Handling difficulties

An NHTSA Engineering Analysis into Todco vehicles. Closed 28 July 1989.

Investigation
EA86012
Type
Engineering Analysis
Opened
28 April 1986
Closed
28 July 1989

What NHTSA investigated

Summary of information from manufacturer:the manufacturer claims thatthe jifflox accident rate is no worse than other dollies.furthermorethey claim that the recommended safety modifications do not substantiallyimprove the accident rate.analysis:most of the fleets utilizing the jifflox have performed theirown modifications in an effort to reduce injuries.most fleets have addedsome type of counterweight to reduce tongue weight, added grab handles toease dolly movement, and utilize a push/pull device to ease fifth wheelmovement.one fleet has modified the landing leg to prevent collapses.status:ir's sent to four fleets on 23 dec 87, to obtain updated injurystatistics.draft request for defect report sent to occ on 4 jan 88.===

The recall that followed

  1. Todco — Trailer Hitches: Fifth Wheel Assembly89E0160001 June 19896,919 vehicles

Vehicles covered

MakeModelModel years
TodcoJIFFLOXModel year not recorded
TodcoTODCO1978–1986

Source

From NHTSA’s investigation file, rebuilt daily. To report a problem with your own vehicle, go to nhtsa.gov/report-a-safety-problem. All open investigations.