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NHTSA PUBLISHES LIST OF NOVEMBER RECALLS

Topics: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

NHTSA PUBLISHES LIST OF NOVEMBER RECALLS

NHTSA
December 29, 1997

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NHTSA 63-97
Monday, December 29, 1997
Contact: Tim Hurd
Tel. No. (202) 366-9550

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today released a list of auto safety recalls announced in November and urged consumers to have the problems fixed promptly. The list identifies the make and model of the vehicle or equipment involved, with a brief description of the safety problem.

NHTSA said it is publicizing the recalls to alert consumers about safety problems and encourages them to take action. Under federal law, safety problems must be remedied without cost to consumers. Currently, 70 percent of the owners of vehicles with safety problems have the recall work performed.

NHTSA said manufacturers are required to mail a recall notice to all purchasers, owners and dealers when a safety defect or noncompliance with Federal safety standards is found. The agency urges owners to wait until they receive notification from the manufacturer before contacting their dealers to schedule the repair work. Not all vehicles of a particular make and model may be subject to the recall.

Consumers can get up-to-the-minute information on safety recall campaigns, or information on the recall history of a particular make and model of car, truck, motorcycle or child safety seat, by calling the agency's toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393, or (202) 366-0123 in the Washington, D.C. area. The Hotline also can be used to report safety problems.

SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGNS
NOVEMBER 1997

VEHICLES: CARS, VANS, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS AND MOTORCYCLES

American Honda Motor Company

Models:

Honda Civic

Years: 1997-1998

Number Involved: 9,558
Dates of Manufacture: June - August 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V193
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: Some of the front passenger air bag modules have been improperly assembled. The cloth flaps covering the folded air bag may have been tucked in too far.
Consequence of Defect: This condition could prevent proper deployment of the air bag. In a crash, an improper air bag deployment could increase the risk of injury to a front seat passenger.
Corrective Action: Dealers will repair the front passenger's air bag module to prevent this problem from occurring.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began during October 1997.
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 Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

American Honda Motor Company

Models:

Honda Passport

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 30
Dates of Manufacture: August - October 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V206002
Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles equipped with a driver's side optional equipment rubber floor mat.
Description of Defect: Repeated movement of the driver's feet and actuation of the accelerator pedal can result in a shifting of the mat's position. This shifting can cause an interference with the accelerator pedal.
Consequence of Defect: This could cause a restriction of the pedal's return to the idle position, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Honda is asking for the return of the floor mat set and will reimburse owners for the cost of the rubber floor mat set along with any return shipping costs.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during December 1997.
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 Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

Chrysler Corporation

Models:

Jeep Cherokee	Years: 1997
Jeep Grand Cherokee	Years: 1997

Number Involved: 46,000
Dates of Manufacture: September - November 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V194 Chrysler Campaign No. 755
Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: The fuel level sending unit degrades over time, causing the fuel gauge to indicate significantly more fuel in the fuel tank than is actually present.
Consequence of Defect: Owners may not be aware that their vehicle is low on fuel, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash if the vehicle engine stops from lack of fuel.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the fuel level sending unit.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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 1-800-992-1997.

Chrysler Corporation

Models:

Dodge Ram Truck

Years: 1994-1996

Number Involved: 497,000
Dates of Manufacture: July 1994 - December 1995
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V199 Chrysler Campaign No. 748
Vehicle Description: Light duty pickup trucks equipped with gasoline engines.
Description of Defect: A valve on the fuel tank can allow liquid fuel to leak onto the ground under certain vehicle operating conditions.
Consequence of Defect: Fuel leakage could result in a fire if an ignition source was present.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the fuel tank valve.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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 1-800-992-1997.

Chrysler Corporation

Models:

Dodge Caravan	Years: 1997
Dodge Grand Caravan	Years: 1997
Plymouth Caravan	Years: 1997
Plymouth Grand Caravan	Years: 1997

Number Involved: 25,000
Dates of Manufacture: April - July 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V200 Chrysler Campaign No. 749 >Vehicle Description: Passenger minivans equipped with P215/65R15 Goodyear Conquest tires mounted on steel wheels.
Description of Defect: These tires were damaged when installed on the vehicle. This tire damage can cause a sudden air pressure loss without warning.
Consequence of Defect: Sudden tire failure could result in a loss of driver control of the vehicle.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the tires that were mounted on steel wheels.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during January 1998.
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 1-800-992-1997.

Chrysler Corporation

Models:

Chrysler Cirrus	Years: 1995-1997
Chrysler Sebring	Years: 1995-1997
Dodge Stratus	Years: 1995-1997
Plymouth Breeze	Years: 1995-1997

Number Involved: 599,000
Dates of Manufacture: July 1994 - July 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V201 Chrysler Campaign No. 750
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: The lower control arm ball joint can separate due to loss of lubrication.
Consequence of Defect: Separation of the ball joint could cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect the ball joint end housing cover seal for leakage with a high pressure air tester and the rubber boot will be visually inspected for damage. If the cover seal leaks or the boot is damaged, the lower control arm will be replaced.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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 1-800-992-1997.

Ford Motor Company

Models:

Ford Contour

Years: 1996-1997

Number Involved: 1,800
Dates of Manufacture: April - December 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V203 Ford Campaign No. 97S73/97S98
Vehicle Description: Bi-fuel vehicles modified to run on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG).
Description of Defect: The natural gas fuel tanks have a solenoid shut-off valve that stops fuel flow from the fuel tank in the event of certain moderate to severe collisions. If the vehicle is in a collision and the natural gas fuel line is damaged, the system could leak natural gas.
Consequence of Defect: Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Corrective Action: Ford has requested owners of these vehicles to have the CNG fuel system disabled under a previous recall campaign and to use only gasoline fuel until a permanent corrective action is developed. Owners are being alerted to this solenoid valve concern at this time. The timing of corrective actions is being delayed to allow both conditions to be remedied at one time. In the meantime, there is no risk as long as the natural gas system has been disabled and the vehicle is operated only on gasoline.
Owner Notification: Owners will be notified when service kits are available.
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 Aerostar

Years: 1992-1997

Number Involved: 75,000
Dates of Manufacture: January 1992 - January 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V204 Ford Campaign No. 97S83
Vehicle Description: All-wheel-drive minivans.
Description of Defect: These vehicles can develop powertrain bending resonance or displacement of the transfer case output shaft bushing. The powertrain bending resonance or the output shaft bushing displacement can result in structural failure of the transmission and/or transfer case. Fluid expulsion, drive shaft separation, or loss of vehicle drive can result. This condition is more likely to occur as a result of sustained driving at high speed and high ambient temperatures.
Consequence of Defect: This condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, and if the expelled fluid contacts the exhaust system, a vehicle fire could occur.
Corrective Action: Dealers will install a new transfer case rear output shaft bushing and an aluminum drive shaft.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin Jan. 15, 1998.
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 Super Duty Truck

Years: 1993-1997

Number Involved: 64,000
Dates of Manufacture: March 1993 - October 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V209 Ford Campaign No. 97S92
Vehicle Description: Motor home chassis.
Description of Defect: Hot exhaust gasses can leak from the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) tube on the engine. A hole can develop in the flexible section of the tube. Heat damage to the passenger compartment floor and floor covering can occur.
Consequence of Defect: Depending on the materials used in the construction of the completed vehicle, ignition of these materials could occur resulting in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the EGR tube.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began December 15, 1997.
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 Explorer

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 1,100
Dates of Manufacture: August 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V215 Ford Campaign No. 97S93
Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles, Eddie Bauer and Limited Editions.
Description of Compliance: The key-in-ignition/door open warning chime may not function when the door is opened. This does not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection."
Consequence of Compliance: The standard specifies that a warning to the driver shall be actuated whenever the key has been left in the locking system and the driver's door is opened.
Corrective Action: Dealers will install a jumper wire to provide the necessary ground circuit in these vehicles.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 19, 1997.
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 Mustang

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 8,000
Dates of Manufacture: August - November 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V216 Ford Campaign No. 97S93
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles equipped with 4.6-liter engines.
Description of Defect: Some of these vehicles have missing or inadequately brazed joints between the fuel rail body and the fuel rail mounting brackets.
Consequence of Defect: If the bracket separates from the rail, the rail can lift one or more of the injectors, and fuel leakage will result. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire can occur.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the fuel rail of these vehicles.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 15, 1997.
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:

Chevrolet S-10	Years: 1998
GMC Sonoma	Years: 1998

Number Involved: 33,973
Dates of Manufacture: March - November 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V208001 GM Campaign No. 97067
Vehicle Description: Light duty pickup trucks and multi-purpose vehicles.
Description of Defect: An engine electrical wiring-harness clip can melt and drip onto the exhaust manifold.
Consequence of Defect: The clip material on the exhaust manifold can ignite and subsequently ignite other combustible components resulting in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action: Dealers are contacting owners by telephone to have their vehicles towed to the dealer and alternate transportation provided to them until the dealer can reroute the electrical wiring-harness.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Nov. 14, 1997.
Note: Owners who experience difficulty obtaining the required 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:

Buick Roadmaster	Years: 1992
Chevrolet Caprice	Years: 1992
Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser	Years: 1992

Number Involved: 56,701
Dates of Manufacture: August 1991 - July 1992
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V217 GM Campaign No. 97058
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: The antilock brake system (ABS) modulator can corrode and leak fluid from the front brake circuit.
Consequence of Defect: Brake fluid leakage can reduce brake effectiveness and increase stopping distances.
Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect these vehicles and replace the ABS modulator.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during January 1998.
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 1-80-521-7300, Oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537, or Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020.

General Motors Corporation

Models:

Chevrolet S-10 Truck	Years: 1998
Chevrolet Blazer	Years: 1998
Oldsmobile Bravada	Years: 1998
GMC Sonoma	Years: 1998
GMC Jimmy	Years: 1998

Number Involved: 19,716
Dates of Manufacture: March - August 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V218 GM Campaign No. 97068
Vehicle Description: Light duty pickup trucks and multi-purpose passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: A fatigue fracture of the rear axle right-hand brake pipe can occur, causing a slow brake fluid leak and resulting in a soft brake pedal.
Consequence of Defect: If the brake pipe breaks, the driver would experience a sudden drop in the brake pedal, the instrument panel brake light would illuminate, and there would be a loss of rear brake performance. Partial loss of braking at a time when minimum stopping distance is required could result in a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Dealers will install a brake pipe bracket.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began during December 1997.
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, Oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537, or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.

General Motors Corporation

Models:

Buick Regal

Years: 1997

Number Involved: 4,387
Dates of Manufacture: August 1996 - May 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V223 GM Campaign No. 97065
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: The right front brake pipe can contact the power steering assembly, causing the brake line to wear through.
Consequence of Defect: This condition can result in a loss of brake fluid and eventual loss of half of the vehicle brake system.
Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect for proper clearance between the brake line and power steering assembly. Assemblies found to be out of position will be repositioned and all assemblies secured to maintain proper clearances. Additionally, those brake lines found to have been damaged will be replaced and properly routed.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began during November 1997.
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.

Isuzu Motor, Limited

Models:

Isuzu Rodeo

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 233
Dates of Manufacture: August - October 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V206001
Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles equipped with a driver's side optional equipment rubber floor mat.
Description of Defect: Repeated movement of the driver's feet and actuation of the accelerator pedal can result in a shifting of the mat's position. This shifting can cause an interference with the accelerator pedal.
Consequence of Defect: This could cause a restriction of the pedal's return to the idle position, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Isuzu is asking for the return of the floor mat set and will reimburse owners for the cost of the rubber floor mat set along with any return shipping costs.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during December 1997.
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 Isuzu at 1-800-643-4070.

Isuzu Motor, Limited

Models:

Isuzu Hombre

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 1,299
Dates of Manufacture: April - November 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V208003
Vehicle Description: Multi-purpose vehicles.
Description of Defect: An engine electrical wiring-harness clip can melt and drip onto the exhaust manifold.
Consequence of Defect: The clip material on the exhaust manifold can ignite and subsequently ignite other combustible components, resulting in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action: Dealers are contacting owners by telephone to have their vehicles towed to the dealer and alternate transportation provided to them until the dealer can reroute the electrical wiring-harness.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Nov. 14, 1997.
Note: Owners who experience difficulty obtaining the required free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Isuzu at 1-800-255-6727.

Mazda (North America), Inc.

Models:

Mazda B4000 Truck

Years: 1998

Number Involved: 357
Dates of Manufacture: August - September 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V186002 Mazda Campaign No. 71712
Vehicle Description: Light duty 4x2 pickup trucks equipped with 4.0-liter engines.
Description of Defect: The flexible section of the chassis mounted fuel line that connects to the engine was routed too close to the exhaust manifold. The line could contact the manifold.
Consequence of Defect: This could potentially result in damage to the fuel line, or in some cases, cause a fuel leak. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Corrective Action: Dealers will install an additional clip to hold the fuel line in the intended design position.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 1, 1997.
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 Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.

Mazda (North America), Inc.

Models:

Mazda MX3	Years: 1992-1993
Mazda 323	Years: 1990-1994

Number Involved: 134,000
Dates of Manufacture: August 1991 - September 1993
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V211 Mazda Campaign No. 72803
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles equipped with front seat automatic shoulder belts.
Description of Defect: The rail of the automatic shoulder belt can wear such that the cable which retracts the buckle assembly can become jammed in the rail, rendering the shoulder belt inoperative.
Consequence of Defect: A seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the shoulder belt assembly with a modified one (with an additional dust lip) in vehicles which have experienced a problem. In vehicles in which the automatic shoulder belt functions properly, the rails will be inspected and replaced with modified rails if the wear exceeds the inspection criteria.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin in early 1998.
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 Mazda at 1-800-222-5500.

Subaru of America, Inc.

Models:

Subaru Legacy

Years: 1997

Number Involved: 19,730
Dates of Manufacture: June - August 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V210
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: Insufficient clearance within the hazard warning light switch housing can cause a binding between the actuating button and the housing.
Consequence of Defect: The switch can stick in an intermediate position, resulting in the turn signals becoming inoperable.
Corrective Action: Dealers will install a new modified hazard warning switch.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin Jan. 5, 1998.
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 Subaru at 1-800-782-2783.

Toyota Motor Company, Ltd.

Models:

Toyota Camry

Years: 1997

Number Involved: 289,326
Dates of Manufacture: July 1996 - July 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V213
Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles.
Description of Defect: Due to a possible jamming of the lock pin of the key interlock solenoid, it is possible to remove the ignition key even when the shift lever of the automatic transmission is not in the "Park" position.
Consequence of Defect: Under such a condition, should a driver fail to move the shift lever to the "Park" position, and also fail to activate the parking brake, the vehicle could roll away
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the key interlock solenoid.
Owner Notification: Owner notification was expected to begin during the middle of December 1997.
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.

SCHOOL BUSES, MEDIUM/HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS,
TRAILERS, AND MOTOR HOMES

Blue Bird Body Company

Models:

Blue Bird TC2000

Years: 1991-1997

Number Involved: 595
Dates of Manufacture: June 1991 - October 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V197 Blue Bird Campaign No. R97BU
Vehicle Description: Rear engine school buses equipped with 60-gallon side-mounted fuel tanks.
Description of Compliance: These buses do not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Consequence of Compliance: In the event of a vehicle crash, the fuel tank could be damaged and leak fuel, possibly resulting in a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action: Blue Bird will ship instructions and modification kits to the owners of these buses.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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.

Collins Bus Corporation

Models:

Collins School Buses

Years: 1997

Number Involved: 8
Dates of Manufacture: June - August 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V195 Collins Campaign No. 9703
Vehicle Description: 96-inch wide school buses built on Chevrolet chassis (G van cutaway model 3500).
Description of Compliance: These vehicles were built on 10,000-pound Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) chassis but should have been built on 12,000 pound GVWR chassis. The buses have more designated seat spaces than the GVWR is prepared to support.
Consequence of Compliance: Operation of these buses as delivered will cause an overweight condition.
Corrective Action: Chevrolet dealers, in conjunction with Collins bus, will replace the rear leaf springs on these buses.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Oct. 28, 1997.
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 Collins at 1-800-533-1850.

Freightliner Corporation

Models:

Freightliner FLB	Years: 1996
Freightliner FLC	Years: 1996
Freightliner FLD	Years: 1996

Number Involved: 4,048
Dates of Manufacture: February - November 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V196001 Freightliner Campaign No. FL-216A
Vehicle Description: Heavy duty trucks equipped with Design Level 1 SKF hubs and Rockwell FF-980 Series front axles.
Description of Defect: The front axle hub flange can develop cracks due to high stress levels.
Consequence of Defect: Cracks in a hub flange can result in a wheel separation.
Corrective Action: Dealers will remove and replace the front hubs with improved Design Level 2 SKF hubs.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 10, 1997.
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 1-503-735-8682.

Mack Trucks, Incorporated

Models:

Mack CH	Years: 1997
Mack CL	Years: 1997

Number Involved: 10,438
Dates of Manufacture: January - September 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V191 Mack Campaign No. SCO253
Vehicle Description: Class 8 heavy duty trucks.
Description of Defect: During assembly, certain of the "drag link to the axle steering arm" connectors were not properly torqued. If this connection is not torqued properly and the cotter pin is not installed, the nut could back off during vehicle operation.
Consequence of Defect: If the nut backs off, there could be a loss of driver steering control.
Corrective Action: Dealers will retorque the drag link to the axle steering arm connection.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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 Mack at 1-610-709-3011.

Navistar International Transportation Corporation

Models:

Navistar 9200

Years: 1997

Number Involved: 480
Dates of Manufacture: August - December 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V196002 Navistar Campaign No. 97507
Vehicle Description: Heavy duty trucks equipped with Design Level 1 SKF hubs and Rockwell FF-980 Series front axles.
Description of Defect: The front axle hub flange can develop cracks due to high stress levels.
Consequence of Defect: Cracks in a hub flange can result in a wheel separation.
Corrective Action: Dealers will remove and replace the front hubs with improved Design Level 2 SKF hubs.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin Jan. 6, 1998.
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 Navistar at 1-800-448-7825.

Orion Industries, Inc.

Models:

Orion II	Years: 1996-1997
Orion V	Years: 1996-1997

Number Involved: 211
Dates of Manufacture: November 1996 - November 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V207 Orion Campaign No. OBI-9703
Vehicle Description: Compressed natural gas (CNG) powered transit buses.
Description of Defect: The solenoid valve or check valve could allow CNG to flow when not required.
Consequence of Defect: If an ignition source is present, there is a potential for a fire and/or explosion.
Corrective Action: Orion personnel will go to owners and replace the recalled solenoid valve.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Nov. 14, 1997.
Note: Owners who experience difficulty obtaining the required free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Orion at 1-315-768-8101.

Ox Bodies, Incorporated

Models:

Ox Bodies Dump Body	Years: 1989-1995
Ox Bodies Flat Bed Body	Years: 1989-1995

Number Involved: 5,000
Dates of Manufacture: September 1989 - May 1995
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V198
Vehicle Description: 8-foot to 22-foot dump and flat bed bodies.
Description of Compliance: The clearance lamps on the side of the bodies do not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence of Compliance: These lamps may not be visible at certain positions to the rear of the vehicle, with the possibility that a person driving behind the vehicle would have trouble determining its overall width.
Corrective Action: Owners will be provided with free, new rear clearance lamps for installation on the rear of the dump/flat bed bodies.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Nov. 15, 1997.
Note: Owners who experience difficulty obtaining the required free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ox Bodies at 1-205-932-5720.

PACCAR, Incorporated

Models:

Kenworth T600	Years: 1996
Kenworth T800	Years: 1996
Kenworth W900	Years: 1996
Peterbilt 357	Years: 1996-1997
Peterbilt 375	Years: 1996-1997
Peterbilt 377	Years: 1996-1997
Peterbilt 378	Years: 1996-1997
Peterbilt 379	Years: 1996-1997
Peterbilt 385	Years: 1996-1997

Number Involved: 421
Dates of Manufacture: February 1996 - February 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V196003 Kenworth Campaign No. 97KW03 Peterbilt Campaign No. 1297A
Vehicle Description: Heavy duty trucks equipped with Design Level 1 SKF hubs and Rockwell FF-980 Series front axles.
Description of Defect: The front axle hub flange can develop cracks due to high stress levels.
Consequence of Defect: Cracks in a hub flange can result in a wheel separation.
Corrective Action: Dealers will remove and replace the front hubs with improved Design Level 2 SKF hubs.
Owner Notification: Owner notification was expected to begin Dec. 17, 1997.
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 PACCAR at 1-425-468-7356.

Thomas Built Buses, Incorporated

Models:

Thomas Conventional	Years: 1995-1997
Thomas Vista	Years: 1995-1997
Thomas Saf-T-Liner	Years: 1995-1997
Thomas MVP	Years: 1995-1997

Number Involved: 2,391
Dates of Manufacture: December 1995 - September 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V192
Vehicle Description: School buses.
Description of Compliance: The flip seats installed on these buses do not meet the rearward push requirements of FMVSS No. 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection."
Consequence of Compliance: In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat occupant may not be properly protected, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Corrective Action: Owners will be provided with repair parts and a detailed repair procedure. If an owner so desires, Thomas Built will perform the repair for them.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
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.

Volvo Trucks North America

Models:

Volvo ACL	Years: 1997
Volvo WAH	Years: 1997
Volvo WCA	Years: 1997
Volvo WG	Years: 1997
Volvo WIA	Years: 1997
Volvo WX	Years: 1997
Volvo WXLL	Years: 1997
Volvo WXR	Years: 1997
Volvo WNW	Years: 1997
Volvo WNL	Years: 1997

Number Involved: 923
Dates of Manufacture: October 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97V212 Volvo Campaign No. RVXX9706
Vehicle Description: Class 8 heavy duty trucks.
Description of Defect: Certain of the lock washers for the steering axle wheel bearing jam nut were not bent over the jam nut after the wheel bearings were installed.
Consequence of Defect: If this condition exists, the jam nut and wheel bearing adjusting nut can back off the spindle, allowing the wheel and the brake drum assembly to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Dealers will inspect the steering axle wheel bearing jam nut lock washer to determine if it is bent over the jam nut, and if not, repair as required.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 13, 1997.
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 Volvo Trucks at 1-800-528-6586.

EQUIPMENT

Manchester Tank & Equipment Company
Brands:Manchester LPG cylinder
Number Involved: 900
Dates of Manufacture: July - August 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97E040
Equipment Description: Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) cylinders equipped with overfill protection.
Description of Defect: In certain cylinders, the overfill protection device is not properly installed and the cylinder can be overfilled. Depending on the amount of overfill, LPG vapors can be expelled from the cylinder.
Consequence of Defect: If a cylinder is overfilled, and some of the gas leaks out, the vapors can collect and ignite if there is a source of ignition present.
Corrective Action: Manchester Tank will replace these cylinders.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during December 1997.
Note: Owners who do not get their LPG cylinder replaced free of charge within a reasonable time should contact Manchester Tank/Recall Management at 1-800-420-7511. Owners of vehicles equipped with the recalled tank will be notified directly. Owners who purchased the item as replacement equipment should contact Manchester Tank/Recall Management.

Rockwell International/Meritor
Brands: Rockwell ECU
Number Involved: 18,830
Dates of Manufacture: October 1994 - June 1996
NHTSA Recall No.: 97E039
Equipment Description: Antilock braking system (ABS) electronic control units (ECU) for over-the-road trailer applications.
Description of Defect: Certain of the cover seal (O-ring) were not installed correctly in Easy-Stop trailer ABS electronic control units. An incorrectly installed seal allows water to enter the ECU, causing a fault to develop. This will cause the vehicle's trailer ABS warning lamp to illuminate immediately when the water contacts the board, deactivating all or part of the ABS.
Consequence of Defect: If the warning lamp signal is ignored for a period of time, corrosion can develop, eventually resulting in a complete loss of ECU function.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace the ECU on these trailers.
Owner Notification: Not yet available.
Note: Owners who take their trailers to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Rockwell/Meritor at 1-810-435-8001. Owners of vehicles equipped with the recalled ECU will be notified directly. Owners who purchased the item as replacement equipment should contact Rockwell/Meritor.

R.V. Products

Brands: Watsco RVRBT Watsco RVRD-1T
Number Involved: 36,000
Dates of Manufacture: Not available.
NHTSA Recall No.: 97E038
Equipment Description: Printed circuit board housed in the electrical control box assembly of the vehicle's air conditioning unit.
Description of Defect: An electrical relay on the circuit board will fail to activate. When the relay fails to activate, other electrical components, including the circuit board, are required to carry excess electrical current.
Consequence of Defect: These components can overheat, char, and produce smoke, possibly resulting in a fire.
Corrective Action: Owners will receive a replacement electrical control box with installation instructions. If an owner so desires, they can have their dealer install this control box.
Owner Notification: Owner notification is expected to begin during December 1997.
Note: Owners who do not receive the free replacement electrical control box within a reasonable time should contact R. V. Products at 1-800-227-5693. Owners of vehicles equipped with the recalled circuit board will be notified directly. Owners who purchased the item as replacement equipment should contact R. V. Products.

TIRES

Cooper Tire & Rubber Company
Brands: P215/70R14
Number Involved: 236
Dates of Manufacture: September 1997
NHTSA Recall No.: 97T008
Tire Description: Cooper Trendsetter SE (Serial No. 3DHYC2J367), Multi-Mile Matrix (Serial No. 3DHYTMN367), and Western Auto Sentry Premier II A/S (Serial No. 3DHYUDH367).
Description of Defect: These tires may not have been properly manufactured with adequate rubber coverage of the radial belt edge.
Consequence of Defect: This condition can cause the tire components to separate. If the separation is not detected, continued use could cause the ply cords to break and the tubeless liner to tear, losing the inflated air. Loss of air could result in loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: Dealers will replace these wheels as well as mount and balance the new tires.
Owner Notification: Owner notification began Dec. 3, 1997.
Note: Owners who take their tires to an authorized dealer and do not receive a free replacement within a reasonable time should contact Cooper at 1-800-854-6288.