Steering: steering wheel/handle barRecall 97V-177 · Thomas vehicles
THOMAS BUILT BUSES, INC. recall 97V-177 covers 953 Thomas vehicles for a steering: steering wheel/handle bar problem, reported to NHTSA on October 20, 1997.
Source: NHTSA recall 97V177000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SCHOOL AND TRANSIT BUSES. IF DEBRIS BECOMES TRAPPED BETWEEN THE PLASTIC CUP, WHICH SEALS THE OPENING WHERE THE STEERING COLUMN COMES THROUGH THE BUS FLOOR AND THE STEERING KNUCKLE, THE STEERING LINKAGE CAN BIND.
The risk
BINDING OF THE STEERING LINKAGE COULD CAUSE THE DRIVER TO OVER STEER THE VEHICLE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE OR A CRASH.
The fix
OWNERS ARE REQUESTED TO REMOVE THE PLASTIC SEAL WHICH WILL LEAVE AN OPENING BETWEEN THE VEHICLE FLOOR AND THE STEERING COLUMN. THOMAS BUILT IS IN THE PROCESS OF DESIGNING A PROPER SEAL FOR THAT AREA, AND THIS SEAL WILL BE SENT TO OWNERS FOR INSTALLATION.
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 17, 1997.OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REPAIR SEAL WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT THOMAS BUILT AT 1-910-889-4871.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 January 31, 1997 to October 10, 1997. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.