Technical Rules

3.1 PERMISSIBLE VEHICLES - APPROVAL

3.1.1
Only vehicles with four-wheel drive can participate in the competitions. For the groups of O, S  and M at least 50 identical vehicles must have been world-wide produced. When in doubt this must be proven by the owner.

3.1.2
There are several groups you can start in:

Trial-group O (original / original vehicles)
Trial group S (standard / series vehicles)
Trial-group M (modified / improved series vehicles)
Trial group PM (Pro modified / improved modified vehicles) (no nation scoring for 2004 and 2005)
Trial group P (prototypes)

3.1.3
The vehicle gross weight may not exceed more than 3500kg.

3.1.4
Quad and ATV are not permitted. The gross weight of the vehicle may amount to maximally 3500kg


3.2 SAFETY REGULATIONS

Each countries safety regulations are valid. The minimum of safety is:

3.2.1 Windscreen
Windscreens should not have damages, for safety reasons. In case a windscreen is used in group M, PM or P it must consist of laminated glass or “Lexan” or “Makralon”. In the groups O and S laminated glass or “Lexan” or “Makralon”  is recommended.   (In no case Plexiglas)

Should damage occur the windscreen must be approved by technical control.

3.2.2 Towing eye/hooks
There must be either one towing eye or hooks in the front and in the back  with an inside diameter of at least 50 mm.
They must be firmly embodied, easily accessible and red, yellow or orange, so that the body of the vehicle contrast with the towing eye/hook. Valid  for groups of O, S, PM, M and P.

3.2.3 Seats
The seats of the passengers must be firmly embedded, seats must have head rests.

3.2.4 Mixture preparation
If there is a defect with the gas control it must be ensured that the engine goes on idling (e.g.: by a spring or throttle valve shaft).

3.2.5 Undershield
Undershield  is optional.

3.2.6 Circuit breaker
Circuit breaker is valid for group M, PM and P. For Group O and S and for diesel  cars the system is advised. The main circuit breaker should stop the battery, generator, ignition, electrical control elements etc.. Simultaneously it should be ensured that by the use of the main circuit breaker also the engine must turn off. The main circuit breaker must be installed on the drivers side in front of the windshield (with vehicles without windshield in front of the driver between hood and instrument panel). It must be reachable from the inside and from the outside. It must have a noticeably marked on/off position.

3.2.7 Fuel tanks / battery
The fuel tank version is optional for group S, M, PM and P. It must be firmly joined in a sufficiently protected position and installed to the vehicle. It may not be in the passenger compartment. The fuel tank must be separated from the passenger compartment by a fireproof guard. The same applies in the groups M  PM and P for the battery.

3.2.8 Fluid tubes
A protection of the fluid tubes for the fuel -, oil-, and brake hoses outside of the body must be provided against damages. (stones, corrosion, mechanical breaks etc..). Within the body the lines must be protected from any fire risk.
In S, M, PM and P there must be a anti-return valve at the fuel tank breather. If in group S, M, PM or P the series arrangement is maintained, no additional protection is necessary.

3.2.9 Seat belts
In the groups O,S  passengers must have at least 3-point belts. In the groups M  PM and P are at least 4-point belts
or so-called suspender belts (y-belts) prescribed. The passengers must be buckled. The belt system used is to be put on according to its regulation and may not be manipulated. Electric lockable belt-systems are allowed and must function.

3.2.10 Protective netting  (recommended but not necessary)

3.2.11 Roll bar

3.2.11.1
At least one overrall bar is prescribed in the groups 0 and S for open vehicles. Serial existing overroll bars may not be changed. Original tubing handles may be renewed while maintaining the original external dimensions (see 3.2.11.3). Vehicles without overrall bars must install later such a mechanism. This has to look at least as follows: Main bar, support to the rear with a diagonal bracing. This bar is also recommended for all other vehicles of this group.

3.2.11.2
In the groups M  PM and P an overall cage must be built in with diagonal rear supports, each between the connection of the two main handles. Recommended in group of O and S.

3.2.11.3
For nonserial constructions the minimum dimension 38 x 2.5 mm or 40 x 2.0 mm is to be kept. Only constructions from steel are permissible. The fastening spots of the rolling over device at the body must be strengthened with a 3mm strong steel plate, which must have a minimum area of minimum100cm². The steel plate must be screwed on to the body or welded. Likewise when screwing a 100cm² large counterplate must be used. The plate must be locked with at least 4 screws of the quantity M8, at least ISO standard 8.8, to the body. For vehicles with a plastic car body the bar / cage must be fastened to the framework.

3.2.11.4
The roof space between A and B bars must be covered with a steel plate with a minimum of 2 mm or an aluminium plate with a 3 mm strength minimum. This must be screwed on with a minimum of 4 points (quantity M8, ISO standard 8.8) or welded with at least four welding seams each 5cm in length. A space of 5 cm between helmet and steel plate is recommended.

3.2.11.5
Definitions:
B-bar, main bar:
Structure, consisting of a nearly 90 degree connection should be crosswise in the vehicle directly behind the front seats. With upright seating position the shoulder must be within the bar external dimensions.
A-bar:
Similarly as the main bar however it follows the outer windscreen holders, as well as the upper edge of the windscreen.

Diagonal strut:
a)
Pipe, which runs from one of the highest points of the
main bar to the other side of the A-bar
b)
Pipe, which runs to the rear from a strut and then goes up to the opposite strut.
 
3.2.12 Helmets
Passenger helmets in all groups and sections must follow traffic certified regulations.

3.2.12 Driving suite
In all sections driver and co-driver must wear a protective suite or overall ( not necessarily a flame-retardant,

but only cotton is allowed).

3.4 TRIAL GROUP O (ORIGINAL VEHICLES)

3.4.1 General information
Change on the vehicle is forbidden unless specifically allowed and only the permitted changes are allowed. The car must follow the manufacturer's conditions, like EU regulations or main importer regulations. All accessories and all special equipment, which can be supplied with the vehicle purchase, is allowed if no restrictions are present. Older vehicles may be brought up to date, according to its type. Only diesel and normal petrol is aloud as fuel.

Beyond this the following regulations apply:

3.4.2. Tires
Only original tire sizes provided by the manufacturers and/or main importers as series tires are to be used (+/- 5% on the diameter). With remoulded tires the tread depth may be maximally 16 mm. The maximum of allowed tire types are Mud-terrain-profiles (MT-Profile). Not allowed are competitions tires like “Alligator”;” Desert-Dog”, “Bronco Dirt Devil”, “Greenway Diamond Back”, …spikes and  chains. The mounting of dual tires  is not permitted. If there are doubts about the profile, the Eurotrial-committee must decide.

3.4.3 Rim
Only serial motor vehicle type – bounded rimsizes may be used. (Diameter, width, and insertion-depth). Spare wheels and/or tires can be removed.  Cars, that normally are distributed with tires smaller than 205 R 16 or 6.50 / 16 are allowed to use this sizes with rims ET 20-25.

3.4.4 Brakes
Vehicles with drum brakes may be reequipped at the front axle with disc brakes. The serial track width must be kept.
The parking brake must be maintained in the original.

3.4.5 Steering unit
The steering stop screws are optional.

3.4.6 Exhaust system
After the latest serial muffler the type of exhaust system can be mounted free of will.

3.4.7 Differential lock
The use of the differential lock and how one handles it for the rear drive axle is free of will. Further differential locks are permitted, if these are serial specific locks. The component that makes this work must also be serial specific. The same applies to electronic driving assistance.

3.4.8 Wheel suspension
3.4.8.1 Shock absorbers
Shock absorbers are optional, however the number of shock absorbers, the working principle, and the fastening spots must be kept. Gas pressure shock absorbers are to be regarded from the work principle as hydraulic shock absorbers.
Adjustable shock absorbers may not be used.

3.4.8.2 Level control
A serial level control may be inserted while maintaining the original work version.

3.4.8.3 Springs
The type of springs must follow the series specific dimensions.

3.4.9 Body / cab
3.4.9.1 Dimensions
The dimensions must correspond to the manufacturer data.

3.4.9.2 Bumpers
The bumpers may not be removed.  The plastic bumper corners can be removed.

In the case of partly or totally damaged bumpers during the section, they must be repared before the next section.

3.4.9.3
Hardtop, tarpaulin with linkages inclusive all locked mounting plates, rear flap, rear seats, spare wheel,  spare wheel handle, mirror and mirror handle , side and backscreen may be removed. Edgeways mouldings, side turn signal, door handles and the original doors must be present. Original doors can be reduced to half doors.    

Vehicles delivered without doors must likewise be equipped with at least half doors.  The material must be splinter-proof , for example wood, metal, Lexan, … .

Definition for half doors with vehicles without serial doors:

There must be a cover available, which prevents feet or legs from falling out when the vehicle is tilted. This cover
must have at least the height of the belt line of the vehicle. In addition the cover must have at least the height of the highest point of the unloaded seat. The cover can consist of e.g. sheet metal, wood, lattice, etc. The cover can be made to be opened.

3.4.9.4
The vehicle outline may not be changed with masking tape or other measures.

3.4.9.5
Windscreen and windscreen frames, may not be removed or folded down. Windscreens should not have strong damages for safety reasons.

3.4.10 Lights
Tail lights and head lights  must correspond to their original form.

3.4.11 Drive line
Engine, gearbox and axle ratio must correspond in their combination and in their technical original specifications.

3.4.12 Fuel tank
The original tank must be kept in its outer form and in its function.

3.4.13 Battery
The battery must be securely fastened in its original place.

 
3.5 TRIAL GROUP S "STANDARD" (SERIES VEHICLES)

3.5.1 General information
Change on the vehicle is forbidden unless specifically allowed and only the permitted changes are allowed. The vehicle must be in serial conditions, like EU regulations or main importer regulations. All accessories and all special equipment, which can be supplied with the vehicle purchase, is allowed if no restrictions are present. Older vehicles may be brought up to date, according to their type. Beyond this the following regulations apply:

3.5.2 Tires
Tires permitted are only tire sizes that follow these regulations: Width can be up to 300mm and static diameter up to 900mm. The tire track (profile area) must not go beyond the fender in vertical line. If this is not the case, this can be achieved in form of flared wings. The material must consist of plastic. With remoulded tires the tread depth may be maximally 18 mm. The use of competition tires like nops, “alligator”,” Super-cross”,  chains, spikes or tires of other means are not allowed. The mounting of dual tires is not permitted. If there are doubts about the profile, the Eurotrial-committee must decide. The recutting of the tires-profile is not allowed.

3.5.3 Rim
Free of will maximum  18”. (diameter, wideness and insertion depth). Spare wheels and/or tires may be removed. Track widening/wheel spacers  are allowed.

3.5.4 Brakes
Vehicles with drum brakes may be re-equipped at the front axle with disc brakes. The parking brake must be maintained in the original.

3.5.5 Steering unit
The steering stop screws are optional. power steering is optional

3.5.6 Exhaust system
The Exhaust opening from the side or from above must be behind the middle of the wheelbase. Exhaust pipes may not exceed laterally over the body. They may end to the side or to the rear maximally 100 mm before the outer outline of the vehicle. Noise limitation: The volume of the exhaust system may reach max. 98+2 dezibel (DMSB near field measuring method)

3.5.7 Differential lock
Free of will for both rear and front axle

3.5.8 Wheel suspension
3.5.8.1 Shock absorbers
Shock absorbers are optional, however the number of shock absorbers, the working principle, and the fastening spots must be kept.  Gas pressure shock absorbers are to be regarded from the work principle as hydraulic shock absorbers. Adjustable shock absorbers may not be used.

3.5.8.2 Level control
A serial level control may be inserted while maintaining the original work version.

3.5.8.3 Springs
The use of springs is free of will considering the type of spring.

3.5.8.4 Spring pendants
Longer spring pendants are permitted.

3.5.9 Body / cab
3.5.9.1 Dimensions
The dimensions must correspond to the manufacturer data.

3.5.9.2 Bumpers
The bumpers and the bumper mounting plates may be removed. It may be exchanged by other nonserial bumpers, however the form is not allowed to be moulded or shapped to the vehicle.
The material must be rigid and firm. Material thickness is free of will: Cover plates (or similar material) between body and frame are forbidden.

3.5.9.3
Hardtop, tarpaulin with linkage, rear flap, rear seats, spare wheel, spare wheel handle, edgeways mouldings, mirrors, mirror handles, side- and backscreen,  side turn signals, door handles and door upper sections may be removed (door lower part must be present).

Definition for half doors:

There must be a cover available, which prevents feet or legs from falling out when the vehicle is tilted. This cover
must have at least the height of the belt line of the vehicle. In addition the cover must have at least the height of the highest point of the unloaded seat. The cover can consist of e.g. sheet metal, wood, lattice, etc. The cover can be made to be opened.

3.5.9.4 Body attachments
Attachments of the body may be renewed by plastic parts with identical external dimensions. The outer form must correspond to the series.

3.5.9.5
The vehicle outline may not be changed with masking tape or other measures.

3.5.9.6
Windscreen and windscreen frame may not be folded down. If the car has a roll cage the windscreen may be removed. The windscreen frame must be kept. Windscreens should not have stronger damages for safety reasons.

3.5.9.7 Bodylift
Bodylift is permitted with a maximum height of 50mm. This must be rigid.

3.5.10 Lights
The choice of tail lights and head lights is free of will.

3.5.11 Engine
Only 4-cylinder engines can be changed to an other 4-cylinder engine (manufacturer is not restricted)

Additional tuning is free of will, but no supplementary additions (Compressor, turbo, NOX-injection, etc).

Radiator, battery etc. are not allowed to be removed or repositioned from the original position in the engine bay.

3.5.12 Fuel tank
Can be changed, and removed from original place, but must be securely fastened. It must be firmly joined in a sufficiently protected position and installed to the vehicle. It may not be in the passenger compartment. The fuel tank must be separated from the passenger compartment by a fireproof guard.

3.5.13 Battery
The battery must be securely fastened in its original place.

3.5.14 Radiator is free, but must be fixed in the engine bay.

3.5.15 Manual,  automatical and transfer gearbox, axle ration is free. The drive system (permanent or disconnectible) may not be changed.

3.6 TRIAL GROUP M "MODIFIED" (IMPROVED SERIES VEHICLES)

The regulations from 3.5.1 through 3.5.13 apply, and beyond this the following regulations apply:

3.6.1 Body
The body above the beltline can be modified. Belt line is defined as follows: In front the line of the bonnet. For open vehicles back and side, the side above the wall.  For closed vehicles, if no open version exists, the bottom edge of the side window, and the back window. Under the belt line the wheel arch can be cut in the same profile of the body, max. 100 mm to accept bigger wheels. The doorcill-bodywork may be reduced by 100mm but a maximum up to the floor plate.

 3.6.2 Brakes
The brake assembly is free of will (e.g.: change to disc brakes). A functional service brake or a hand parking brake must be present, these may not affect the front axle. The braking force distribution at an axle must be equal. The serial braking force distribution between both axles may not be changed. Single wheel brakes or single axle brakes are thus forbidden.

3.6.3 Transmission and Engines
The type of engine and the type of transmission is free of will.

3.6.3.1 Manual gearbox - differential
The axle ratio, the prop-shafts, the complete gearbox and transfer case are free of will. The axles can be changed but must be of the same type as the original axles (e.g. Straight axles, Portal axles) The use of the differential locks is free of will for the front axle, the rear axle, and/or the transfer case. The disengagement of the power transmission of individual wheels or drive axles is not permitted, unless it corresponds to the series. The drive system (permanent or disconnectible) may not be changed.

3.6.4 Wheel suspension
The type of spring must be maintained. The wheel suspension may be changed, the type of the wheel suspension (e.g.: life axle, independent suspension) must be maintained.

3.6.5 Wheels and tires
3.7.5.1 Tires
The type of tires is free of will. Agricultural tractor profiles, spikes and chains are not permitted.
 
3.6.5.2 Wheels (wheel-centre disk and rim)
The type of wheels is free of will. The maximum permissible diameter amounts to 18".

3.6.5.3
The width between parallel tires is free of will. Track widening or wheel-spacers are allowed.

3.6.6 Windscreen
The windscreen including its fastening parts may be removed.

3.6.7 Exhaust system and noise limitation
The exhaust opening from the side or from above must be behind the middle of the wheelbase.
Exhaust pipes may not exceed laterally over the body. They may end to the side or to the rear maximally 100 mm before the outer outline of the vehicle. Noise limitation: The volume of the exhaust system may reach max. 98+2 decibel (DMSB near field measuring method)

3.6.8 Chassis
The chassis must be kept to its dimensions, only the bumper-mounting-plates can be removed or cut. The wheel base can not be changed.

3.7  TRIAL GROUP  PM „PROMODIFIED“

General information
vehicles should have 2 axles and 4wd. The vehicles body should easy be identified as a serial produced vehicle. The construction of the Chassis is free. Use of equipment that are not written in this rules and that will make the vehicle more competitive is forbidden.
 
1. Chassis

1.1 Chassis and/or frame
Free of will

2. Wheels

2.1 Tires
Rubber tires filled with air, Chains not allowed, max height 100cm.  

2.2 Rims
Free of will

2.3 Suspension
No hydraulic suspension, otherwise free of will 

2.4 Shock absorbers
Free of will

3. Driveline

3.1 Engine
Free of will

3.2 Fuel tank
Fuel tank should not be placed in the passenger area,  must be securely fastened  and should be protected against damages. Fuel tank of racing type is recommended,  only ordinary fuel is valid.

3.3 Radiator
Radiator should not be placed in the passenger area, water hoses and pipes should be securely fastened, If water pipes and hoses goes through the passenger area, they should be protected.

3.4 Exhaust system and noise limitation
Free of will. The volume of the exhaust system may reach max. 98+2 decibel (DMSB near field measuring method).

3.5 Battery
The battery must be securely fastened and have a cover that secures it from leaking. Electr.. Cables should be well protected. Main circuit breaker should be mounted inside and outside the vehicle.
It must have a noticeably marked on/off position.

3.6 Transmission
Automatic transmission should only be able to start in 'Neutral'.

4. Brakes
Should be well functioning, steering brakes are allowed. Brake hoses and pipes should be well protected

4.2 Parking brakes
A well functioning parking brake should be present

5. Steering system

5.1 Steering
4 wheel steering or frame-steering is not allowed.

6. Body

6.1 Body
The body should be immediately  be recognized as a serial produced vehicle. The length should be at least from axle to axle.
Hood, body sides, wings front and rear should be present.
Windows if present should be of Lexan/Polycarbonat.

6.2 Passenger area
A protective wall should be present to protect driver and co-driver from engine, oil cooler, radiator and to prevent fire or fluid  from spreading into the passenger area.

6.3 Floor
A covering floor should be present in at least 2mm aluminium or 1mm steel, if  the original floor is not present.

6.4 Seats
Seats ment for racing with possibilities for 4 point harness is obligatory.
If the seat is adjustible it should have a locking divice at both sides.

6.5 Rollbar
At least 6 point rollbar should be present, vehicles without a roof should have a roof plate present.
(See safety rules)

6.6 Harness
A  4 point harness should be present.

7. Lights
Free of will

8. Other

8.1 Towing hooks
There should be one at the front and one at the rear  of the vehicle, Hooks should have a contrasting colour
to car colour.

8.2 Weight
Total vehicle weight should be between 600kg and 3500 kg.

3.8 TRIAL GROUP P "PROTOTYPES"

Only vehicles with four-wheel drive, two axles and four air pressured tires are entitled to take part. Dual wheels and/or double tires are not permitted. Quad and ATV are forbidden. A vehicle, whose construction seems to have certain dangers, can be excluded from the participation.

3.8.1 Engine and transmission
Free of will, but no “Hydrostat engines”.

3.8.2 Exhaust system and noise limitation
The exhaust opening from the side or from above must  be behind the middle of the wheelbase. Exhaust pipes may not exceed laterally over the body. They may end to the side or to the rear maximally 100 mm before the outer outline of the vehicle. Noise limitation: The volume of the exhaust system may reach max. 98+2 decibel (DMSB near field measuring method)

3.8.3 Steering
Free of will, but  frame steering is not allowed.

3.8.4 Body / cab  

The body must  be of impeccable construction and must not present provisory elements. It may not have sharp edges and must offer a sufficient protection to the passengers. All rotary parts of the motor and propulsion shaft must be sufficiently protected. The vehicles must have a closed floor plate in the passenger’s compartment.

3.8.5 Wheel suspension
The vehicles must be fitted with springs axles. A rigid connection with the chassis is forbidden.

3.8.6 Wheels and tires
3.7.6.1 Tires
The type of tires are free of will. Chains are not permitted.

3.8.6.2 Wheels (wheel-centre disk and rim)
The type of wheels are free of will. The maximum permissible diameter amounts to 1250 mm.

3.8.6.3
The width between parallel tires is free of will.

3.8.7 Seats
The number of seats is free of will. For the passengers a sufficient head restraint must be available. Special

sport-  and bucket seats are recommended.

3.8.8 Brakes
The choice of brakes is free of will. A functional operating brake and a parking brake must be present. The braking force distribution must be equal for hand and/or parking brake and normal brake.
Additional single wheel brakes are permitted.