January 20, 2023 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 23V015000
Fractured drawbars can cause a loss of trailer control and increase the risk of a crash.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V015
Manufacturer Forest River
, Inc.
Components EQUIPMENT, STRUCTURE
Potential Number of Units Affected 296
Summary
Forest River, Inc. (Forest River) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo trailers. The welded trailer drawbars may be insufficient for the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which can cause the drawbars to fracture.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the drawbars, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 1, 2023. Owners may contact Forest River Customer Service at 1-574-848-1335. Forest River’s number for this recall is 24-1592.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
RECALL 23V015 / 2023-014 REMEDY INSTRUCTIONS
| Make(s): AMERA-LITE CARGO TRAILER Model(s): MANY, SEE BELOW Model Year(s): 2016 – 2017 | Repair Code: N/A Allotted Time: N/A Inspection Code: RC-094-05-00-004296 Allotted Time: .25 HRS. |
| Concern: The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”). | Photo(s) Required: YES Prior Authorization Required: N/A Part(s) Kit Number: N/A Part(s) Return: N/A |
Disconnect the vehicles’ battery Positive and Negative, disconnect any House battery(s) Positive and Negative, if equipped with a generator ensure it is off and lastly, ensure the vehicle is disconnected from shore power. Block any tires/wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Failure to do so may result in electrocution, fire or other personal injury, property damage and/or death.
CERTAIN: 2016 – AMERA-LITE – ADXST717TA2, ADXST719TA2, ADXST723TA3, ADXST729TA2, ADXST731TA2 & ADXST733TA3
CERTAIN: 2016 – 2017 – AMERA-LITE – ADXST721TA2, ADXST723TA2, ADXST725TA2 & ADXST727TA2
CERTAIN: 2016 – AMERA-LITE – ARXST719TA2, ARXST723TA2, ARXST725TA2, ARXST727TA2, ARXST729TA2, ARXST733TA2 & ARXST8530TA2
CERTAIN: 2016 – 2017 – AMERA-LITE – ARXST721TA2
PERFORM INSPECTION
STEP 1: WITH THE TRAILER DISCONNECTED FROM A TOW VEHICLE;
- LOOK UNDER THE COUPLER AT THE OPEN END OF THE DRAWBAR WHICH THE COUPLER IS BOLTED TO AND MATCH IT TO EITHER FIGURE 1 OR FIGURE 2;
- TAKE CLEAR PHOTO’S SHOWING THE OPEN END OF THE DRAWBAR TUBE THAT THE COUPLER IS BOLTED TO;
NEXT STEPS
STEP 1: IF THE DRAWBAR MATCHES FIGURE 1 – THE DRAWBAR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED;
- SUBMIT PHOTO’S WITH THE INSPECTION CODE (AT THE TOP OF THIS DOCUMENT) THEN CONTACT THE MANUFACTURING PLANT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND WARRANTY DEPARTMENT FOR FURTHER INSTRUCTION AT (574) 848-1335;
- IF THE DRAWBAR MATCHES FIGURE 2 – THE DRAWBAR DOES NOT NEED TO BE REPLACED; o SUBMIT PHOTO’S WITH THE INSPECTION CODE (AT THE TOP OF THIS DOCUMENT) THE VEHICLE WILL THEN BE CLEARED OF THE RECALL ONCE THE CLAIM IS PROCESSED.
This Notice applies to your vehicle VIN listed above.
Dear Forest River Customer:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This notice is also sent in accordance with the requirements of the United States’ National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Forest River has decided that a defect, which relates to the motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers. This is to inform you that your vehicle may contain a defect that could affect the safety of a person.
WHAT IS THE DEFECT/NONCOMPLIANCE?
The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”).
EVALUATION OF THE RISK TO THE VEHICLE AND OPERATOR(S) RELATED TO THE RECALL.
The drawbars have an elevated risk of fracture and full failure while traveling. Should the drawbars fracture or fail, the vehicle/trailer has an elevated increase to cause a crash.
WHAT IS FOREST RIVER AND OUR DEALERSHIPS GOING TO DO?
Forest River is notifying dealerships of the recall. Forest River completely covers your cost for the remedy; you will not receive any bill of sale for anything covered under the above recall number.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Please contact your dealer immediately and request a service appointment to inspect the drawbar. Please state you have been notified by Forest River of having a recall in process for your vehicle and provide the recall number for the dealership. It is also helpful to the dealership to have a copy of this letter when you take your vehicle in for the recall remedy. Once the inspection is done, the dealer will need to contact US Cargo at the phone number listed below to determine next steps. A Forest River representative will be performing the remedy if the draw bar needs replaced.
You may also visit www.forestriverinc.com for dealer locations.
HOW LONG WILL THE REMEDY PROCESS TAKE?
The estimated time of inspection is .25 hours. If the drawbar needs replaced the estimated replacement time is 6.0 hours.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY PAID FOR REPAIRS TO YOUR VEHICLE FOR THIS PARTICULAR CONDITION?
If you have already paid for a repair that is within the scope of this defect under recall, you still need to have this recall inspected and/or performed to ensure the correct parts and procedures were utilized.
Additionally, you may be eligible for a refund of previously paid repairs. Refunds will only be provided for within the scope of this defect under recall.
Please send the service invoice to the following address:
US Cargo
Forest River, Inc.
Attn: WARRANTY MANAGER
1280 Commerce Dr.
Bristol, IN 46507
Chronology :
On January 5, 2023, Forest River received and inquiry from NHTSA related to VOQ 11499562. Forest Rivers’ Office of Corporate Compliance (“OCC”) along with the manufacturing plant began researching the complaint.
On January 13, 2023, Forest River’s Office of Corporate Compliance (“OCC”) was notified by the manufacturing plant of six drawbar failures in the field of certain 2015 and 2016 Amera-Lite “Drive On/Off” Cargo Trailers. On January 16, 2023, OCC opened an investigation into the concern.
On January 18, 2023, using manufacturing records, OCC and the manufacturing plant determined the scope of the potentially affected vehicles.
On January 20, 2023, Forest River’s Corporate Recall Committee voted to recall.
2 Affected Products
Vehicle
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| FOREST RIVER | AMERA-LITE | 2016-2017 |
10 Associated Documents
Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-23V015-3660.PDF 214.146KB
Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-23V015-8560.pdf 645.795KB
Recall 573 Report – 1/30/2023
RCLRPT-23V015-8456.PDF 214.274KB
ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-23V015-9061.pdf 172.654KB
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)
RCMN-23V015-1488.pdf 203.641KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-23V015-8071.pdf 239.597KB
Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2023-1
RCLQRT-23V015-0124.PDF 211.119KB
Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2023-2
RCLQRT-23V015-2018.PDF 211.218KB
Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2023-3
RCLQRT-23V015-0068.PDF 211.441KB
Recall Quarterly Report #4, 2023-4
RCLQRT-23V015-8279.PDF 211.548KB
Latest Recalls Documents
- Fits category 1 tractors
- 11 hole drawbar
- Holes spaced 26-Inch apart
- Used to attach machinery or implements to a tractor's 3-point hitch system
- Forged, powder coated finish
- Specail Speeco #DB411U 3PT Draw Bar
- SPECIAL SPEECO PRODUCTS
- 【Robust Construction】The 3-point hitch receiver is crafted from heavy-duty steel, engineered to handle substantial weight and pressure. It features a black powder-coated finish, ensuring strength and durability while resisting rust and corrosion, even with prolonged outdoor exposure.
- 【Unique Design】The 3-point tractor hitch features a standard 2-inch receiver, compatible with tow hooks, trailer hitches, and other attachments for secure and stable connections. Additionally, it includes a 7/8-inch diameter CAT 1 lifting pin, designed for Category 1 tractors, making it suitable for both small and large tractors. Ensure that any product used with the hitch is compatible with the 2-inch receiver for optimal performance.
- 【Simple Installation & Removal】The 3-point hitch receiver can be swiftly and effortlessly mounted onto the tractor. Once the hook is tightened in the correct position on the tractor's drawbar, it’s ready for use. Additionally, it can be easily removed, making it a convenient time-saving tool!
- 【Complete After-Sales Support】Benefit from a 1-year factory warranty and lifelong customer support. We've included installation instructions for your convenience. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
- Specs: Drawbar, Useable Length : 20", Width : 2", Thickness : 5/8", Pin Diameter : 5/8", No. of Holes : 7, Hole Diameter : 5/8"
- Compatible with/Replacement for DB40108R
- Application-Specific Design: Designed to match intended equipment and applications; confirm part number and specifications for proper fit and performance.
- Suitable for Multiple Users: Ideal for service shops, technicians, and DIY users performing maintenance, repair, or equipment servicing tasks.
- Made for Regular Service Use: Constructed with practical materials suitable for routine handling, installation, and standard operating environments.
- Heavy Duty Steel: The Sulythw 3 point tractor drawbar trailer hitch made of structural steel that is laser cut and fully welded, so you can be confident that it will be built to last when towing up to 8,000 lb; This thick steel is then powder coated to protect against rust and corrosion so it continues to perform like new, time after time
- Applications: The 3 point trailer drawbar hitch for category 1 tractor hitches is perfect for moving trailers around your land. Load your trailer with the various attachments you need, connect it to the 3 point trailer drawbar and tow it behind your tractor.
- Quick Hitch Compatible: The Cat 1 tractor trailer hitch is designed to be compatible with the quick hitch system for your 3 point; They are built with the highest quality materials and workmanship to exceed your expectations
- Adaptability: 3 point hitch receiver with trailer ball hitch is re-designed to be quick hitch compatible; Hitch attachment acts as a stabilizer and works on a variety of 2-inch hitches
- Package Includes: The quick hitch compatible tractor drawbar comes equipped with a clevis hook for pulling items with a chain and hook, two balls for smaller trailer applications; The trailer hitch frame will come equipped with 2 lower category 1 lift pins; It will also come equipped with the cat 1 top link pin
SEOCONTENT-START
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
Page 1 of 2
February 2023
This Notice applies to your vehicle VIN listed above.
Dear Forest River Customer:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This notice is also sent in accordance with the requirements of the United States’ National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Forest River has decided that a defect, which relates to the motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers. This is to inform you that your vehicle may contain a defect that could affect the safety of a person.
WHAT IS THE DEFECT/NONCOMPLIANCE?
The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”).
EVALUATION OF THE RISK TO THE VEHICLE AND OPERATOR(S) RELATED TO THE RECALL.
The drawbars have an elevated risk of fracture and full failure while traveling. Should the drawbars fracture or fail, the vehicle/trailer has an elevated increase to cause a crash.
WHAT IS FOREST RIVER AND OUR DEALERSHIPS GOING TO DO?
Forest River is notifying dealerships of the recall. Forest River completely covers your cost for the remedy; you will not receive any bill of sale for anything covered under the above recall number.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
Please contact your dealer immediately and request a service appointment to inspect the drawbar. Please state you have been notified by Forest River of having a recall in process for your vehicle and provide the recall number for the dealership. It is also helpful to the dealership to have a copy of this letter when you take your vehicle in for the recall remedy. Once the inspection is done, the dealer will need to contact US Cargo at the phone number listed below to determine next steps. A Forest River representative will be performing the remedy if the draw bar needs replaced.
You may also visit www.forestriverinc.com for dealer locations.
HOW LONG WILL THE REMEDY PROCESS TAKE?
The estimated time of inspection is .25 hours. If the drawbar needs replaced the estimated replacement time is 6.0 hours.
WHAT IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY PAID FOR REPAIRS TO YOUR VEHICLE FOR THIS PARTICULAR CONDITION?
If you have already paid for a repair that is within the scope of this defect under recall, you still need to have this recall inspected and/or performed to ensure the correct parts and procedures were utilized.
Additionally, you may be eligible for a refund of previously paid repairs. Refunds will only be provided for within the scope of this defect under recall.
Please send the service invoice to the following address:
US Cargo
Forest River, Inc.
Attn: WARRANTY MANAGER
1280 Commerce Dr.
Bristol, IN 46507
WHAT IF YOU NO LONGER OWN THIS VEHICLE?
DEPARTMENT OF COMPLIANCE
VEHICLE SAFETY AND RECALL MANAGEMENT
BUILDING 11
423 N MAIN ST
MIDDLEBURY, INDIANA 46540-9218
NHTSA RECALL: 23V015
CANADA RECALL: 2023-014
FR ID: 24-1592
<>
<>
<
<>, <> <>
O Integrity
O Safety
O Quality
O Customer Service
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
Page 2 of 2
If you no longer own this vehicle and have the address for the current owner, please forward this letter to the new owner within 10 working days after the day in which the notice is received. You have received this letter because government regulations require that a notification is sent to the last known owner of record. Our records indicate that you are the current owner.
PLEASE NOTE: FEDERAL LAW REQUIRES THAT ANY VEHICLE LESSOR RECEIVING THIS RECALL NOTICE MUST FORWARD A COPY OF THIS NOTICE TO THE LESSEE WITHIN TEN DAYS.
MAY FOREST RIVER
ASSIST YOU FURTHER?If you have difficulties getting your vehicle repaired, please contact your Forest River
Representative listed below:CONTACT
PHONE
CUSTOMER SERVICE
(574) 848-1335
If you are still having difficulty getting your vehicle repaired in a reasonable amount of time or without charge, you may write to the following address:
For Canadian Owners Please Contact:
Head of Recalls
Motor Vehicle Safety Investigations Laboratory
Transport Canada
80 Noël street, Gatineau, Quebec, J8Z 0A1
Telephone (800) 333-0510
Facsimile (819) 420-4292
Recall ID: 2023-014
For US Owners Please Contact:
Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
1200 New Jersey Ave, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Or you may call the toll free Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or (TTY: 1-800-424-9153).
Or visit www.safercar.gov and search;
Recall ID: 23V015
Sincerely,
Forest River
Inc.Office of Corporate Compliance**************************************************************************************************************IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
Page 1 of 2
February 2023
Pursuant to USC49CFR §577.13 – Notification to Dealerships and Distributors – Paragraph B
“It is a violation of Federal Law for a dealer to deliver a new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by the notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is remedied. Substantial civil penalties apply to violations of this law.”
–Forest River
motorized and towable products are contained in this section-CANADA: Pursuant to the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act, section 5
Companies who sell new non-complying vehicles may be in violation of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Substantial penalties apply to violations of this law. This notice is being sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This is to inform you that your vehicle may contain a defect that could affect the safety of a person.
Forest River
has decided that a safety defect exists in certain 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers. Forest River is recalling the defect model(s) to ensure the safety of our future retail consumers and your dealership. Forest River apologizes for any inconvenience this action may cause your dealership; however, safety continued satisfaction and our commitment to building great products are of the utmost importance to Forest River.The identified VIN referenced in the attached document(s).
The designated Date range of production is 08/03/2015 through 05/24/2016.
WHAT IS THE DEFECT/NONCOMPLIANCE?
The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”).
EVALUATION OF THE RISK TO THE VEHICLE AND OPERATOR(S) RELATED TO THE RECALL.
The drawbars have an elevated risk of fracture and full failure while traveling. Should the drawbars fracture or fail, the vehicle/trailer has an elevated increase to cause a crash.
SERVICE PROCEDURE:
Dealership Service Department procedures can be found on Dealer Connect. Please review the remedy instructions for inspection. Once the inspection is performed, see “Next Steps” before proceeding.
PARTS AND RETURN:
Prior Authorization and pictures are required for the inspection. Pictures of the inspection are a condition of payment in which must be provided with a claim against the repair code.
DEALER REPAIR CODES: Dealer Connect
UNITED
STATES
CANADA
REPAIR
CODE
DESCRIPTION
ALLOWABLE HOUR(S)
23V015
2023-014
RC-094-05-00-004296
INSPECTION ONLY
.25 HRS.
HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION:
CONTACT
PHONE
CUSTOMER SERVICE
(574) 848-1335
The Recall shall be considered the utmost priority to remedy the 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers in question. The retail consumer shall not be charged any amount of monies for remedy to their 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers listed under this Recall.
DEPARTMENT OF COMPLIANCE
VEHICLE SAFETY AND RECALL MANAGEMENT
BUILDING 11
423 N MAIN ST
MIDDLEBURY, INDIANA 46540-9218
NHTSA RECALL: 23V015
CANADA RECALL: 2023-014
FR ID: 24-1592
<>
< >
<>, <> <>
O Integrity
O Safety
O Quality
O Customer Service
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
Page 2 of 2
If your dealership has already performed the remedy to 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers, your dealership is entitled to the reimbursement as stated above by filing a claim using the indicated repair code(s). If the remedy needs to be performed on an out of warranty 2016-2017 Ameralite Cargo Trailers in which the VIN falls under as stated in the identified VIN listing, your dealership is entitled to the reimbursement as stated above by filing a claim using the indicated repair code(s).
Notice:
In no manner shall a Forest River
Product Owner or Coachmen Product Owner be charged any fee(s) for scheduling, conduction or completion of the recall. Additionally, all dealership(s) that are Forest River and/or Coachmen dealership(s) are Federally Mandated to perform the recall once presented with this recall whether by the Owner or Dealership receipt of this letter, without denial of service to the Owner. Lastly, denial of a remedy for this recall is a Federal Violation punishable by law resulting substantial fines and/or civil penalties.Federal Regulation requires that any lessor receiving this Recall must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days. If your dealership no longer owns this vehicle, please inform the Warranty Manager of the product listed above of the change of ownership.
Sincerely,
Forest River
, Inc.Office of Corporate Compliance**************************************************************************************************************OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Forest River
, Inc. JAN 30, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-015 Manufacturer Recall No. : 24-1592Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Forest River
, Inc.Address : 55470 CR 1
P.O. Box 3030 Elkhart IN 46515-3030 Company phone : 1-800-348-7440
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 296 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information :
Vehicle 1 : 2016-2017 Forest River
Inc. Ameralite Cargo Trailers Vehicle Type : TRAILERS Body Style : OTHER Power Train : NRDescriptive Information : The scope was determined by purchasing records of the delivery dates of the material.
US – See Attached Spreadsheet Production Dates : AUG 03, 2015 – MAY 24, 2016
VIN Range 1 : Begin : NR End : NR Not sequential Description of Defect :
Description of the Defect : The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”).
FMVSS 1 : NR FMVSS 2 : NR
Description of the Safety Risk : The drawbars have an elevated risk of fracture and full failure while traveling.
Should the drawbars fracture or fail, the vehicle/trailer has an elevated increase to cause a crash.
Description of the Cause : The gauge of the tubes used to manufacture the drawbars are insufficient for the vehicles’ GVWR. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None
Involved Components : Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015 Page 2 Component Name 1 : Tongue Tube Component Description : 3 x 3 x .188″ Tube Component Part Number : 549003 Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : Alliance Aluminum Address : 16489 Commerce Dr
Bristol Indiana 46507
Country : United States Chronology :
On January 5, 2023, Forest River
received and inquiry from NHTSA related to VOQ 11499562. Forest Rivers’ Office of Corporate Compliance (“OCC”) along with the manufacturing plant began researching the complaint. On January 13, 2023, Forest River’s Office of Corporate Compliance (“OCC”) was notified by the manufacturing plant of six drawbar failures in the field of certain 2015 and 2016 Amera-Lite “Drive On/Off” Cargo Trailers. On January 16, 2023, OCC opened an investigation into the concern. On January 18, 2023, using manufacturing records, OCC and the manufacturing plant determined the scope of the potentially affected vehicles. On January 20, 2023, Forest River’s Corporate Recall Committee voted to recall. The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015Page 3
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Forest River
will provide all parts and labor free of charge to Consumersand Dealers. An authorized Forest River
dealer will need to perform the remedy to replace the draw bar.What is the Forest River
Customer Service Phone Number? (574) 848-1335 If you have already paid for a repair that is within the scope of this defect under recall, you still need to have this recall inspected and/or performed to ensure the correct parts and procedures were utilized. Additionally, you may be eligible for a refund of previously paid repairs. Refunds will only be provided for within the scope of this defect under recall.Please send the service invoice to the following address:
US Cargo
Forest River
, Inc.Attn: WARRANTY MANAGER
1280 Commerce Dr.
Bristol, IN 46507
How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component :
The Drawbars will now have the correct gauge of tubes. Affected Component – Tongue Tube
Component Description – 3 x 3 x .188″ Tube Part Number – 549003 Replacement Component – Tongue Tube
Component Description – 3″ x 5″ x .250″, Double Hollow Tube Part Number – 06-08-030
Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production :
Using the purchasing records, it was determined that in December of 2015 the shipments of incorrect material was last delivered. Forest River
is expanding the scope of the recall into May of 2016 to inspect and remedy to help ensure all vehicles are captured. Recall Schedule :Description of Recall Schedule : Forest River
has the utmost urgency in our recalls. Forest River will sendsuspected VIN numbers to our third party vendor that is licensed to pull data on the current owner of the vehicles (as needed) once a formal NHTSA I.D. is provided. Forest River
intends on pushing the mailing out as soon as NHTSA provides any correction(s) and an Acknowledgement Letter.Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 01, 2023 – MAR 01, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 01, 2023 – MAR 01, 2023
* NR – Not Reported**************************************************************************************************************
OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Forest River, Inc. JAN 20, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-015 Manufacturer Recall No. : 24-1592
Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Forest River, Inc.
Address : 55470 CR 1
P.O. Box 3030 Elkhart IN 46515-3030 Company phone : 1-800-348-7440
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 296 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information :
Vehicle 1 : 2016-2017 Forest River Inc. Ameralite Cargo Trailers Vehicle Type : TRAILERS Body Style : OTHER Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : The scope was determined by purchasing records of the delivery dates of the material.
US – See Attached Spreadsheet Production Dates : AUG 03, 2015 – MAY 24, 2016
VIN Range 1 : Begin : NR End : NR Not sequential Description of Defect :
Description of the Defect : The drawbars welded to the vehicle may be out of specification for the vehicles’ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (“GVWR”).
FMVSS 1 : NR FMVSS 2 : NR
Description of the Safety Risk : The drawbars have an elevated risk of fracture and full failure while traveling.
Should the drawbars fracture or fail, the vehicle/trailer has an elevated increase to cause a crash.
Description of the Cause : The gauge of the tubes used to manufacture the drawbars are insufficient for the vehicles’ GVWR. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None
Involved Components : Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015 Page 2 Component Name 1 : Tongue Tube Component Description : 3 x 3 x .188″ Tube Component Part Number : 549003 Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : NR Address : NR
NR
Country : NR Chronology :
On January 13, 2023, Forest River’s Office of Corporate Compliance (“OCC”) was notified by the manufacturing plant of six drawbar failures in the field of certain 2015 and 2016 Amera-Lite “Drive On/Off” Cargo Trailers. On January 16, 2023, OCC opened an investigation into the concern. On January 18, 2023, using manufacturing records, OCC and the manufacturing plant determined the scope of the potentially affected vehicles. On January 20, 2023, Forest River’s Corporate Recall Committee voted to recall. The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-015
Page 3
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Forest River will provide all parts and labor free of charge to Consumers
and Dealers. An authorized Forest River dealer will need to perform the remedy to replace the draw bar.
What is the Forest River Customer Service Phone Number? (574) 848-1335 If you have already paid for a repair that is within the scope of this defect under recall, you still need to have this recall inspected and/or performed to ensure the correct parts and procedures were utilized. Additionally, you may be eligible for a refund of previously paid repairs. Refunds will only be provided for within the scope of this defect under recall.
Please send the service invoice to the following address:
US Cargo
Forest River, Inc.
Attn: WARRANTY MANAGER
1280 Commerce Dr.
Bristol, IN 46507
How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component :
The Drawbars will now have the correct gauge of tubes. Affected Component – Tongue Tube
Component Description – 3 x 3 x .188″ Tube Part Number – 549003 Replacement Component – Tongue Tube
Component Description – 3″ x 5″ x .250″, Double Hollow Tube Part Number – 06-08-030
Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production :
Using the purchasing records, it was determined that in December of 2015 the shipments of incorrect material was last delivered. Forest River is expanding the scope of the recall into May of 2016 to inspect and remedy to help ensure all vehicles are captured. Recall Schedule :
Description of Recall Schedule : Forest River has the utmost urgency in our recalls. Forest River will send
suspected VIN numbers to our third party vendor that is licensed to pull data on the current owner of the vehicles (as needed) once a formal NHTSA I.D. is provided. Forest River intends on pushing the mailing out as soon as NHTSA provides any correction(s) and an Acknowledgement Letter.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 01, 2023 – MAR 01, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 01, 2023 – MAR 01, 2023
* NR – Not Reported
SEOCONTENT-END
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.