October 4, 2019 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V707000
Roof Sheets May Separate/FMVSS 221
In the event of a crash, if the roof sheets separate, there is an increased risk of injury.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V707
Manufacturer Blue Bird Body Company
Components STRUCTURE
Potential Number of Units Affected 302
Summary
Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain 2019-2021 All American and Vision school buses. An insufficient number of rivets were installed in the roof sheets, allowing the roof sheets to separate in the event of a severe impact. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 221, “School Bus Body Joint Strength.”
Remedy
Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the roof joints and add the sufficient number of rivets, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 22, 2019. Owners may contact Blue Bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. Blue Bird’s number for this recall is R19AH.
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.safercar.gov.
R19AH-C
SECOND FINAL NOTICE
| DATE: | June 30, 2020 |
| TO: | Blue Bird Owners |
| Subject: | RECALL R19AH-C – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
According to our records, we have not received confirmation that the above referenced recall, dated October 25, 2019, has been completed. A copy of Recall R19AH-C is attached. Your buses affected by Recall R19AH-C are identified by Blue Bird body number and VIN under Section 2 on the enclosed cover sheet.
If this is the first time you received notification of Recall R19AH-C, please read the enclosed notification carefully. Recall R19AH-C must be completed, as soon as possible. To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template was included with the notification letter issued on October 25, 2019. Parts for this campaign are currently available. Parts can be ordered through [email protected]
If you have already had R19AH-C performed on your affected buses, please complete and mail the enclosed recall pink reply sheet to us in the enclosed postage paid pink reply envelope so we may update our recall records. Be sure the reply sheet is filled out properly. Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH-C installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet, that must be installed.
Questions regarding this recall campaign should be directed to me at (478) 822-2242 or [email protected]
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Lisa Hancock
Corporate Recall Administrator
Blue Bird Corporation
402 Blue Bird Blvd, Fort Valley, Georgia 31030
Phone 478.822.2242
[email protected]
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
R19AH-C
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE
MOT Recall Number: 2019-495 School Bus
| DATE: | October 25, 2019 |
| TO: | CANADIAN OWNERS |
| Subject: | RECALL R19AH-C – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This is to inform you that your vehicle may contain a defect that could affect the safety of a person.
This important safety recall notice applies to your bus(es) identified by both Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the enclosed yellow cover sheet. If you no longer own the subject bus(es), please complete the appropriate section of the yellow cover sheet and return to Blue Bird in the enclosed pink postage prepaid envelope.
Blue Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2021 Vision School Buses manufactured from July 13, 2019 through August 26, 2019 and a 2021 TX4 School Bus manufactured on July 29, 2019. It has been determined that certain Blue Bird buses fail to conform to the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. These subject buses may not comply with the 60% joint strength requirement on certain 8-inch segments of the exterior roof joints. Blue Bird evaluated the risk to motor vehicle safety related to this noncompliance and determined that there is a potential for the roof sheets to separate in the event of a severe impact when less than 6 rivets are installed in an 8-inch roof joint segment, which would increase the risk of injury. There is no audible or visual warning which would precede this potential failure.
Corrective Action:
To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template is included with this notification letter. Parts for this campaign are currently available.
Labor Reimbursement:
Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH-C installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet that must be installed.
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
Administering the Recall:
Blue Bird recommends that you contact your local or nearest Blue Bird Dealer to arrange for this recall to be performed. The Dealer can perform the repairs, or arrange for repairs to be performed by a service repair facility authorized by the Dealer. However, you may elect to perform this recall yourself or pay another independent repair facility to perform this recall. A qualified technician should perform this recall. If you elect to perform this recall yourself or pay another independent repair facility to perform this recall, complete and submit the Pink Owner’s Recall Reply Sheet provided. The Recall Reply Sheet includes a section for the owner to request reimbursement of the owner’s labor or to request reimbursement for a labor invoice paid by the owner to an independent repair facility.
Parts to complete Recall R19AH-C can be obtained from Blue Bird Recall Administration via e-mail at [email protected] by returning the yellow cover sheet to Blue Bird in the pink self-addressed, postage prepaid envelope to receive parts at no charge. You should retain a copy of the reply sheet for your records.
If you have in your possession or have sold a bus that was purchased from another dealer that may be affected by this recall, please notify me at 478-822-2242 or [email protected]
Canadian law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
If the modifications directed by this notification were performed on your bus prior to the receipt of this recall notification, complete and sign the Recall Pink Reply Sheet and attach a copy of the work order/invoice. Mail the documents in the pink self-addressed postage prepaid envelope included with the pink reply sheet to Blue Bird for warranty consideration. Reimbursements will be made in accordance with the requirements of the Canada Motor Vehicle Act.
Questions regarding this recall campaign should be directed to your local Blue Bird Dealer.
RECALL
R19AH-C: Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity
Models Affected: Certain 2021 Vision and TX4
Issue: On certain units, the roof sheet rivet spacing may be incorrect in some segments, resulting in noncompliance with CMVSS 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength.
Corrective Action: Inspect the rivet spacing at each roof sheet joint and install additional rivets, as required by specification.
Parts/Items Needed:
| Item Number | Part Number | Description | Quantity |
| 1 | 10052610 | FASTENER,HUCK,.25 BLIND,MAGNALOK,MGLP-R8-ES | 12 (Approximately) |
| 2 | NA | *RIVET SPACING TEMPLATE | 1 |
*Rivet spacing template will be included in the dealer/owner letters sent in the US mail.
[WARNING] This procedure requires working from ladders or scaffolds to reach the top of the bus. Observe all safety precautions to secure the bus from rolling and for use of ladders or scaffolds. Thoroughly read and understand all instructions before performing these procedures. Park bus on level surface, apply parking brake, turn off ignition key, and chock wheels.
Instructions
1. On one side of the bus, starting at either the front or the rear, go to the first roof panel joint seam of double rivets. These will be the rivet rows that need to be inspected.
2. Use a ladder or scaffold that will allow access to the roof of the bus.
3. Inspect rivet spacing at each roof sheet joint. Roof sheet joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Joint must have a minimum of six rivets in an eight inch segment. The full length of the roof sheet joint, including the top of the bus, must be inspected and corrected, if needed.
a. Place the supplied rivet spacing template over the joint and parallel to the edge of the roof sheet, allowing roof rivets to be exposed through the opening in the template, as shown.
b. Move the template from one side of the roof sheet towards the center of the roof.
c. If a segment in the roof joint contains less than six rivets, additional rivets are required. Mark each area that requires additional rivets.
d. If one rivet is required; add a rivet equally spaced between the two rivets with the largest space in this section.
e. If additional rivets are required; add additional rivets between the largest spaces until a minimum of six (6) rivets have been added in the eight (8) inch segment.
4. Using a short 17/64” drill bit, drill a hole through the roof sheet and bow flange only. Be sure not to drill through the inside headliner. Drill any required holes on a common centerline with existing rivets.
5. Install rivet (Item 1) in each drilled hole.
6. With the correct color paint, touch up each blind rivet installed.
7. Repeat procedure on the opposite side of the bus.
R19AH-C
AVIS IMPORTANT DE RAPPEL DE SÉCURITÉ
Numéro de rappel MOT : autobus scolaire 2019-495
| DATE: | 25 octobre 2019 |
| À : | PROPRIÉTAIRES CANADIENS |
| OBJET : | RAPPEL R19AH-C – Non-conformité à la résistance des joints – Quantité insuffisante de rivets de toit |
Le présent avis vous est envoyé conformément aux exigences de la Loi sur la sécurité automobile. La présente a pour but de vous informer que votre véhicule est susceptible d’avoir un défaut qui pourrait porter atteinte à la sécurité humaine.
Cet avis important de rappel de sécurité s’applique à vos autobus identifiés à la fois par le numéro de carrosserie Blue Bird et le numéro d’identification du véhicule (NIV) sur la feuille de couverture jaune ci-jointe. Si vous ne possédez plus le ou les autobus en question, veuillez remplir la section appropriée de la page de couverture jaune et la renvoyer à Blue Bird dans l’enveloppe-réponse affranchie rose ci-jointe.
Blue Bird Body Company rappelle certains autobus scolaires Vision de l’année de modèle 2021 fabriqués du 13 juillet 2019 au 26 août 2019 ainsi qu’un autobus scolaire 2021 TX4 fabriqué le 29 juillet 2019. Il a été déterminé que certains autobus Blue Bird ne se conforment pas à la norme de sécurité des véhicules automobiles du Canada numéro 221, Résistance des joints de carrosserie des autobus scolaires. Les autobus concernés pourraient ne pas satisfaire à l’exigence de résistance des joints de 60% sur certains segments de 8 pouces des joints de toit extérieurs. Blue Bird a évalué les risques pour la sécurité des véhicules automobiles liés à cette non-conformité et a déterminé qu’il était possible que les tôles de toiture se séparent en cas de choc important lorsque moins de 6 rivets sont installés sur un segment de joint de toit de 8 pouces, augmentant ainsi le risque de blessures. Aucun avertissement sonore ou visuel ne précéderait cette défaillance potentielle.
Mesure corrective
Pour corriger cette non-conformité, les joints des tôles de toit des autobus en question doivent être inspectés et, s’ils ne sont pas conformes, modifiés conformément aux instructions de réparation de Blue Bird. Les joints de panneau de toit sont assemblés avec deux rangées de rivets. Chaque joint doit comporter un minimum de 6 rivets dans chaque segment de 8 pouces. En déplaçant un modèle de 8 pouces le long du joint de panneau de toit, le personnel effectuant la réparation comptera les rivets qui apparaissent dans la section couverte par le modèle. Si une section de toit de 8 pouces comporte moins de 6 rivets, le personnel de réparation devra ajouter un nombre suffisant de rivets régulièrement espacés de sorte que 6 rivets soient installés dans ce segment de 8 pouces. Le modèle de 8 pouces est inclus avec cette lettre de notification. Les pièces relatives à cette campagne sont actuellement disponibles.
Remboursement de la main-d’œuvre
Blue Bird remboursera les coûts de main-d’œuvre de l’inspection et les réparations potentielles liées à ce rappel, sans frais pour vous le propriétaire du véhicule. Le délai normal de réparation (SRT – standard repair time) pour effectuer ces réparations conformément à la procédure d’installation du R19AH-C est de 0,8 heure
(48 minutes) pour l’inspection et de 2 minutes par rivet à installer.
BLEU BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
Administration du Rappel
Blue Bird vous recommande de contacter votre revendeur Blue Bird local ou le plus proche pour organiser ce rappel. Le concessionnaire peut effectuer les réparations ou faire en sorte que les réparations soient effectuées par un atelier de réparation agréé par le concessionnaire. Toutefois, vous pouvez choisir d’effectuer ce rappel vous-même ou payer un autre atelier de réparation indépendant pour effectuer ce rappel. Un technicien qualifié devrait effectuer ce rappel. Si vous choisissez d’effectuer ce rappel vous-même ou si vous payez un autre atelier de réparation indépendant pour le faire, remplir et soumettre la feuille rose de réponse au rappel du propriétaire qui est fournie. La feuille de réponses au rappel inclut une section permettant au propriétaire de demander le remboursement de sa main-d’œuvre ou de demander le remboursement d’une facture de main-d’œuvre payée par le propriétaire à un atelier de réparation indépendant.
Les pièces requises pour compléter le Rappel R19AH-C peuvent être obtenues auprès de l’administration du Rappel Blue Bird par courrier électronique à l’adresse suivante : [email protected] en renvoyant la feuille de couverture jaune à Blue Bird dans l’enveloppe rose préaffranchie et préadressée pour recevoir les pièces sans frais. Vous devriez conserver une copie de la feuille de réponse pour vos dossiers.
Si vous avez en votre possession, ou si vous avez vendu, un autobus acheté auprès d’un autre concessionnaire susceptible d’être concerné par ce rappel, veuillez m’en informer au 478-822-2242 ou à l’adresse [email protected]
La loi canadienne exige que tout bailleur de véhicule recevant cet avis de rappel transmette une copie de cet avis au preneur dans un délai de dix jours.
Si les modifications demandées par cette notification ont été effectuées sur votre autobus avant la réception de cette notification de rappel, remplir et signer la feuille rose de réponse au rappel et y joindre une copie du bon de commande et de la facture. Envoyer les documents dans l’enveloppe rose préaffranchie et préadressée, inclus avec la feuille de réponse rose, à Blue Bird pour la prise en compte de la garantie. Les remboursements seront effectués conformément aux exigences de la Loi canadienne sur les véhicules à moteur.
Les questions concernant cette campagne de rappel doivent être adressées à votre concessionnaire local de Blue Bird.
RAPPEL
R19AH-C : Quantité insuffisante de rivets de toit
Modèles concernés : Certains 2021 Vision et TX4
Problème : sur certaines unités, l’espacement des rivets de la tôle de toit peut être incorrect dans certains segments, entraînant la non-conformité à la NSVAC 221, Résistance des joints de carrosserie des autobus scolaires.
Mesure corrective : inspecter l’espacement des rivets au niveau de chaque joint de tôle de toit et installer des rivets supplémentaires, tel que requis par les spécifications.
Pièces / éléments nécessaires :
| Nº de l’élément | Référence de pièce | Description | Quantité |
| 1 | 10052610 | RIVET, HUCK, 0,25 AVEUGLE, MAGNALOK, MGLP-R8-ES | 12 (environ)) |
| 2 | S.O. | *MODÈLE D’ESPACEMENT DES RIVETS | 1 |
*Un modèle d’espacement des rivets sera inclus dans les lettres aux concessionnaires / propriétaires envoyées par la poste aux États-Unis.
[AVERTISSEMENT] Cette procédure nécessite de travailler à l’aide d’échelles ou d’échafaudages pour atteindre le haut de l’autobus. Respecter toutes les consignes de sécurité pour immobiliser l’autobus et utiliser des échelles ou des échafaudages. Lire attentivement et comprendre toutes les instructions avant d’exécuter ces procédures. Garer l’autobus sur une surface plane, serrer le frein de stationnement, désactiver la clé de contact et caler les roues.
Instructions
1. D’un côté de l’autobus, en partant de l’avant ou de l’arrière, commencer à la première couture de joint de panneau de toit composée de rivets doubles. Ce seront les rangées de rivets qui devront être inspectées.
2. Utiliser une échelle ou un échafaudage permettant l’accès au toit de l’autobus.
3. Inspecter l’espacement des rivets à chaque joint de tôle de toit. Les joints de tôle de toit sont assemblés par deux rangées de rivets. Chaque joint doit comporter au moins 6 rivets dans chaque segment de 8 pouces. Toute la longueur du joint des tôles de toit, y compris le haut de l’autobus, doit être inspectée et, le cas échéant, corrigée.
a. Placer le modèle fourni d’espacement des rivets sur le joint, parallèlement au bord de la tôle de toit, afin de permettre aux rivets de toit d’être exposés à travers l’ouverture du modèle, comme illustré.
b. Déplacer le modèle d’un côté de la tôle de toit vers le centre du toit.
c. Si un segment dans le joint de toit contient moins de six rivets, des rivets supplémentaires sont nécessaires. Marquer chaque zone qui nécessite des rivets supplémentaires.
d. Si un rivet est nécessaire, ajouter un rivet à égale distance des deux rivets ayant le plus grand espace dans cette section.
e. Si des rivets supplémentaires sont nécessaires, ajouter les rivets entre les plus grands espaces jusqu’à ce qu’un minimum de six (6) rivets soit ajouté dans le segment de huit (8) pouces.
4. À l’aide d’une mèche courte de 17/64″, percer un trou dans la tôle de toit et la bride d’arceau uniquement. Veiller à ne pas percer l’intérieur de la garniture du pavillon. Percer tous les trous nécessaires sur une ligne centrale commune avec les rivets existants.
5. Installer un rivet (élément 1) dans chaque trou percé.
6. Avec une peinture de couleur appropriée, retoucher chaque rivet aveugle installé.
7. Répéter la procédure de l’autre côté de l’autobus.
R19AH
ADDITIONAL NOTICE
| DATE: | October 14, 2020 |
| TO: | Blue Bird Owners |
| Subject: | RECALL R19AH – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
According to our records, we have not received confirmation that the above referenced recall, dated October 25, 2019, has been completed. A copy of Recall R19AH is attached. Your buses affected by Recall R19AH are identified by Blue Bird body number and VIN under Section 2 on the enclosed cover sheet.
If this is the first time you received notification of Recall R19AH, please read the enclosed notification carefully. Recall R19AH must be completed, as soon as possible. To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template was included with the notification letter issued on October 25, 2019. Parts for this campaign are currently available. Parts can be ordered through [email protected]
If you have already had R19AH performed on your affected buses, please complete and mail the enclosed recall pink reply sheet to us in the enclosed postage paid pink reply envelope so we may update our recall records. Be sure the reply sheet is filled out properly. Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet, that must be installed.
Questions regarding this recall campaign should be directed to me at (478) 822-2242 or [email protected]
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Lisa Hancock
Corporate Recall Administrator
Blue Bird Corporation
402 Blue Bird Blvd, Fort Valley, Georgia 31030
Phone 478.822.2242
[email protected]
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
R19AH
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE
NHTSA Recall Number: 19V-707 School Bus
| DATE: | October 25, 2019 |
| Subject: | RECALL R19AH – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
Dear Blue Bird Owner:
This important safety recall notice applies to your bus(es) identified by both Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the enclosed yellow cover sheet. If you no longer own the subject bus(es), please complete the appropriate section of the yellow reply sheet and return to Blue Bird in the enclosed pink postage prepaid envelope.
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2019 to 2021 Vision with manufactured dates from July 16, 2019 through August 27, 2019 and 2019 to 2021 All American School Buses manufactured from July 17, 2019 through August 25, 2019. It has been determined that certain Blue Bird buses fail to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. These subject buses may not comply with the 60% joint strength requirement on certain 8-inch segments of the exterior roof joints. Blue Bird evaluated the risk to motor vehicle safety related to this noncompliance and determined that there is a potential for the roof sheets to separate in the event of a crash when less than 6 rivets are installed in an 8-inch roof joint segment. In the event of a crash, if the roof sheets separate, there is an increased risk of injury.
To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template is included with this notification letter. Parts for this campaign are currently available.
Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet, that must be installed.
Parts to complete Recall R19AH can be obtained from Blue Bird Recall Administration via e-mail at [email protected] or by returning the yellow cover sheet to Blue Bird in the pink self-addressed, postage prepaid envelope to receive parts at no charge. You should retain a copy of the reply sheet for your records.
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
Blue Bird Body Company
R19AH
Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
If the modifications directed by this notification were performed on your bus prior to the receipt of this recall notification, attach a copy of the work order/invoice. Mail the documents in the pink selfaddressed postage prepaid envelope included with the Pink Reply Sheet to Blue Bird for warranty consideration. Reimbursements will be made in accordance with the requirements of the National Highway Transportation Safety Act, Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 573 and 577.
Please contact your local Blue Bird Dealer with any questions regarding this recall campaign.
If Blue Bird Body Company should fail to or is unable to remedy this condition without charge to you, you may contact:
ADMINISTRATOR
NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION
1200 NEW JERSEY AVENUE, SE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
Or, you may call The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration toll free at: 1-888-327-4236 TTY 1-800-424-9153 or go to: http:/www.safercar.gov
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
R19AH
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE
NHTSA Recall Number: 19V-707 School Bus
| DATE: | October 25, 2019 |
| SUBJECT: | RECALL R19AH – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
Dear Blue Bird Owner:
This important safety recall notice applies to your bus(es) identified by both Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the enclosed yellow cover sheet. If you no longer own the subject bus(es), please complete the appropriate section of the yellow reply sheet and return to Blue Bird in the enclosed pink postage prepaid envelope.
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2019 to 2021 Vision with manufactured dates from July 16, 2019 through August 27, 2019 and 2019 to 2021 All American School Buses manufactured from July 17, 2019 through August 25, 2019. It has been determined that certain Blue Bird buses fail to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. These subject buses may not comply with the 60% joint strength requirement on certain 8-inch segments of the exterior roof joints. Blue Bird evaluated the risk to motor vehicle safety related to this noncompliance and determined that there is a potential for the roof sheets to separate in the event of a crash when less than 6 rivets are installed in an 8-inch roof joint segment. In the event of a crash, if the roof sheets separate, there is an increased risk of injury.
To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template is included with this notification letter. Parts for this campaign are currently available.
Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet, that must be installed.
Parts to complete Recall R19AH can be obtained from Blue Bird Recall Administration via e-mail at [email protected] or by returning the yellow cover sheet to Blue Bird in the pink self-addressed, postage prepaid envelope to receive parts at no charge. You should retain a copy of the reply sheet for your records.
Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
If the modifications directed by this notification were performed on your bus prior to the receipt of this recall notification, attach a copy of the work order/invoice. Mail the documents in the pink self addressed postage prepaid envelope included with the Pink Reply Sheet to Blue Bird for warranty consideration. Reimbursements will be made in accordance with the requirements of the National Highway Transportation Safety Act, Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 573 and 577.
Please contact your local Blue Bird Dealer with any questions regarding this recall campaign.
If Blue Bird Body Company should fail to or is unable to remedy this condition without charge to you, you may contact:
ADMINISTRATOR
NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION
1200 NEW JERSEY AVENUE, SE
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590
Or, you may call The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration toll free at: 1-888-327-4236 TTY 1-800-424-9153 or go to: http:/www.safercar.gov
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
SEOCONTENT-START
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
R19AH
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE
NHTSA Recall Number: 19V-707 School Bus
DATE: October 25, 2019
TO: U.S. DEALERS
SUBJECT: RECALL R19AH – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
This important safety recall notice applies to your buses identified by both Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the attached yellow cover sheet.
Blue Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2019 to 2021 Vision with manufactured dates from July 16, 2019 through August 27, 2019 and 2019 to 2021 All American School Buses manufactured from July 17, 2019 through August 25, 2019. It has been determined that certain Blue Bird buses fail to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. These subject buses may not comply with the 60% joint strength requirement on certain 8-inch segments of the exterior roof joints. Blue Bird evaluated the risk to motor vehicle safety related to this noncompliance and determined that there is a potential for the roof sheets to separate in the event of a crash when less than 6 rivets are installed in an 8-inch roof joint segment. In the event of a crash, if the roof sheets separate, there is an increased risk of injury.
To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template is included with this notification letter. Parts for this campaign are currently available.
Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the Dealer or to the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet that must be installed.
Parts to complete Recall R19AH can be obtained from Blue Bird Recall Administration via e-mail at [email protected] or by returning the yellow cover sheet to Blue Bird in the pink self-addressed, postage prepaid envelope to receive parts at no charge. You should retain a copy of the reply sheet for your records.
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
Blue Bird Body Company R19AH
Page 2
If Blue Bird’s records indicate bus(es) subject to this recall were delivered in your service area, a list of affected bus(es) will be enclosed. The bus(es) will be identified by Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the enclosed yellow cover sheet. Dealers should verify correct owners and assure that complete mailing and shipping addresses are provided for each listed owner.
It is the Dealer’s responsibility to verify that the correct owner name, address, and telephone number is provided for each listed vehicle. Any corrections or updates should be made in ClaimsCenter. Addresses that cannot be updated should be forwarded to the Recall Administrator.
Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
Dealers are reminded of their responsibilities under Section 154 of The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1991. Dealers are required to complete modifications on units in their inventory before delivering to the final owner. Reference Blue Bird Body Company Distributor Memo No. 42-92.
If you have in your possession or have sold a bus that was purchased from another dealer that may be affected by this recall, please notify Lisa Hancock at 478-822-2242 or [email protected] Questions regarding this recall campaign should be directed to Lisa Hancock as well.
Sincerely,
Lisa Hancock
Corporate Recall Administrator
Blue Bird Corporation
402 Blue Bird Blvd, Fort Valley, Georgia 31030
Phone 478.822.2242
[email protected]
1
RECALL R19AH – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity
Models Affected: Certain 2019-2021 Vision and All American buses
Issue: On certain units, the roof sheet rivet spacing may be incorrect in some segments, resulting in noncompliance with FMVSS 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength.
Corrective Action: Inspect the rivet spacing at each roof sheet joint and install additional rivets, as required by specification.
Parts/Items Needed:
*Rivet spacing template will be included in the dealer/owner letters sent in the US mail.
[WARNING] This procedure requires working from ladders or scaffolds to reach the top of the bus. Observe all safety precautions to secure the bus from rolling and for use of ladders or scaffolds. Thoroughly read and understand all instructions before performing these procedures. Park bus on level surface, apply parking brake, turn off ignition key, and chock wheels.
Instructions
1. On one side of the bus, starting at either the front or the rear, go to the first roof panel joint seam of double rivets. These will be the rivet rows that need to be inspected.
2. Use a ladder or scaffold that will allow access to the roof of the bus.
Item Number
Part Number
Description
Quantity
1
10052610
FASTENER,HUCK,.25 BLIND,MAGNALOK,MGLP-R8-ES
12 (Approximately)
2
NA
*RIVET SPACING TEMPLATE
1
2
RECALL R19AH – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity
3. Inspect rivet spacing at each roof sheet joint. Roof sheet joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Joint must have a minimum of six rivets in an eight inch segment. The full length of the roof sheet joint, including the top of the bus, must be inspected and corrected, if needed.
a. Place the supplied rivet spacing template over the joint and parallel to the edge of the roof sheet, allowing roof rivets to be exposed through the opening in the template, as shown.
b. Move the template from one side of the roof sheet towards the center of the roof.
c. If a segment in the roof joint contains less than six rivets, additional rivets are required. Mark each area that requires additional rivets.
d. If one rivet is required; add a rivet equally spaced between the two rivets with the largest space in this section.
e. If additional rivets are required; add additional rivets between the largest spaces until a minimum of six (6) rivets have been added in the eight (8) inch segment.
4. Using a short 17/64” drill bit, drill a hole through the roof sheet and bow flange only. Be sure not to drill through the inside headliner. Drill any required holes on a common centerline with existing rivets.
5. Install rivet (Item 1) in each drilled hole.
6. With the correct color paint, touch up each blind rivet installed.
7. Repeat procedure on the opposite side of the bus.
R19AH
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE
NHTSA Recall Number: 19V-707 School Bus
| DATE: | October 25, 2019 |
| TO: | U.S. DEALERS |
| SUBJECT: | RECALL R19AH – Joint Strength Noncompliance – Insufficient Roof Rivet Quantity |
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
This important safety recall notice applies to your buses identified by both Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the attached yellow cover sheet.
Blue Bird Body Company is recalling certain model year 2019 to 2021 Vision with manufactured dates from July 16, 2019 through August 27, 2019 and 2019 to 2021 All American School Buses manufactured from July 17, 2019 through August 25, 2019. It has been determined that certain Blue Bird buses fail to conform to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 221, School Bus Body Joint Strength. These subject buses may not comply with the 60% joint strength requirement on certain 8-inch segments of the exterior roof joints. Blue Bird evaluated the risk to motor vehicle safety related to this noncompliance and determined that there is a potential for the roof sheets to separate in the event of a crash when less than 6 rivets are installed in an 8-inch roof joint segment. In the event of a crash, if the roof sheets separate, there is an increased risk of injury.
To correct this noncompliance, the roof sheet joints on these subject buses must be inspected and, if found not in compliance, modified according to the Blue Bird repair instructions. Roof panel joints are assembled with two rows of rivets. Each joint must have a minimum of 6 rivets in each 8-inch segment. Utilizing an 8-inch template moving along the roof panel joint, the repair personnel will count the rivets that appear in the cutout section of the template. In the event that an 8-inch roof section has less than 6 rivets, the repair personnel will be required to add a sufficient number of rivets evenly spaced such that there are 6 rivets installed in that 8-inch segment. The 8-inch template is included with this notification letter. Parts for this campaign are currently available.
Blue Bird will reimburse the labor cost of inspection and potential repairs relating to this recall at no cost to you the Dealer or to the vehicle owner. The standard repair time (SRT) to accomplish these repairs in accordance with the R19AH installation procedure is 0.8 hours (48 minutes) for the inspection and 2 minutes per rivet that must be installed.
Parts to complete Recall R19AH can be obtained from Blue Bird Recall Administration via e-mail at [email protected] or by returning the yellow cover sheet to Blue Bird in the pink selfaddressed, postage prepaid envelope to receive parts at no charge. You should retain a copy of the reply sheet for your records.
If Blue Bird’s records indicate bus(es) subject to this recall were delivered in your service area, a list of affected bus(es) will be enclosed. The bus(es) will be identified by Blue Bird Body Number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the enclosed yellow cover sheet. Dealers should verify correct owners and assure that complete mailing and shipping addresses are provided for each listed owner.
It is the Dealer’s responsibility to verify that the correct owner name, address, and telephone number is provided for each listed vehicle. Any corrections or updates should be made in ClaimsCenter. Addresses that cannot be updated should be forwarded to the Recall Administrator.
Federal law requires that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten days.
Dealers are reminded of their responsibilities under Section 154 of The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1991. Dealers are required to complete modifications on units in their inventory before delivering to the final owner. Reference Blue Bird Body Company Distributor Memo No. 42-92.
If you have in your possession or have sold a bus that was purchased from another dealer that may be affected by this recall, please notify Lisa Hancock at 478-822-2242 or [email protected] Questions regarding this recall campaign should be directed to Lisa Hancock as well.
Sincerely,
Lisa Hancock
Corporate Recall Administrator
Blue Bird Corporation
402 Blue Bird Blvd, Fort Valley, Georgia 31030
Phone 478.822.2242 [email protected]
BLUE BIRD BODY COMPANY
3920 Arkwright Road, Suite 200, Macon, GA 31210 – (478) 825-2021
6 Affected Products
Vehicles
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| BLUE BIRD | ALL AMERICAN | 2019-2021 |
| BLUE BIRD | VISION | 2019-2021 |
14 Associated Documents
Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2020-1
ISSUED Renotification Notice
RCRN-19V707-4699.pdf 271.375KB
ISSUED Renotification Notice
RCRN-19V707-9044.pdf 2301.087KB
Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2020-2
RCLQRT-19V707-9555.PDF 211.324KB
Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2019-4
RCLQRT-19V707-9256.PDF 211.139KB
ISSUED Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-19V707-2939.pdf 554.379KB
Defect Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-19V707-4455.PDF 213.735KB
Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-19V707-1730.pdf 245.441KB
Miscellaneous Document
Miscellaneous Document
Manufacturer Notices(to Dealers,etc)
RCMN-19V707-1219.pdf 576.893KB
Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-19V707-8573.pdf 289.58KB
ISSUED Renotification Notice
RCRN-19V707-6148.pdf 1321.275KB
Recall Quarterly Report #4, 2020-3
RCLQRT-19V707-5334.PDF 211.426KB
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