| Components - Details | |
|---|---|
| NHTSA Action Number: EA88006 | Vehicale/Equipment Name: DODGE |
| Vehicale/Equipment Model: RAM 50 | Vehicale/Equipment Year: 1982 |
| Component Name: STEERING | Manufacturer's Name: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) |
| Date Opened: Nov, 03 1987 | Date Closed: Apr, 01 1988 |
| Subject: STEERING OUTPUT SHAFT | Summary: Summary of information from manufacturer:"both chrysler and mitsubishiindependently concluded that the failures were due to severe impact loadingtransmitted to the shaft by the steering linkage system -- in other wordsshaft failure is the result, not the cause, of the alleged collisioncircumstances.mitsubishi (vehicle producer) did strengthen the shaftduring the 1984 model year by increasing the spline and bearing journaldiameters."analysis:failing component is the steering box cross shaft (output shaft)which breaks between the bottom bearing in the steering box and the pitmanarm.known failures involve 4 wheel drive units which are equipped withpower steering.cross shaft and pitman arm sales are considerably higheron the 4 wd units than the 2 wd units.chrysler reports the cross shaftdiameter was increased in april, 1984, "for increased shaft strength toimprove its capability to withstand severe impact loads."proposed action:ir's to chrysler and mitsubishi sent 11/16 - 17/87.awaiting responses.=== |
