2004 Pierce Custom Chassis problems

What is wrong

On certain fire trucks equipped with an independent front suspension, a pitman arm might fracture under severe load caused by three loading conditions. In all cases, the front axle must be turned full left or right while (1) simultaneously backing up and braking hard, (2) driving one wheel over or against a curb or (3) steering the front axle full left or right when the vehicle is stationary with the service brake applied. These are all low or no -speed events.

Risk

Such a break could lead to the suspension losing one of its anchor points, thereby potentially causing loss of vehicle control without prior warning which could result in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the original pitman arms with pitman arms made of higher strength material. The recall began on october 29, 2007. Owners may contact pierce at 920‑832‑3000.

Recall number 07V470000 · Recall details

What is wrong

On certain fire trucks equipped with the all wheel steer option, the position of the front axle is sensed by an optical encoder mounted to the bottom of the front axle kingpin, which is protected from the elements by an outer case. This case shares a common grease cavity with the kingpin. Oil that leaches from the grease can migrate through the encoder seal, causing contamination of the optical encoder disc.

Risk

Oil on the disc can cause the encoder to send incorrect wheel position information and can cause the rear wheels to steer unexpectedly causing the vehicle to crash without prior warning.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the encoders with new encoders with more robust seals. The control software will be updated to produce an error code and disable the rear steering function if unusual encoder inputs are detected. The recall began january 25, 2005. Owners should contact pierce at 1‑888‑974‑3723.

Recall number 04V567000 · Recall details