Investigation PE13006: 2013 Thomas Built Buses SAF-T-Liner C2

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Mar 18, 2013

Closed

Aug 26, 2013

Model years

2013

Subject

Blocked Fuel Delivery Resulting in Stall

Component: Fuel system, diesel

Summary

ODI was made aware of multiple allegations of engine stall resulting from a loose barcode sticker in the fuel tank of certain model year (MY) 2012 Thomas Built Saf-T-Liner transit style buses manufactured by Thomas Built Buses, Inc. (TBB).The loose barcode sticker from a diesel powered cab heater (installed in some cold weather state buses) may become lodged in the fuel delivery pickup tube and restrict fuel flow. Early analysis suggested that at least one failure resulted in a school bus being stranded on an interstate highway.Additionally, ODI identified 6 Early Warning Reporting (EWR) reports that appear related to the alleged defect, and TBB informed ODI that it was aware of nine (9) other related field reports for a total of fifteen (15) alleged incidents.Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), parent company of TBB, submitted a recall notice dated August 13, 2013 (13V-365 for school buses and 13V-364 for non-school buses) that addresses ODI's concerns.Fuel tanks will be inspected for the presence of a label.If a label is found, it will be removed from the tank.As a result of the DTNA remedial action 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.