• Paintwork must be one colour or the manufacturer’s original colour scheme. No primer is to be visible (K.22.1.1)
• The car must not have wheel arch extensions, unless they were fitted by the manufacturer as a standard manufacturing item to the body shape (K.22.1.2)
• It is prohibited to add to, remove or change any manufacturer’s fitted internal fittings or furniture, except for the following (K.22.7.1):
• Front seats may be improved or replaced
• Full harness seat belts may be fitted providing that the original belts and fittings are left in full working order
• A rollcage may be fitted
• A replacement steering wheel of non-standard diameter or construction may be fitted
• Additional gauges giving information on engine performance etc may be fitted, providing that the layout of the original instruments is not changed

Engine

• The engine fitted must in all respects conform to that fitted by the manufacturer for the model of vehicle (K.22.8)
• Air filters must be fitted but may be changed regarding type and manufacture, but must ensure compliance with the noise regulations outlined below (K.22.8)
• Engine noise cannot exceed 98dB(A) at a distance of 0.5m, 86dB(A) at 2.0m or 74dB(A) at 8.0m (E.12.17). The test will normaly be taken at 0.5m from the end of the exhaust pipe.
• To ensure oil and/or fuel are not deposited on the public highway, sumpguards and tankguards may be fitted (K.22.8)
• It is permitted to fit a guard or guards to the silencing system that must retain at least the same number of silencer boxes and expansion chambers as catalogued for the car (K.22.8)

Transmission

• The gearbox shall be that as fitted to the model of vehicle (K.22.9)
• Any changes to the gearbox or final drive ratio are prohibited (K.22.9)

Lights

• The headlights and auxiliary lights shall remain as fitted by the manufacturer (K.22.10)
• Cars fitted as standard with two headlights may add two auxiliary lights (K.22.10)
• Cars fitted as standard with more than four forward facing beams may retain them but may only use a maximum of four where appropriate on the event (K.22.10)
• External navigational or marshal lights are not permitted (K.22.10)
• No reversing lights other than those fitted by the manufacturers are allowed (K.22.10)

Wheels and Tyres

• The size of wheels and tyres is free but they must fit within the standard unmodified wheel arch (K.22.11)

Suspension

• The suspension system shall remain the same as that fitted by the manufacturer (K.22.12)
• The shock absorbers may be of any make and may be uprated from standard (K.22.12)
• The mounting method and position shall remain as specified by the manufacturer (K.22.12)
• It is prohibited to fit ‘telescopic’ instead of ‘lever arm’ shock absorbers and vice versa (K.22.12)

Miscellaneous

• The car must be currently registered and taxed as a Private Car (K.22.5.1)
• The car must comply with all statutory regulations as to the Construction and Use of vehicles (especially regarding brakes, lighting, tyres, warning devices, rear view mirror, silencer, speedometer, wings and windscreen) (K.22.5.2)
• The car must not have any advertising except for event sponsor decals which must be incorporated within the rally plates (K.22.5.4)
• The car must be equipped with an effective method of stopping the fuel supply, operable by the driver when normally seated - the ignition switch would normally cover this requirement (K.22.5.5)
• The car must use pump fuel complying to one of the following definitions (K.22.5.6 and Section P Pump Fuel):
  • Motor Gasoline of the type on sale to the general public from UK roadside filling stations, complying with BS4040 (leaded) subject to possession of a valid permit for use, BS 4040 LRG (unleaded) in lieu of a BS or EN Standard (TBA), BS EN 228 (unleaded) and BS7800 (super-unleaded).
  • Liquid Petroleum Gas which is of 99% wt. Min. hydrocarbon composition and which is entirely gaseous at atmospheric temperature and pressure
  • Diesel Automotive Gas Oil (DERV) on general sale to the public at roadside filling stations in the UK, complying with EN 590 and EU Directive 98/70 EC.
• The use of power boosting or octane boosting additives by competitors in any fuel is prohibited (Section P Pump Fuel)

Note 1: Some regional championships define different rules for standard production cars.

Note 2: It is up to the competitor to prove that his car complies with these provisions. This can be done by reference to the manufacturer’s promotional material, vehicle handbook or other relevant documentation.