Dealer Letter

September 1997

To:
All Ford and Lincoln-Mercury Dealers

Subject:
Safety Recall 97S78 - Certain 1996 Model Year Explorers and Certain 1997 Model Year Mountaineer Vehicles - Liftgate Bracket Weld

Affected Vehicles
Certain 1996 model year Explorers and certain 1997 model year Mountaineer vehicles built on 6/5/96 through 6/7/96 at Louisville Assembly Plant.

Reason For Recall
On some of the affected vehicles, the lower right hand liftgate cylinder attachment bracket may separate from the bodyside. This may occur when the liftgate is being opened or closed or when the liftgate is in an open position. Unexpected closing of the liftgate caused by a separated bracket could result in injury to someone in its path.

Service Action
To correct this condition, reinforcement rivets will be installed on the lower right hand liftgate bracket.

Questions?
Claims Information 1-800-423-8851
Other Recall Questions 1-800-325-5621

Attachments

Attachment I
^ Administrative Information

Attachment II
^ Labor Allowances
^ Parts Ordering Information

Attachment III
^ Technical Information