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National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Washington, D.C. 20590 Auto Safety Hotline 1-888- 327-4236 |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Listing
Definitions
New School Bus Recalls
Blue Bird Body Company
Collins Bus Corporation
Freightliner (Including Thomas Built)
Girardin, Inc
IC Corporation (owned by International Truck and Engine Corp.)
LES Enterprises/Corbeil
Mid Bus, Inc.
U.S. Bus Corporation
Van Con, Inc.
School Bus Vehicle Recalls
American Transportation Corporation (AmTran)
Blue Bird Body Company
Collins Bus Corporation
Ford Motor Company
Freightliner Corporation
General Motors Corporation
Girardin, Inc
International Truck and Engine Corp. (Navistar) (IC Corporation)
LES Enterprises/Corbeil
Liberty Bus Incorporated
Mid Bus, Inc.
Spartan Motors, Inc.
Thomas Built Buses, Inc.
U.S. Bus Manufacturing, Inc/ Sturdicorp.
Van-Con, Inc.
Equipment Recalls (School Bus Related)
ArvinMeritor
Beam’s Industries, Inc.
Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems
Cummins Engine Company
Dana Corporation
Felsted Products, LLC
Honeywell International, Inc.
John Deere
Meritor Wabco
Ricon Corporation
Specialty Manufacturing Co.
Sure-Lok, Inc.
Trans/Air Manufacturing Corporation
TRW Commercial Steering Systems
Sound Off, Inc.
Tire Recalls (School Bus Related)
Michelin North America, Inc.
How to Contact NHTSA
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY ASSURANCE PROGRAM
2006 EDITION
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the Federal government agency responsible for assuring the safety of vehicles traveling the public roadways. NHTSA performs this responsibility, in part, by monitoring the performance of safety recall campaigns conducted by manufacturers to remedy a safety defect or noncompliance condition. The prompt remedy of school buses involved in safety recall campaigns is of special concern to the agency because the student occupants of a school bus could be subject to multiple injuries or even loss of life if a recalled safety defect or noncompliance condition is not corrected in a timely manner.
In order to respond to heightened public concern regarding the safety of students riding school buses, the agency initiated the "School Bus Safety Assurance Program" in May 1995. The main purpose of this program is to inform State Transportation Inspection Program Directors, State Pupil Transportation Directors, interested association groups, school district personnel, nonpublic school bus owners, parents, and members of the general public of the current safety recalls involving school buses.
Each recall entry gives the following information: (a) the corporate name of the recalling manufacturer(s); (b) the phone number of the recalling manufacturer(s); (c) the production dates of the school buses being recalled; (d) the school bus model(s) being recalled; (e) the NHTSA assigned recall number; (f) the manufacturer assigned recall number if different from the NHTSA assigned recall number; and (g) a brief description of the safety recall campaign.
School buses remain one of the safest forms of transportation in the United States. The success of the School Bus Safety Assurance Program is dependent on the willingness of each of us concerned with the transportation of children to review the enclosed recall listing and make every effort to ensure that buses within our purview are corrected as soon as possible.
If you have any questions concerning the School Bus Safety Assurance Program, please contact either Mrs. Kelly Schuler at (202) 366-5227 or Mr. George Person at (202) 366-5210 or by facsimile at (202) 366-7882 or you can reach Mrs. Schuler by e-mail at kelly.schuler@dot.gov. Copies of this publication are also available on NHTSA’s web site located at http://www.safercar.gov. If you have any questions concerning a specific recall campaign, please call the involved manufacturer at the phone number given in the recall listing or call NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153).
List Of School Bus Related
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 105, “Hydraulic Brake System.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, “Rearview Mirrors.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, “Tire Selection and Rims for Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 121, “Air Brake Systems.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 131, “School Bus Pedestrian Safety Devices.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, “Safety Belt Assemblies.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, “Safety Belt Assembly Anchorages.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 301, “Fuel System Integrity.”
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 304, “Compressed Natural Gas Fuel Container
Integrity.”
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY ASSURANCE PROGRAM
DEFINITION OF TERMS USED IN
SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN LISTING
NHTSA: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Production Dates: The beginning and ending manufacturing dates of the school buses involved in the recall campaign.
Model(s): The school bus model or models involved in the recall campaign.
06V-000: Recall number assigned by NHTSA once a school bus manufacturer notifies the agency that a safety recall will be conducted.
(06000): Manufacturer assigned recall campaign number that differs from the NHTSA recall number. Some manufacturers do not use separate recall numbers.
Recall Description: A brief description of the recall campaign.
SAMPLE
INTERNATIONAL TRUCK & ENGINE CORPORATION (800) 000-000
Production Dates: 1/1/00 -1/31/05 [06V-000]
Model(s): Volunteer (06301)
Description: The clothing of a student rider can become snagged in the exit door handrail. If the driver is unaware of the situation, the entrance door may be closed, capturing the item in the door. Death or injury can occur to the person exiting the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
NEW SCHOOL BUS RECALLS
FROM JUNE 2005 THROUGH JUNE 2006
BLUE BIRD CORPORATION (478) 822-2242
(Blue Bird Body Company)
Production Dates: 4/7/06 – 5/26/06 06V-202
Model(s): 2007 Vision school buses equipped with Bendix air brakes (R06KU)
Recall Description: The check valve inside the valve cavity may not properly seat, causing internal air leakage. This can cause a delay in the application of the spring brake to park the vehicle after the operator pulls the dash valve button. The delayed parking brake application can occur without warning, leading to unintended vehicle rollaway, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake valve free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/7/05 – 11/8/05 06V-112
Model(s): 2006 All American school and transit buses (R06KS)
and 2006 Conventional Vision school buses equipped with Ricon S and K series platform style wheelchair lifts
Recall Description: The vertical support arms for the lifts were improperly welded allowing the lift to stow improperly. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: To be determined 06V-058
Model(s): 2006 Micro Bird school buses (R06KP)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity." The affected buses were produced with an
8 inch bumper rather than a 10 inch bumper. In the event of a crash, the bumper may inadequately protect components of the fuel system. This could result in a post-crash fuel leak which, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the bumper free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 11/14/05 05V-535
Model(s): 2006 Micro Bird school buses equipped with a wheelchair lift (R05KF)
Recall Description: The shift interlock system was not installed during production which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Nos. 403, "Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles,” and 404, "Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles." The transmission shift selector may be moved into a drive gear allowing the vehicle to move and thereby endangering wheelchair occupants on the lift and persons outside the bus in the vicinity of the wheelchair lift.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses by installing the required shift interlock system free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/9/01 – 7/15/05 05V-382
Model(s): 2001 through 2006 All American, TC2000, (R05KA)
and Vision school buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with a battery disconnect switch that has connections that may be loose on the battery switch studs creating the potential for the bus to shut down while in operation. Should the bus shut down while in operation, a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Instructions will be provided on how to repair the switch.
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COLLINS BUS CORPORATION (800) 533-1850
Production Dates: 6/12/05 – 7/1/05 06V-193
Model(s): 2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with Ricon Model S20005 wheelchair lifts.
Recall Description: The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle. This may result in injury or death.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Collins Bus customer service at 1-800-533-1850.
Production Dates: 8/1/05 – 9/15/05 05V-440
Model(s): 2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam school buses
and Super Omni buses
Recall Description: The fasteners securing the seats and the barriers to the wall track may be inadequately tightened which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages” and FMVSS No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” In the event of a crash, the seat occupants may not be adequately protected, possibly resulting in serious injuries.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/04 – 11/30/04 05V-359
Model(s): 2004 Bantam and Super Bantam school buses
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a crash, the joints may come apart and individual interior ceiling skins could cause harm to the occupants of the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will install two additional screws between the current screws that attach the seams of the ceiling skins to the structural roof bows free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 3/1/05 05V-345
Model(s): 2002-2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with "5" series stop arms manufactured by Specialty Manufacturing Co.
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: Collins will notify all its customers of this campaign. For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Collins is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, Collins will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, Collins will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 3/1/05 05V-343
Model(s): 2002-2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with Specialty Mfg "5" series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
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FREIGHTLINER CORPORATION (800) 547-0712
Production Dates: 4/1/06 – 5/26/06 06V-205
Model(s): 2007 Thomas Built C2 and HDX school buses (FL-477)
equipped with Bendix modulated spring brake valves
Recall Description: A defect in the modulated spring brake valve casting may cause an intermittent delay in the application of the park brake. The vehicle may roll away without warning, possibly causing personal injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the defective valves free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 2/16/06 06V-151
Model(s): 2004-2007 Thomas Built Minotour school and (FL-474)
commercial buses
Recall Description: The floor structure for the wheelchair lift fails to comply with the strength requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, “Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles.” The wheelchair lift may become unstable during operation and cause injury to passengers or bystanders.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the lifts by adding reinforcement free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/16/05 – 7/1/05 06V-150
Model(s): 2004-2007 Thomas Built Minotour, FS65, MVP-EF, (FL-473)
and HDX model school buses equipped with Ricon wheelchair lifts.
Recall Description: Cracks in the lift arms may allow the mechanism to twist during stowage, preventing closure of the safety interlock switches. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Thomas Built customer support office at 336-889-4871.
Production Dates: 10/4/04 – 2/14/06 06V-136
Model(s): 2004 through 2006 Thomas Built HDX, EF, (FL-475)
and FS-65 school buses
Recall Description: The body power distribution module (PDM) was manufactured with copper circuits that are too thin for the electrical loads encountered, possibly causing the board to overheat. If the PDM overheats it may generate smoke and could result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the PDM's thin copper circuits with thicker copper circuits free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/17/04 – 2/20/06 06V-085
Model(s): 2004-2006 Freightliner Custom Chassis B2 (FL-472)
school buses and Thomas Built C2 school buses built with air or hydraulic brakes with a one valve park brake system and park brake release interlock
Recall Description: At higher vehicle loads, the parking brakes may not fully apply. A bus may roll if the driver releases the service brakes before the parking brakes fully apply, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash or injure passengers entering or leaving the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the park brake free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 11/30/05 06V-014
Model(s): 2006 Thomas Built HDX school buses (FL-469)
Recall Description: The front spring eyes may crack from embrittlement due to an improper heat treat process. Vehicle steering control may be reduced if abnormal front suspension noises are ignored, possibly resulting in a crash and personal injury.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the steering suspensions free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/1/04 – 5/31/05 05V-469
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Freightliner school bus, van, (FL-463)
motor home, and shuttle bus chassis equipped with a Cummins EMC
fuel system lift pump
Recall Description: Erratic voltage supply to the fuel lift pump causes premature wear of the pump. This premature wear could result in fuel lift pump failure and in some cases may cause an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall, a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Cummins will notify the owners of the Freightliner and Thomas Built vehicles and will repair the engines by EMC recalibration and replacement of the fuel lift pump at no charge to the customer.
Production Dates: 6/1/04 – 3/31/05 05V-468
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built C2 school buses (FL-461)
Recall Description: The anchor/pivot bolt supplied with the park brake is defective and could fatigue fracture prematurely, resulting in the park brake failing to apply. If the park brake anchor bolt fatigues and ultimately fractures, the park brake may not function and there may be no indication to the driver of the malfunction when the park brake is set. This may cause the vehicle to roll away without warning, which could result in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace defective anchor bolts free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/13/05 – 7/8/05 05V-467
Model(s): 2005 Thomas Built FS-65 and C2 school buses (FL-460)
equipped with ArvinMeritor or AAC rear axle spindles
Recall Description: The spindles in the rear axle housing were overheated during the heat treatment process. Incorrectly heat treated spindles could result in a fracture of the spindle. Incorrectly heat treated spindles could fracture, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect for the heat treat date code on the end of the rear spindles and replace the axle housing if necessary.
Production Dates: 1/24/04 – 6/15/05 05V-426
Model(s): Freightliner Custom Chassis FS-65 school bus chassis (FL-455)
and FB-65 shuttle bus chassis equipped with Caterpillar C7 engines and
revised cooling packages
Recall Description: The front hydraulic line may rub through on a radiator tube, possibly resulting in the loss of brake fluid to the front brakes. The defect may cause the loss of front brakes, resulting in extended stopping distances and possibly a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and secure the brake line to provide more clearance free of charge.
Production Dates: 12/17/04 – 7/28/05 05V-397
Model(s): 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-459)
equipped with 30" or 40" left side emergency door exits
Recall Description: The telescoping slide that holds the side emergency door open is located such that it will move past its normal travel and the mechanism may latch on the end of the slide preventing the door from opening. The side emergency door may not open if the latch mechanism is in the incorrect position. Occupants would have to use the front entry door or rear emergency exit if a situation occurred that required an emergency exit.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/26/04 – 10/29/04 05V-393
Model(s): 2004 Freightliner Business Class M2 and Thomas (FL-458)
Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses equipped with a Caterpillar C-7 engine and Borg-Warner KYS 4735 35480 55 engine fan.
Recall Description: The fan shroud may be drawn back into the fan at high engine speeds when the fan clutch engages. Due to reduced clearance, heavy contact between the fan and the shroud may cause the fan blade to fracture.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine fan with a fan that has a different mounting offset free of charge.
Production Dates: 8/1/04 – 5/5/05 05V-392
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-456)
Recall Description: There is an excessive gap between adjoining interior panels above the rear right side window which does not conform to the strength requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” A noncompliance with FMVSS 221 may, without warning, result in an increase of a structural collapse of the school bus in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the joint by adding a bracket secured with screws and adhesive free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/04-8/26/05 05V-387
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-457)
Recall Description: The upper steering shaft pinch bolt may not be correctly tightened, resulting in the possible loss of the bolt, allowing joint separation and loss of steering. Sudden loss of steering without warning could result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering pinch bolts for the presence of torque seal. Bolts without torque seal will be tightened to factory specifications and torque seal added. These repairs will be made free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/8/02-3/8/05 05V-347
Model(s): 2002-2005 Thomas Built Minotour, Conventional, MVP-ER, (FL-454)
ER, HDX, and MVP-EF model school buses equipped with Specialty Mfg "5" Series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Thomas Built is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, dealers will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, Thomas built will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/8/02 – 3/8/05 05V-340
Model(s): 2002-2005 Thomas Built Minotour, Conventional, MVP-ER, (FL-454)
ER, HDX, and MVP-EF model school buses equipped with Specialty Mfg "5" Series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-284
Model(s): Freightliner trucks and Thomas Built school buses equipped (FL-453)
with Holland/Neway air suspension systems
Recall Description: A transverse beam casting may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface. This will cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies.
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GIRARDIN, INC. (819) 477-8222
Production Dates: 6/29/05 – 5/10/06 06V-133
Model(s): 2005 and 2006 MB IV school and commercial buses (06-013-LIU)
and 2006 MB II school buses equipped with Ricon K-series wheelchair lifts,
P/N K5505-F1020000A & K2010-F1020000A.
Recall Description: The welding process may not have achieved full penetration along the seam of the vertical arms. Improperly welded vertical arms will not allow the lift to stow properly. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Girardin at 819-477-8222.
Production Dates: 7/6/04 – 2/10/05 06V-027
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 MB IV school and commercial buses (06-012-ACU)
equipped with Carrier compressor mount brackets, P/N 86-62400-00.
Recall Description: This weld is used to mount the secondary compressor for the supplemental air conditioning system on to the engine. If the installer does not adequately torque the mounting hardware or there is a poor quality weld at the weldment's support tab, the weldment can break or fall off. If the weldment breaks or falls off, the compressor and vacuum pump could shift causing the misalignment and eventual loss of the drive belt, possibly resulting in the loss of or impedance to the vehicle's primary braking system, and could potentially cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Owners are being instructed to contact Carrier at 717-767-3359 or visit their website at www.transicold.carrier.com for a free remedy.
Production Dates: 8/17/04 – 10/29/04 05V-365
Model(s): 2003-2005 MB II and MB IV school buses (05-011-JSU)
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams and interior panels is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” Also, due to the inadequate joint strength, these buses fail to conform to the seat test requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the affected panels and seats may not resist and this could possibly endanger the vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 8/8/05 05V-352
Model(s): 2002 through 2005 MB II and MB IV school buses (05-010-SAU)
equipped with "5" series stop arms manufactured by Specialty
Manufacturing Company
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
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IC Corporation (800) 843-5615
Owned by International Truck & Engine Corporation (800) 448-7825
Production Dates: 3/17/04 – 5/15/05 06V-189
Model(s): 2004 through 2007 CE and BE school buses (06504)
and 1300 and 3300 model vehicle chassis
Recall Description: There are two specific defects that will be remedied by this recall:
1.) The park brake system may activate while the vehicle is under normal operation. Although the vehicle is brought to a stop, the activation may occur without warning or input from the driver and may strand the vehicle in an active lane. Should the park brake activate and strand the vehicle, it may contribute to a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
2.) The spring applied, hydraulic release (SAHR) park brake actuator could experience a hydraulic lock condition that will not allow the park brake to apply. Should the park brake not apply, a vehicle roll away can occur and may result in a crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/12/05 – 3/29/06 06V-138
Model(s): 2006 and 2007 FE, RE, IC school buses and CE school (06503)
and commercial buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Ricon 1200, 2000, and 5500 series wheelchair lifts. The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle. This may result in personal injury or death.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884, or owners may contact International at 1-800-448-7825.
Production Dates: 2/10/04 – 12/15/05 05V-561
Model(s): 2005-2007 CE and MY 2007 BE school and transit buses (05524)
Recall Description: Passenger coat strings or carry on items can get caught between the door control bracket and the door control arm as the passenger exits the bus. If the driver is unaware of the situation, the entrance door may be closed, capturing the item in the door. Death or injury could occur to the person exiting the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/20/05 10/17/05 05V-517
Model(s): 2006 RESB (PB305) and RECB (PC305) school (05522)
and commercial buses
Recall Description: The primary and secondary air supply tubes from the foot valve to the primary and secondary air tanks were reversed at the tank which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 121, “Air Brake Systems.” If the primary air circuit is damaged, the brakes will not apply when the brake pedal is depressed, potentially causing a vehicle crash without warning and possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/4/04 – 3/31/05 05V-368
Model(s): 2005 through 2006 CE school buses (05518)
and International heavy trucks
Recall Description: The anchor bolt that is the pivot point for the driveline parking brake shoes may fatigue and break as a result of an incorrect surface treatment. If the bolt breaks, the park brake may not engage. This could cause the vehicle to roll away without warning and could result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the anchor bolts free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 6/21-05 05V-337
Model(s): 2002-2007 BESB, CESB, FESB, and RESB school buses (05517)
equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: International will notify all its customers of this campaign. For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, International is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, International will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, International will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 6/22/05 05V-331
Model(s): 2002 through 2004 3800; 2002 through 2006 CESB, FESB, (05516)
and RESB; and 2006 and 2007 BESB school buses equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: International will notify its owners and replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
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LES ENTERPRISES - MICHEL CORBEIL, INC. (888) 439-3577
Production Dates: 4/26/04 – 5/21/04 05V-472
Model(s): 2004 Corbeil Minibus school buses (W0070)
Recall Description: An inadequate quantity of glue was used to seal the ceiling joints which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the longitudinal roof joint could have less strength as required by FMVSS 221, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses by adding additional glue and/or screws to enforce the ceiling joints free of charge.
Production Dates: 5/3/04 – 6/4/04 05V-471
Model(s): 2004 Corbeil school buses (W0071)
Recall Description: Expired glue was used to adhere the roof joints which fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the longitudinal roof joint could have less strength as required by FMVSS 221, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners will be provided with a free repair kit.
Production Dates: 1/21/02 – 7/31/05 05V-429
Model(s): 2001-2005 Corbeil Minibus school buses equipped (W0066)
with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected. Customers may contact Specialty Manufacturing at 1-800-951-7867 or Collins Bus Customer Service at 1-800-533-1850.
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MID BUS, INC. (877) 358-6055
Production Dates: 6/1/05 – 1/31/06 06V-194
Model(s): 2005 Guide XL school buses equipped
with Ricon's 1200, 2000, and 5500 series platform wheelchair lifts
Recall Description: The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Mid Bus Customer Service at 1-877-358-6055.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 4/30/05 05V-490
Model(s): 2002-2005 model year Guide DX, Guide SW, Guide XL,
and SC school buses equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian(s) may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Mid Bus is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, Mid Bus will replace the switch upon the owner’s request. For those customers who request the remedy, Mid Bus will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
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THOMAS BUILT BUSES, INC.
ALL THOMAS BUILT RECALLS ARE LISTED UNDER FREIGHTLINER.
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U.S. BUS CORPORATION 765-939-3984
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-489
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Universe school buses built on
Ford dual-rear-wheel chassis
Recall Description: Due to a clerical error, the certification label has a higher rear GAWR and GVWR than currently available from the chassis manufacturer which fails to comply with 49 C.F.R. Part 567.5, “Requirements for Manufacturers of Vehicles Manufactured in Two or More Stages.” The buses may become overloaded.
Remedy: U.S. Bus has notified the customer of the buses and has provided correct certification labels.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-375
Model(s): 2005 Sturdibus HD school buses
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. In the event of a vehicle crash, it is possible that one or more body joints could open up, allowing the occupant to sustain serious injuries should the occupant come into contact with the edge of the separated joint of the body panels.
Remedy: Dealers will install additional fasteners in all suspect joints.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-336
Model(s): 2001-2004 US bus school buses equipped
with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Specialty Mfg. will provide free of charge a service kit (P/N 005178) with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge. Owners may contact Specialty Mfg. at 800-951-7867 or U.S. Bus 1-765-939-3984.
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VAN-CON, INC. (732) 356-8484
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 3/1/05 05V-308
Model(s): 2002-2005 model year 15, 16, 20, 25, and 30 passenger school buses built on GMC, Chevrolet, and Ford chassis equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Van-Con will notify its customers and Specialty Mfg. will provide free of charge a service kit (P/N 005178) with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
SCHOOL BUS
VEHICLE RECALLS
FROM JANUARY 1998 THROUGH JUNE 2006
AMERICAN TRANSPORTATION CORPORATION (AMTRAN) (800) 843-5615
(IC Corporation) (800) 993-7686
Production Dates: 1/29/03 – 3/9/05 05V-131
Model(s): 2003, 2005, and 2006 RE school and commercial buses (05508)
Recall Description: There can be metal to metal interference at the driveline u-joint. This interference can loosen the axle strap or cause the strap or strap bolts to break because of fatigue stresses, causing the driveshaft to separate from the axle yoke. If the driveshaft separates from the vehicle, it could come in contact with other vehicles on or near the roadway, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: IC Corporation will notify its customers and will repair the vehicle free of charge.
Production Dates: 5/12/03 – 3/2/05 05V-130
Model(s): 2004 through 2006 CE, FE, and RE school buses equipped (05507)
with child restraint anchorage systems.
Recall Description: The diameter latch attachment bars exceed the diameter requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 225, “Child Restraint Anchorage Systems,” which may make it difficult to use with future car seat attachments. In addition, some of the latch attachments are located too far forward of the seat back. Not attaching the child seat properly may result in personal injury or death in the event of a vehicle crash. Also, the inappropriate placement of the brackets may result in personal injury to a passenger not seated in a car seat.
Remedy: IC Corporation will notify its customers and 1) the brackets will be removed and replaced by a special belt system and 2) the seat frame will be replaced by a frame with a new seat attachment bracket. These repairs will be performed at no cost to the customer.
Production Dates: 9/4/03 – 2/5/05 05V-124
Model(s): 2005 and 2006 FE school and Commercial buses (05505)
Recall Description: When open, the engine cover lid is unsecured. The lid may close abruptly if it is bumped, possibly resulting in personal injury.
Remedy: IC will notify its owners and will install a latch and cable assembly to secure the engine cover lid while it is in the open position.
Production Dates: 2/4/03 – 3/1/05 05V-122
Model(s): 2003 through 2006 CE, FE, and RE school buses and (05509)
RE Commercial buses equipped with Webasto coolant heaters.
Recall Description: The stainless steel walls of the burner tubes incorporated into Webasto coolant heaters may be made of a material that is not within specification and may fail
prematurely. Should the burner tube fail, the coolant heater could overheat, possibly
resulting in a fire.
Remedy: IC will notify its owners and replace the burner tubes free of charge.
Production Dates: 4/27/04 – 10/13/04 05V-041
Model(s): 2005 CE school buses (05504)
Recall Description: The locknut that secures the hydraulic brake pivot bolt may not be torqued properly. The brake pedal may separate from the pivot bracket. This could prevent brake application.
Remedy: IC Corporation will notify its customers and will inspect the locknut, replace if necessary and torque properly.
Production Dates: 3/25/98 – 8/24/04 04V-498
Model(s): 1998, 2000-2005 CE, FE. and RE school buses built with (04305)
one or more CE White 30-inch child restraint seats
Recall Description: The seat cushion retention may not retain the seat in all circumstances. In the event of a sudden stop, the seat cushion may tip forward and may become unattached causing the passenger to slide off the seat and/or be trapped by the seat cushion. This action could possibly result in personal injury or death.
Remedy: IC Corporation will notify its customers and will repair the cushion by adding a clip to the cushion tying it to the seat frame.
Production Dates: 2/28/92 – 3/3/04 04V-492
Model(s): 1992 through 2004 FE school buses built with CE White (04304)
driver seats with a pedestal style mount.
Recall Description: These pedestals can develop cracks rendering the seat unstable. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat could separate from the base, possibly resulting in personal injury or death.
Remedy: IC will notify its customers and repair the seat by replacing the upper portion of the assembly with a more robust design.
Production Dates: 1/12/01 – 8/31/04 04V-469
Model(s): 2001 through 2005 AmTran/IC Corporation CE, FE, and RE school buses equipped with Sure-Lok wheelchair tie-down securement assemblies p/n 8625-13.
Recall Description: The sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly may be out of alignment causing the load pawl not to fully seat in the sprocket teeth. In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries.
Remedy: Sure-Lok will notify IC's customers and repair the buses on IC's behalf at no cost to the customer.
Production Dates: 6/24/03 – 6/1/04 04V-359
Model(s): 2005 CE school buses built with Vandale lock systems (04303)
Recall Description: The system does not provide an audio sound to warn the driver that the emergency door is locked while the vehicle is in operation. If the emergency door is locked and the bus is involved in a crash or emergency situation, bus occupants may not be able to escape from the bus in a timely manner or even at all. This could possibly result in serious injury to the occupants.
Remedy: IC will notify its customers and will repair the alarm by adding a wire to the current system free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/31/01 – 4/12/04 04V-251
Model(s): 2001 through 2004 IC RE and AmTran RE school buses (04302)
Recall Description: The instructions on how to operate the emergency exit did not meet the minimal letter height of 1-centirmeter. These buses fail to comply to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release.” The label may not be visible to the operator, possibly resulting in injury if the occupants are unable to exit the bus quickly in the event of a vehicle crash or fire.
Remedy: Dealers will mail new labels along with installation instructions.
Production Dates: 8/12/02 – 8/14/04 04V-097
Model(s): 2003 and 2004 American/IC CE, FE, and RE school buses (04301)
and special needs buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Sur-Loc (Kinedyne) “L” wheelchair tracks and all makes of wheelchair lift mounting bolts. The wheelchair tracks and mounting bolts could corrode if moisture occurs in the treated plywood floor. This could reduce the function of the track or the strength of the lift mounting bolts possibly resulting in personal injury to the occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the Sur-Loc "L" tracks with protected tracks and mounting hardware. Also, the lift floor-mounting bolts will be replaced.
Production Dates: 10/14/91 – 3/4/03 04V-010
Model(s): 1992 through 2004 AmTran/IC FE school buses (03306)
Recall Description: A gap between the modesty panel and the wheel well located behind the driver’s seat can be created if the panel is bent out of position. Under the panel, the edges are sharp and jagged and are capable of cutting fingers or toes.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the panels.
Production Dates: October 2001 - 5/7/03 03V326
Model(s): 2002 & 2003 AmTran/IC CE flat floor school buses (03304)
Recall Description: These buses were built with the incorrect hydraulic brake drop hoses from frame to axle. The hoses installed were 3 inches shorter than specified and may fail from tension caused by axle articulation. This hose failure will result in the loss of rear brakes, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash .
Remedy: Dealers will replace the hoses and bleed the brake system.
Production Dates: 5/4/99 – 3/3/03 03V-195
Model(s): 2000 through 2003 AmTran FE (03-302)
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release.” These buses do not comply with the emergency exit requirements. During an emergency situation, this condition could prevent passengers from exiting the bus, which could cause personal injury or death.
Remedy: Dealers will add one roof exit in the center of the passenger compartment.
Note: All owners have been notified and arrangements made to remedy their buses.
Production Dates: 6/1/02 – 7/31/02 03V-118
Model(s): 2002 and 2003 AmTran CE (03-301)
Recall Description: Certain school buses equipped with flip seats fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release.” Seats with seat belts were bolted to the floor without the use of required reinforcements under the floor. During a crash, this condition may allow the seat to become loose which could cause personal injury or death to the seat occupant.
Remedy: Dealers will add reinforcements to the seat mounting at the floor.
Production Dates: 7/1/99 – 2/28/03 03V-054
Model(s): 2003 AmTran FE and CE (03-002)
Recall Description: On certain school bus warning lamps, a static electricity discharge can occur during normal services or handling. This discharge can potentially initiate a chemical reaction of materials within the lamp which could cause the lens to fracture. If the lens fractures, it can cause injuries to persons directly in front of it.
Remedy: Sound off will notify the customers and make arrangements to go out to the operating facilities and replace the warning lamps free of charge. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact sound off at 800-338-7337 or IC at 501-505-2190.
Production Dates: 1/1/01 – 5/31/01 02V-200
Model(s): 2001 through 2003 AmTran RE (02-302)
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” The entrance door stepwell vertical joints were built with an inadequate number of fasteners. The effectiveness of this joint during a crash could be reduced allowing separation of the joints which could result in an opening or protrusion of metal edges in the stepwell area, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners will be provided with repair instructions and parts free of charge. Additional fasteners will be added to the vertical joints of the stepwell.
Production Dates: 8/10/01 – 5/1/02 02V-173
Model(s): AmTran IC 2002 (02-301)
Recall Description: Certain school buses equipped with an optional between-the-frame mounted fuel tanks fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity." These buses were built with the wrong crossmember. The crossmember installed was not of the same strength that was used in the certification of the fuel system to FMVSS No. 301. Failure of the crossmember during a crash
could reduce the effectiveness of the integrity of the fuel system allowing leakage that exceeds
regulation requirements. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will install a new crossmember free of charge.
Production Dates: 4/29/01 - 9/24/01 01V-350
Model(s): AmTran 2000 through 2001 FE (01-305)
Recall Description: Certain school buses were built with an improper connection of the heater harness from the heater switch to the connector just outside the heater unit. The assembly left a loose hot wire in the heater harness with an unprotected terminal that could cause a direct short. This wire is protected with a 20‑ampere circuit protection, but in a rare case could cause a fire.
Production Dates: 11/9/96 - 5/31/02 01V-270
Model(s): AmTran 1997 through 2001 CS (01-304)
Recall Description: On certain school buses equipped with I‑6 engines, plywood floors, and a driver insulation package, the accelerator pedal can stick in either a partial or full throttle position.
Production Dates: 8/18/99 - 7/25/01 01V-269
Model(s): AmTran 2000 through 2002 CS, RE, FE, IC (01-303)
Recall Description: School and transit buses equipped with 39‑inch flip seats. The flip seats could bind in the occupied position and not return to the stored position when not occupied. The cushion frame support bar slides off the seat support pad, which could retain the seat in the occupied position.
Production Dates: 1/1/95 - 5/1/31 01V-241
Model(s): AmTran 1996 through 2001 RE and FE (01-302)
Recall Description: Certain school and transit buses were built with a poor quality heater/defroster blower switch. In some cases this has caused the melting of the heater harness connector at the switch terminals or the high‑speed wire insulation at the connector. Also, some of the units had improper circuit protection size installed in the heater defroster circuit.
Production Dates: 4/6/00 - 4/23/01 01V-177
Model(s): AmTran 2000 through 2001 IC (01-301)
Recall Description: School buses equipped with Bus Boy Cross View Mirrors fail to meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 111, "Rearview Mirrors." The left and right convex mirrors are located too low.
Production Dates: 8/00 - 3/01 01V-145.001
Model(s): AmTran 2001 models FE and RE (01-300)
Recall Description: These buses fail to meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 111, "Rearview Mirrors." The position of the driver's rear view mirror does not allow complete visibility of pedestrians.
Production Dates: 2/15/99 - 12/27/99 01V-057
Model(s): AmTran 1994-1997 Models RE and FE (99-304)
Recall Description: Some certification labels displayed the incorrect tire pressure for the tire specified to meet the GAWR for the front and/or rear axles. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 120, ”Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles other than Passenger Cars,” and Part 567, “Certification.”
Production Dates: 3/17/00 - 10/9/00 00V-420
Model(s): AmTran 2001 IC (00-305)
Recall Description: These buses were built using the wrong hardware to secure the driver seat to the driver’s platform. The seat could become loose and separate from the driver’s platform.
Production Dates: 7/31/00 - 11/2/00 00V-390
Model(s): AmTran 2001 RE (00-304)
Recall Description: School buses equipped with Hehr International rear exit windows with vandal locks. These buses were built with rear emergency exit windows incorporating a lock option that could be left in the lock position and allow the engine to be started. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release.”
Production Dates: 7/31/00 - 8/28/00 00V-282
Model(s): AmTran 2000 IC (00-303)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with requirements of Part 565, “Vehicle Identification Number Requirements.” These vehicles were built with improper model codes.
Production Dates: 3/17/00 - 8/10/00 00V-208
Model(s): AmTran 2001 Models FE, RE, and IC (00-302)
Recall Description: These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 565, “Vehicle Identification Number Requirements.” The vehicles have the wrong model year code in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Production Dates: 11/29/99 - 5/31/00 00V-182
Model(s): AmTran 2000 FE and RE Models (00-301)
Recall Description: FE models (without seat belts) and RE models (with and without seat belts) school buses equipped with the between the frame rail fuel tank option and 39 and 45 inch anchor passenger seats (seat belt ready seats). These buses were built without the under floor reinforcement plate on the inboard seat mountings about the tank. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.”
Production Dates: 8/99 - 9/99 99V-253
Model(s): AmTran FE Models IS (99-308)
Recall Description: Some heater/defroster units were built with the blower motor wired improperly. When wired improperly, the blower motor runs backward and airflow for heating and defrosting is very limited. This does not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 103, “Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems.”
Production Dates: Through 9/99 99V-252
Model(s): AmTran FE Models IS, RE Models RS (99-307)
and Conventional Model SS
Recall Description: Some of the seats were built with a seat mounting bolt that failed during testing. This does not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly.”
Production Dates: 2/99 - 6/99 99V-195
Model(s): AmTran FE (IS2603, IS3000, IS3300, IS3309, IS3406, (99-306)
IS3503, IS3706, IS3900, and IS3909)
Recall Description: Certain clothing articles such as draw strings can become lodged between the forward handrails at the bus doors as a person is exiting the bus.
Production Dates: 3/98 - 4/99 99V-146
Model(s): AmTran RE (RS3302 through RS3911) (99-305)
Recall Description: Some rear exit windows do not meet the requirements as specified under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
Production Dates: 6/92-2/99 99V-061
Model(s): Genesis (IS2603 through IS3909) (99-303)
AmTran FE (IC3406 through IC3909)
AmTran RE (RS3302 through RS3911)
AmTran/Ward Volunteer (SS1506 through SS3306)
AmTran Conventional (CS1506 through CS3306)
Recall Description: These vehicles are equipped with flip seats at the emergency exits. The seat cushion hinge on the combination flip seat is located in such a manner that it is within easy reach of the passenger sitting in the seat located behind the combo flip seat. The hinges on the combo flip seat can cause a pinching condition, resulting in personal injury.
Production Dates: 10/98-2/99 99V-038
Model(s): Genesis (IS2603 through IS3909) (99302)
AmTran FE (IC3406 through IC3909)
AmTran RE (RS3302 through RS3911)
Stripped Chassis (FH1652)
Recall Description: Some rear brake assemblies were built using incorrect mounting hardware. Improper torque of the fastener or fasteners that retain the brakes to the rear axle could allow brake groups to separate from the rear axle.
Production Dates: 2/88 - 10/96 98V-301
Model(s): Genesis, AmTran RE, Ward/AmTran Volunteer, Ward Senator (98305)
Ward Patriot, Ward/AmTran Vanguard, and President
Recall Description: The emergency door hinges on these buses can bind from rust and/or corrosion causing difficulty in opening the door.
Production Dates: 9/97-9/98 98V-248
Model(s): Genesis (IS2806, IS2603, IS2903, IS3000, IS3009, IS3309, (98304)
IS3406, IS3503, IS3600, IS3609, IS3706, IS3900, IS3909,
IC3406, IC3909 & IC3503) AmTran RE (RS3302, RS3505, RS3708, & RS3911)
Stripped Chassis (FH 1652)
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with five-spoke cast wheels which have mis-matched wheel spacer and clamps which could cause high stress on the wheel studs resulting in possible wheel stud failure.
Production Dates: 2/97-8/98 98V-200
Model(s): AmTran Conventional (98303)
Recall Description: Conventional model vehicles built with outward opening service doors and/or manual door controls. Certain clothing articles such as draw strings can become lodged between the control rod clevis and the attachment at the door as a person is exiting the bus.
Production Dates: 4/98-5/98 98V-123
Model(s): Genesis, RS3302, RS3505, RS3708, RS3911, RC3911, (98302)
& FH1652
Recall Description: Buses equipped with a 2-piece, NO5X7508 tilting steering column, or NO5X710 telescope and tilting steering column. The upper pinch bolt nut was omitted from the universal joint. This condition could cause the loss of steering control.
Production Dates: 10/91-5/98 98V-106
Model(s): Genesis, RS3302, RS505, RS3708, & RS3911 (98301)
Recall Description: These vehicles were built with inadequate circuit protection devices (fuses or circuit breakers) allowing the headlamps, during high beam operation, to impose too much
load causing the protection device to open the circuit. This could cause the loss of the headlights, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
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BLUE BIRD CORPORATION (478) 822-2242
(Blue Bird Body Company)
Production Dates: 4/7/06 – 5/26/06 06V-202
Model(s): 2007 Vision school buses equipped with Bendix air brakes (R06KU)
Recall Description: The check valve inside the valve cavity may not properly seat, causing internal air leakage. This can cause a delay in the application of the spring brake to park the vehicle after the operator pulls the dash valve button. The delayed parking brake application can occur without warning, leading to unintended vehicle rollaway, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake valve free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/7/05 – 11/8/05 06V-112
Model(s): 2006 All American school and transit buses (R06KS)
and 2006 Conventional Vision school buses equipped with Ricon S and K series platform style wheelchair lifts
Recall Description: The vertical support arms for the lifts were improperly welded allowing the lift to stow improperly. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: To be determined 06V-058
Model(s): 2006 Micro Bird school buses (R06KP)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 301, "Fuel System Integrity." The affected buses were produced with an
8 inch bumper rather than a 10 inch bumper. In the event of a crash, the bumper may inadequately protect components of the fuel system. This could result in a post-crash fuel leak which, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the bumper free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 11/14/05 05V-535
Model(s): 2006 Micro Bird school buses equipped with a wheelchair lift (R05KF)
Recall Description: The shift interlock system was not installed during production which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Nos. 403, "Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles,” and 404, "Platform Lift Installations in Motor Vehicles." The transmission shift selector may be moved into a drive gear allowing the vehicle to move and thereby endangering wheelchair occupants on the lift and persons outside the bus in the vicinity of the wheelchair lift.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses by installing the required shift interlock system free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/9/01 – 7/15/05 05V-382
Model(s): 2001 through 2006 All American, TC2000, (R05KA)
and Vision school buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with a battery disconnect switch that has connections that may be loose on the battery switch studs creating the potential for the bus to shut down while in operation. Should the bus shut down while in operation, a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Instructions will be provided on how to repair the switch.
Production Dates: TO BE DETERMINED 05V-251
Models: 2002 through 2006 MY All American, Conventional, (R05JV)
Minibird, Microbird, Vision, and TC2000 school buses originally sold or currently registered in states other than the following Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia.
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing motorists should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify all its customers of this campaign. For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Blue Bird is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, Blue Bird will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, Blue Bird will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected. Owners should contact Blue Bird at 478-822-2242.
Important Note: This action is deemed a safety improvement campaign and is not being conducted under the safety act.
Production Dates: TO BE DETERMINED 05V-239
Models: 2002 through 2006 MY All American, Conventional, (R05JV)
Minibird, Microbird, Vision, and TC2000 school buses originally sold or currently registered in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia.
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing motorists should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge. Owners should contact Blue Bird at 478-822-2242.
Production Dates: 3/24/03 – 4/25/05 05V-204
Model(s): 2004 through 2006 Blue Bird Vision school buses (R05JS)
Recall Description: The hydraulic brake dash warning light was incorrectly labeled with the Canadian version which uses symbols rather than words as required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 105, “Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems.” The original dash warning light indicator displays an international symbol on the brake warning light indicator whereas FMVSS 105 requires the word "brake" to be displayed. The operator may not recognize the international symbol as warning indicating a problem in the hydraulic brake system which could result in a vehicle crash should the warning not be heeded.
Remedy: Blue Bird will mail replacement decals with correct nomenclature for the brake dash warning indicator light.
Production Dates: 12/6/04 – 4/8/05 05V-190
Model(s): 2006 All American front and rear engine school buses (R05JR)
Recall Description: The interior side wall panels fail to conform to the joint strength requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 221, “school bus body joint strength.” in the event of a crash, the panels can separate exposing the passengers to serious injury.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and repair the affected buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 8/26/00 – 3/5/04 05V-152
Model(s): 2001 through 2005 All American, Commercial Series, and (R05JP)
Q-bus school and transit buses equipped with John Deere 8.1 CNG engines.
Recall Description: The subject buses equipped with the John Deere engines may surge inappropriately due to erractic operation of the air throttle if the engine is taken from full to zero load. Unexpected engine surge could result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in personal injury.
Remedy: John Deere will notify Blue Bird's customers and repair the engines free of charge. Customers are being instructed to contact John Deere at 1-800-JD-ENGINE.
Production Dates: 6/12/03 – 2/22/05 05V-075
Model(s): 2004 through 2006 Blue Bird Vision Conventional school (R05JN)
and non school buses
Recall Description: A short can occur in the crossing arm circuit or the 8-way warning light circuit, causing the heavy duty transistor w/built in circuit protect to trip resulting in an inadvertent engine shutdown. A vehicle crash could occur should the engine shutdown while the bus is in use, possibly resulting in injury or death.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and repair the buses by relocating the circuits to a separate circuit protected by a circuit breaker.
Production Dates: 12/21/02 – 2/24/05 05V-074
Model(s): 2002 through 2006 Blue Bird All American school and transit (R05JM)
buses, Conventional school buses, and Commercial series
transit buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Webasto coolant heaters, Model DBW 2010, assembled with Webasto burner tubes, P/N 303046/26533A. The stainless steel burner tube is made out of a material that is not to specification and could fail prematurely. Should the burner tube fail, the coolant heater could overheat, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and replace the burner tubes free of charge.
Production Dates: January 1998 – December 2002 05V-062
Model(s): 1998 through 2002 Blue Bird All American, TC2000 school (R05JL)
and transit buses, and Commercial Series buses equipped
with Cummins ISB diesel engines
Recall Description: The fuel pump could fail to transfer fuel appropriately creating an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall while the vehicle is in use, a possible vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Customers will be notified by Cummins to bring their buses to an authorized dealer to have the fuel lift pump replaced free of charge. For more information, customers should contact Cummins at 1-800-diesels.
Production Dates: March 2004 – January 2005 05V-036
Model(s): 2003 through 2005 Blue Bird Micro Bird and Conventional (R05JG)
school buses2004 Blue Bird Vision school buses
Recall Description: These buses do not have the tire load range on both the tire information label and certification decal as required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, “Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars.” Omission of the tire load range may lead to the installation of tires with load ranges not appropriate for vehicle use. A failure occurring in tires due to inappropriate load range may result in loss of control of the vehicle and a crash can occur.
Remedy: Blue Bird will mail final stage manufacturer certification decals with the tire load rating indicated to its customers.
Production Dates: 2/17/99 – 8/13/04 04V-426
Model(s): 1999-2005 All American, TC2000, Micro Bird, (R04JB)
Vision, Conventional, and Commercial Series school
buses equipped with sure-loc wheelchair Securement systems.
Recall Description: In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and replace the defective part free of charge.
Production Dates: 2/11/04 – 7/23/04 04V-399
Model(s): 2005 All American school buses equipped with
Cummins 8.3l and 8.9l ISC and ISL diesel engines P/N 3970750.
Recall Description: Oil can leak into the engine compartment from a crack in the cup plug.
Remedy: Blue Bird has notified the agency that Cummins Engine will notify Blue Bird customers and handle the repairs free of charge. Owners should contact Cummins Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-343-7357. (See Cummins recall 04E-059 – Cummins ID No. 0437)
Production Dates: 5/24/04 – 712/04 04V-362
Model(s): 2005 Blue Bird All American model school buses (R04HV)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” The rivet pattern may be incorrect in sections of the rear roof sheet joint that attaches to the rear roof cap. In the event of a crash, these panels could separate, exposing vehicle occupants to increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and provide instructions and parts to add additional rivets as needed.
Production Dates: 3/3/03 – 4/5/04 04V-222
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Blue Bird All American school and transit buses (R04HT)
Recall Description: School and transit buses equipped with driver's 3-point seat belts with incorrect fasteners. In the event of a vehicle crash, the fasteners can pull out, leaving the seat occupant not properly restrained which could result in serious injuries or death.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers to make an appointment with their Blue Bird distributor to have the driver's 3-point seat belt upper attaching fasteners replaced free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/10/04 – 4/20/04 04V-213
Model(s): 2005 Blue Bird All American school buses (R04HS)
Recall Description: The inside panels adjacent to the rear center emergency door (or rear center emergency window on rear engine models) may not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” These buses were manufactured without adhesive between the joints of the inside panels adjacent to the rear center emergency door (or rear center emergency window on rear engine models). In the event of a vehicle crash, these panels may separate, exposing the occupants to an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: Blue Bird will remove and properly adhere the inside rear panels.
Production Dates: 6/12/03 – 9/24/03 03V-401
Model(s): 2004 Blue Bird Vision school buses R03HE
Recall Description: The buss bar that connects the ammeter shunt to the engine intake grid heater mega fuse was incorrectly installed. The improper installation of the buss bar creates excessive electrical resistance and potential overheating in the grid heater power circuit, possibly resulting in a vehicle fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify and provide owners with parts and instructions to repair the buses.
Production Dates: 8/3/00 – 8/26/03 03V-364
Model(s): 2001-2004 All American (A3FE, A3RE), TC/2000 (TCFE, R03HB
TCRE, T2RE) and Conventional (SBCV, GMCV, BBCV)
Model school buses
Recall Description: On certain school buses equipped with optional seat belts or seat belt “ready” seats, some belts were installed with only two (2) bolts rather than the required three (3) bolts. In the event of a vehicle crash, these seats could detach from the wall side attachment points, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify and provide owners with parts and instructions to install the missing bolt.
Production Dates: 8/31/90 – 8/22/03 03V-363
Model(s): 1991-2004 All American (A3RE) and TC/2000 (TCRE, R03GZ
T2RE) rear engine school buses
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” One or more of the bolts attaching the
driver’s platform to the floor structure was omitted. The rear of the driver’s platform may not be properly retained in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury or death to the passengers.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify its customers and repair the affected vehicles.
Production Dates: 10/1/02 – 8/16/03 03V-362
Model(s): 2001-2004 All American (A3RE) school buses R03HC
Recall Description: The type and location of the fasteners used to retain the seat belt in the last row of seats does not conform to Blue Bird’s engineering specifications. In the event of a crash, this installation may not adequately retain the seat belts, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify and provide owners with parts and instructions to install the correct fasteners.
Production Dates: 6/12/03 – 9/23/03 03V-355
Model(s): 2004 Blue Bird Vision school buses R03GX
Recall Description: The power cables that run from the starter to the power distributor unit may chaff against the bottom corner of the front floor panel, resulting in an electrical short. An electrical short could result in the shut down of engine parts or result in an underhood fire.
Remedy: Blue Bird will notify and provide owners with parts and instructions to install revised mounting brackets.
Production Dates: 3/5/98 – 6/3/99 03V-085
Model(s): 1998 and 1999 All American, Commercial Series,
and TC2000
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with Cummins ISB 6 cylinder engines, the lower alternator support brace or mounting hardware can loosen or break which will allow the alternator to drop onto the engine. In this event, the electrical wiring harness may be damaged and the possibility of fire may exist.
Remedy: Cummins will notify customers and replace the upper and lower alternator support brackets free of charge. Should contact Cummins at 1-800-343-7357 or Blue Bird at 478-822-2242 for more information. (Cummins Identification Code 0305)
Production Dates: 6/5/02 – 10/31/02 02V-303
Model(s): All American 2000 (R02GP)
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with Caterpillar 3126E engines and Felsted electronic pedal assemblies, an internal return spring on the throttle position sensor was incorrectly manufactured. The spring, which is too long, cuts a trace into the printed circuit board causing the sensor to fail. This will cause the engine to return to idle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the throttle position sensors. Any chafed brake hoses will be replaced. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 12/17/01 – 10/28/02 02V-302
Model(s): 2003 and 2004 All American, Commercial, and TC2000 (R02GR)
Recall Description: On certain front engine school and transit buses equipped with hydraulic brakes, the rear hydraulic brake hose could contact the frame rail and abrade, allowing brake fluid leakage. If this occurs, vehicle braking could be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear brake hose to frame rail clearance and reposition the brake hose clamps at the axle to ensure adequate clearance. Any chafed brake hoses will be replaced. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 3/9/98 – 2/25/99 02V-233
Model(s): Commercial Series and TC2000 (R02GK)
Recall Description: On certain front engine school and transit buses equipped with Blue Bird option 40177 Cummins ISB engine, the alternator power cables may not be routed properly from the alternator output to the starter motor. If the cables are not routed properly, the cable insulation could be abraded by contact with other chassis components resulting in a short to ground.
Remedy: Dealers will add a loom and reroute the electrical power cable from alternator output to starting motor. The alternator power cable will be replaced if abrasions are found. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 6/5/01 – 7/11/02 02V-217
Model(s): 2002 and 2003 All American and Commercial Series (R02GE)
Recall Description: On certain rear engine school and transit buses equipped with Cummins ISB engines, the wiring harness to the combustion air intake grid heater could chafe against engine components. The harness can wear through causing an electrical short in the grid heater power supply, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Owners will be contacted and advised to add a bracket to support the harness away from the engine components. Blue Bird will provide a replacement harness for any harnesses found abraded and will reimburse the customer for the labor required to replace the harness. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 6/21/02 02V-177
Model(s): 2002 All American, Commercial Series, and TC2000 (R02GC)
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with Allison 2000 series transmissions, the "Range Inhibited" indicator light on the dash was improperly installed and does not function. The operator will not be alerted that the transmission operation is being inhibited and that the range shifts being requested by the operator may not occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Distributors and owners will be instructed to remove the dash and activate the indicator "Range Inhibited" light according to instructions provided. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 5/13/00 – 6/25/02 02V-160
Model(s): 2001 and 2002 All American, Micro Bird, and TC2000 (R02GG)
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with passenger seat belts with retractors, the cover halves for the retractable portion of the belt can separate completely and release the seat belt connector. If this occurs, one of the load bearing pins in the connector could separate from the connector and render the seat belt unusable. In the event of a crash, the seat occupant would not be properly restrained resulting in an injury.
Remedy: The seat belt supplier, Amsafe, will provide a snap on "over-cover" to owners to prevent the seat belt cover from separating. Customers should contact Blue Bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information.
Production Dates: 7/25/01 – 3/29/02 02V-155
Model(s): 2001 and 2002 Conventional and TC2000 (R02FZ)
Recall Description: Certain school buses equipped with optional high back seats with 9" split sash, pushout windows fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, "Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release." The affected units have seats located incorrectly with respect to the pushout window openings. In the event of an emergency, an occupant may not be able to properly exit the vehicle.
Remedy: Dealers will relocate the seats and pushout windows.
Production Dates: 9/9/98 - 10/11/01 01V-338
Model(s): 1999 through 2001 Q-Bus, Commercial Series, TC2000, (R01FL)
and All American
Recall Description: School buses equipped with Hendrickson rear air suspension. Inadequate tightening of the 5/8" bolts on the rear air suspension hanger bolts and on rear axle torque arm axle seat studs can allow movement between the components which could result in the bolts and studs breaking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Production Dates: 8/2/00 - 7/30/01 01V-337
Model(s): 2000 through 2001 Conventional (R01FN)
Recall Description: School buses equipped with option 2836‑02 driver's seat belts. The seat belts are too long, preventing the belt from retracting properly and fitting the occupant as designed.
Production Dates: 2/14/01 - 10/4/01 01V-320
Model(s): 2001 through 2002 Q-Bus, Commercial Series, TC2000, and (R01FK)
All American
Recall Description: Insufficient torque on the ArvinMeritor air brake chamber mounting nuts can allow the nuts to loosen over time. This condition could reduce braking of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash.
Production Dates: 6/1/95 - 5/31/01 01V-191
Model(s): 1996 through 2001 Q-Bus, TC2000, Commercial Series, (R01FF)
and All American
Recall Description: School and transit buses equipped with rear mounted engines. The 12‑volt power supply cable(s) may be chaffed by hoses, harnesses, frame components, or clamps. This condition can result in power failure and/or risk of fire in the engine compartment.
Production Dates: 01V-060
Model(s): 2000-2001 All American, TC2000, Commercial Series, R01EM
and Q-Bus
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with a combination Spicer J230 rear axle, spring suspension, and Crewson Brunner automatic slack adjusters. The Crewson Brunner slack adjuster contacts a U‑bolt mounting bracket when a combination of the listed components are installed. The combination does not allow for full extension of the slack adjuster when brakes are applied.
Production Dates: 01V-044.003
Model(s): 1999 All America, TC2000, Commercial Series, R01ET
Wanderlodge, and LTC 40
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with tie rod assemblies manufactured by TRW. The suspect tie rods contain 24‑DL model ball sockets. Certain of the tie rod ball‑socket bearings have a below‑specification case depth and/or hardness, which can lead to premature wear of the socket.
Production Dates: 00V-279.004
Model(s): 1999-2001 All American, Commercial Series, TC2000 R00EJ
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Meritor WABCO Phase 1, D‑version Antilock Brake System (ABS), fail to comply to the requirements of FMVSS No. 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems." An internal diagnostic system in the ABS may not detect an extreme wheel speed sensor air gap. Such a condition could possibly occur during (1) original assembly or (2) subsequent wheel end service.
Production Dates: 00V-321
Model(s): 1992-1994 TC2000 and All American R00EH
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with compressed natural gas engines (CNG). The original pressure relief devices may vent unexpectedly.
Production Dates: 2/10/99 - 9/24/00 00V-245
Model(s): 1999-2001 All American R00EF
Recall Description: These buses could have improperly installed or missing pinch bolts in the steering shaft assemblies.
Production Dates: 2/2/99 - 9/4/00 00V-230.001
Model(s): 2000-1999 All American, TC2000, Q-Bus, and R00EA
Commercial Series
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with electronic engines and Felsted electronic accelerator pedals that are equipped with stainless steel or electroplated music wire return springs which can break causing the pedal to go full throttle.
Production Dates: 11/1/93 - 12/6/99 00V-219
Model(s): 1993-1999 TC2000, Conventional, and Mini Bus R00DN
Recall Description: These buses fail to meet the 60 percent joint strength requirements of FMVSS No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the roof may not be supported sufficiently, possibly causing personal injury to the bus occupants.
Production Dates: 5/6/99 - 7/13/00 00V-209
Model(s): 1999-2000 All American R00DZ
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Cummins ISC engines. The wiring harness to the combustion air intake grid heater can chafe against the engine and wear through causing an electrical short in the grid heater power supply.
Production Dates: 10/15/97 - 5/31/00 00V-162
Model(s): All American, TC2000, Q-Bus, LTC 40, R00DX
and Commercial Series
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Bendix air brakes. Bendix changed the internal design of the QR1C relay valve by adding a hole in the internal diaphragm. When the hole in the diaphragm aligns with the hole in the valve body, the brake application time increases. Under certain conditions, such as parked on an incline, driver activates the parking brake but removes foot from the threadle valve, the bus could roll before the parking brake is fully engaged.
Production Dates: 8/26/94 - 4/4/00 00V-130
Model(s): 1995-2000 Commercial Series and Transhuttle (R00DV)
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with transit sliding pushout windows. Potential sticking and/or binding of the pushout window inner frame within the outer frame results in opening forces exceeding the requirements of FMVSS No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
Production Dates: 3/98 - 2/00 00V-071
Model(s): All American (R00DS)
Recall Description: The Power Distribution Unit (PDU) cables are inadequately supported and routed in close proximity to the steering pitman arm. The cable can chafe resulting in an electrical short.
Production Dates: 3/98 - 2/00 00V-051
Model(s): All American, TC2000, Q-Bus, and Commercial Series (R00DR)
Recall Description: Buses equipped with the Bendix ABS anit-lock braking system which the primary and secondary brake thread valve air lines were installed incorrectly at the Bendix R12DC relay valve.
Production Dates: 9/98 - 11/99 99V-332
Model(s): TC2000 and Commercial Series (R99DK)
Recall Description: When the bus hits a bump or a pothole, a shimmy can occur in the front end possibly causing the driver to over react and possibly causing a crash.
Production Dates: 2/98 - 10/99 99V-289
Model(s): TC2000 (R99DF)
Recall Description: The alternator power cables may not have been routed properly which could result in the cable abrading against the motor mount.
Production Dates: 3/99 - 8/99 99V-234
Model(s): All American (R99DE)
Recall Description: These buses do not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 102, “Transmission, Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and
Transmission Braking Effect.” The neutral safety switch is wired incorrectly allowing the starter to engage when the ignition is turned “ON” followed by the transmission selector being placed in forward or reverse positions, and then the ignition turned to the “START” position. As such, the vehicle may be started when the transmission is in gear.
Production Dates: 2/96-1/99 99V-031
Model(s): Conventional buses (R99CL)
Recall Description: The battery cables may not have been routed properly on buses manufactured on chassis equipped with optional three batteries. Improper routing of the battery cables placed the positive cable immediately behind the battery hold down clamp. When the batteries are pushed back into the battery compartment, the positive cable may be chafed or pinched causing the positive cable to short out creating a potential risk of fire.
Production Dates: 8/97-1/99 99V-020
Model(s): Micro Bird (R99CK)
Recall Description: School buses equipped with 30-inch and 34-inch seats and barriers or 36, 39, and 45-inch seats and barriers with offset legs installed in the first body section behind the driver. When narrow seats and barriers (30" and 34") or seats and barriers with offset legs are installed, additional floor reinforcement is added. It was discovered this reinforcement interferes with and chafes the rubber fuel filler hose.
Production Dates: 4/97-1/99 99V-018
Model(s): TC2000, Micro Bird, Mini Bird, GPWB, (R99CN)
and Conventional school buses
Recall Description: The wall side attaching bolts for some of the passenger seats may have been inadvertently installed too close to the edge of the seat ledge and in the wrong attaching hole resulting in weakening of the seat ledge at the attachment points. In a front crash, the rear attaching bolt of these seats could pull out of the seat ledge and present a risk of occupants.
Production Dates: 6/93-1/99 99V-017
Model(s): Conventional school buses mounted on Navistar chassis (R99CM)
Recall Description: The mirrors on these buses do not fully comply with FMVSS No. 111 “Review Mirrors.”
Production Dates: 2/98 - 11/98 98V-313
Model(s): TC1000, TC2000, Commercial Series, and Q-Bus (R98CH)
Recall Description: The grid heater wiring harness may chafe against the engine and wear through causing an electrical short in the grid heater power supply.
Production Dates: 8/97-7/98 98V-176
Model(s): Micro Bird (B1VC) (R98CD)
Recall Description: On the subject units, the bolts retaining the fuel tank straps may loosen allowing the fuel tank to become dislodged.
Production Dates: 9/91-6/98 98V-153
Model(s): All American (R98CC)
Recall Description: On the subject units, movement of the hand throttle cable in the accelerator bracket rubs a grove in the accelerator bracket. The hand throttle cable may become wedged in the grove that was worn into the accelerator bracket preventing the accelerator from returning to idle position.
Production Dates: 6/96-4/98 98V-128
Model(s): TC1000 & C1
Recall Description: Steering axle brake drums, part No. 61958B, used in the axle assembly combination supplied solely to Blue Bird by Webb Wheel. The brake drum is oversized in the area above the mounting flange and prevents the disc wheel from mounting flat against the brake
drum. Prolonged exposure can lead to disc wheel cracking and subsequent disc wheel failure.
Note: Webb Wheel is conducting the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. Owners who take their buses to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Webb Wheel at 1-800-633-3256.
Production Dates: 10/96-8/97 98V-110
Model(s): TC2000 (R98CA)
Recall Description: Rear engine school buses equipped with option 04888 dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel package. The 24" long stainless steel braided fuel hoses can leak at the hose end fittings. These hoses can fracture allowing CNG fuel leakage increasing the risk of fire.
Production Dates: 5/94-5/98 98V-108
Model(s): VCTA & Microbird (R98BZ)
Recall Description: These buses were not equipped with a positive hold open device (retainer) for the rear emergency door. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.” The emergency door would not stay open until it was released, increasing the risk of personal injury in the event of an emergency.
Production Dates: 9/97-2/98 98V-043
Model(s): TC2000 & CSRE (R98BX)
Recall Description: The parking brake indicator light can illuminate without the parking brake being set. The driver may see the parking brake indicator light on and leave the bus. The bus may then roll, increasing the risk of personal injury and/or property damage.
Production Dates: 4/97-2/98 98V-037
Model(s): SBCV (R98BW)
Recall Description: School buses mounted on Freightliner FS-65 chassis. Buses equipped with system “B” mirrors do not fully comply with FMVSS No.111, “Rearview Mirrors.” A bus driver may not be able to see certain portions of the bus increasing the risk of a crash or personal injury to persons near the bus.
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COLLINS BUS CORPORATION (316) 662-9000
Production Dates: 6/12/05 – 7/1/05 06V-193
Model(s): 2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with Ricon Model S20005 wheelchair lifts.
Recall Description: The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle. This may result in injury or death.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Collins Bus customer service at 1-800-533-1850.
Production Dates: 8/1/05 – 9/15/05 05V-440
Model(s): 2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam school buses
and Super Omni buses
Recall Description: The fasteners securing the seats and the barriers to the wall track may be inadequately tightened which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages” and No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” In the event of a crash, the seat occupants may not be adequately protected, possibly resulting in serious injuries.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/04 – 11/30/04 05V-359
Model(s): 2004 Bantam and Super Bantam school buses
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a crash, the joints may come apart and individual interior ceiling skins could cause harm to the occupants of the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will install two additional screws between the current screws that attach the seams of the ceiling skins to the structural roof bows free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 3/1/05 05V-345
Model(s): 2002-2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with "5" series stop arms manufactured by Specialty Manufacturing Co.
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: Collins will notify all its customers of this campaign. For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Collins is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, Collins will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, Collins will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 3/1/05 05V-343
Model(s): 2002-2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam
school buses equipped with Specialty Mfg "5" series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: 4/22/02 – 4/27/05 05V-192
Model(s): 2002-2005 Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam model school buses
Recall Description: These buses were equipped with a bench-style single passenger seats having a lower cushion surface of 24 inches in width. These seats should have a seating surface of only 22 inches for a signal designated seating position. These seats do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” These seats should have a seating surface of only 22 inches wide to have a single designated seating position. Because the 24 inch cushion is wider than 22 inches, the potential exists for two passengers to be seated in this seat. A second passenger would not have an available seat belt for restraint and may be injured in a crash.
Production Dates: 9/18/02 – 2/17/05 05V-011
Model(s): 2002 through 2005 Collins Bantam and Super Bantam school buses
Recall Description: The protective rubber parts that cover the fuel lines to prevent contact with metal edges may be missing. The fuel lines may be cut resulting in fuel spillage and in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.
Remedy: Customers will be notified to take their buses to an authorized dealer for free repair. Dealers will inspect the fuel lines and install the protective rubber covering should it be missing. If the fuel lines are damaged, dealers will replace the fuel lines.
Production Dates: 04V-467
Model(s): 2000 through 2004 FGB, CGB, CGO, FGC, and CSB school buses
equipped with Sure-Lok wheelchair tie-down securement assemblies P/N 8625-13.
Recall Description: The sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly may be out of alignment causing the load pawl not to fully seat in the sprocket teeth. In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries.
Remedy: Sure-Lok will notify and provide a free remedy on behalf of Collins Bus. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Sure-Lok Customer Service at 866-787-3565.
Production Dates: 10/15/02 – 8/18/03 03V-318
Model(s): 2002 and 2003 Collins Grand Bantam school buses
Recall Description: O
Production Dates: 3/15/00 - 8/15/01 01V-267
Model(s): 2000 through 2001 Grand Bantam
Recall Description: School buses equipped with a floor‑mounted track used to accommodate and secure wheelchairs. The floor‑mounted track bolts, used to secure this track to the floor, are too long and protrude through the wheel well. It is possible that the protruding bolts will puncture the rear tires if the tires should be pushed up into their full jounce position.
Production Dates: 1999-2000 00V-191
Model(s): Bantam, Super Bantam, and Grand Bantam 00SR01
Recall Description: These buses were built on Ford or Chevrolet cutaway van chassis equipped with the Rosco "Euro‑style" overhanging right hand rearview mirror. These mirrors have an inadequate strength attachment at the mirror brace mounting point and could pull loose during high winds (from oncoming traffic) or severe vibration. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Production Dates: 8/99 - 10/99 99V-308
Model(s): Bantam & Super Bantam
Recall Description: Buses equipped school bus certified safety seats which do not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages.”
Production Dates: 11/98 - 12/98 98V-328
Model(s): Bantam & Super Bantam
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with safety seats which may not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, “Seat Belt Assembly.”
Production Dates: 5/96 - 5/98 98V-118
Model(s): Grand Bantam
Recall Description: Some of these buses may have been modified consisting of a notch in the lower flange of the left-hand frame rail forward of the frame cross member immediately behind
the fuel tank. In the event of a crash, the frame rail may puncture the fuel tank. This modification does not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 301, “Fuel System Integrity.”
Production Dates: 9/96-2/98 98V-061
Model(s): Grand Bantam
Recall Description: Dual rear wheel school buses built on Ford E-350 cutaway chassis. The wrong front and rear axle weight ratings are listed on the certification label. Owners could overload the axles if following the rating as listed.
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FORD MOTOR COMPANY (800) 392-3673
Production Dates: 6/18/01 – 3/20/03 03V-282
Model(s): 2001 through 2003 Ford Econoline 5.4L Cutaway Chassis 03S06
with the school bus option built at the Lorain Assembly Plant
Recall Description: On certain cutaway chassis cabs with the school bus option, the rear crossmember, reinforcement brackets, and bolts may not have been installed. In the event of a crash, the gasoline fuel tank may not be properly protected, which could result in a fuel leak. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Remedy: Ford Motor Company has contracted the services of Engineering Analysis Associates, Inc., (EAA). An EAA representative will contact the consumer and inspect the crossmember and reinforcement bracket assemblies and, if missing, will install these components on the vehicle.
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FREIGHTLINER CORPORATION (800) 547-0712
Production Dates: 4/1/06 – 5/26/06 06V-205
Model(s): 2007 Thomas Built C2 and HDX school buses (FL-477)
equipped with Bendix modulated spring brake valves
Recall Description: A defect in the modulated spring brake valve casting may cause an intermittent delay in the application of the park brake. The vehicle may roll away without warning, possibly causing personal injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the defective valves free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 2/16/06 06V-151
Model(s): 2004-2007 Thomas Built Minotour school and (FL-474)
commercial buses
Recall Description: The floor structure for the wheelchair lift fails to comply with the strength requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles. The wheelchair lift may become unstable during operation and cause injury to passengers or bystanders.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the lifts by adding reinforcement free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/16/05 – 7/1/05 06V-150
Model(s): 2004-2007 Thomas Built Minotour, FS65, MVP-EF, (FL-473)
and HDX model school buses equipped with Ricon wheelchair lifts.
Recall Description: Cracks in the lift arms may allow the mechanism to twist during stowage, preventing closure of the safety interlock switches. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Thomas Built customer support office at 336-889-4871.
Production Dates: 10/4/04 – 2/14/06 06V-136
Model(s): 2004 through 2006 Thomas Built HDX, EF, (FL-475)
and FS-65 school buses
Recall Description: The body power distribution module (PDM) was manufactured with copper circuits that are too thin for the electrical loads encountered, possibly causing the board to overheat. If the PDM overheats it may generate smoke and could result in a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the PDM's thin copper circuits with thicker copper circuits free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/17/04 – 2/20/06 06V-085
Model(s): 2004-2006 Freightliner Custom Chassis B2 (FL-472)
school buses and Thomas Built C2 school buses built with air or hydraulic brakes with a one valve park brake system and park brake release interlock
Recall Description: At higher vehicle loads, the parking brakes may not fully apply. A bus may roll if the driver releases the service brakes before the parking brakes fully apply, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash or injure passengers entering or leaving the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the park brake free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/05 – 11/30/05 06V-014
Model(s): 2006 Thomas Built HDX school buses (FL-469)
Recall Description: The front spring eyes may crack from embrittlement due to an improper heat treat process. Vehicle steering control may be reduced if abnormal front suspension noises are ignored, possibly resulting in a crash and personal injury.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the steering suspensions free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/1/04 – 5/31/05 05V-469
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Freightliner school bus, van, (FL-463)
motor home, and shuttle bus chassis equipped with a Cummins EMC
fuel system lift pump
Recall Description: Erratic voltage supply to the fuel lift pump causes premature wear of the pump. This premature wear could result in fuel lift pump failure and in some cases may cause an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall, a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Cummins will notify the owners of the Freightliner and Thomas Built vehicles and will repair the engines by EMC recalibration and replacement of the fuel lift pump at no charge to the customer.
Production Dates: 6/1/04 – 3/31/05 05V-468
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built C2 school buses (FL-461)
Recall Description: The anchor/pivot bolt supplied with the park brake is defective and could fatigue fracture prematurely, resulting in the park brake failing to apply. If the park brake anchor bolt fatigues and ultimately fractures, the park brake may not function and there may be no indication to the driver of the malfunction when the park brake is set. This may cause the vehicle to roll away without warning, which could result in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace defective anchor bolts free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/13/05 – 7/8/05 05V-467
Model(s): 2005 Thomas Built FS-65 and C2 school buses (FL-460)
equipped with ArvinMeritor or AAC rear axle spindles
Recall Description: The spindles in the rear axle housing were overheated during the heat treatment process. Incorrectly heat treated spindles could result in a fracture of the spindle. Incorrectly heat treated spindles could fracture, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect for the heat treat date code on the end of the rear spindles and replace the axle housing if necessary.
Production Dates: 1/24/04 – 6/15/05 05V-426
Model(s): Freightliner Custom Chassis FS-65 school bus chassis (FL-455)
and FB-65 shuttle bus chassis equipped with Caterpillar C7 engines and
revised cooling packages
Recall Description: The front hydraulic line may rub through on a radiator tube, possibly resulting in the loss of brake fluid to the front brakes. The defect may cause the loss of front brakes, resulting in extended stopping distances and possibly a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and secure the brake line to provide more clearance free of charge.
Production Dates: 12/17/04 – 7/28/05 05V-397
Model(s): 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-459)
equipped with 30" or 40" left side emergency door exits
Recall Description: The telescoping slide that holds the side emergency door open is located such that it will move past its normal travel and the mechanism may latch on the end of the slide preventing the door from opening. The side emergency door may not open if the latch mechanism is in the incorrect position. Occupants would have to use the front entry door or rear emergency exit if a situation occurred that required an emergency exit.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/26/04 – 10/29/04 05V-393
Model(s): 2004 Freightliner Business Class M2 and Thomas (FL-458)
Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses equipped with a Caterpillar C-7 engine and Borg-Warner KYS 4735 35480 55 engine fan.
Recall Description: The fan shroud may be drawn back into the fan at high engine speeds when the fan clutch engages. Due to reduced clearance, heavy contact between the fan and the shroud may cause the fan blade to fracture.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine fan with a fan that has a different mounting offset free of charge.
Production Dates: 8/1/04 – 5/5/05 05V-392
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-456)
Recall Description: There is an excessive gap between adjoining interior panels above the rear right side window which does not conform to the strength requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” A noncompliance with FMVSS 221 may, without warning, result in an increase of a structural collapse of the school bus in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the joint by adding a bracket secured with screws and adhesive free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/1/04-8/26/05 05V-387
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-457)
Recall Description: The upper steering shaft pinch bolt may not be correctly tightened, resulting in the possible loss of the bolt, allowing joint separation and loss of steering. Sudden loss of steering without warning could result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the steering pinch bolts for the presence of torque seal. Bolts without torque seal will be tightened to factory specifications and torque seal added. These repairs will be made free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/8/02 - 3/8/05 05V-347
Model(s): 2002-2005 Thomas Built Minotour, Conventional, (FL-454)
MVP-ER, ER, HDX, and MVP-EF model school buses equipped
with Specialty Mfg "5" Series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, Thomas Built is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, dealers will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, Thomas built will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/8/02 – 3/8/05 05V-340
Model(s): 2002-2005 Thomas Built Minotour, Conventional, MVP-ER, (FL-454)
ER, HDX, and MVP-EF model school buses equipped with Specialty Mfg "5" Series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-284
Model(s): Freightliner trucks and Thomas Built school buses equipped (FL-453)
with Holland/Neway air suspension systems
Recall Description: A transverse beam casting may fracture under normal loads. If a casting breaks when the vehicle is traveling on a roadway there is the potential for pieces of the casting to become projectiles and the suspension's transverse beam may drop down low enough to contact the road surface. This will cause sparks that could potentially ignite and cause a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the defective transverse beam assemblies.
Production Dates: 11/02 – 2/05 05V-208
Model(s): 2002 through 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner ER school (FL-450)
buses and ER transit buses equipped with John Deere 8.1l compressed natural gas engines models HFN01 and HFN03.
Recall Description: The engine control unit and throttle can unexpectedly surge. These units fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124, “Accelerator Control Systems.” A sudden engine surge could possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: John Deere will notify the customers of Freightliner/Thomas Built and will update the engine control unit software free of charge.
Production Dates: 10/02 – 12/03 05V-207
Model(s): 2000 through 2003 Freightliner, Thomas MVP school bus (FL-449)
and Western Stars trucks equipped with Webasto coolant
heaters, Model DBW 2010, assembled with Webasto burner tubes, P/N 303046/26533A.
Recall Description: The stainless steel burner tube is made out of a material that is not to specification and could fail prematurely. Should the burner tube fail, the coolant heater could overheat, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy: Freightliner will notify its customers and replace the subject burner tubes with new certified burner tubes at no cost to the owner.
Production Dates: 12/1/97 – 1/31/03 05V-205
Model(s): 1998 through 2003 Freightliner FS-65 school bus chassis (FL-447)
and MB-45, MB-55, and XB shuttle bus chassis, and
Thomas Built bus: MVP-ER and MVP-EF school bus and non-school bus models equipped with Cummins ISB diesel engines and equipped with Federal-Mogal 12 and 24 volt fuel lift pumps.
Recall Description: The fuel pump could fail to transfer fuel appropriately creating an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall while the vehicle is in use, a possible vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Cummins will notify the customers of Freightliner and Thomas Built and replace the fuel lift pump free of charge.
Production Dates: 8-13-04 – 3/1/05 05V-191
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner C2 school buses (FL-445)
Recall Description: Due to software communication conflicts, the traffic control devices such as the flashing warning lights or the stop signal arm may not work or may not work correctly. These buses fail to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements of 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment,” and standard 131, “School Bus Pedestrian Safety Devices.”
Remedy: Thomas Built will notify its customers and repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 9/24/00 – 3/4/04 05V-137
Model(s): 2001 through 2004 Thomas Built MVP-EF, ER transit, (FL-441)
MVP-ER, HD, and HDX school buses
Recall Description: The tie rod assembly can fracture and fail, possibly resulting in complete separation. Tie rod failure can possibly result in complete wheel separation and a vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Thomas Built will notify its customers and will replace the tie rod assembly free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/95 – 2/96 04V-398
Model(s): 1995 and 1996 Thomas Built school buses (FL-429)
Recall Description: These buses are predominately operated on unimproved roads may have developed cracks in the bus body framing structure members (rafters) near the horizontal window header welds and at the side emergency exit doors.
Remedy: Freightliner has not yet provided the agency with a remedy and notification schedule.
Production Dates: 9/20/96 – 6/28/02 04V-343
Model(s): 1996 through 2002 FS-95 Freightliner school buses (FL-421)
Recall Description: A braided ground strap for the starter may rub on a steel chassis brake line potentially causing a fluid leak. A brake fluid leak can reduce braking effectiveness and increase the stopping distance, which could result in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the brake line and replace it, if necessary. The braided ground strap will be replaced with an insulated cable.
Production Dates: 2/1/03 – 7/18/03 03V-488
Model(s): 2003 Freightliner FS-65 school bus chassis, MB shuttle bus (FL-419A)
chassis, and XC RV chassis
Recall Description: Incorrect 1.7 inch (43 mm) axle stop bolts were installed on certain front axles. It may be possible to turn the front wheels in either direction until the tires contact or damage the other steering components, resulting in vehicle damage, or possibly, a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the incorrect bolts with bolts of the correct size and the steering gear poppets will be inspected and replaced if necessary.
Production Dates: 10/3/96 – 12/30/97 02V-248
Model(s): 1996 through 2008 Freightliner FS-65 school buses (FL-398)
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with Reyco rear axle air suspensions, deflated suspension air bags could create excessive driveline angles causing U-joint damage. The drive shaft could fall off of the bus. Following vehicles could then run over this obstacle, increasing the risk of damage to the following vehicle, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install axle stops to limit rear suspension travel and fastener torque will be checked on the suspension height control rod.
Production Dates: 3/5/99 - 3/1/02 02V-084
Model(s): 1999 through 2002 Freightliner FS-65 school buses
Recall Description: The brake hoses from the chassis to the front brake chambers could develop leaks due to the hose routing that could overstress the hose during sharp turns. This could result in reduced braking capability.
Production Dates: 7/15/99 - 12/21/99 01V-044.002
Model(s): 1999 FS-65, MVP ER, MVP EF, and Transit Liner ER
Recall Description: Trucks, school bus and motor home chassis, school buses, and transit buses equipped with tie rod assemblies manufactured by TRW. The suspect tie rods contain 24‑DL model ball sockets. Certain of the tie rod ball‑socket bearings have a below‑specification case depth and/or hardness, which can lead to premature wear of the socket.
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GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION (GM) Chevrolet (800) 222-1020
GMC (800) 462-8583
Production Dates: 8/1/01 – 6/30/04 05V-288
Model(s): 2003-2005 Model Year 4500/5500 Series Chevrolet Kodiak, (05051)
school bus chassis, and GMC TopKick vehicles; and 2003-2004 Model Year GMC school bus chassis vehicles equipped with an 8.1l engine and Hydromax brake system.
Recall Description: The power steering hose may come into contact with a portion of the intermediate steering shaft. A hole could be worn in the hose and a loss of hydraulic fluid would occur. If there is sufficient amount of fluid loss, the driver will hear a noise from the power steering pump, the brake warning light and warning tone will activate. Increased effort may be required for steering and braking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify its customers and dealers will reroute the power steering hose. If the steel braiding of the hose is exposed, dealers are to replace the hose. This remedy will be at no charge to the consumer. Owners should contact Chevrolet at 800-630-2438 or GMC at 866-996-9463.
Production Dates: 7/1/98 – 8/31/00 02V-287
Model(s): 1999 and 2000 Chevrolet C6 & C7 and GMC B7, C6, (02044)
and C7
Recall Description: Certain medium duty C-series and B7 school bus chassis equipped with a 7.4 liter gas engine and an Impco LPG conversion kit. Some of these vehicles may have engine backfires with sufficient force to damage the engine air intake system and the air cleaner filter element. If the damaged air cleaner parts are dislodged from their normal position, these parts could come in contact with the hot exhaust manifold and/or hot exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve tube resulting in a possible engine compartment fire.
Remedy: Dealers will install a redesigned mixer bonnet and air cleaner housing cover, selective upgrades in various connections related to the air induction system, and if needed, a new air cleaner filter.
Production Dates: 01V-044.009
Model(s): 1999-2000 Chevrolet and GMC C, F, and B series (01030)
school buses and medium duty trucks
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with axle assemblies which may have been manufactured with TRW Model 24-DL ball sockets. The tie rod ball‑socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket in some applications.
Production Dates: 00V-238.008
Model(s): 1998-2001 Chevrolet and GMC C, F, and B series (00078)
school buses, medium duty trucks and tractors.Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Bendix air ABS with an EC‑17 1030R electronic control unit (ECU), there have been reports of unwanted ABS activation at low speeds caused by 1) chafed ABS wheel speed sensor wires on rotating parts or 2) a damaged component at the wheel end that generates a certain type of erratic sensor signal.
Production Dates: 4/97-8/97 99V-057
Model(s): Chevrolet and GMC B7 school buses (98050)
Recall Description: Some of these school buses were built with an incorrect intermediate steering shaft. The overlap in the slip joint may be insufficient and could allow the steering shaft to separate.
Production Dates: 11/92 98V-299
Model(s): Chevrolet and GMC G 31303 school buses (98072)
Recall Description: These vehicles were assembled with an instrument panel wiring harness that can contact the brake pedal mounting bracket. Over time, the wiring harness would abrade on the bracket, which could result in electrical shorting. This could lead to ignition of under dash components and a subsequent vehicle fire.
Production Dates: 6/96-4/98 98V-237
Model(s): Chevrolet and GMC B7 school buses (99005)
Recall Description: The power steering fluid can leak as a result of a power steering fluid supply hose interference condition. Eventually, all power steering assist would cease, resulting in a loss of steering control.
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GIRARDIN, INC. (819) 477-3222
Production Dates: 6/29/05 – 5/10/06 06V-133
Model(s): 2005 and 2006 MB IV school and commercial buses (06-013-LIU)
and 2006 MB II school buses equipped with Ricon K-series wheelchair lifts,
P/N K5505-F1020000A & K2010-F1020000A.
Recall Description: The welding process may not have achieved full penetration along the seam of the vertical arms. Improperly welded vertical arms will not allow the lift to stow properly. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Girardin at 819-477-8222.
Production Dates: 7/6/04 – 2/10/05 06V-027
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 MB IV school and commercial buses (06-012-ACU)
equipped with Carrier compressor mount brackets, P/N 86-62400-00.
Recall Description: This weld is used to mount the secondary compressor for the supplemental air conditioning system on to the engine. If the installer does not adequately torque the mounting hardware or there is a poor quality weld at the weldment's support tab, the weldment can break or fall off. If the weldment breaks or falls off, the compressor and vacuum pump could shift causing the misalignment and eventual loss of the drive belt, possibly resulting in the loss of or impedance to the vehicle's primary braking system, and could potentially cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Owners are being instructed to contact Carrier at 717-767-3359 or visit their website at www.transicold.carrier.com for a free remedy.
Production Dates: 8/17/04 – 10/29/04 05V-365
Model(s): 2003-2005 MB II and MB IV school buses (05-011-JSU)
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams and interior panels is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. Also, due to the inadequate joint strength, these buses fail to conform to the seat test requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages. In the event of a vehicle crash, the affected panels and seats may not resist and this could possibly endanger the vehicle occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 8/8/05 05V-352
Model(s): 2002 through 2005 MB II and MB IV school buses (05-010-SAU)
equipped with "5" series stop arms manufactured by Specialty
Manufacturing Company
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: 10/23/03 – 12/16/04 05V-141
Model(s): 2003 through 2005 Girardin MB II and MB IV school buses (05-009-CRA)
built on Ford and GM chassis
Recall Description: Seats equipped with the child seat anchorage system fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” The seat back may not absorb enough energy in the event of a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in serious injury or death to the seat occupant.
Remedy: Girardin will notify its customers and install a flat bar on each side of the seat where the child seat anchorage is bolted to increase the strength of the seat back..
Production Dates: 5/14/04 – 2/9/05 05V-012
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 MB II and MB IV Ford diesel school buses (05-008-BBX)
equipped with optional bbx (battery box).
Recall Description: The electrical cables (P/Ns. 27DF01 and 27DF3001) between the batteries and the battery junction box (under the hood) has no fusable link for cable protection. There is no protection on the electrical cable and if there is a short circuit, it may possibly result in a fire.
Remedy: Girardian will notify its customers and install a fusable link at the end of the cable attached to the battery free of charge.
Production Dates: 2/26/04 – 5/7/04 04V-252
Model(s): Girardin MB IV school buses (04-006-AWB)
Recall Description: Certain school buses built on Ford E-450 chassis with option AWB-2, were equipped with a pressure switch fitting P/N 23A200 on the power steering line to assist the power brake. This fitting may leak causing loss of power steering assist. A loss of power steering assist may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Girardin will notify its customers and either replace the pressure switch fitting with a new pressure switch fitting P/N 23A200-REV A or remove the defective pressure switch fitting and install the “T” fitting.
Production Dates: 8/25/03 – 9/17/03 03V-365
Model(s): 2003 Girardin MBII and MBIV school buses (03-005-SB)
Recall Description: These seat belt assemblies do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, “Seat Belt Assemblies.” Certain buses built on Ford E-350 and E-450 chassis and GM 3500 chassis are equipped with Beam’s Industries seat belts. The metal frame of the buckle may fracture due to possible embrittlement of the steel, resulting in a potential release of the engaged tongue during use. In the event of a vehicle crash, the buckle may unlatch, possibly resulting in injury or death to the seat occupant.
Remedy: Beam’s Industries will notify the customers of Girardin directly and will provide parts and installation instructions to the owner free of charge. For further information, customers should contact Beam’s at 1-888-343-9266 or customers can contact Girardin.
Associated equipment recall No.(s): 03E-046
Production Dates: 10/12/99 - 3/23/01 01V-145.002
Model(s): 1999-2001 school buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Rosco Cross Over Mirrors and manufactured between October 12, 1999, and March 23, 2001. The position of the driver's rear view mirror does not allow complete visibility of pedestrians as required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Production Dates: 01V-118
Model(s): 1998-2001 MBIV (01-001-AB)
Recall Description: The inner body panel could contact and damage the wiring harness by the driver's seat. If the wires are damaged, and a contact between those wires occurs, the air bag could inadvertently deploy.
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INTERNATIONAL TRUCK AND ENGINE CORPORATION (800) 448-7825
Formerly: Navistar International Transportation Corp.
IC CORPORATION: (800) 843-5615
Production Dates: 3/17/04 – 5/15/05 06V-189
Model(s): 2004 through 2007 CE and BE school buses (06504)
and 1300 and 3300 model vehicle chassis
Recall Description: There are two specific defects that will be remedied by this recall:
1.) The park brake system may activate while the vehicle is under normal operation. Although the vehicle is brought to a stop, the activation may occur without warning or input from the driver and may strand the vehicle in an active lane. Should the park brake activate and strand the vehicle, it may contribute to a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
2.) The spring applied, hydraulic release (SAHR) park brake actuator could experience a hydraulic lock condition that will not allow the park brake to apply. Should the park brake not apply, a vehicle roll away can occur and may result in a crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/12/05 – 3/29/06 06V-138
Model(s): 2006 and 2007 FE, RE, IC school buses and CE school (06503)
and commercial buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with Ricon 1200, 2000, and 5500 series wheelchair lifts. The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle. This may result in personal injury or death.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884, or owners may contact International at 1-800-448-7825.
Production Dates: 2/10/04 – 12/15/05 05V-561
Model(s): 2005-2007 CE and MY 2007 BE school and transit buses (05524)
Recall Description: Passenger coat strings or carry on items can get caught between the door control bracket and the door control arm as the passenger exits the bus. If the driver is unaware of the situation, the entrance door may be closed, capturing the item in the door. Death or injury could occur to the person exiting the bus.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/20/05 10/17/05 05V-517
Model(s): 2006 RESB (PB305) and RECB (PC305) school (05522)
and commercial buses
Recall Description: The primary and secondary air supply tubes from the foot valve to the primary and secondary air tanks were reversed at the tank which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 121, “Air Brake Systems.” If the primary air circuit is damaged, the brakes will not apply when the brake pedal is depressed, potentially causing a vehicle crash without warning and possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair the buses free of charge.
Production Dates: 6/4/04 – 3/31/05 05V-368
Model(s): 2005 through 2006 CE school buses (05518)
and International heavy trucks
Recall Description: The anchor bolt that is the pivot point for the driveline parking brake shoes may fatigue and break as a result of an incorrect surface treatment. If the bolt breaks, the park brake may not engage. This could cause the vehicle to roll away without warning and could result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the anchor bolts free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 6/21-05 05V-337
Model(s): 2002-2007 BESB, CESB, FESB, and RESB school buses (05517)
equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: International will notify all its customers of this campaign. For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, International is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, International will replace the switch upon owner request. For those customers who request the remedy, International will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 6/22/05 05V-331
Model(s): 2002 through 2004 3800; 2002 through 2006 CESB, FESB, (05516)
and RESB; and 2006 and 2007 BESB school buses equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: International will notify its owners and replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: 4/1/04 – 6/16/04 04V-507
Model(s): 2005 RE school buses (04519)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 121, “Air Brake Systems.” Two check valves may not have been installed on the air tanks to isolate the primary and secondary air circuits. A leak or failure of either circuit may cause the spring brakes to automatically actuate without warning. This may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: International will notify its customers and install two check valves free of charge.
Production Dates: 5/24/04 – 8/17/04 04V-472
Model(s): 2005 International 3300, 4000, and CE school and transit (04518)
buses
Recall Description: The left turn signal light and indicator light on the instrument panel may not illuminate during hazard operation due to an incorrectly manufactured switch contact that causes intermittent contact in the turn signal stalk assembly. This results in intermittent left turn signal and indicator light operation when the hazard switch is activated. Intermittent light operation reduces the ability to warn other motorist of the driver's intentions. This could cause a vehicle crash.
Remedy: International will notify its customers and replace the turn signal stalk assemblies free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/20/04 – 8/5/04 04V-413
Model(s): 2004 International CE school buses and medium (04514)
duty trucks equipped with Robert Bosch park brake assemblies.
Recall Description: The parking brake assembly backing plate was incorrectly machined. This may cause the park brake to not fully engage and if the park brake does engage, it may not fully release. A roll-away or dragging park brake may result in personal injury or death.
Remedy: International will notify its customers and inspect and replace the park brake assembly free of charge.
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Production Dates: 3/3/04 – 8/5/04 04V-400
Model(s): 2005 International RE school buses (04512)
Recall Description: The high-pressure supply hose from the power steering pump to the steering gear may chafe against the positive stud on the starter solenoid. Or the engine electrical harness, containing the positive cable from the alternator, may be pinched between the engine and the bus body. Or an optional oil pressure switch may have been damaged during manufacturing, causing a leak to form.
Remedy: Any of these conditions listed may cause or contribute to a potential fire in the engine bay, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Production Dates: 2/28/99 – 4/5/04 04V-269
Model(s): 1999 through 2004 International 3000, 3400, 3800, CE, FE, (04507)
and RE school buses
Note: Certain trucks are also involved in this recall campaign (see International 04508).
Recall Description: On certain school buses and truck model vehicles, the anti-lock brake system (ABS) electronic control unit (ECU) may misinterpret a corrupt wheel speed signal. The corrupt wheel speed signal may improperly activate the ABS, instead of deactivating the ABS. This may result in the driver experiencing a hard pedal feel and a decrease in deceleration at the end of a stop, resulting in extended stopping distances which could cause a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Remedy: International will notify its customers and inspect and repair the affected wheels free of charge.
Production Dates: 2/3/03 - 1/22/04 04V-250
Model(s): 2003 and 2004 International 1652SC, 4700SFC, 3800, RE, (04509)
and CE school and transit buses
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses, the studs used to secure the power steering pump to the engine block can fail, resulting in engine oil leakage and complete loss of power steering. Sudden loss of power steering can possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace any suspect studs.
Production Dates: 3/12/03 – 10/20/03 04V-011
Models(s): 2003 International IC school buses (03518)
Recall Description: An incorrect brake pedal was installed, leading to misalignment. Misalignment, in conjunction with a force actuated brake switch, can cause delayed brake light activation during light braking applications. In some light braking situations, the vehicle can come to a complete stop without activation of the brake lights. If the brake lights do not activate properly under normal driving conditions, it could lead to a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the incorrect brake pedal with the correct pedal.
Production Dates: 10/28/93 – 3/21/03 03V-264
Model(s): 1993 through 2003 International 3000, FE, and RE (03513)
School, transit, and commercial buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with adjustable steering columns. The steering shaft pinch bolt interferes with the rubber boot that protects it. Over time, a hole can wear into the boot and catch the bolt. If the bolt catches on the hole, the boot may restrict the movement of the steering wheel which could possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the steering column if necessary.
Production Dates: 2/27/01 – 5/31/03 03V-024
Model(s): 2003 International 3200, 4200, 4300, and 4400 (03501)
school buses
Recall Description: Certain school buses and heavy duty trucks built with hydraulic brakes and an air powered parking brake (brake code 04gas) fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 105, “Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems.” The hydraulic brake monitor module was not installed on certain vehicles. Without the brake monitor module, the brake warning light will not come on during the initial key-on cycle and will not come on to warn the operator if there is a loss of hydraulic pressure in the brake system, a loss of power steering flow, or if the emergency brake booster motor is not functioning.
Production Dates: 9/21/01 – 6/26/02 02V-204
Model(s): 2002 and 2003 International 3200 and 4200 (02508)
school buses
Recall Description: On certain school buses and heavy duty trucks built with International VT365 engines and manufactured at international diesel of Alabama. The injector driver modules (IDM) built for the VT365 engines could have missing vibration damping/retention shells and a missing hot-melt process on the DC/DC boards. The missing shells could allow the larger electronic components to become loose and possible break off inside the module during engine operation. Depending on what electrical component comes off, the effect on engine operation could result in rough running, loss of power, no start, or in the most severe case, immediate engine shut down without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Production Dates: 8/12/97 – 2/7/02 02V-103.001
Model(s): 1998 through 2002 International 3000, FE, IC, (02505)
and RE school and transit buses
Recall Description: A brass fitting connects the double check valve to the brake relay valve. With certain inputs to the vehicle, the weight of the check valve on the fitting can cause the assembly to resonate. The subject vibration can cause excessive strain levels in the fitting, which could eventually fatigue and fail. If the fitting breaks, the rear service brakes will cease to operate without warning, resulting in an extended stopping distance, increasing the risk of a crash.
Production Dates: 5/21/91 - 11/8/96 02V-055
Model(s): 1992 - 1997 International RE, FE, and FC school buses (02502)
Recall Description: Galvanic corrosion on the die cast adapter plate causes distortion of the wagon wheel seals that are mounted on the adapter plate. If the seals become distorted, the tipper valves cannot properly seat against the wagon wheel seals. If the tipper valves cannot seat completely, the fluid can back flow past the valves towards the reservoir and create a pressure loss for the front brakes, the rear brakes, or both.
Production Dates: 2/7/94 – 8/21/02 02V-004.010
Model(s): 1994 through 2003 International RE school buses (02511)
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with electronic throttle control/accelerator pedals supplied by Williams Controls Industries, the weld attaching the clevis to the plate has insufficient penetration and could allow the clevis to separate from the plate. If the clevis separated from the plate while the vehicle was in use, the vehicle would return to idle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: International will retrofit vehicles with a new pedal rod and bracket.
Production Dates: 6/12/00 – 11/17/00 01V-022
Model(s): 2000 and 2001 International 1652, Commercial, (01501)
and IC school, stripped chassis, and commercial buses
Recall Description: Misalignment of the brake pedal can cause delayed brake light activation during light braking applications. If the brake lights do not activate properly, other drivers would not be aware of the brake application, which could lead to a crash.
Production Dates: 7/5/99 – 10/31/99 00V-246.005
Model(s): 1999 and 2000 International 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, (00513)
8000, FE, and RE school buses and heavy trucks
Recall Description: School and heavy duty trucks equipped with TRW drag links. Each drag link assembly contains two 20-EDL model ball socket assemblies. Certain of the ball-socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket. This can lead to premature wear with possible separation of the ball stud from the socket, increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Production Dates: 3/1/98 - 7/13/00 00V-232.101
Model(s): 1998-2000 AmTran FE and RE school buses (00508)
Recall Description: School buses built with Bendix air ABS with an EC‑17 1030R electronic control unit (ECU). There have been reports of unwanted ABS activation at low speeds caused by 1) chafed ABS wheel speed sensor wires on rotating parts or 2) a damaged component at the wheel end that generates a certain type of erratic sensor signal.
Production Dates: 3/1/98 – 5/29/00 00V-176
Model(s): 1998-2000 International 2000, 3000, 4000, 8000 (00505)
and 9000 school buses and heavy duty trucks
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks built with Bendix air ABS. The ABS sensor wires on rotating parts chafes which can lead to a false signal being sent to the Bendix ABS electronic control unit (ECU). This could cause the air ABS ECU to exhaust the air at the air brake modulators for one or more of the wheels.
Production Dates: 02/00 - 03/00 00V-148
Model(s): 3400, 3800, 4700 4x2, 4700 LPX, 4700 LP, RE BUS, (00503)
and RE CMRCL
Recall Description: School/Transit buses and medium duty trucks. The castings used on the power steering pumps were not built to match the engineering drawings, resulting in a thin wall in the pump casting or a complete connection of two passages that are supposed to be separated
to control fluid flow. The fluid flow may be reduced to less than the minimum required flow rate to provide full power assist to the brake system with low engine speed. An increase in stopping distance at slow engine speeds can result, increasing the possibility of a crash.
Production Dates: 08/97 - 09/00 99V-331
Model(s): 3800 & FE (99511)
Recall Description: An air brake line controlling the rear brakes may be too close to the exhaust pipe and could rupture at any time without warning. Exhaust pipe heat can melt or cause premature failure of this air line.
Production Dates: 5/20/98 – 5/6/99 99V-263
Model(s): 1998 and 1999 Navistar 3800 transit and school buses (99509)
Recall Description: Transit and school buses built with ABS air brake ECU and a 100 gallon fuel tank mounted between the rails and behind the rear axle on models with a 276" wheel base. The ABS ECU interfered with the cross member mounted behind the rear axle and in front of the between the rails fuel tank. This created a no-build situation at the plant - the plant would either eliminate or relocate the cross member or move the ECU as needed. If the cross member is either missing or relocated the vehicle may not have adequate fuel tank protection. In the event of a crash, the bus may not have adequate fuel tank protection if the vehicle has a missing or improperly installed cross member.
Production Dates: 12/98 - 05/99 99V-262
Model(s): 3800, 3400, 4700, and 4900 (99508)
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks built with rear leaf spring suspensions which the frame to the axle hose length was too long, a chafing condition exists on suspension components, which could result in hose rupture. On vehicles where the hoses are too short, a hose separation could occur with severe suspension articulation.
Production Dates: 01/11/99 - 01/20/99 99V-055.001
Model(s): 2500, 2500, 3800, 4700, 4900, 5000, 8100, 9100, 9200, (99504)
9400, 9800, 9900, FE BUS, and 4800
Recall Description: School/transit buses and heavy duty trucks equipped with Meritor brake automatic slack adjusters. Some of the automatic slack adjusters had insufficient torque applied to the guide pawl cap screw. Without sufficient torque on the guide pawl cap screw, the brakes could gradually lose adjustment, increasing the vehicle stopping distance.
Production Dates: 05/96 - 10/97 99V-033.001
Model(s): 3400, 1552, 1652, 3600, 3800, 4700, and 4900 (99501)
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks equipped with Spicer 6,000 or 8,000 lb. front steer axles. The tie rod end can pull outboard and separate from the tie rod tube due to improper thread engagement between the male tie rod end and the female tube. Separation of the tie rod could result in loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Production Dates: 01/97 - 12/97 98V-291
Model(s): 3400, 3800, 4700, RE, 1652, and 3600 (98509)
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks equipped with T444E diesel engines. A fuel leak can occur because of over-crimping of the hose end fittings on the hose from the regulator to the left head and the hose from the fuel transfer pump to the regulator.
Production Dates: 12/97 - 08/98 98V-289
Model(s): 3400, 3800, and 4700 (98507)
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks equipped with T444E diesel engines. The high pressure oil line for the fuel injection system that goes from the high pressure oil pump
to the right cylinder head can chafe against the charge air cooler crossover pipe. If this condition occurs, the hose will fall, resulting in a sudden loss of oil, causing the engine to have a sudden loss of power.
Production Dates: 07/97 - 07/98 98V-228
Model(s): 3800, 4700, and 4900 (98506)
Recall Description: School buses and heavy duty trucks equipped with a 1710 drive line and a 12 x 4 hydraulic parking brake. If the brake drum or transmission yoke are not fully seated when the engine bolts are installed connecting the 3-piece joint, the bolts can loosen. Bolts will eventually work out of shear resulting in drum and drive shaft separation.
Production Dates: 01/94 - 07/97 98V-119.002
Model(s): 3400, 1652 SC, and 4700 (98503)
Recall Description: School/Transit buses and trucks equipped with an optional automatic shift lever that includes a park brake position. The transmission shifter/park brake lever can bind before fully engaging in the park brake position causing a false park condition. The vehicle can move after being placed in park increasing the risk of a crash.
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LES ENTERPRISES MICHEL CORBEIL, INC. (514) 439-3577
Production Dates: 4/26/04 – 5/21/04 05V-472
Model(s): 2004 Corbeil Minibus school buses (W0070)
Recall Description: An inadequate quantity of glue was used to seal the ceiling joints which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the longitudinal roof joint could have less strength as required by FMVSS 221, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will repair the buses by adding additional glue and/or screws to enforce the ceiling joints free of charge.
Production Dates: 5/3/04 – 6/4/04 05V-471
Model(s): 2004 Corbeil school buses (W0071)
Recall Description: Expired glue was used to adhere the roof joints which fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, the longitudinal roof joint could have less strength as required by FMVSS 221, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners will be provided with a free repair kit.
Production Dates: 1/21/02 – 7/31/05 05V-429
Model(s): 2001-2005 Corbeil Minibus school buses equipped (W0066)
with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in the following states: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected. Customers may contact Specialty Manufacturing at 1-800-951-7867 or Collins Bus Customer Service at 1-800-533-1850.
Production Dates: 1/28/03 – 2/25/05 05V-140
Model(s): 1998 through 2005 Corbeil Minibus school buses built (W0061)
on Ford chassis.
Recall Description: The front cross view mirrors fail to conform to the visibility requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, “Rear View Mirrors.” Driver's do not have a complete view of the front of the bus. The presence of a child near the front bumper could not been seen by the driver and the child could be seriously injured or killed should the vehicle move.
Remedy: Corbeil will notify its customers and replace the right hand cross mirror bracket to bring the vehicle into compliance with the regulation.
Production Dates: 11/89-11/98 98V-330
Model(s): Corbeil Minibus school buses built on General Motors
and Ford chassis
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with certain requirements of FMVSS No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
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Production Dates: 12/1/02 –10/31/03 04V-058
Model(s): 2003 Liberty Spirit school buses (LBRE001)
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 120, “Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles Other Than Passenger Cars.” The certificate label for the rim size is incorrect.
Remedy: Liberty Bus will mail the correct labels to its customers.
Production Dates: 6/1/02 – 10/31/02 04V-050
Model(s): 2003 Liberty Spirit school buses (222/01/LIB)
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention.” The rear exit door handle is not recessed so it can catch on an article of clothing or a back pack, inadvertently opening the door. Also, the required positive door opening device for the rear exit door does not hold the door at 90 degrees with the body. In the event of a vehicle crash, and the vehicle ends up on its side, the door will not operate properly possibly hindering rapid egress from the vehicle.
Remedy: Liberty Bus will notify its customers and will install a metal bezel around the handle to recess it.
Production Dates: 6/1/02 – 10/31/02 04V-049
Model(s): 2003 Liberty Spirit school buses (217/01/LIB)
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” The washer that is used between the seat leg mounting foot and mounting bolt is not wide enough or of the proper grade. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seat could separate from the floor. Also, there is insufficient pillar padding which could result in head injuries in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Liberty Bus will notify its customers and repair the seats with three (3) additional washers.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 10/31/02 03V-461
Model(s): 2003 Liberty Spirit school buses
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111, “Rearview Mirrors.” The decal for the cross-view mirror usage can fall off the bulkhead.
Remedy: Liberty Bus will mail the plate and the fasteners along with instructions on how to affix the plate to the bulkhead.
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MID BUS, INC. (877) 358-6055
Production Dates: 6/1/05 – 1/31/06 06V-194
Model(s): 2005 Guide XL school buses equipped
with Ricon's 1200, 2000, and 5500 series platform wheelchair lifts
Recall Description: The platform lifts may have a defect in the weld which will allow a joint on the vertical lift to crack. In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon is conducting this recall (please see 06E008000) and will replace the two vertical arms even if only one arm is cracked free of charge. Owners may contact Ricon Customer Support Dept. at 800-322-2884 or owners may contact Mid Bus Customer Service at 1-877-358-6055.
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 4/30/05 05V-490
Model(s): 2002-2005 model year Guide DX, Guide SW, Guide XL,
and SC school buses equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: Buses originally sold in or currently registered in states other than the following: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and the District of Columbia. In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian(s) may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY.
Remedy: For those buses operated in or near any of the states listed above, mid bus is encouraging the bus owners to obtain the replacement switch. For those buses operated in the warmer states, Mid Bus will replace the switch upon the owner’s request. For those customers who request the remedy, mid bus will replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 4/30/05 05V-292
Model(s): 2002-2005 Guide DX, Guide SW, Guide XL, and SC school buses
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing motorists should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and replace the original switch with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/2002 – 4/30/05 05V-203
Model(s): 2002-2005 Guide school buses
Recall Description: These buses are equipped with a bench-style single passenger seats having a lower cushion surface of 24 inches in width. These seats should have a seating surface of only 22 inches for a signal designated seating position. These seats do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” Because the 24 inch cushion is wider than 22 inches, the potential exists for two passengers to be seated in this seat. A second passenger would not have an available seat belt for restraint and may be injured in a crash.
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and replace the 24 inch seat cushion with a 22 inch seat cushion free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/16/01 – 7/1/04 04V-503
Model(s): 2000 through 2004 Mid Bus Guide and Guide XL school
and transit buses equipped with Sure-Lok wheelchair tie-down securement assemblies P/N /n 8625-13.
Recall Description: The sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly may be out of alignment causing the load pawl not to fully seat in the sprocket teeth. In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries to the seat occupant and/or other passengers.
Remedy: Sure-Lok will notify Mid Bus' customers and replace the defective part free of charge. See Sure-Lok’s equipment recall 04E-058.
Production Dates: 5/1/02 – 9/30/03 03V-403
Model(s): 2002 and 2004 Mid Bus Guide school buses
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” Various seams in the school bus bodies were improperly assembled. In the event of a vehicle crash, the seams of the bus may separate at smaller loads than expected, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and add additional fasteners to the roof seams, interior seams, and the moisture barrier skin below the floor to ensure that the seams are as intended and in the event of a crash, do not prematurely separate.
Production Dates: 9/1/99 – 8/31/03 03V-402
Model(s): 1999 through 2003 Mid Bus Guide school buses
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” The seats will not absorb the specified energy in forward or rearward pushes as required by the standard. In the event of a vehicle crash, the vehicle occupant may not be properly protected, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and fix the seats to bring them in compliance with Standard 222.
Production Dates: 1/1/99 – 9/3/03 03V-335
Model(s): 1999 through 2003 Mid Bus Guide school buses
Recall Description: The Q-straint pocket tie downs for the seats fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” In the event of a vehicle crash, one or all of the Q-straint pockets can pull away from the floor, possibly resulting in serious injury or death to the seat occupant
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and provide repair kits and installation instructions.
Production Dates: 1/1/97 – 7/21/03 03V-334
Model(s): 1997 through 2003 Mid Bus Guide school buses
Recall Description: The stop arm does not deploy when the red warning lights are illuminated as required under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 131, “School Bus Pedestrian Safety.” If the stop signal arm is not extended when the bus is loading or unloading passengers, it may increase the likelihood of vehicles passing a stopped school bus and striking pedestrians in the vicinity of the bus.
Remedy: Mid Bus will notify its customers and provide remedy free of charge.
Production Dates: 1/1/97 – 7/21/03 03V-334
Model(s): 1997 through 2003 Mid Bus Guide school buses
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Emergency Exists and Window Retention.” The rear door latch has insufficient lubrication, requiring more force to open the door than allowed by the Standard. The increased opening load on the latch could be a problem in the event of an emergency.
Remedy: Owners are being advised on how to properly lubricate the door latch or, if they prefer, a dealer can perform the remedy for the customer.
Production Dates: 99V-298
Model(s): School Bus built on Chevrolet cutaway chassis
Recall Description: The emergency egress zone is partially blocked by passenger seats. This does not meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard No 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
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SPARTAN MOTORS, INC. (800) 543-5008
Production Dates: 2/5/98 – 12/7/00 05V-063
Model(s): 1998 through 2000 Spartan school and specialty buses (SPEC 05006)
equipped with Cummins ISB diesel engines.
Recall Description: The fuel pump could fail to transfer fuel appropriately creating an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall while the vehicle is in use, a possible vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Customers will be notified by Cummins to bring their vehicles in to an authorized dealer to have the remedy done free of charge. See Cummins equipment recall 05E-007.
Production Dates: 2/25/99 – 5/21/02 04V-311
Model(s): 1999 through 2002 Spartan Summit motor homes, (04011)
front engine school buses and transit buses equipped with Dana front axle containing Bosch hydraulic disc brakes with zero offset slide calipers (ZOPS).
Recall Description: Bosch has decided that the presence of corrosion in the vicinity of the caliper seal land can contribute to reduced piston mobility in some cases and lead to performance issues causing overheating. Overheated brake components may not allow the drive to stop safely, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash. This overheating could also result in a vehicle fire.
Remedy: Spartan will replace the brake calipers and pads free of charge.
Production Dates: 7/7/99 - 8/31/00 00V-246.207
Model(s): 2000-1999 SB, TB, Alpine, and Summit (SPEC 00016)
Recall Description: These school buses are equipped with TRW drag links. Each drag link assembly contains two 20‑EDL model ball socket assemblies. Certain of the ball‑socket bearings
have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket.
Production Dates: 5/15/97 - 7/21/98 00V-216
Model(s): 1997-1998 SB2142 (SPEC00003)
Recall Description: Front engine Carpenter school buses with front air suspensions. Due to frame flexing, both the track bar mount, mounting bolts, and the steering box mounting bolts could loosen which could allow subsequent fracture or torque loss of these bolts. The spring beam could also fracture.
Production Dates: 6/95 - 3/98 00V-001
Model(s): SB B5.9 front diesel engine (SPEC 99009)
Recall Description: Due to the accelerator cable engine mount bracket having an incorrect bend angle, the accelerator cable has a compound bend radius which allows the inner cable to wear through the outer cable sheath end fittings and possibly jam in the groove resulting from this wear. The engine throttle may then fail to react to accelerator pedal movements.
Production Dates: 11/89-11/98 99V-008
Model(s): SB-2142 front engine, spring suspension school buses (SPEC 98060)
Recall Description: Due to frame flexing, both the front spring hanger mounting bolts and the steering box mounting bolts can loosen allowing subsequent fracture or torque loss of these bolts. This would allow the front axle to move affecting directional control of the vehicle.
Production Dates: 3/98 98V-173
Model(s): SB-2242 school bus (SPEC 98018)
Recall Description: The brake indicator light had the symbol but not the word “BRAKE” on it. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 105, “Hydraulic Brake Systems.”
THOMAS BUILT BUSES, INC. 877-660-4938
Newer Recalls are listed under Freightliner
Production Dates: 2/5/01 – 2/22/02 02V-320
Model(s): 2001 and 2002 Thomas Safe-T-Liner ER, Safe-T-Liner
HD, Transit Liner ER, and Transit Liner MVP-ER
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses equipped with Reyco rear axle air suspensions, deflated suspension air bags could create excessive driveline angles causing U-joint damage. The drive shaft could fall off of the bus. Following vehicles could then run over this obstacle, increasing the risk of damage to the following vehicle, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install axle stops to limit rear suspension travel and fastener torque will be checked on the suspension height control rod.
Production Dates: 8/17/00 – 3/14/01 02V-160.009
Model(s): On certain school or transit buses with passenger seat belts with retractors, the cover halves for the retractable portion of the belt can separate completely and release the seat belt connector. If this occurs, one of the load bearing pins in the connector could separate from the connector and render the seat belt unusable. In the event of a crash, the seat occupant would not be properly restrained resulting in an injury.
Remedy: The seat belt supplier, Amsafe, will provide a snap on "over-cover" to owners to prevent the seat belt cover from separating.
Production Dates: 3/3/99 – 6/26/02 02V-220
Model(s): 1999 through 2002 Thomas Minotour
Recall Description: Certain school and transit buses fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages." The seat belt anchorages will only hold 4,400 lbs. in lieu of the required 5,000 lbs. In the event of a crash, a seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will add a fastener to the track mounted seat.
Production Dates: 6/1/99 – 3/7/02 02V-221
Model(s): 1999 through 2002 Thomas ER Transit, MVP EF, and
MVP ER
Recall Description: On certain school and transit buses, the wheel lug nut may not be tightened completely. The wheel could loosen increasing the risk of loss of control of the vehicle.
Remedy: Dealers will install new wheel studs.
Production Dates: 1/11/96 - 11/30/01 01V-378
Model(s): 1996 through 2001 MVP EF
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, "Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release." A third roof hatch must be added to meet the standard requirements. Only vehicles located in the state of Washington are involved.
Production Dates: 3/5/01 - 8/10/01 01V-341
Model(s): 2001 MVP ER, MVP EF, Saf-T-Liner, and Conventional
Recall Description: Certain school buses equipped with SynTec seats fail to conform to the requirements of FMVSS No. 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection." Some seats (1) fail to meet the required four inch clearance during the test procedure, while still meeting the post test condition; (2) fail to meet the required frontal pre‑load when testing under certain conditions; or (3) while still meeting the required force/defection, experience weld breakage.
Production Dates: 1/9/99 - 5/15/01 01V-214
Model(s): 1999 through 2001 Conventional
Recall Description: The main body power supply wire from the chassis can chafe on the chassis (cowl) sheet metal panel, causing arcing and could result in a fire.
Production Dates: 10/1/00 - 2/28/01 01V-104
Model(s): 2000 through 2001 Saf-T-Liner ER, Saf-T-Liner HD, Transit Liner HD,
and Transit Liner ER
Recall Description: Certain school buses built with composite front roof caps fail to comply with requirements of FMVSS No. 221, "School Bus Body Joint Strength." The roof cap does not meet the requirements due to the omission of the adhesive that joins the roof to the bus body. In the event of a crash, the roof of the bus may crush, not properly protecting the vehicle occupants.
Production Dates: 8/7/00 - 8/18/00 01V-097.009
Model(s): 2000 ER Model, MVP ER, MVP EF, Conventional, and Minotour
Recall Description: School and transit buses equipped with safety belt assemblies produced by Am‑Safe. On some seat belts, the buckle and connector may unlatch during a collision.
Production Dates: 10/1/00 - 2/28/01 01V-105
Model(s): 2000-2001 MVP ER and ER Transit
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with requirements of FMVSS No. 121, "Air Brake Systems." These vehicles do not comply due to the low air warning system detecting pressure in only one reservoir system and not both as required.
Production Dates: 10/1/00 - 2/28/01 01V-104
Model(s): 2000-2001 MVP ER and ER Transit
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with requirements of FMVSS No. 221, "School Bus Body Joint Strength." The roof cap does not meet the requirements due to the omission of the adhesive that joins the roof to the bus body.
Production Dates: 10/1/00 - 3/31/01 01V-103
Model(s): 2000-2001 SAF-T-Liner, SAF-T-Liner HD, Transit Liner ER,
and Transit Liner HD
Recall Description: The accelerator pedal can possibly hang up on the floor rubber.
Production Dates: 4/1/00 - 10/31/00 00V-428
Model(s): MVP EF
Recall Description: School and transit buses equipped with air brakes and a TRW steering gear. The pinch bolt on the pitman arm contacts the exhaust port on the air brake treadle valve during steering maneuvers.
Production Dates: 11/1/99 - 3/14/00 00V-380
Model(s): Vista and Conventional
Recall Description: Certain school buses and transit buses equipped with National Seating's Series 93B‑SB driver seat. A bracket attaching the gas spring shock to the height adjuster of the seat can deform and break. This bracket is located at the top of the height adjuster.
Production Dates: 4/1/96 - 9/30/00 00V-362
Model(s): Conventional, MVP-ER, MVP-EF, Vista, TL960, CL960, and ER Transit
Recall Description: Certain school buses and transit buses equipped with National Seating's Series 93B‑SB driver seat. A bracket attaching the gas spring shock to the height adjuster of the seat can deform and break. This bracket is located at the top of the height adjuster.
Production Dates: 2/13/98 - 8/3/00 00V-232.011
Model(s): 1997-2000 MVP ER, MVP EF, and ER Transit
Recall Description: School bus chassis and emergency vehicles built with Bendix air ABS with an EC‑17 1030R electronic control unit (ECU), there have been reports of unwanted ABS activation at low speeds caused by 1) chafed ABS wheel speed sensor wires on rotating parts or 2) a damaged component at the wheel end that generates a certain type of erratic sensor signal.
Production Dates: 12/1/94 - 7/31/00 00V-174
Model(s): 1994-2000 MVP and ER Transit
Recall Description: School buses with Weldon Technologies' 5050‑1400 surface mount marker lights. These buses have an option to replace each of the twelve clearance/marker/identification lights with four‑candlepower lights, twice the candlepower normally used. The higher current
demand created by these lights can cause excessive heat through the headlight switch connection if a relay is not installed between the combination tail/marker light circuit and the headlight switch.
Production Dates: 10/1/95 - 8/31/99 00V-041
Model(s): 1995-1999 MVP
Recall Description: School buses equipped with Neway AD 200 rear air suspensions. There is interference between the suspension U‑bolt and the rear axle which can cause the U‑bolt to crack and fall off.
Production Dates: 11/1/93 - 7/31/96 99V-266
Model(s): 1993 -1996 Minotour
Recall Description: School buses built on Chevrolet chassis with a corrugated steel floor and and equipped with 45" wide restraining passenger seats. The 45" wide restraining passenger seat fails to comply with the performance requirements of FMVSS No. 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Production Dates: 3/1/94 - 1/25/99 99V-177
Model(s): 1994-1999 MVP
Recall Description: Transit and school buses equipped with Cummins ISB or Caterpillar 3126 engines. A decal that warns of the danger of using ether or other starting fluids in the engine air intake system was omitted. The label should be located on the fixed headlight panel on the front of the bus.
Production Dates: 3/1/94 - 3/31/99 99V-176
Model(s): 1994-1999 MVP
Recall Description: Transit and school buses equipped with electronic engines. The bottom edge of the accelerator pedal can catch on the floor mat when the pedal is fully depressed. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 124, "Accelerator Control Systems."
Production Dates: 7/1/95 - 1/4/99 99V-175
Model(s): 1995-1999 Conventional
Recall Description: Transit and school buses equipped with air suspension driver seat. Tether belts used to anchor the seat belt assembly to the floor were not installed on buses equipped with an air ride driver seat. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
Production Dates: 7/1/97 - 5/19/98 99V-174
Model(s): 1997-1998 Minotour
Recall Description: School and transit buses built on General Motors chassis. To install the new aluminum Minotour body, two fuel tank strap fasteners were loosened. Re‑tightening these fasteners can result in loss of clamp load, resulting in the fuel tank falling off the vehicle.
Production Dates: 7/1/95 - 10/1/98 99V-173
Model(s): 1995-1998 Conventional
Recall Description: Restraining barriers and reinforcement plates may be installed incorrectly. Nuts used to secure the plate the floor may be missing or the reinforcement plate may be mounted in a non‑standard location. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS No. 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection."
Production Dates: 11/97-12/98 99V-075
Model(s): MVP-EF and MVP-ER transit and school buses
Recall Description: The mounting bolt for the upper front shock absorber bracket can loosen in service due to the omission of a frame reinforcement from the upper shock absorber mount. The
loosened bolt could then work in the frame rail-mounting hole, which could result in hairline cracking of the frame rail in the shock absorber mounting area and possible fracture of the shock absorber mounting eye as well.
Production Dates: 6/98-11/98 98V-309
Model(s): Conventional and Vista school buses built on Navistar chassis
Recall Description: The crossview mirrors installed on these buses do not comply with FMVSS No. 111, “Review Mirrors.” The entire top surface of Cylinder H was not visible.
Production Dates: 4/96-4/98 98V-229
Model(s): Conventional, Vista, MVP-ER, MVP-EF, TL960, CL960,
and ER-Transit equipped with National Seating’s Series 93B-SB driver seat
Recall Description: A bracket attached to the height adjusting shock absorber on these seats can deform and break.
Production Dates: 10/95-2/28 98V-054
Model(s): MVP
Recall Description: The sliding action of the accelerator linkage lever over the hand throttle cable can cause the hand throttle wire to wear a notch in the accelerator linkage resulting in binding of the linkage which would prevent the accelerator control from returning to idle quickly or from returning to idle position at all.
Production Dates: 3/97-12/97 98V-011
Model(s): Conventional
Recall Description: These school buses do not comply with FMVSS No. 111, “Rearview Mirrors.” The driver may not have a clear view to the rear of the bus.
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US BUS MANUFACTURING, INC. 845-357-2510
(Sturdicorp)
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-489
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Universe school buses built on
Ford dual-rear-wheel chassis
Recall Description: Due to a clerical error, the certification label has a higher rear GAWR and GVWR than currently available from the chassis manufacturer which fails to comply with 49 C.F.R. Part 567.5, “Requirements for Manufacturers of Vehicles Manufactured in Two or More Stages.” The buses may become overloaded.
Remedy: U.S. Bus has notified the customer of the buses and has provided correct certification labels.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-375
Model(s): 2005 Sturdibus HD school buses
Recall Description: The amount of adhesive applied to the roof seams is inadequate for the type of adhesive used which fails to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.” In the event of a vehicle crash, it is possible that one or more body joints could open up, allowing the occupant to sustain serious injuries should the occupant come into contact with the edge of the separated joint of the body panels.
Remedy: Dealers will install additional fasteners in all suspect joints.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-336
Model(s): 2001-2004 US bus school buses equipped
with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Specialty Mfg. will provide free of charge a service kit (P/N 005178) with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge. Owners may contact Specialty Mfg. at 800-951-7867 or U.S. Bus 1-765-939-3984.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-257
Model(s): 2005 Sturdibus school buses
Recall Description: These buses fail to comply to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, "Window Retention." In the event of a vehicle crash, it is possible that passenger contact with the window could cause the window to dislodge from its gasket/seal, and permit passage of a passenger's head through the resulting opening. This could result in serious injury or even death.
Remedy: The manufacturer has not provided the agency with a remedy and notification schedule for this campaign.
Production Dates: To be determined 05V-255
Model(s): 2004 and 2005 Sturdibus and Universe school buses
Recall Description: These buses were manufactured with improper/missing welds on the 30" wide barrier support which fails to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, “School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection.” In the event of a frontal crash, the barrier may fail to properly restrain the front seated passenger, possibly resulting in serious injury.
Remedy: US Bus will notify its customers and will visually inspect each suspect barrier for missing welds and repair the barriers as necessary free of charge.
Production Dates: To be determined 04V-452
Model(s): 2004 SBFX-A and SD US Bus school buses built on Ford E-350 and E-450 chassis
Recall Description: The vacuum pump may become disengaged from the engine's drive mechanism causing loss of the vehicle's primary braking system. Loss of braking capability can result in a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: US Bus will notify its customers and will repair the buses by inspecting the pump bracket for proper torque of the bolts and inspect the welds. If either the torque on the bolts is improper or the bracket is determined to be defective, US Bus will correct these conditions at no charge to the customer.
Production Dates: 8/1/02 – 8/31/02 03V-042
Model(s): 2002 US Bus SBC 2476, 2477, and 2478
Recall Description: On certain school bus warning lamps, a static electricity discharge can occur during normal services or handling. This discharge can potentially initiate a chemical reaction of materials within the lamp which could cause the lens to fracture. If the lens fractures, it can cause injuries to persons directly in front of it.
Remedy: U.S. Bus has forwarded warning lamps to customers. (See Sound Off, Inc., recall number 03E-002.)
Production Dates: 6/1/98 - 8/31/01 01V-281
Model(s): 1998 through 2001 Sturdibus
Recall Description: Certain school buses fail to comply with requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 221, "School Bus Body Joint Strength." These buses have insufficient metal hemming in the panel joints. In the event of a crash, the side panels of the bus may not protect the occupants at the level required by the standard.
Production Dates: 2/8/01 - 7/19/01 01V-244
Model(s): 2001 Sturdibus, Universe, and Metro-Van school buses 2 Seat ALG
Recall Description: Two fasteners were omitted in assembling the wall mount bracket to the seat frame. This could compromise the compartmentalization of the seating area in a crash, increasing the risk of injury to a seat occupant.
Production Dates: 6/30/98 – 1/31/01 01V-235
Model(s): 2000 US Bus US Seats39
Recall Description: School buses utilizing 39" school bus passenger seats. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection."
Production Dates: 6/30/98 – 1/31/01 01V-234
Model(s): 2000 US Bus Barriers39
Recall Description: School buses utilizing 39" school bus barriers. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 222, "School Bus Passenger Seating and Crash Protection."
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VAN-CON, INC. (732) 356-8484
Production Dates: 1/1/02 – 3/1/05 05V-308
Model(s): 2002-2005 model year 15, 16, 20, 25, and 30 passenger school buses built on GMC, Chevrolet, and Ford chassis equipped with Specialty Manufacturing “5” series stop arms
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the stop arm sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remedy: Van-Con will notify its customers and Specialty Mfg. will provide free of charge a service kit (P/N 005178) with a switch pack that is not sensitive to extreme cold weather and will inspect to ensure the microswitch heater wiring is properly connected free of charge.
Production Dates: 11/97 - 6/99 99V-321
Model(s): GMC Savana
Recall Description: Conversion Type-A school buses equipped with plunger/socket positive door openers on single rear emergency doors. These buses do not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
Production Dates: 11/97 - 6/97 99V-229
Model(s): GMC Savana
Recall Description: Conversion school buses equipped with a single rear emergency door. The last seat is too close to the emergency rear door restricting the passage. These buses do not comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 217, “Bus Window Retention and Release.”
EQUIPMENT-RELATED
SCHOOL BUS RECALLS
ARVINMERITOR (248) 435-1725
Production Dates: 7/5/99 - 10/3/99 00E-047.005
Equipment Description: Drag link assemblies manufactured by TRW. Each drag link assembly contains two 20‑EDL model ball socket assemblies.
Recall Description: Ball socket assemblies sold for use as service or aftermarket parts as determined by the customer. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: TRW will be notifying ArvinMeritor’s customers and providing remedy free of charge.
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BEAM’S INDUSTRIES, INC. (888) 343-9266
Equipment Description: Certain seat belts, buckle No. 1524 (number stamped on the back of the buckle), used on some school buses, passenger vehicles, and postal vehicles
Recall Description: These seat belts fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies." The metal frame of the seat belt buckle may fracture due to possible embrittlement of the steel. In the event of a vehicle crash, the buckle can release, increasing the seat occupant's risk of serious injuries or death.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 03V-365
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BENDIX COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SYSTEMS (800) 478-1793
Production Dates: N/A 00E-041
Equipment Description: Bendix ABS Electronic Control Unit (ECU) sensor wires, Part No. EC‑17‑1030R installed on certain school and transit buses and sold as aftermarket service parts. There have been reports of unwanted temporary ABS activation at low speeds caused by 1) chafed ABS wheel speed sensor wires on rotating parts or 2) a damaged component at the wheel end that generates a certain type of erratic sensor signal.
Recall Description: This condition could cause the air ABS ECU to exhaust the air at the air brake modulators for one or more of the wheels.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-176 & 00V-232
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CUMMINS ENGINE COMPANY (800) 343-7357
Production Dates: Not Determined 05E-007
Model(s): Cummins ISB diesel engines equipped with Federal-Mogal 12 and 24 volt fuel lift pumps for use in certain school buses, transit buses, and emergency vehicles.
Recall Description: The fuel pump could fail to transfer fuel appropriately creating an engine stall condition. Should the engine stall while the vehicle is in use, a possible vehicle crash could occur.
Remedy: Customers will be notified by Cummins to bring their vehicles to an authorized dealer to have the fuel lift pump replaced free of charge.
Production Dates: Not Determined 04E-059
Model(s): Cummins 8.3l and 8.9l ISC and ISL diesel engines 0437
P/N 3970750 and 3971391 built for use on school buses, transit buses, emergency and recreational vehicles between the dates of December 12, 2003, through April 12, 2004.
Recall Description: Oil can leak into the engine compartment from a crack in the cup plug. Oil leakage on a hot engine can result in an engine compartment fire, possibly resulting in injuries.
Remedy: Cummins will notify its customers and repair the engines free of charge.
Production Dates: March 1998 through February 1999 03E-009
Equipment Description: Cummins ISB 6 cylinder engines and engine serial number within the range of 45480143 to 45818756 or 56436052 to 56561539.
Recall Description: The lower alternator support brace or mounting hardware can loosen or break which will allow the alternator to drop onto the engine. In this event, the electrical wiring harness may be damaged and the possibility of fire may exist.
Production Dates: 6/1/99 - 1/10/01 01E-011
Equipment Description: Cummins Engines Serial Number range of 45878623 to 46066483.
Recall Description: The internal front bushing can spin, causing damage to the air compressor, and possibly to the spindle drive at the rear face of the air compressor which is used to provide power to the vehicle hydraulic pump. Failure of the air compressor's spindle drive could lead to loss of power assist if the hydraulic pump ceases to operate.
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DANA CORPORATION (419) 585-4500
Production Dates: 7/5/99 - 10/3/99 00E-047.004
Equipment Description: Drag link assemblies manufactured by TRW. Each drag link assembly contains two 20‑EDL model ball socket assemblies.
Recall Description: Ball socket assemblies sold for use as service or aftermarket parts as determined by the customer. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action: TRW will be notifying Dana's customers and providing remedy free of charge.
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FELSTED PRODUCTS, LLC (660) 269-4550
Production Dates: 2/1/99 - 8/4/00 & 5/4/00 - 8/28/00 00E-049
Equipment Description: Felsted LLC electronic foot pedals containing stainless steel or yellow chromate zinc electroplated return springs manufactured from February 1, 1999, through August 4, 2000, and Felsted LLC electronic foot pedals containing black chromate zinc electroplated music wire return springs manufactured from May 4, 2000, though August 28, 2000.
Recall Description: The return springs may break due to arcing during the electroplating process. If the spring breaks, the accelerator pedal will not return to idle, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-230
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HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC. 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1)
Production Dates: 10/18/05 – 3/21/06 06E-043
Equipment Description: Replacement fuel filters, Fram brand name P/N G3727, with date codes X52911 through X60801 sequentially or X600141 and a Mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing sold for use on certain school buses. (To see the school bus engine sizes, please visit our website at www.safercar.gov, click on “recall search”, "document search" and then "bus applications").
Recall Description: The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to Honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may seat correctly on the fuel line. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy: Honeywell will replace the filters free of charge.
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JOHN DEERE 866-99-DEERE
Production Dates: 5/2000 – 11/2003 05E-025
Model(s): John Deere 8.1l compressed natural gas engines Models HFN01 and HFN03 for use on school and transit buses.
Recall Description: The engine control unit and throttle can unexpectedly surge. These units fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124, “Accelerator Control Systems.” A sudden engine surge could possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy: John Deere will notify owners and will update the engine control unit software free of charge.
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MERITOR WABCO (800) 535-5560
Production Dates: 10/1/97 - 11/30/99 00E-055
Equipment Description: Phase 1, D‑version Antilock Brake Systems (ABS) with Part Nos. 446 044 071 0, 446 044 072 0, 446 109 000 0, and 446 109 001 0, installed on medium trucks, school and transit buses, and motor homes greater than 10,000 lbs. GVWR.
Recall Description: The Phase 1, D‑version hydraulic ABS may not detect an extreme wheel speed sensor air gap that can be created by placing the sensor a significant distance from its intended position when the vehicle is stationary. Therefore, the ABS does not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems."
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-279
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RICON CORPORATION 818-267-3000
Production Dates: 6/12/05 – 7/1/05 06E-008
Equipment Description: S and K Series platform style wheelchair lifts
Recall Description: The vertical support arms were improperly welded which fails to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 403, “Platform Lift Systems for Motor Vehicles.” In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may not be possible to close the lift door causing the vehicle interlocks to remain engaged preventing movement of the vehicle or the ability to load or unload passengers with disabilities from the vehicle.
Remedy: Ricon will notify its customers and will replace the two lift arms free of charge.
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SPECIALTY MANUFACTURING CO. 800-951-7867
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 2/25/05 05E-038
Equipment Description: Specialty Manufacturing (SMC) 5-Series stops arms sold for use as replacement parts for various school buses.
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remdey: SMC will repair the stop arms with a replacement switch pack that includes switches that are not as sensitive to extreme cold weather. Owners may contact SMC Customer Center at 1-800-951-7867.
Production Dates: 1/7/02 – 2/25/05 05E-032
Equipment Description: Specialty Manufacturing (SMC) 5-Series stops arms sold for use on various school buses.
Recall Description: In extremely cold weather, the microswitches used internally to position the sign in the open and closed positions may malfunction, causing the sign to open or close in an improper position, or to not open at all. Should the stop arm not perform properly, a child or pedestrian may be endangered by passing vehicles should the motorist not stop at the correct location.
Remdey: This recall covers the original equipment and each vehicle manufacturer will conduct its own campaign.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 05V-239 Blue Bird, 05V-251 Blue Bird, 05V-292 Mid Bus, 05V-308 Van-Con, 05V-337 International (IC), 05V-331 International (IC), 05V-340 Freightliner (Thomas), 05V-336 U.S. Bus, 05V-343 Collins, 05V-347 Collins, 05V-352 Les Entreprises, and 05V-490 Mid Bus.
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SURE-LOK, INC. 866-787-3565
Production Dates: Not Determined 04E-058
Model(s): Sure-Lok wheelchair tie-down securement assemblies P/N 8625-13 for use on certain school and transit buses.
Recall Description: The sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly may be out of alignment causing the load pawl not to fully seat in the sprocket teeth. In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries to the seat occupant and/or other passengers.
Remedy: Sure-Lok will notify its customers and replace the defective part free of charge.
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TRANS/AIR MANUFACTURING CORPORATION (800) 673-2446
Production Dates: 10/27/97 - 9/7/00 00E-054
Equipment Description: Aftermarket air conditioning condensers installed on school and transit buses with Part Nos. 301250, 301297, 301309, 301362, 301364, 301298, 301482, 301362‑02, 301440, 301387, and 301379.
Recall Description: Defective circuit breaker. These circuit breakers are auto reset type and could provide a source of ignition if they fail in the closed position.
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TRW COMMERCIAL STEERING SYSTEMS (866) 280-3287
Production Dates: 7/5/99 - 10/3/99 00E-047.001
Equipment Description: Tie rod assemblies manufactured by TRW. The suspect tie rods contain 20 EDL model ball sockets.
Recall Description: Certain of the tie rod ball‑socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-246 and 01V-097
Production Dates: 7/5/99 - 10/3/99 00E-047.002
Equipment Description: Drag link assemblies manufactured by TRW. Each drag link assembly contains two 20‑EDL model ball socket assemblies.
Recall Description: Certain of the ball‑socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-246 and 01V-097
Production Dates: 7/5/99 - 10/3/99 00E-047.003
Equipment Description: Drag link assemblies manufactured by TRW. Each drag link assembly contains two 20‑EDL model ball socket assemblies.
Recall Description: Ball socket assemblies sold for use as service or aftermarket parts as determined by the customer. If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Associated Vehicle Recall No(s).: 00V-246 and 01V-097
Production Dates: 7/14/99 - 7/25/99 01E-004.001/002
Equipment Description: Tie rod assemblies manufactured by TRW. The suspect tie rods contain 24‑DL model ball sockets. Certain of the tie rod ball‑socket bearings have a below specification case depth and/or hardness which can lead to premature wear out of the socket.
Recall Description: If this condition occurs, the driver can lose partial control of the right front wheel, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
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SOUND OFF, INC. (800) 338-7337
Production Dates: 7/1/02 – 12/27/02 03E-002
Equipment Description: School bus warning lamps manufactured prior
to December 27, 2002. Models numbers: AT56IEBOAREV001, E756IEBOAREV001, INT756IEBOA, TH756IEBOA, TH756IEBOA-1, AT756IEBORREV001, E756IEBOR, E758IEBORREV001, INT756EBOR, TH756IEBOR, TH756IEBOR-1.
Recall Description: A static electricity discharge can occur during normal services or handling. This discharge can potentially initiate a chemical reaction of materials within the lamp which could cause the lens to fracture. If the lens fractures, it can cause injuries to persons directly in front of it.
Remedy: Sound Off will notify its customers and make arrangements to go to the operating facilities and replace the warning lamps free of charge.
TIRE-RELATED
SCHOOL BUS RECALLS
MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA, INC. 888-622-2306
Production Dates: 5/23/04 – 10/24/04 04T-023
Tire(s): Michelin XDE commercial truck tires, size 10R22.5 LRG and LRF for use on Freightliner school and transit buses.
Recall Description: These tires can experience rapid air loss due to an irregularity of the inner liner. Rapid air loss can result in loss of vehicle control and a vehicle crash can occur.
Remedy: Michelin will notify its customers and replace the tires free of charge.
HOW TO CONTACT NHTSA
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the Federal government agency responsible for assuring the safety of vehicles traveling on public roadways. The Auto Safety Hotline was established by NHTSA to allow members of the public to communicate their concerns relating to motor vehicle safety to the agency.
WHAT THE HOTLINE DOES
The Hotline collects complaints relating to:
► Current safety recall campaigns
► Safety-related defects found in a motor vehicle or item of motor vehicle equipment
OTHER SERVICES
The Hotline also distributes information on the following topic areas:
► Current safety recall campaigns
► Current safety defect and noncompliance investigations conducted by NHTSA
► Child safety seats
► Safety belts and air bags
► Drunk driving literature
► Annual safety recalls report
► Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
► Motor vehicle import requirements
► Odometer fraud
► Uniform tire grading specifications
HOW TO GET MORE INFORMATION
The Hotline can be reached from anywhere in the United States and its territories by calling (888) 327-4236. Operators are available to take your calls Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time. Consumers who contact the Hotline during non-operational hours can leave a message on the answering machine which will be responded to on the next business day. Spanish speaking operators are also available. Hearing impaired persons may contact the Hotline at (800) 424-9153 or (202) 366-7800.
VISIT US ON THE WEB
Information is now available on the Internet at: http://www.safercar.gov
Washington, DC 20590
Vehicle Safety Hotline
1- 888-327-4236