Recall - Hydraulic Clutch: Overview
December 1999SAFETY RECALL NO. 828
Hydraulic Clutch
MODELS
1994-1999 (BR/BE) Dodge Ram Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Trucks
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles equipped with an 8.OL engine ("W" in the 8th VIN position and a manual transmission (Sales Code - DDX) built through April 21, 1999 (MDH 0421XX).
IMPORTANT: Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to stop sale and complete this recall service on these vehicles before delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for services as determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
SUBJECT
The hydraulic clutch line on about 8,800 of the above vehicles may melt and spray hydraulic fluid on the exhaust system under certain operating conditions. Hydraulic fluid leakage in the presence of an ignition source (such as the exhaust system) can result in an underbody fire.
PARTS INFORMATION
Each dealer to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive enough Hydraulic Clutch Packages to service about 25% of those vehicles.
The appropriate clutch package for the vehicle to be serviced may be determined by model year as follows:
Each package contains the following components:
Quantity Description
1 Clutch Master Cylinder
1 Clutch Slave Cylinder
1 Clutch Pedal Clip
1 Clutch Pedal Bushing (94-97 package only)
2 Clamps
2 Screws
3 Plastic Rivets
COMPLETION REPORTING AND REIMBURSEMENT
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use one of the following labor operation numbers and time allowances:
Labor Operation Time
Number Allowance
Replace hydraulic clutch
^ 1994-1997 model years 06828182 0.8 hours
^ 1998-1999 model years 06828183 0.9hours
Add the cost of the recall parts package plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.
NOTE: See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions.
PARTS RETURN
Not required.
DEALER NOTIFICATION AND VEHICLE LIST
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS, and the MDS2 will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.
DIAL SYSTEM FUNCTIONS 53 AND VIP
All involved vehicles will be entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP at the time of recall implementation for dealer inquiry as needed.
Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "0RD828"
OWNER NOTIFICATION AND SERVICE SCHEDULING
All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner notification letter is attached.
Enclosed with each owner notification is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
VEHICLE NOT AVAILABLE
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.