Spartan Fire Apparatus Chassis Recalled for Brake Release Defect
Spartan is recalling 2008-2010 Gladiator and Metrostar fire apparatus chassis because electronic stability control components slow service brake release, violating federal safety standards.
What this means for you
Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.
Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect affecting service brake release timing, which is a critical safety function, meeting the rubric criteria for a Severe rating.
Plain-English summary
Spartan Chassis, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2010 Gladiator and Metrostar incomplete fire apparatus chassis cabs manufactured between November 14, 2008, and May 25, 2010. The recall affects 898 vehicles equipped with tandem rear axles and electronic stability control (ESC).
The vehicles fail to meet the service brake release requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 121, "Air Brake Systems." Additional valving required for the ESC system reduced the air flow and volume to the brake chambers, resulting in slower service brake release timing. This defect may result in less efficient braking performance and prevent the vehicle from being moved in a timely fashion.
Spartan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the .38 inch inside diameter brake hose with a .50 inch inside diameter hose free of charge. The safety recall began on September 17, 2010. Owners may contact Spartan Chassis at 1-800-543-5008, option 5, or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
The recalled product
- Product
- SPARTAN METROSTAR, GLADIATOR
- Brand
- SPARTAN
- Manufacturer
- SPARTAN CHASSIS, INC.
- Category
- Vehicle — Fire Apparatus Chassis
- Hazard
- Affected units
- 898
Is your product affected?
Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.
Model numbers (2)
- METROSTAR
- GLADIATOR
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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