Recall - Axle Flange Reinforcements: Overview
December 2002Dealer Service Instructions for:
Safety Recall No. B20
Axle Flange Reinforcements
Models
2002 (DR) Dodge Ram Pick-Up Truck (4WD models only)
NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above four wheel drive vehicles built at the:
> Warren Truck Assembly Plant ("S" in the 11th VIN Position) from July 22, 2001 through November 29, 2001 (MDH 072200 through 112910).
> St. Louis North Assembly Plant ("J" in the 11th VIN Position) from July 22, 2001 through November 29, 2001 (MDH 072200 through 112920).
> Saltillo Assembly Plant ("G" in the 11th VIN Position) from July 22, 2001 through November 30, 2001 (MDH 072200 through 113023).
IMPORTANT:
Many of the vehicles within the above build period have already been inspected or repaired and, therefore, have been excluded from this recall.
IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to stop sale and complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject
The rear axle flange welds on about 40,000 of the above trucks may fatigue and allow the brake caliper to rotate. This may cause a rear brake tube to leak, resulting in a partial brake system loss and increased stopping distance. The increased stopping distance can cause an accident without warning.
Repair
An axle flange reinforcement bracket must be installed on the right and left side of the rear axle.
Parts Information
Each dealer to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced will receive enough Axle Flange Reinforcement Bracket Packages to service about 10% of those vehicles.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use the labor operation number and time allowance shown.
Add the cost of the recall parts package plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.
NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions.
Parts Return
Not applicable.
Dealer Notification and Vehicle list
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS, and the MDS2 will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.
DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP
All involved vehicles have been entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP for dealer inquiry as needed.
Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "ORDB20".
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner letter is included.
Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.
Customer Services Field Operations
DaimlerChrysler Corporation