The problem
Two throttle return spring defects are involved in this recall. (1) Buses equipped with caterpillar engines may have a throttle return spring that breaks and prevents the throttle from returning to idle position when the driver's foot is removed from the accelerator control; (2) buses equipped with cummins vt-225 engines may have the throttle return spring connected to the throttle slave cylinder instead of the fuel injection pump lever. If failure occurs in the acceleration control system, the engine may accelerate to its maximum governed rpm. Consequence of defect: in either case, throttle control will be lost which may result in an accident.
The fix
A repair kit consisting of new spring, mounting bracket and proper repair instructions will be shipped to each owner at no charge and the owner may make his own repairs, or have a thomas distributor or a reputable local shop make the repairs.
Contacts
System: throttle lever return spring. Vehicle description: transit and school buses with a gvwr greater than 10,000 pounds.
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 Thomas dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 86V079000.
- 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.