The problem
On certain diesel motor homes, when the unit is fully loaded with fuel, fluids, and passengers, the front gross axle weight rating (gawr) could be exceeded. Furthermore, the unit may have a disproportionate front axle weight distribution that could result in an overload condition on the front tire of the motor home.
The risk
This overload condition could result in the sudden failure of the front tire causing a loss of control of the motor home, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the front tires. In addition, dealers will also install a poppet kit to compensate for the added width of the new front tires. This remedy will increase the front gawr. A new set of vehicle weight labels will be issued to reflect these changes. Owner notification began september 25, 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 airstream at 1-937-596-6111, ext. 7418 Or 7400.
Contacts
Also, customers can 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 Airstream dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 02V247000.
- 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.