Recall - Trailer Hitch Reinforcement Brackets: Overview
April 2000Safety Recall No. 872
Trailer Hitch Reinforcement Brackets
Models:
1998-2000 (BR/BE) Dodge Ram Truck
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above trucks equipped with a trailer tow package (sales code AHC) built from January 1, 1998 through September 29, 1999 (MDH 0101XX through 092919).
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 retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject:
The trailer hitch assembly on about 357,000 of the above vehicles may fatigue and crack. This can allow a trailer to separate from the truck and cause an accident without warning.
MOPAR Accessory Trailer Hitches
The following Mopar accessory trailer hitch part numbers purchased from Mopar between January 1998 and March 2000 are also affected by this recall. DaimlerChrysler does NOT have a record of the vehicles that have had these Mopar hitches installed. Every effort should be made by dealers to review their records and contact owners who have purchased these Mopar trailer hitches or have had these hitches installed by your dealer. Use this recall service procedure and parts information to inspect and repair Mopar accessory trailer hitches.
NOTE:
Mopar accessory trailer hitch P/N 82202017 & 82205979 are not affected by this recall.
Repair
The trailer hitch assembly must be inspected for cracks. Trailer hitch assemblies that are cracked must be replaced. Trailer hitch assemblies without cracks must have reinforcement brackets installed.
Parts Information
A: Trailer Hitch Reinforcement Bracket Package
Part Number Description
CBUB8721 Trailer Hitch Reinforcement Bracket Package
Each package contains the components shown.
Each dealer to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive enough trailer hitch reinforcement bracket packages to service about 10% of those vehicles.
B: Trailer Hitch Assembly
Each package contains the components as shown.
NOTE:
1998 Vehicles that have a 82205979 Mopar trailer hitch installed must also have the trailer hitch reinforcement bracket package P/N CBUB8721 installed.
Each dealer to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive one 82205979 trailer hitch.
Additional trailer hitch assemblies should be ordered only after inspection determines that replacement is required. Very few vehicles are expected to require trailer hitch assembly replacement
C: Zinc Touch-up Primer
Part Number Description
04443636 Zinc Touch-up Primer
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 labor operation numbers and time allowances as shown.
Add the cost of the parts 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 have been entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP 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 "ORD872".
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 letter is shown.
Enclosed with each owner letter 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.