AMERITRANS 285 2015: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

General Information

NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 16V398000

Make Model Year
AMERITRANS 285 2015
Date Owners Notified Date Received by ODI Date Added to Database
2016-06-30 2016-06-02 2016-06-02

Production Dates: 2015-03-02 - 2015-12-23

Manufacturers Involved: Ameritrans Bus, Inc.

Component: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Potential Number Of Units Affected: 5

Report Initiator: MFR MFR Report

Summary

Ameritrans Bus, Inc. "Ameritrans" is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 285 shuttle buses manufactured March 2, 2015, through December 23, 2015, built on Ford E-450 chassis and equipped with certain model S2000, S5000, and S5500, wheelchair lifts manufactured by the Ricon Corporation. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack. Additionally, the lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.

Consequence

If the platform side plates crack or the platform mounting fails from out-of-position bearings, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the vehicle's doors are opened, the platform may fall onto the lift operator, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Ameritrans will notify the purchasers of the lifts, and Ricon dealers will inspect the side plates for damage and for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Ameritrans customer service at 1-574-262-8935, or Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.

Notes

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.