Steering: shaft pitman Craftsmen, Fccc, Gulf Stream recall

The problem

Certain motor home chassis equipped with zf model 8018 steering gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculating balls to escape from the recirculating ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering.

The risk

The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash.

The fix

Dealers will replace the steering gear free of charge. Phase one of the recall began on january 30, 2008 for 1,392 vehicles. Expanded mailings are expected to begin on may 16, 2008. Owners may contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712.

Contacts

Freightliner recall no. Fl-509. Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.

What to do

1. 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.
2. Call a dealer. Any authorized Craftsmen, Fccc, Gulf Stream dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 07V343000.
3. Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
4. Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.