Investigation PE09047: 2006–2010 Thomas Built Buses EF

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Sep 30, 2009

Closed

Jan 4, 2010

Model years

2006–2010

Subject

Throttle sticks on floor plate

Component: Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedal

Summary

This investigation was opened after afleet supervisor submitted a voq on a model year 2008 thomas built ef school bus and reported that the accelerator pedal will stick and won't release. This problem occurred on one of the fleet buses and the driver had to free the pedal by hand. Odi conducted a field visit and confirmed by inspection that pushing at the pedal's base (position nearest the driver) would sometimes allow it to stick at the metal scuff plate (on the floor) without releasing.a second fleet was contacted and they were able to duplicate the problem. Odi conveyed its field findings to daimler in late november 2009 and they filed a safety recall (09v-462) on december 1, 2009 outlining theirremedy program.daimler will raise the mounting positionof the accelerator pedal 0.75 inches to resolve the clearance issue.daimler is recalling the subject vehicles plus model year 2011.the action taken by daimler (thomas built)resolves this investigation.accordingly, 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.