The problem
On certain trucks, the cotter pin that goes through the drag link ball stud at the connection to the pitman arm is missing. This pin prevents the castle nut from loosening.
The risk
If the nut loosens and comes completely off the drag link ball stud, the drag link could detach resulting in a loss of steering control.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the vehicle and install a cotter pin if it is missing. Owner notification began april 15, 2002. 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 international at 1-800-448-7825.
Contacts
Consumers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized International dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 02V095000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.