Memorandum

To: Administrators and Managers of School Bus Operations
From: State School Bus Committee
Re: Brake dust covers
Date: August 21, 2002

Effective immediately brake dust covers are optional equipment.

The State School Bus Committee rule requiring brake linings to be protected by a dust cover was created in the late 1980's. At that time the cover was standard equipment, readily available, and the general belief was that the cover prevented foreign objects from entering or becoming trapped in the brake mechanism. Today several chassis manufacturers do not provide or even have the cover available as an option. There is also the general belief that it is better not to trap brake dust.

If you have any questions please contact the Division of School Traffic Safety and Emergency Planning at 317-232-0890 or by e-mail to pbaxter@doe.in.gov.