The problem
On certain truck-tractor model vehicles equipped with conmet simplex stationary or sliding fifth-wheel, the clinch pins that retain the fifth-wheel pivot pins may not be fully installed.
The risk
The fifth wheel could separate from the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the fifth wheel to verify the correct installation of the clinch pin and pivot pin. Missing pins will be replaced. Owner notification began november 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 freightliner at 1-800-547-0712.
Contacts
Freightliner recall no. Fl-399. Customers 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 Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 02V337000.
- 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.