The problem
DUECO Inc. (DUECO), a manufacturer of utility vehicles, is recalling certain Dueco-modified model year 2009-2011 International 4300, 2010 International 4400, 2009 and 2011 International 7400, 2010 Freightliner M2, 2008-2009 GMC C5500, and 2011 Ford F-750 vehicles, equipped with Sure Power DC-DC converters containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.
The risk
Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
DUECO will notify owners, and Sure Power will replace the converters, free of charge. The recall began on May 29, 2014. Owners may contact Dueco at 1-800-558-4004.
Contacts
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to 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 Ford, Freightliner, GMC dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 14V186000.
- 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.