Washington State's extensive codes reflect a Washington, D.C., make-more-work-for-governme
Washington
(Revised Code, Title 46; Administrative Code, Title 204)
Summary: Washington addresses more aspects of vehicular components than most states-so many that the state uses two codes to contain all of the requirements. For example, lug nuts can't extend past the tire tread, the maximum vehicle turning radius is 32 feet, and steering wheels must have a minimum 12-inch diameter. (Also, no part of the steering wheel can snag the driver's clothing or jewelry.) Mandated bumper heights determine allowable lifts. Body lifts (maximum 4-inch space between frame and body) and swaybars are also covered. Exceptions are made for kit and collector vehicles.
| MAXIMUM BUMPER HEIGHTS (§204-10-022) |
| 4,500 lb GVWR or less |
24 in. front, 26 rear |
| 4,501-7,500 lb GVWR |
27 in. front, 29 rear |
| 7,501 lb GVWR and more |
28 in. front, 30 rear |
"A blocker beam or additional bumper may not be used to meet the above requirements."
Bumpers (§204-10-022): Vehicles originally equipped with bumpers shall "maintain that system in good operational condition." Similar to Alaska's code, removing or disconnecting bumpers/"energy-absorption or attenuation systems" except to repair them is illegal. Replacement bumpers must be from a "recognized manufacturer" or must meet "the bumper standards set under [Insurance Institute for Highway Safety] 49 CFR 581," SAE Bumper Standards, "or equivalent standards." Bumpers must be at least 4 1/2 inches tall.
Body Lifts (§204-10-036): "Body lifts are permitted provided that they are manufactured by an aftermarket manufacturer, designed for the make and model vehicle on which they are installed, and installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Body lifts may not use more than a three-inch spacer and may not raise the body more than four inches above the frame when all components are installed."
Swaybars (§204-10-036): "Anti-sway devices to control lateral movement" are required in rear-coil-spring suspension systems.
Frame (§204-10-022): Fabricated frames must be certified as meeting SAE Standards, IIHS 49 CFR 571, and labeled in accordance with FMVSS criteria.
Fenders (§204-10-022, 46.37.505): These must cover the entire tread width and extend down to at least the center of the axle. "Coverage of the tire tread circumference must be from at least fifteen degrees in front and to at least seventy-five degrees to the rear of the vertical centerline at each wheel measured from the center of the wheel rotation. At no time can the tire come in contact with the body, fender, chassis, or suspension of the vehicle."
Headlights (§46.37.040): Mounted no higher than 54 inches nor lower than 24; two lights minimum.
Taillights (§46.37.050): Mounted no higher than 72 inches nor lower than 15; two lights minimum.
Foglights (§46.37.180): Mounted no higher than 30 inches nor lower than 12; two lights maximum.
Passing Lights (§46.37.180): Mounted no higher than 42 inches nor lower than 24; two lights maximum.
Driving Lights (46.37.180): Mounted no higher than 42 inches nor lower than 16; two lights maximum.
Sources
2007 CFR, Title 49
www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_07/49cfr581_07.html
Revised Code of Washington
apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=46
Washington Administrative Code
apps.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=204
Wyoming is one of the nation's most modified-4x4-friendly states. John Lambert's '93 Sidek
Wyoming
(Statutes, Title 31)
Summary: For 4x4 enthusiasts, Wyoming is the final frontier in the Lower 48. The state doesn't have any laws on the books regarding frame or bumper heights. Light heights aren't specified either. Street-compliant vehicles must have at least two headlights and two taillights.
Source
Title 31 of Wyoming Code
http://michie.lexisnexis.com/wyoming/lpExt.dll?f=templates&eMail=Y&fn=main-h.htm&cp=wycode/1469b