Ameritrans 285 Shuttle Buses Recalled for Wheelchair Lift Defects
Ameritrans is recalling 2015-2016 285 shuttle buses because wheelchair lift platform side plates may crack or bearings may shift, posing an injury 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 risk-of-harm product where the platform may fall on an operator, but the source text does not report any actual injuries or fatalities, fitting the 'High' severity criteria for unreported injury risks.
Plain-English summary
Ameritrans Bus, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 285 shuttle buses manufactured between March 2, 2015, and December 23, 2015. These vehicles are built on Ford E-450 chassis and are equipped with specific Ricon Corporation wheelchair lifts (models S2000, S5000, and S5500). The recall affects 5 vehicles.
The defect involves the platform side plate of the wheelchair lifts, which may crack. Additionally, the folding link arms may have pivot holes that are too large, allowing the bearings to move out of position. If the side plates crack or the platform mounting fails due to displaced bearings, the lift platform can separate from the lift and rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall onto the lift operator, increasing the risk of injury.
Ameritrans will notify purchasers of the lifts. Ricon dealers will inspect the side plates for damage and displaced bearings, as well as inspect the platform for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Ameritrans customer service at 1-574-262-8935 or Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
The recalled product
- Product
- AMERITRANS 285
- Brand
- AMERITRANS
- Manufacturer
- Ameritrans Bus, Inc.
- Category
- Vehicle — Shuttle Bus
- Affected units
- 5
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 (1)
- 285
Distribution
Distributed nationwide across the United States.
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