Trailer hitchesRecall 02V-127 · Lufkin vehicles
LUFKIN INDUSTRIES, INC. recall 02V-127 covers 5,886 Lufkin vehicles for a trailer hitches problem, reported to NHTSA on May 3, 2002.
Source: NHTSA recall 02V127000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
SOME STEEL KINGPINS SUPPLIED BY CUSTOM FORGE, FOR USE ON CERTAIN VAN TRAILERS, HAVE BEEN DETERMINED TO POSSESS INADEQUATE HEAT TREATMENT.
The risk
COMPLETE FRACTURE OF THE KINGPIN CAN OCCUR RESULTING IN DETACHMENT OF THE KINGPIN FROM A TRAILER AND UNINTENDED SEPARATION OF TRACTOR AND TRAILER, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
The fix
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRAILERS TO VERIFY THE KINGPIN BRAND AND HEAT LOT AND DETERMINE IF THE KINGPIN IS CRACKED. CUSTOMERS WILL BE ADVISED TO REMOVE FROM SERVICE ANY TRAILERS DISCOVERED TO HAVE CRACKED KINGPINS. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS BEGAN NOVEMBER 24, 2004. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT LUFKIN AT 1-800-324-3812.
ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from January 1, 1992 to April 30, 1994. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.