Recalls for 2006 Thomas Built Buses Ef

DEFECT #1 - EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE

Posted on: 2007-03-23
Description
Certain my 2006 and 2007 thomas built minotour, fs-65, c2, hdx, and ef school buses manufactured between january 6 and september 6, 2006, equipped with ricon wheelchair platform lift models s2003, s2005, s2010, s5503, s5505, s5510, k2003, k2005, k2010, k5503, k5505, k5510.  The lifts interlock switch system may not detect the presence of a passenger (either wheelchair or standee) on the platform lift which fails to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no.  404, platform lift systems for motor vehicles.

Consequence
The defect involves the interlock switch system in the lift not detecting the presence of a passenger (either wheelchair or standee) on the ricon wheelchair platform lift.  In the event this condition occurs during passenger operations it may be possible for the wheelchair to tip backwards onto the platform when the platform was lowered.  This could result in injury to the wheelchair's occupant.  Also, anyone standing on the platform could lose his or her balance and fall, resulting in injury.

Corrective Action
Freightliner will notify owners and will repair the affected buses free of charge.  The recall is expected to begin on august 6, 2007.  Owners can contact freightliner's customer assistance center at 800-385-4357 or contact ricon at 800-322-2884.  

Notes
Freightliner recall no.  Fl-492.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.

DEFECT #2 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS

Posted on: 2006-04-25
Description
Certain my 2004 through 2006 thomas built hdx, ef, and fs-65 school buses manufactured between october 4, 2004, and february 14, 2006.  The body power distribution module (pdm) was manufactured with copper circuits that are too thin for the electrical loads encountered, possibly causing the board to overheat.

Consequence
If the pdm overheats it may generate smoke and could result in a fire.

Corrective Action
Thomas built will notify owners and will replace the pdm's thin copper circuits with thicker copper circuits.  The recall began on june 30, 2006.  Owners may contact thomas built at 1-877-660-4938.  

Notes
Freightliner recall no.  Fl-475.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.