Investigation PE07053: 1998–2001 New Flyer D40LF

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Oct 29, 2007

Closed

Feb 22, 2008

Model years

1998–2001

Subject

Interior fires

Component: Electrical system

Summary

The office of defects investigation opened this preliminary evaluationbased on a fleet report of 3 thermal events allegedlythe result of condensation from the air conditioner's evaporator drain hose shorting electrical connections and various electrical components. The investigation was opened to evaluate and determine the cause of these thermal events. A technical evaluationdetermined that the drain line for the rooftop evaporator unit contacted the ballast inverter for the fluorescent lighting panel and became abraded.the abrasion of the drain lineresulted in low pressure and low volumes of moisture being introduced into the lighting panel resulting in electrical shorts.new flyer decided to conduct a safety recall to correct the problem.the corrective action will be to install an elbow on the air conditioning drain line where it enters the bus interior.this elbow relocates the drain line to provide the needed clearance between the line and lighting components.this remedy resolves the issue under investigation and, therefore, this investigation is closed.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.