A witness for the Defence in the Heavy Mechanics Trial has pointed to a lack of rust or oxidisation on failed components from a truck and trailer that caused a triple-fatal in 2014.
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Transport Certification Services consulting engineer Phillip Hodges was asked to explain by Defence barrister Daniel Gurvich, QC, what "industry practice" would be for servicing parts.
"We're talking about a JOST 57254 coupling on a heavy vehicle ... and the servicing of such a coupling by a mechanic," Mr Gurvich said.
"What do you say about the industry practice method of servicing that kind of coupling, in 2013-2014?"
Mr Hodges replied you would inspect the coupling for signs of movement.
"Normal tell-tale signs in most components are oxidisation and rusting - these indicate things have been moving," he said.
"If that's not there, for all intentional purposes, the coupling is tight.
"If there were signs there was a lot of rust and oxidisation, then you would pull the component apart.
"If there is no sign of movement or rust, then you would move on and service the equipment.
"You carry out a tug-test; you can use a bar as well, but all a bar will do is give you a rotational analysis."
Mr Hodges said if movement was detected in the tug-test, you would pull the coupling apart.
He was cross-examined by Prosecutor Andrew Palmer, who referenced the evidence given by a metallurgist regarding a "polished" metal part that was photographed.
"The failed tow eye pin has been moving within the block," he said.
"It is beyond doubt that it has been moving. Would you agree?"
Mr Hodges replied, "It has been moving, but as we've said, no one can put the degree on it".
Mr Palmer said "if the movement and the wear wasn't picked up, it would fail".
IN OTHER NEWS:
The court had earlier witnessed recorded evidence from truck driver Patrick Daley he had not detected any looseness in the coupling and that the safety of vehicles serviced by Heavy Mechanics was "paramount".
Roger Arnold of Arnold's Fruit Markets also attested to the company, which services their semi-trailer and rigid truck.
"I believe they're excellent; that is why we use them," he said.