Recall 96V-081: 1996 Spartan Alpine, 1996 Spartan Bus and 2 more

SPARTAN MOTORS, INC. recall for steering, reported to NHTSA on May 17, 1996, covering about 604 vehicles.

NHTSA number
96V-081
Report date
May 17, 1996
Vehicles affected
604
Owners notified
May 6, 1996

The problem

The draglinks have been equipped with an anti-tilt seal on the pitman end that can affect the taper fit of the ball stud taper into the pitman arm. The recommended torque on the stud nut does not overcome the compression of the anti-tilt seal.

The risk

This condition can cause a loosening of the joint and ultimate separation resulting in loss of steering.

The fix

Dealers will replace washers with 90 degree flanges with washers having a 45 degree flange and sandwich the rubber bushing in the anti-tilt seal. The flanges allow the bushing to properly expand. If a body has been completed on the chassis, the pitman arm will also be replaced.

Notes

System: steering; linkages; link; drag. Vehicle description: type a motorhomes with gross vehicle weight ratings (Gvwr) from 19,000 to 36,000 lbs. And transit bus chassis or speciality trucks with gvwr from 18,000 to 36,000 lbs. Equipped with trw draglink assembly. Note: owner notification is expected to begin may 10, 1996. Note: 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 spartan at 1-800-722-3025. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

Recall details

ManufacturerSPARTAN MOTORS, INC.
ComponentSteering › Linkages › Drag › Link › Connection
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number96V081000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Spartan Alpine1996All years
Spartan Bus1996All years
Spartan Highlander1996All years
Spartan Mountain Master1996All 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 96V-081?

The draglinks have been equipped with an anti-tilt seal on the pitman end that can affect the taper fit of the ball stud taper into the pitman arm. The recommended torque on the stud nut does not overcome the compression of the anti-tilt seal.

How is recall 96V-081 fixed?

Dealers will replace washers with 90 degree flanges with washers having a 45 degree flange and sandwich the rubber bushing in the anti-tilt seal. The flanges allow the bushing to properly expand. If a body has been completed on the chassis, the pitman arm will also be replaced.

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.