The problem
Paccar is recalling 172 my 2007 kenworth t800 short hood, w900 long hood and t600 tractor/trailers equipped with saf-holland simplex fifth wheels. If the pivot bolt joint for the lever bar is over torqued, the spacer deforms, and makes contact with the lever bar. This condition coupled with corrosion associated with the seasonal dry out, can affect the lock system of the fifth wheel, preventing the fifth wheel jaw from latching securely around the trailer king pin.
The risk
The fifth wheel may fail to latch without the operator's knowledge, causing the tractor and trailer to disengage increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Kenworth is working with saf-holland simplex and will inspect the pivot bolt joint for a deformed spacer and replace the bolt, washer and spacer with a hex-head shoulder bolt and washer free of charge. The recall began on may 1, 2008. Owners may contact kenworth at 1-425-828-5440 or saf-holland at 1-231-773-3271.
Contacts
Paccar/kenworth recall no. 08Kw5. 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
- 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 Kenworth dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 08V176000.
- 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.