Investigation RQ99009: 1997–1998 Freightliner FL60

Status

OPEN

Opened

Jun 1, 1999

Closed

—

Model years

1997–1998

Subject

Driveline fastener failure

Component: Power train

Summary

On april 13, 1999, freightliner filed a defect information report received on (april 20, 1999) foapproximately 1,200 fl-50, fl-60, and fl-70 trucks equipped with driveline parking brakes and manufactured from july 1, 1997, through may 31, 1998.the fasteners connecting the transmission companion flange to the park brake drum and driveline can loosen.continued operation of the vehicle can result in fatigue failure of the fasteners allowing the driveline to separate.dealers will inspect the fasteners for proper torque.if the fasteners are found loose they will be replaced.if the fasteners are found properly torqued, the nuts will be removed, permalock applied and the nuts re-installed and torqued to specification.freightliner's identification number for this recall is fl-230. Freightliner notes that ...the beginning and ending dates were determined by the incidence claims, however, only one report was referenced in the defect information report. Freightliner investigated the defect beginning in september 1998, when freightliner received a report of companion flange fasteners loosening and in some cases shearing off.in december 1998, an audit of the assembly plant found that the companion flange fasteners were improperly assembled in that the fasteners were under torqued and no permalock was applied. On march 23, 1999, freightliner decided to conduct a safety recall. The purpose of this rq is to investigate the scope, chronology, and the timeliness of freightliner's actions.

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.