1997 Freightliner FL80 problems

Filed Feb 18, 2003 · Steering · 76,389 miles · CT

Problem: ball stud & socket assembly separated. Review the federal safety agency #oov-246.001 truck: 1997 freightliner, fl-80 - serial # [xxx] in-service date: may 9, 1997 - mileage 76,389 the state of connecticut, dept. Of trans., has a large number of 1997 thru 1999 freightliner, fl-80 dump trucks, used for snow and ice removal. Cannot received the federal safety agency bulletin #00v‑246-001 pertaining to ball stud and socket assemblies coming apart. Freightliner sent only a few notices pertaining vehicles in our fleet. None of them included the large number of 1997 freightliner dump trucks. We were fortunate that the vehicle was at a low rate of speed, turning into a parking lot to stop. No damage or injuries reported. The failed ball and socket separated in the exact same way as noted in the freightliner bulletin #fl396ab or the federal safety agency #00v‑246-001. Action request: extend or expand the recall of the trw ball & stud and socket assemblies to include other vehicles built using this ball & stud assembly. Time frame should be as soon as possible to make sure another ball stud & socket assembly does not fail and causes an injury or death. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).