Insufficient weld penetrat

An NHTSA Preliminary Evaluation into Chalmers vehicles. Closed 28 January 1988.

Investigation
PE88018
Type
Preliminary Evaluation
Opened
14 January 1988
Closed
28 January 1988

What NHTSA investigated

Summary of information from manufacturer:on december 7, 1987, chalmerssubmitted a defect report (87E-038) pertaining to insufficient weldpenetration of the upper torque rod on their 800 series rear suspension.failure of a weld could have resulted in the rear axle(s) moving out ofposition, resulting in loss of directional control.seven oem's werenotified of the potential defect.analysis:one of the oem's referred to above contacted the office ofdefects investigation and reported that additional problems have beendiscovered on the above mentioned suspension.allegedly the weldsfastening joint ends to the above mentioned replacement torque rods alsohave poor penetration.separation of a joint end could allow movement ofthe rear axle out of position, possibly resulting in loss of control of thevehicle.proposed action:open a pe.contact the equipment manufacturer and obtaininformation on the new allegation.===

Vehicles covered

MakeModelModel years
ChalmersCHALMERS1985–1987
Western StarWESTERN STARModel year not recorded
White TruckWHITE TRUCKModel year not recorded

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.