Recall - Rear Suspension Knuckle Replacement: Overview

89Ford20

June, 1989

TO: Selected North American Ford and Lincoln-Mercury Product Dealers and Affiliated Ford Motor Companies

SUBJECT: Safety Recall 89S64 - 1989 Thunderbird and Cougar, Rear Suspension Knuckles

AFFECTED 1989 Thunderbirds and Cougars built from January 10
VEHICLES through January 20, 1989.

REASONS FOR IMPROPERLY HEAT TREATED REAR SUSPENSION KNUCKLES.
RECALL 133 suspect knuckles were installed on the affected cars during the build period.

Improperly heat treated knuckles could fracture at high mileage without warning. Fracture of a knuckle while driving could result in a loss of vehicle control and a crash.

IVO PARTS ORDER Dealers are not to order parts for recall until you have
FREE LOANER CAR inspected a car and found a suspect coded knuckle.

At that time, dealers should:

* Submit an IVO order for the parts.

* Give the owner the use of a free loaner car until the recall is completed.

NOTE: These cars are also affected by Recall 89S63 - Tension Strut Nut Replacement. Complete all required recall service during one visit by the owner.

ATTACHMENTS Attachment I
- Administrative Information

Attachment II
- Labor Allowances
- Car Rental (Form 1863)
- Parts Ordering Information

Attachment III
- Technical Information