http://public.findlaw.com

Monday, Sep. 8, 2008

NHTSA PUBLISHES LIST OF JULY RECALLS


SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGNS
JULY 1996


VEHICLES:


CARS AND LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS


Alfa Romeo, Incorporated

Models:
Alfa Romeo 164Years: 1991 - 1993

Number Involved: 5,965

Dates of Manufacture: May 1990 - September 1993

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V140000

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.

Description of Defect: The rubber fuel filler pipe can become brittle and allow fuel to leak.

Consequence of Defect: If fuel leakage occurs and an ignition source is present, a fire could occur.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the fuel filler pipe.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin in August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Alfa Romeo at 1-407-856-5072.




Bayerische Motoren Werke

Models:
BMW 318i Year: 1992
BMW 318iS Year: 1992
BMW 325i Year: 1992
BMW 325iS Year: 1992
BMW 525i Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW 525iT Year: 1992
BMW 535i Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW 735i Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW 735iL Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW 750iL Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW 850i Years: 1991 - 1992
BMW M5 Years: 1991 - 1992

Number Involved: 75,000

Dates of Manufacture: July 1990 - March 1992

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V110000

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.

Description of Defect: The air bag contact ring locking tab located in the steering wheel assembly can break without warning.

Consequence of Defect: If this happens, the contact ring wiring could eventually break. The air bag readiness indicator lamp (SRS or air bag) in the instrument cluster will illuminate, and the air bag would not deploy in the event of a frontal impact vehicle collision.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the locking tab with one of a different design.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin Aug. 5, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.



Bayerische Motoren Werke

Models:
BMW 325i Years: 1992 - 1994
BMW 325iC Year: 1994
BMW 325iS Years: 1992 - 1994
BMW 525i Years: 1990 - 1994
BMW 525iT Years: 1992 - 1994
BMW 530i Year: 1994
BMW 530iT Year: 1994
BMW 535i Years: 1990 - 1992
BMW 540i Year: 1994
BMW 735i Years: 1990 - 1992
BMW 735iL Years: 1990 - 1992
BMW 740i Years: 1993 - 1994
BMW 740iL Years: 1993 - 1994
BMW 750i Years: 1990 - 1992
BMW M3 Year: 1995

Number Involved: 180,000

Dates of Manufacture: January 1990 - March 1994

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V110000

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.

Description of Defect: The brake light switch can fail allowing the switch to remain in the "brake lights off" position or in the "brake lights on" position.

Consequence of Defect: If this happens, the brake lights either will not operate or will be continuously on, regardless of brake pedal position. Following drivers would not be able to determine whether the vehicle is stopping, increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the existing brake light switch with a newly designed switch.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin August 5, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.




Chrysler Corporation

Models:
Chrysler SebringYear: 1996

Number Involved: 22,500

Dates of Manufacture: August 1995 - May 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V123000 Chrysler Campaign No.: 691

Vehicle Description: Convertible (JX) model vehicles equipped with 2.5L engine.

Description of Defect: The power brake booster vacuum hose was improperly installed on the intake manifold vacuum nipple.

Consequence of Defect: A disconnected vacuum hose causes an increase in engine idle speed and loss of power assist during brake application increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will fully install the intake manifold vacuum hose to the vacuum nipple on the intake manifold.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin in August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.




Chrysler Corporation

Models:
Chrysler Town and CountryYear: 1996
Dodge Caravan Year: 1996
Dodge Grand Caravan Year: 1996
Plymouth Grand Voyager Year: 1996
Plymouth Voyager Year: 1996

Number Involved: 200

Dates of Manufacture: June - July 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V136000

Chrysler Campaign No.: 695

Vehicle Description: Minivans equipped with child seat modules.

Description of Defect: The bolts which secure the integrated child seat modules to the seat frame can break.

Consequence of Defect: In the event of a vehicle accident, the child seat may not provide adequate protection to the occupant.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the integrated child seat module bolts.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin during August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.




Ford Motor Company

Models:
Ford WindstarYear: 1996

Number Involved: 200

Dates of Manufacture: May 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V114000

Ford Campaign No.: 96S43

Vehicle Description: Light duty passenger minivans.

Description of Defect: The four fasteners securing the driver's seat to the floorpan were not torqued to proper specifications.

Consequence of Defect: The driver's seat may not properly hold in the event of a vehicle accident resulting in personal injury to the occupant.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat fasteners and retorque to proper specifications.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began July 24, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.




Ford Motor Company

Models:
Ford Crown VictoriaYears: 1995 - 1996
Lincoln Town Car Years: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 72,000

Dates of Manufacture: August 1994 - April 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V135000

Ford Campaign No.: 96S45

Vehicle Description: Police interceptors, commercial fleet, taxi, limousines, or livery/trailer tow packages.

Description of Defect: The pitman arms were not fully lubricated at the assembly plant. The "ball joint" at the outer end of the pitman arm can become contaminated and corrode.

Consequence of Defect: Such corrosion can result in abnormal wear of the joint, resulting in separation of the joint. Loss of steering control can occur increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect the vehicles and if the joint is found to have significant wear, the arm will be replaced. Those pitman arms not replaced will have the "ball joint" fully greased.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin August 19, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Buick LeSabre Years: 1996 - 1997
Buick Park Avenue Year: 1996
Buick Regal Year: 1996
Buick Riviera Year: 1996
Oldsmobile 88 Year: 1996
Oldsmobile 98 Year: 1996
Pontiac BonnevilleYear: 1996

Number Involved: 275,811

Dates of Manufacture: July 1995 - May 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V116000

GM Campaign No.: 97-C-02

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles equipped with 3.8- liter V6 engine.

Description of Defect: A backfire during engine starting can cause breakage of the upper intake manifold.

Consequence of Defect: This condition can cause a no-start condition and possibly an engine compartment fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will update the powertrain control module programming. Until the campaign repair is made, the vehicle hood should be shut whenever starting the vehicle to reduce the chance of personal injury.

Corrective Action: Owner notification has begun.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Buick at 1-800-521-7300; Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737; or Oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Chevrolet Truck C30Years: 1995 - 1996
Chevrolet Truck G30Years: 1995 - 1996
Chevrolet Truck K30Years: 1995 - 1996
GMC C35 Years: 1995 - 1996
GMC G35 Years: 1995 - 1996
GMC K35 Years: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 5,773

Dates of Manufacture: October 1995 - January 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V117000

GM Campaign No.: 96-C-36

Vehicle Description: Vans and crew cab pickup trucks equipped with RPO XHP/YHP option (VIN code F) and General Ameri*550 AS LT225/75R16D tires.

Description of Defect: These tires have bead damage which occurred during tire mounting.

Consequence of Defect: This damage to the tire reinforcing structure in the bead "toe" area causes a bulge in the sidewall after the tire is inflated. This condition will result in a slow air loss causing the tire to go flat. However, it is possible for the damage to result in a rapid air loss causing injuries to anyone if they were handling the tire when this occurred.

Corrective Action: Dealers will demount each tire and inspect for bead damage. If bead damage is found, the tire will be replaced.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began during July 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Geo TrackerYear: 1995

Number Involved: 965

Dates of Manufacture: October 1994

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V118000

GM Campaign No.: 95-C-73

Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicle.

Description of Defect: The steering wheel center hub to spoke weld can fracture.

Consequence of Defect: This condition will allow the steering wheel to separate from the steering column increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect the steering wheel for the suspect steering wheel lot date code and replace any found to have this suspect date.

Corrective Action: Owner notification has begun.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Geo/Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Chevrolet Truck KodiakYear: 1996
GMC Topkick Year: 1996

Number Involved: 456

Dates of Manufacture: April - June 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V120000

GM Campaign No.: 96-C-39

Vehicle Description: Medium duty conventional pickup trucks equipped with auto-apply parking brakes.

Description of Defect: The auto-apply park brake (manual or auto application) does not always apply. If the park brake does not apply, the "service park brake" warning light will illuminate.

Consequence of Defect: The driver may not notice the warning light and exit the vehicle. The vehicle could roll away, leading to an accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the parking brake solenoid valve with one having a 12-volt coil with the original production valve spring.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began in July 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Geo TrackerYear: 1996

Number Involved: 18,121

Dates of Manufacture: August 1995 - June 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V121.001

GM Campaign No. 96-C-38

Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles, 4-door models only.

Description of Noncompliance: The fuel tank on these vehicles can become punctured by a fuel tank flange attachment reinforcement during rear-end collisions. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 301, "Fuel Tank Integrity."

Consequence of Noncompliance: If an ignition source is present, fuel leakage resulting from this puncture could result in a post-crash fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install two new shield gussets between the fuel tank and attachment brackets to prevent the reinforcement from puncturing the fuel tank wall.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began in July 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Geo/Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Chevrolet Lumina Year: 1996
Chevrolet Monte CarloYear: 1996

Number Involved: 3,591

Dates of Manufacture: June 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V122000

GM Campaign No.: 96-C-40

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.

Description of Defect: These vehicles were assembled with one of the four brake booster tabs not properly located in the front of the dash reinforcement assembly.

Consequence of Defect: If this condition were to be present in a situation where stopping distances are small, a vehicle crash could occur.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect for proper booster installation.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began in July 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020.




General Motors Corporation

Models:
Chevrolet Blazer Year: 1991
GMC Jimmy Year: 1991
Oldsmobile BravadaYear: 1991

Number Involved: 97,351

Dates of Manufacture: September 1989 - January 1991

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V142000

Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles.

Description of Defect: These vehicles exhibit a condition in which a rear seat belt buckle release button can stick in the unlatched (down) position under certain conditions because the buckle assembly can move inside the seat belt cover. If the cover moves far enough, it can create an interference condition with the latch release button. When it does, the seat belt buckle cannot be latched.

Consequence of Defect: The rear belts may not hold an occupant in the event of a vehicle accident increasing the risk of personal injury.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the three rear-seat belt buckles (one assembly) with a new, revised design.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin in August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, GMC at 1-800-462-8782, or Oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537.




Hyundai Motor America

Models:
Hyundai AccentYears: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 23,070

Dates of Manufacture: August 1994 - March 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V113000

Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles sold and operated in Puerto Rico.

Description of Defect: Through contact with road hazards and curbs, the lower control arm assembly can shift from its original position.

Consequence of Defect: The shifted location can result in improper wheel alignment and increased steering effort increasing the potential for a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will reinforce the lower control arm member assembly attachment to the underbody.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin during August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Hyundai de Puerto Rico at 1-800-981-0188.




Kia Motors America, Inc.

Models:
Kia SportageYear: 1996

Number Involved: 693

Dates of Manufacture: March - July 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V131000

Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles; EX model.

Description of Defect: The accelerator pedal assembly could bind or stick during operation.

Consequence of Defect: This condition can cause the accelerator to hold the throttle partially open, resulting in loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the accelerator pedal assembly.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began during July 1996. A preliminary notification mailgram was sent to owners on July 3, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4KIA (1-800-333-4542).




Mitsubishi Motor Sales, Inc.

Models:
Mitsubishi 3000GT Years: 1991 - 1994
Mitsubishi Diamante Years: 1992 - 1995
Mitsubishi Truck MonteroYears: 1992 - 1993

Number Involved: 93,000

Dates of Manufacture: July 1990 - May 1995

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V143000

Vehicle Description: Sedans and wagons equipped with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and multi-purpose passenger vehicles with or without ABS brakes.

Description of Defect: Under conditions of full lock steering and full suspension travel, the left or right front wheel brake hose can crack, resulting in brake fluid leakage.

Consequence of Defect: Brake fluid leakage can cause illumination of the brake warning lamp and reduction in braking efficiency increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the left and right front wheel brake hoses.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin in August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037.




Suzuki Motor Corporation

Models:
Suzuki Truck SidekickYear: 1996

Number Involved: 4,325

Dates of Manufacture: August 1995 - June 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V121.002

Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles, 4-door model only.

Description of Noncompliance: The fuel tank on these vehicles can become punctured by a fuel tank flange attachment reinforcement during rear-end collisions. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 301, "Fuel Tank Integrity."

Consequence of Noncompliance: If an ignition source was present, fuel leakage resulting from this puncture could result in a post-crash fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install two new shield gussets between the fuel tank and attachment brackets to prevent the reinforcement from puncturing the fuel tank wall.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began in July 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Suzuki at 1-800-934-0934.




Toyota Motor Company, Ltd.

Models:
Toyota Truck TacomaYears: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 90,000

Dates of Manufacture: Not yet available

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V129000

Vehicle Description: Light duty pickup trucks.

Description of Defect: Under certain driving conditions, the front suspension support can crack leading to failure of the support.

Consequence of Defect: This condition can result in loss of vehicle control.

Corrective Action: Dealers will repair the suspension support.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin in late August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.




Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Models:
Volkswagen CorradoYears: 1989 - 1990
Volkswagen Passat Years: 1988 - 1990

Number Involved: 8,100

Dates of Manufacture: October 1987 - December 1990

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V115000

Volkswagen Campaign No.: TM

Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles.

Description of Defect: In the event the engine overheats and the vehicle is operated continuously in that condition, the coolant pressure will rise to a level at which the heat exchanger could leak.

Consequence of Defect: A leaking heat exchanger will allow hot coolant to escape causing injury to the driver's feet or could steam up the interior of the vehicle temporarily impairing the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the heat exchanger on these vehicles.

Corrective Action: No notification date has been scheduled yet.

Note: Owner who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.




Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Models:
Volkswagen Jetta Year: 1992

Number Involved: 133

Dates of Manufacture: October 1991 - July 1992

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V128000

Volkswagen Campaign No.: TN

Vehicle Description: 4-door vehicles equipped with electric window regulators.

Description of Defect: The sheet metal panels of both rear doors have openings for the routing of the electrical window regulator wiring. The panel openings have sharp edges that can damage the insulation of the wiring harness.

Consequence of Defect: An electrical short in the wiring can occur resulting in a possible fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install a protective edge cover in both rear door inner panel openings.

Corrective Action: No notification date has been scheduled yet.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.




SCHOOL BUSES:


American Transportation Corporation

Models:
AmTran RS3302Year: 1996
AmTran RS3505Year: 1996
AmTran RS3708Year: 1996
AmTran RS3911Year: 1996

Number Involved: 488

Dates of Manufacture: May 1995 - March 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V134000

AmTran Campaign No.: 96304

Vehicle Description: School buses.

Description of Noncompliance: The rear window buzzer does not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 217, "Bus Window Retention and Release." The buzzer switch failed to be activated when the window latch was in the unlocked position.

Consequence of Noncompliance: The driver will not be alerted that the rear window is unlatched until the window is physically opened increasing the risk of personal injury.

Corrective action: Dealers will replace the rear window buzzer switch.

Owner notification: Owner notification began July 15, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact AmTran at 1-800-843-5615.




Blue Bird Body Company

Models:
Blue Bird All AmericanYear: 1996

Number Involved: Not yet available

Dates of Manufacture: Not yet available

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V112000

Vehicle Description: Rear engine school buses.

Description of Noncompliance: In impact testing, these buses failed to comply with FMVSS No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity."

Consequence of Noncompliance: Fuel spillage can occur increasing the risk of fire in the event of a vehicle collision.

Corrective Action: Blue Bird has not yet developed a remedy for this campaign.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Blue Bird at 1-912-825-2021.




Blue Bird Body Company

Models:
Blue Bird CSFE Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird CSRE Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird GMCV Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird GPWB Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird MBWB Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird SBCV Years: 1993 - 1996
Blue Bird TC2000Years: 1993 - 1996

Number Involved: 11,371

Dates of Manufacture: September 1993 - April 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V126.001

Blue Bird Campaign No.: R96BH

Vehicle Description: School buses equipped with Bostrom driver's seat Model F222 or Bostrom "Routemaster" seat, Blue Bird option 2821 and 2824. Also see Campaign 96E009, Bostrom.

Description of Defect: The seat pedestals can develop fatigue cracks adjacent to the weld which secures the pedestal's upper plate to the upper, telescoping portion of the adjustable column support of the assembly.

Consequence of Defect: The upper mounting plate and seat assembly gradually become loose resulting in the upper plate detaching from the supporting column and the seat can fall from its mounting. This can result in personal injury to the driver.

Corrective Action: Dealers will repair these pedestals with a newly designed pedestal bracket kit.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began July 15, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Blue Bird at 1-912-825-9608.




Blue Bird Body Company

Models:
Blue Bird CSFE Year: 1995
Blue Bird TC2000Year: 1995

Number Involved: 32

Dates of Manufacture: January - December 1995

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V132000 Blue Bird Campaign No.: R96BJ

Vehicle Description: Forward engine school buses equipped with option 4561-02 Reyco air suspension.

Description of Defect: Interference between the hydraulic brake hoses or bleeder valves and the "Reyco" air suspension components can occur causing failure of one of the hydraulic fittings.

Consequence of Defect: Failure of the hydraulic fittings can cause a loss of brake fluid resulting in loss of brakes increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install a redesigned brake caliper anchor plate which will rotate the caliper forward increasing the clearance between the brake hose and/or bleeder valve and suspension components.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began July 25, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Blue Bird at 1-912-825-2021.




Harsco Corporation

Models:
Wayne LifestarYears: 1993 - 1995

Number Involved: 235

Dates of Manufacture: September 1993 - May 1995

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V133000

Vehicle Description: Forward control school buses.

Description of Noncompliance: The fuel tank protection barrier collapsed during impact testing causing a leak. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity."

Consequence of Noncompliance: In the event of a collision, the fuel tank can rupture, leaking fuel increasing the potential for a vehicle fire.

Corrective Action: Harsco has not yet determined a remedy for this campaign.

Corrective Action: No date has yet been given for owner notification.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Harsco at 1-717-975-3882.




Thomas Built Buses, Inc.

Models:
Thomas Built school busYears: 1977 - 1996

Number Involved: Not yet available

Dates of Manufacture: April 1977 - July 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V139000

Vehicle Description: School buses equipped with manually operated outward opening service doors.

Description of Defect: An item worn by a child, such as a long drawstring, sash, or backpack/bookbag accessory, can become caught in the area between the service door and the door control rod attaching bracket.

Consequence of Defect: If an item worn by a child were to catch on this area, and the driver were to close the door and put the vehicle in motion, serious injury to the child or death can result.

Corrective Action: Thomas built has not yet developed a remedy for this campaign.

Corrective Action: No date has yet been provided for owner notification.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Thomas Built at 1-910-889-4871.




HEAVY TRUCKS, TRANSIT BUSES AND FIRE TRUCKS:


Freightliner Corporation

Models:
Freightliner FLD Years: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 205

Dates of Manufacture: June 1995 - April 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V125000

Freightliner Campaign No.: FL198A

Vehicle Description: Heavy duty trucks equipped with an upper bunk assembly.

Description of Defect: The bunk support bracket can fracture allowing the bunk to drop.

Consequence of Defect: The bunk could fall without warning striking an occupant sitting in the lower bunk causing personal injury.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install a bunk support bracket reinforcement kit.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began July 29, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Freightliner at 1-503-735-8000.




Neoplan USA Corporation

Models:
Neoplan AN116 Years: 1986 - 1992
Neoplan AN117 Years: 1990 - 1991
Neoplan AN230HYear: 1990
Neoplan AN232 Year: 1989
Neoplan AN235 Years: 1987 - 1990
Neoplan AN238HYear: 1990
Neoplan AN240 Years: 1988 - 1990
Neoplan AN340 Years: 1985 - 1993
Neoplan AN349 Year: 1992
Neoplan AN430 Years: 1986 - 1990
Neoplan AN435 Years: 1984 - 1991
Neoplan AN440 Years: 1983 - 1991
Neoplan AN460 Years: 1983 - 1991

Number Involved: 3,248

Dates of Manufacture: January 1983 - December 1992

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V138000

Vehicle Description: Transit buses

Description of Defect: The steering gear mounting plate can crack around the welds.

Consequence of Defect: The steering gear mounting plate can break resulting in loss of steering control increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the steering gear mounting plate with a reinforced design.

Corrective Action: Owner notification has already begun.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Neoplan at 1-719-336-3258.




Pierce Manufacturing, Inc.

Models:
Pierce Fire Truck Year: 1996

Number Involved: 6

Dates of Manufacture: Not yet available

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V144000

Vehicle Description: Fire trucks equipped with "Oshkosh" all wheel steer axles.

Description of Noncompliance: These vehicles do not comply with the grade holding requirements with parking brake applied of FMVSS No. 121, "Air Brake Systems."

Consequence of Noncompliance: These trucks may not hold on an uphill or downhill grade resulting in unattended vehicle movement increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will install high output brake chambers on the all wheel steering axles.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to be completed by August 16, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Pierce at 1-414-832-3000.




Prevost Car, Incorporated

Models:
Prevost H3-41 Years: 1995 - 1996
Prevost H3-45 Years: 1995 - 1996
Prevost VIP 45Years: 1995 - 1996
Prevost XL Years: 1995 - 1996

Number Involved: 677

Dates of Manufacture: January 1995 - June 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V127000

Vehicle Description: Transit buses.

Description of Defect: The positive wire connected to post #1 on the starter solenoid could contact the ground wire on the solenoid (post #2) and create a short circuit.

Consequence of Defect: This condition can cause a short circuit and result in a possible fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect and replace the cables changing the cable position.

Corrective Action: Owner notification has begun.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Prevost at 1-418-883-3391.




Transit Manufacturing, Inc

Models:
TMI Orion IIYear: 1994

Number Involved: 21

Dates of Manufacture: January - September 1994

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V141000

Vehicle Description: Dual fuel (gasoline and compressed natural gas) transit buses equipped with General Motors 427 V8 engines.

Description of Defect: Temperature problems are occurring when these buses are operating on compressed natural gas.

Consequence of Defect: Fires can occur resulting in serious injury or death.

Corrective Action: Owners will thoroughly inspect the engine compartments on these vehicles. The main engine module will be removed, and engines will be inspected for any of the following: (1) exhaust gas leakage; (2) damage to the manifold; (3) improper manifold installation; (4) any damage to or degradation of insulation or electrical wiring; or (5) damage to any other engine components. Transit owners should not operate these vehicles until all engine compartments have been inspected.

Corrective Action: Owner notification has begun.

Note: Owners who require assistance and support from TMI should contact Orion Bus Industries at 1-315-768-8101.




MOTORHOMES


Winnebago Industries, Inc.

Models:
Winnebago WV221REYear: 1996
Winnebago WV221RDYear: 1996

Number Involved: 32

Dates of Manufacture: March - April 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96V137000

Winnebago Campaign No.: 60

Vehicle Description: Motorhomes.

Description of Defect: The bolts holding the rear wheel brake backing plate to the axle were not torqued to correct specifications and can loosen.

Consequence of Defect: The backing plate can separate from the axle resulting in a loss of braking action increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: Dealers will retorque the bolts to the correct specifications.

Corrective Action: Owner notification is expected to begin during August 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time, should contact Winnebago at 1-515-582-6939.




CHILD SEAT

See Chrysler Campaign No. 96V136000 listed under "Cars and Light Duty Trucks."




EQUIPMENT

American Racing Equipment

Brands:
American Racing Saturn Dualie

Number Involved: 780

Dates of Manufacture: January - July 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96E020000

Equipment Description: Aftermarket steel wheels used on Ford, Dodge and Chevrolet dual wheel pickup trucks. Part Numbers 59768211, 59768213, 59768214, 59768221, 59768223 and 59768224.

Description of Defect: A lack of weld penetration attaching the wheel center to the rim.

Consequence of Defect: The wheel can break apart or loss of air pressure in the tire can occur potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.

Corrective Action: American Racing will replace these wheels.

Owner Notification: Owner notification began July 15, 1996.

Note: Owners who do not have their wheels replaced free of charge within a reasonable time should contact American Racing at 1-310-761-4040.




Neway Anchorlok International, Inc.

Brands:
Neway AD-246-10
Neway AD-246-12
Neway AD-246-13.82
Neway AD-246-14.38
Neway AD-246-15
Neway AD-246-15.5
Neway AD-246-6.50
Neway AD-246-8.75

Number Involved: 1,554

Dates of Manufacture: July 1995 - February 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96E018000

Equipment Description: Tandem axle air suspension for Class 8 heavy duty trucks.

Description of Defect: The equalizing beam shaft of the tandem axle suspension were manufactured from as-rolled SAE 4140 steel rather than the specified annealed SAE 4140. These shafts can fracture inside the beam at the toe of the weld.

Consequence of Defect: Vehicles are subject to vehicle tilt and possible rollover in the event that both equalizing beams, on the same side of the vehicle, experience a simultaneous shaft failure. Affected suspensions can also drop and contact the road surface generating sparks which could ignite flammable material.

Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect and replace all suspect suspension beams with suspension beams containing appropriate shafts.

Corrective Action: Neway will contact all owners involved. Owner notification has begun.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Neway at 1-800-237-8932 or their individual vehicle manufacturer.




Onan Corporation

Brands:
Onan Emerald
Onan Marquis

Number Involved: 1,391

Dates of Manufacture: September 1995 - May 1996

NHTSA Recall No.: 96E019000

Equipment Description: Liquid propane (LP) gas regulator in electrical generator sets used in recreational vehicles.

Description of Defect: The "O" rings of the regulator assembly can weaken and break when exposed to high ambient temperatures.

Consequence of Defect: If an ignition source is present, LP gas leakage could result in a fire.

Corrective Action: Dealers will either remove the LP gas regulator and replace it with a model not subject to rupture, or install a pre-regulator in the fuel system.

Corrective Action: Owner notification began July 18, 1996.

Note: Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Onan at 1-800-888-6626.