Recall 81V-001: 1980 Freightliner COE

FREIGHTLINER CORP. recall for steering, reported to NHTSA on Dec 2, 1981, covering about 104 vehicles.

NHTSA number
81V-001
Report date
Dec 2, 1981
Vehicles affected
104
Owners notified
Jul 22, 1981

The problem

An air brake hose fitting beneath the floor of the subject vehicles may rub against the rotating steering drive shaft, eventually causing the shaft to fracture. This condition could exist if a mechanic failed to orient the threaded 90 degree elbow fitting in the proper direction, or if the steering column was positioned incorrectly. Also, an improperly assembled bearing plate was installed on the steering drive shaft. This could cause the slip shaft to bottom out, resulting in damage to the steering yoke connection or to the internal parts of the gear box.

The fix

The deck bearing plate will be replaced, a sleeve spacer will be added to the steering shaft under the floor and two parts will be added to the steering column attachment. This will be done without charge to the owner.

Notes

Vehicle description: heavy trucks, cab-over-engine models equipped with anintegral power steering system.system: steering; steering column shaft.consequences of defect: either defect may result in loss of steering control,without warning, and a vehicle accident.

Recall details

ManufacturerFREIGHTLINER CORP.
ComponentSteering › Gear Box (Other Than Rack and Pinion)
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number81V001000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Freightliner COE1980All 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 81V-001?

An air brake hose fitting beneath the floor of the subject vehicles may rub against the rotating steering drive shaft, eventually causing the shaft to fracture. This condition could exist if a mechanic failed to orient the threaded 90 degree elbow fitting in the proper direction, or if the steering column was positioned incorrectly. Also, an improperly assembled bearing plate was installed on the steering drive shaft. This could cause the slip shaft to bottom out, resulting in damage to the steering yoke connection or to the internal parts of the gear box.

How is recall 81V-001 fixed?

The deck bearing plate will be replaced, a sleeve spacer will be added to the steering shaft under the floor and two parts will be added to the steering column attachment. This will be done without charge to the 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.