Elkhart Coach is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 ECI, and ECII transit buses built on Ford cutaway chassis equipped with Ford 5.4L or 6.8L engines and Trans/Air-brand air compressors. In the affected vehicles, depending on the routing of the alternator harness and the orientation of the heater hose spring clamp at the front of the intake manifold, the alternator harness may be pinched between the spring clamp and the air conditioner compressor mounting bracket.
As a result, the charging system may fail which could lead to the vehicle stalling while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the spring clamp could pierce both the positive and negative wires of the alternator harness creating a short circuit which could result in a fire.
Elkhart Coach will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles, correct the clamp installation and repair and reroute the alternator harness, as needed, free of charge. The recall began on March 14, 2014. Customers may contact Elkhart at 1-866-478-7652.
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.