The problem
The equalizing beam shaft of the tandem axle suspension were manufactured from as-rolled sae4140 steel rather than the specified annealed sae4140. These shafts can fracture inside the beam at the toe of the weld.
The risk
Vehicles are subject to vehicle tilt and possible rollover in the event that both equalizing beams, on the same side of the vehicle, experience a simultaneous shaft failure. Affected suspensions can also drop and contact the road surface generating sparks which could ignite flammable material.
The fix
Owner notification is being conducted by neway anchorlok. Dealers will inspect and replace all suspension suspension beams with suspension beams containing appropriate shafts.
Contacts
Owner notification: owner notification is being conducted by neway anchorlok and began july 18, 1996. Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact neway at 1-800-237-8932. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
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 International Harvester dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 96V124004.
- 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.