The problem
Kovatch Mobile Equipment Corp. (KME) is recalling certain 2018 Predator TDA, 2019 Predator SS Aerial and Predator Pumper fire trucks. The front shocks may separate from their upper mount on the front suspension. The loose shock may contact and damage the steering gear housing, possibly causing a steering fluid leak and a loss of power steering assist.
The risk
A loss of hydraulic steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
KME will notify owners, and Reyco Granning and KME dealers will work together to install a new shock mount bolt and nut, hardened washer, and shims to keep the shocks secured, free of charge. The recall began September 3, 2019. Owners may contact Reyco customer service at 1-765-543-5815 or KME customer service at 1-800-235-3928.
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 Kme dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 19V577000.
- 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.