FAQ about the advantages of The Nepean Group's VIS-Check

Why focus on undercarriage diagnostics?

The undercarriage of a vehicle is where the weight of a vehicle meets the road.  Safety, fuel economy and tire life are all compromised if undercarriage components are not in top working condition. 

Why use a machine to perform undercarriage diagnostics?
 
The VIS-Check machine makes performing undercarriage diagnostics:
    •    Safer by reducing manual labor
    •    Faster by automating brake testing
    •    Traceable by producing an inspection report
    •    More accurate by improving inspection methods

How does it work?

VIS-Check is comprised of two diagnostic devices; a performance based brake tester (PBBT) and a dynamic road simulator.

The PBBT measures the effectiveness of vehicle brakes by measuring the brake force produced by the truck through a complete braking cycle (apply, hold and release).

The road simulator helps technicians inspect the steering and suspension of a truck by dynamically loading these linkages consistent harsh over-the-road operation.

What type of report does the brake test produce?

The brake test produces a report that indicates the following for each wheel end:
    •    weight
    •    peak brake force
    •    compliance to DOT requirements
    •    left to right brake force balance
    •    rolling resistance with no braking

From this information the following can be identified:

    •    glazed or contaminated linings
    •    incorrect brake adjustment
    •    air distribution problems
    •    faulty slack adjusters
    •    drum out of round
    •    weak brake force

What type of report does the road simulator produce?

The road simulator produces an inspection report that identifies otherwise undetectable steering and suspension issues.  These might include:

    •    worn tire rod ends and king pins
    •    spring pin, shackle & hanger issues
    •    loose cab or exhaust mounts
    •    defective shock absorbers
    •    loose wheel bearings
    •    broken springs
    •    worn bushings

For each undercarriage Condition identified by VIS-Check:

    •    an operating efficiency down-the-road Effect is provided
    •    a recommended maintenance Solution is provided

Is VIS-Check difficult to operate?

Not at all.  Technicians require less than an hour of training to operate VIS-Check

What types of businesses operate VIS-Check?

Repair Shops     – to improve the quality of service they provide.
Fleets               – to improve the safety and efficiency of their vehicles.
Inspectors         – to ensure vehicle compliance with DOT regulations