Recall 79V-044: 1976–1978 Flxible 35096, 1976–1978 Flxible 45096 and 1 more
GRUMMAN FLXIBLE CORP. recall for suspension, reported to NHTSA on Jan 5, 1979, covering about 1,100 vehicles.
The problem
A hardened washer required in mounting the upper radius rod bracket to the top of the front axle was omitted during assembly. The omission of the hardened washer could cause a gap up to .063" between the top of the mounting flange and the steering gear assembly. This gap will prevent the specified clamping forces from being applied to the upper radius rod bracket. The inability to correctly clamp the upper radius rod bracket to the axle could cause abnormal stress loads to be applied to the bracket during vehicle operation. Continued operation under these conditions could result in vertical bracket fracture. If complete separation of the bracket occurred, the front axle could shift, causing binding and rubbing of the steering shaft and, eventually, loss of steering control.
The fix
Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace brackets without charge to owner.
Notes
Vehicle description: buses.system: suspension; axle radius rod.consequences of defect: loss of steering control could result in a vehicleaccident and serious personal injuries.
Recall details
| Manufacturer | GRUMMAN FLXIBLE CORP. |
|---|---|
| Component | Suspension |
| Recall started by | the manufacturer |
| NHTSA campaign number | 79V044000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Vehicle | Model years | |
|---|---|---|
| Flxible 35096 | 1976, 1977, 1978 | All years |
| Flxible 45096 | 1976, 1977, 1978 | All years |
| Flxible 53096 | 1976, 1977, 1978 | All years |
Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 79V-044?
A hardened washer required in mounting the upper radius rod bracket to the top of the front axle was omitted during assembly. The omission of the hardened washer could cause a gap up to .063" between the top of the mounting flange and the steering gear assembly. This gap will prevent the specified clamping forces from being applied to the upper radius rod bracket. The inability to correctly clamp the upper radius rod bracket to the axle could cause abnormal stress loads to be applied to the bracket during vehicle operation. Continued operation under these conditions could result in vertical bracket fracture. If complete separation of the bracket occurred, the front axle could shift, causing binding and rubbing of the steering shaft and, eventually, loss of steering control.
How is recall 79V-044 fixed?
Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace brackets without charge to owner.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.