Hydraulic power assist: pumpRecall 97V-154 · 1997 Thomas ER Model
THOMAS BUILT BUSES, INC. recall 97V-154 covers 200 1997 Thomas ER Model for a hydraulic power assist: pump problem, reported to NHTSA on September 12, 1997.
Source: NHTSA recall 97V154000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: TRANSIT BUSES. A BURR ON THE SPOOL BORE OF THE STEERING GEAR PUMPS CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF OIL FLOW.
The risk
THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AND/OR OVERHEATING THE ENGINE.
The fix
THOMAS BUILT IS REQUESTING OWNERS TO INSPECT THE DATE CODE ON THE STEERING GEAR PUMP. IF THE PUMP IS STAMPED WITH A DATE CODE PRIOR TO 6/1/97 AND DOES NOT HAVE AN "L" OR AN "RL" STAMPED ON THE IDENTIFICATION TAG, THE OWNER WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE PUMP. OWNERS WILL BE SHIPPED A REPLACEMENT PUMP AND DETAILED REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS. IF THE OWNER SO DESIRES, THOMAS BUILT CAN DO THE INSPECTION AND REPAIR ON THESE BUSES.
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY28, 1998.OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE A FREE REPLACEMENT PUMP AND DETAILED REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 1-800-889-4871.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
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 April 14, 1997 to June 30, 1997. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.