Newmar is recalling 84 model year 2005 Essex and Londonaire
motorhomes built on Spartan K2 and K3 chassis. The steering-gear
assembly contains a spacer with incorrect dimensions. A spacer of
insufficient height allows for excessive play in the return function of
the recirculation balls and, as a consequence, there is a failure in the
circulatory function of these balls. If the failure mode is allowed to
continue, the final result will be interruption in the connection
between the steering wheel and the wheels of the vehicle. The vehicle
can no longer be steered and could result in a vehicle crash. Newmar is
working with Spartan to replace the steering gear assembly. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. 07V-351
Freightliner is recalling 6,227 model year 2003-2008 FCCC
XC, CX-R, VCL, XC-F, XC-L, XC-P, and XB-R motorhome chassis equipped
with ZF Model 8018 steering gears. These steering gears may have been
assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer potentially
allowing the recirculating balls to escape from the recirculating ball
circuit, resulting in a loss of steering. The operator may notice higher
required steering-wheel inputs, or the need for more steering-wheel
adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with
metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering
could result in a vehicle crash. Dealers will replace the steering gear.
07V-343
Freightliner is also recalling 4,850 model year 2005-2006
FS-65 and FB-65 bus and motorhome chassis. Improper pinch bolt
installation may result in decoupling of the steering shaft and a loss
of steering. Loss of steering may result in a vehicle crash. Dealers
will inspect and ensure that the steering-shaft pinch bolts are properly
installed. Improperly installed pinch bolts will be tightened to the
correct specification. The recall is expected to begin on or about
October 22, 2007. 07V-394
Universal Specialty Vehicles is recalling five model year
2005-2006 Eagle motorhomes built on Workhorse chassis. These motorhomes
may have been equipped with incorrect steering intermediate shafts. The
spline can strip while the steering wheel is being turned. This steering
condition could result in a loss of steering control, increasing the
risk of a crash. Workhorse is conducting this recall (see 06V148). It will inspect and, if necessary, replace the steering intermediate shaft. 07V-395
