The Recall Desk
HighNHTSA·13E004000·Announced 2013-01-24

Rigid Hitch Recalls Heavy Duty Utility Bar Hitches Due to Weld Defect

Rigid Hitch Inc. is recalling specific Heavy Duty Utility Bar hitches because insufficient weld penetration may cause the bar to crack and fail, increasing crash risk.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural defect that could cause a crash, but the source text does not report any injuries or fatalities, fitting the 'High' criteria for risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported.

Plain-English summary

Rigid Hitch Inc. is recalling certain Heavy Duty Utility Bar hitches with part number HUB-3208. The affected 2-inch bars drop 8 inches between hole centers and are stamped 33411-04812 near the weld line. This recall involves 352 units.

The defect is caused by incorrect welder placement, which may result in insufficient weld penetration. This can cause the utility bar to crack and fail. If the utility bar fails while in use, whatever is being towed may come loose, increasing the risk of a crash.

Rigid Hitch will notify distributors and all known owners to replace the parts free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in early February 2013. Customers may contact Rigid Hitch at 1-800-624-7630 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
EQUIPMENT recall
Manufacturer
Rigid Hitch Inc.
Category
Vehicle — Towing Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
352

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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