2011 BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN Recalls (35)

Campaign:
10V133000 on 04/05/2010
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
12/12/2007 - 01/17/2010
Affected:
1,622
Defect:
Blue bird has notified nhtsa about a defect in certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american, conventional, and micro bird school buses manufactured from december 13, 2007 through january 18, 2010 equipped with ricon model s or k series public use wheelchair lifts. the restraint belt on these lifts was designed to prevent the lift from moving, unless the tongue of the belt is fully engaged and latched in the buckle. ricon has discovered, however, that it is possible for the operator to insert the belt tongue into the buckle without fully engaging the latching mechanism. in this case, the restraint belt would appear to be latched, and the operator could run the lift. if the restraint belt tongue is not fully engaged into the restraint belt buckle, and latched, the lift may operate with an occupant on the platform.
Consequence:
The user of the lift could be injured should the lift move without the restraint belt properly buckled.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with ricon and ricon will be handling the remedy for this campaign. please see ricon's defect report 09e-060. ricon will provide customers with a warning decal and a dvd-based training aid. the safety recall began on april 27, 2010. owners may contact ricon at 1-818-267-3000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10rt.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V298000 on 06/29/2010
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
03/24/2009 - 01/11/2010
Affected:
1,542
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from march 25, 2009 through january 12, 2010. the driver's seat shock damper may break allowing the driver's seat to unexpectedly drop to the floor without warning.
Consequence:
In the event this should occur while the bus is in operation, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and replace the seat shock as necessary. the safety recall began on august 20, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V299000 on 06/29/2010
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
03/24/2009 - 01/11/2010
Affected:
15
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 all american model non school buses manufactured from march 25, 2009 through january 12, 2010. the driver's seat shock damper may break allowing the driver's seat to unexpectedly drop to the floor without warning.
Consequence:
In the event this should occur while the bus is in operation, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, possibly resulting in a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and replace the seat shock as necessary. the safety recall began on august 16, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V380000 on 08/19/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
07/15/2006 - 08/02/2010
Affected:
466
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american non school buses manufactured from july 16, 2006 through august 3, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. an incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. the flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence:
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. a short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on september 24, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V379000 on 08/19/2010
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
05/28/2006 - 08/06/2010
Affected:
3,992
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2010 all american school buses manufactured from may 29, 2006 through august 7, 2010 equipped with cummins isb-02, isb-07, and isb-10 engines. an incorrect combination of flat washer and serrated nut was installed on the bolt that secures the starter cable retaining clamp to its attaching bracket at the front of the engine above the engine cooling fan. the flat washer prevents the serrated nut from locking against the attaching bracket. over time, the serrated nut may back off allowing the starter cable to fall and contact the fan hub while in operation.
Consequence:
If the starter cable contacts the fan hub while the fan hub is in operation, the cable covering may abrade which could result in a direct short. a short could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on september 24, 2010. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r10sl.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
10V628000 on 12/19/2010
Component:
Structure: frame and members:underbody shields
Manufactured:
04/22/2010 - 09/10/2010
Affected:
143
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2011 all american d3 model school buses manufactured with 20 gauge outside side panels from april 23, 2010, through september 11, 2010. the side panel joint adhesive that is required to be used to adhere the panels may not have been used during production. accordingly, these buses fail to comply with the joint strength requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 221, "school bus body joint strength."
Consequence:
In the event of a crash, the side panel joints may not endure as intended and the panels may loosen or separate, increasing the risk of injury to passengers.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers add additional rivets free of charge. the safety recall began on january 26, 2011. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11su.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V086000 on 02/09/2011
Component:
Structure:body
Manufactured:
10/17/2010 - 01/05/2011
Affected:
363
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 vision and all american model school buses manufactured from october 18, 2010, through january 6, 2011. the sheet metal rain visors over the pushout side window on the left side of the bus may prohibit the emergency exit window from opening sufficiently which fails to conform to the emergency egress requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 217, "bus emergency exists and window retention and release."
Consequence:
In the event of an emergency, passengers could be injured if they are unable to quickly exit the bus.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall behan on march 15, 2011. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's campaign number is r11sw.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V351000 on 07/10/2011
Component:
Parking brake
Manufactured:
09/21/2006 - 08/06/2010
Affected:
121
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2011 all american school buses manufactured from september 22, 2006, through august 7, 2010, and equipped with optional park brake valve interlock feature. the optional park brake interlock valve may have been plumbed incorrectly which could result in inadvertent park brake application without prior warning.
Consequence:
Inadvertent application of the park brake valve could cause a vehicle crash which could result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. all of the buses have been inspected and, if needed, repaired. therefore, an owner notification letter will not be issued for this campaign. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tf.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V423000 on 08/17/2011
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
10/12/2010 - 03/07/2011
Affected:
860
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 all american school buses manufactured from october 13, 2010, through march 8, 2011, and vision school buses manufactured from october 2, 2010, through february 2, 2011, equipped with a cummins diesel engine. the v-band clamp assembly, part numbers q187684, q187685, and q187686, used to connect the inlet and outlet cone sections to the diesel oxidation catalyst (doc)/diesel particulate filter (dpf) include a t-bolt which can fracture and fail when subjected to stress or load. a fracture or failure of the t-bolt may cause the clamp to loosen and the inlet or outlet sections attached to the doc/dpf housing to disconnect.
Consequence:
If the inlet or outlet sections disconnect, hot exhaust gases can vent prior to exiting the tailpipe, creating the risk of combustion and a fire. if both clamps fail, there is a risk in some applications that the doc/dpf housing may detach completely, creating a road hazard.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with cummins to identify and notify owners of the recall campaign. repairs will be performed by authorized cummins dealers free of charge. the safety recall began on october 10, 2011. owners may contact cummins at 1-812-377-5000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Cummins recall campaign number is c1154.blue bird's recall campaign number is r11th.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V424000 on 08/17/2011
Component:
Engine and engine cooling
Manufactured:
11/01/2010 - 03/16/2011
Affected:
24
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2011 and 2012 all american non-school buses manufactured from november 2, 2010, through march 17, 2011, and vision conventional non-november 2, 2010, through march 17, 2011, equipped with a cummins diesel engine. the v-band clamp assembly, part numbers q187684, q187685, and q187686, used to connect the inlet and outlet cone sections to the diesel oxidation catalyst (doc)/diesel particulate filter (dpf) include a t-bolt which can fracture and fail when subjected to stress or load. a fracture or failure of the t-bolt may cause the clamp to loosen and the inlet or outlet sections attached to the doc/dpf housing to disconnect.
Consequence:
If the inlet or outlet sections disconnect, hot exhaust gases can vent prior to exiting the tailpipe, creating the risk of combustion and a fire. if both clamps fail, there is a risk in some applications that the doc/dpf housing may detach completely, creating a road hazard.
Correction:
Blue bird is working with cummins to identify and notify owners of the recall campaign. repairs will be performed by authorized cummins dealers free of charge. the safety recall began on october 10, 2011. owners may contact cummins at 1-812-377-5000 or blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Cummins recall campaign number is c1154.blue bird's recall campaign number is r11th.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V499000 on 10/13/2011
Component:
Seats:barriers
Manufactured:
11/14/2005 - 05/02/2011
Affected:
54
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2012 all american, 2006 through 2011 vision, and 2006 conventional school buses manufactured between september 19, 2005, and may 3, 2011, equipped with 2-passenger seats installed forward of the 39" barrier. in the event of a crash, the barrier may make contact with the 2-passenger seat installed forward of the barrier. accordingly, these buses fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 222, "school bus passenger seating and crash protection."
Consequence:
The seat occupants may be seriously injured in the event of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on january 18, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tq.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
11V569000 on 12/01/2011
Component:
Fuel system, diesel
Manufactured:
04/11/2006 - 06/26/2011
Affected:
250
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2012 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from april 12, 2006, through june 27, 2011, and equipped with a 60 gallon fuel tank. the tank return line can develop a leak that exceeds the amount of fuel spillage allowed. accordingly, these buses fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 301, "fuel system integrity."
Consequence:
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the safety recall began on march 9, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r11tr.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
12V153000 on 04/08/2012
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
01/16/2008 - 10/20/2010
Affected:
125
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2009 through 2011 all american, vision, and micro bird school buses equipped with braun vista-2 wheelchair lifts. over time and with frequent use, the roll stop latches on the outer barrier may become bent or misaligned.
Consequence:
A wheelchair occupant may defeat or ride over the insufficiently latched roll stop. if this occurs when the lift platform is in an elevated position, the wheelchair's occupant could fall and sustain injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and the repairs will be performed by authorized braun dealers free of charge. the safety recall began on april 26, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12tu.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
12V217000 on 05/15/2012
Component:
Service brakes, air
Manufactured:
05/29/2009 - 04/03/2012
Affected:
651
Defect:
Blue bird corporation (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2013 all american and vision school buses manufactured from may 30, 2009, through april 4, 2012 and equipped with air brakes. the primary and secondary air brake lines may have been crossed at the brake treadle valve. incorrect installation of the air brake lines at the air brake treadle valve fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 121, "air brake systems."
Consequence:
In the event of a brake system problem, incorrect installation of the air brake lines could result in a reduction or complete loss of brake action, increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the recall began on may 23, 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12va.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
12V218000 on 05/15/2012
Component:
Service brakes, air
Manufactured:
05/29/2009 - 04/03/2012
Affected:
31
Defect:
Blue bird corporation (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2013 all american and vision non school buses manufactured from may 30, 2009, through april 4, 2012 and equipped with air brakes. the primary and secondary air brake lines may have been crossed at the brake treadle valve. incorrect installation of the air brake lines at the air brake treadle valve fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 121, "air brake systems."
Consequence:
In the event of a brake system problem, incorrect installation of the air brake lines could result in a reduction or complete loss of brake action, increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will repair the buses free of charge. the recall began on may 23, , 2012. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242.
Notes:
Blue bird's recall campaign number is r12va.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to <a href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Campaign:
13V125000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
08/08/2007 - 06/08/2010
Affected:
276
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
13V125000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system:wiring
Manufactured:
08/08/2007 - 06/08/2010
Affected:
276
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. the recall began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
13V126000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system
Manufactured:
12/07/2007 - 03/02/2010
Affected:
17
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
13V126000 on 04/08/2013
Component:
Electrical system:wiring
Manufactured:
12/07/2007 - 03/02/2010
Affected:
17
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 all american rear engine, non-school, transit buses manufactured from august 9, 2007, through june 9, 2010, and powered by cummins isb07 engines. in the affected vehicles, the grid heater power cable may be improperly routed, which could result in contact with the chassis frame rail.
Consequence:
If the cable contacts the chassis frame rail it could potentially chafe against the frame thereby creating a direct short which could result in a fire.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the buses for proper positioning of the grid heater power cable. any cables found contacting the chassis frame rail will have the grid heater cable repositioned to prevent further contact. any damaged cables found will be replaced. the repairs will be made free of charge. notification to owners began on may 3, 2013. on august 15, 2014, blue bird sent out renoticiation letters to owners regarding the recall. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall campaign number is r13wd.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
13V200000 on 05/14/2013
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
08/24/2009 - 03/18/2013
Affected:
441
Defect:
Blue bird is recalling certain model year 2010 through 2014 all american and vision model school buses manufactured from august 25, 2009, through march 19, 2013, and equipped with c. e. white inc. flip seats models quasi static "qsj11" (30", 36", 39" and 45"), student safety seat "sssj" (30", 36", 39" and 45"), or school bus seat "sbj" (30", 36", 39" and 45").
Consequence:
When a flip seat is installed in front of another passenger seat, it is possible for the occupant of the rearward passenger seat to insert their toes and/or foot into the lower frame area of the flip seat. when a vehicle passenger occupies the flip seat, pushing the seat bottom downward to the horizontal position to sit in the seat, the occupant of the rearward seat could suffer a pinch point injury to their toes and/or foot.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install a safety guard to prevent passengers from placing their toes or feet in the opening on the back of the subject flip seats, free of charge. the recall began on june 14, 2013. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 for more information. blue bird's number for this campaign is r13wf.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
13V332000 on 08/05/2013
Component:
Structure
Manufactured:
03/09/2006 - 06/17/2013
Affected:
172
Defect:
Blue bird body company is recalling certain model year 2007-2014 all american and vision school buses manufactured march 10, 2006, through june 18, 2013; and equipped with optional transit sliding windows. joint adhesive may not have been applied at the interior and exterior body window panel joints. without the adhesive, these vehicles fail to conform to the standards of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 221, "school bus body joint strength."
Consequence:
In the event of a vehicle crash, there is an increased risk that the window panels may separate and fall onto occupants causing injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install additional rivets at the window panel joints, free of charge. the recall began on august 28, 2013. owners may contact blue bird at 1-478-825-2021. blue bird's recall number is r13wm.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V083000 on 03/03/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/07/2008 - 11/14/2013
Affected:
695
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine school buses manufactured from december 8, 2008, through november 15, 2013, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g engines. condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence:
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Correction:
Cummins and cummins westport will notify owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. the recall began on april 12, 2014. customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V215000 on 04/24/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
06/22/2010 - 05/23/2012
Affected:
20
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2015 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured from june 23, 2010, through may 24, 2012, and equipped with certain cummins westport model isl g compressed natural gas engines. condensation in the intake manifold may freeze during cold weather conditions and interfere with the proper operation of the intake manifold pressure sensor.
Consequence:
The improper operation of the sensor could induce elevated exhaust temperatures or flames from the exhaust pipe, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire or burn injury to a person near the exhaust pipe.
Correction:
Cummins and cummins westport has notified owners, and authorized cummins service facilities will upload a new ecm calibration, free of charge. the recall began on april 12, 2014. customers may contact blue bird at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V314000 on 06/11/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:cooling system:hose
Manufactured:
05/08/2007 - 11/11/2012
Affected:
587
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine non-school buses manufactured may 9, 2007, to november 12, 2012. due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence:
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. the recall began on july 15, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V313000 on 06/11/2014
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:cooling system
Manufactured:
04/02/2007 - 12/14/2012
Affected:
1,935
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 all american rear engine school buses manufactured april 3, 2007, to december 15, 2012. due to the design of the thermostat, a heater hose may rupture which could result in hot coolant entering the passenger compartment.
Consequence:
Hot coolant leaking into the passenger compartment increases the risk of injury to the passengers.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the thermostat and change the passenger compartment heater supply hose, free of charge. the recall began on july 15, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xf.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V510000 on 08/18/2014
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Affected:
5,114
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. the platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence:
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. when the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on october 1, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
14V511000 on 08/18/2014
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Affected:
90
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, 2007-2010 micro bird, and 2007-2014 vision non-school buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by ricon corporation. the platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.
Consequence:
If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. when the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners to take buses to a ricon dealer or service center who will install supplemental platform support bumpers. any platform that has already started cracking will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on october 1, 2014. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884. blue bird's number for this recall is r14xn.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V059000 on 02/02/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system
Manufactured:
06/04/2010 - 01/12/2015
Affected:
1,936
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 all american rear engine school buses manufactured june 5, 2010, to january 13, 2015. in the affected school buses, the exhaust system hangers may fail, possibly causing damage to the selective catalytic reduction (scr) and the diesel particulate filter (dpf) housings.
Consequence:
If all the exhaust hangers were to fail, the housings may fall onto the roadway, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install new bolted hanger assemblies and support cables, free of charge. the recall began on march 6, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r15yb-sb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V060000 on 02/02/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:exhaust system
Manufactured:
06/04/2010 - 01/12/2015
Affected:
474
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 all american rear engine transit buses manufactured june 5, 2010, to january 13, 2015. in the affected transit buses, the exhaust system hangers may fail, possibly causing damage to the selective catalytic reduction (scr) and the diesel particulate filter (dpf) housings.
Consequence:
If all the exhaust hangers were to fail, the housings may fall onto the roadway, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install new bolted hanger assemblies and support cables, free of charge. the recall began on march 5, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r15yb-nsb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V294000 on 05/18/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/06/2008 - 05/10/2015
Affected:
34
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine non school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence:
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Correction:
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. these repairs will be performed free of charge. the recall began on june 12, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-nsb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V293000 on 05/18/2015
Component:
Engine and engine cooling:engine
Manufactured:
12/06/2008 - 05/10/2015
Affected:
840
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2009-2016 all american rear engine school buses manufactured december 7, 2008, to may 11, 2015, and equipped with certain cummins westport isl g engines. excessive engine crankcase pressures may cause the 90-degree elbow of the vent tube assembly to detach from the crankcase ventilation breather, possibly allowing engine oil to come into contact with hot surfaces.
Consequence:
If engine oil comes into contact with a hot surface, there is an increased risk of a fire.
Correction:
Cummins will notify owners on behalf of blue bird, and cummins service centers will administer the repairs which include securing the ends of the 90-degree elbow and reprogramming the electronic control module (ecm) with software that can adjust the engine output under misfire conditions to limit crankcase pressures. these repairs will be performed free of charge. the recall began on june 12, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242 or cummins inc. at 1-800-343-7357. blue bird's number for this recall is r15ye-sb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V731000 on 11/03/2015
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
10/08/2006 - 04/09/2014
Affected:
90
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american and vision and 2007-2011 micro bird transit buses equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. the affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
Consequence:
If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. this failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. the platform will be inspected for cracks. any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on december 1, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
15V730000 on 11/03/2015
Component:
Equipment adaptive
Manufactured:
02/21/2006 - 07/25/2014
Affected:
5,114
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2007-2015 all american, vision, 2007-2011 micro bird, and 2007-2008 conventional school buses, equipped with certain model s2005, s2010, s5005, s5010, s5505, and s5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured january 1, 2006, to august 25, 2014 by the ricon corporation. the affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.
Consequence:
If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. this failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and ricon dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. the platform will be inspected for cracks. any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. the recall began on december 1, 2015. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242, or ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
16V172000 on 03/24/2016
Component:
Seats
Manufactured:
08/19/2010 - 12/15/2015
Affected:
67
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain model year 2011-2017 all american school buses manufactured from august 20, 2010, through december 16, 2015. buses with rear side emergency doors have seats over the wheelhouse area whose rear legs may detach from the floor in a crash, resulting in belted occupants traveling forward. as such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) number 210, "seat belt assembly anchorages."
Consequence:
If the seat does not allow the occupant to be properly restrained in the event of a crash, they would be at an increased risk of injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear leg assembly, free of charge. the recall began on april 19, 2016. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's recall number for this campaign is r16ym-sb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Campaign:
18V801000 on 11/15/2018
Component:
Equipment
Manufactured:
09/18/2006 - 09/07/2018
Affected:
86
Defect:
Blue bird body company (blue bird) is recalling certain 2007-2019 blue bird all american ambulance buses. the clamps that secure the stacked stretchers may fail from repeated use or from high loads.
Consequence:
If the clamps fail with patients in the stretchers, it can increase the risk of injury.
Correction:
Blue bird will notify owners, and dealers will install redesigned clamps, free of charge. the recall is expected to begin december 13, 2018. owners may contact blue bird customer service at 1-478-822-2242. blue bird's number for this recall is r18zq-nsb.
Notes:
Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

2011 BLUE BIRD ALL AMERICAN TSBs (21)

Bulletin:
SB-S0701
Component:
061200 engine and engine cooling:engine:diesel
Summary:
Blue bird bus: re-issue service update engine coolants. the cooling system on the buses be properly maintained and monitored to insure proper operation of your cooling system. *pe
Bulletin:
SU-S-0706
Component:
220000 seats
Summary:
Blue bird: information is being provided regarding maintenance for vehicles equipped with aluminum seat floor tracks. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-70-LJ
Component:
062100 engine and engine cooling:cooling system:radiator assembly
Summary:
Blue bird: see document search button for owner letter. information on excessive cycling of engine cooling fan and shutter and how to install thermo switches for cooling system and charge air system. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-RX
Component:
062000 engine and engine cooling:cooling system
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on some model year buses with rear engine, the support bracket may fail on the charge air cooler tube. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SS
Component:
113000 electrical system:starter assembly
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year bus, with cummins engine, the engine turbo heat may deform the positive starter cable boot. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SM
Component:
061000 engine and engine cooling:engine
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, over engine heater hose, near turbo, the reflective heat shield insulation may have been omitted. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SB
Component:
030000 service brakes, hydraulic
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on certain model year buses, the wabco hydraulic brake modulator motor may corrode due to motor cover filling up with water. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-10-SJ
Component:
353600 equipment:air conditioner
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. on some model year buses, an incorrect compressor oil type information may have been stamped on bitzer a/c compressor air conditioner data plate. *pe
Bulletin:
S12-TV
Component:
555000 child seat: harness
Summary:
Blue bird: the subject buses are equipped with a sleeping child check figure feature which may not 'arm' as required by the state of georgia. *js
Bulletin:
SU-1307
Component:
110000 electrical system
Summary:
Blue bird: a new bracket design to aid in prevention of water damage to new body control module (bcm) angle, is now available for certain model of buses, and information is being provided for body control module (bcm) bracket installation.
Bulletin:
S-13-WP
Component:
091100 fuel system, other:storage:tank assembly
Summary:
Blue bird bus: see document search button for owner letter. the rear engine radiator surge tank will crack and should be inspected and replaced, if necessary, with a new surge tank, if cracks are detected. model 2011-2013 a3. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-13-WJ
Component:
062100 engine and engine cooling:cooling system:radiator assembly
Summary:
Blue bird bus: on some buses, the jb radiators are leaking and to address the concerns, all buses equipped with jb radiators will be inspected and/or replaced, if needed, if leak is detected. *pe
Bulletin:
SB-S-14XG
Component:
111000 electrical system:battery
Summary:
Blue bird: when door is closed, positive battery cable can come into contact with battery compartment door reinforcement and repair instructions is provided. model 2010-2015 all american. *pe
Bulletin:
S14XP
Component:
220000 seats
Summary:
Blue bird: the standard pedestal drivers seat could weaken if exposed to extreme input loads from harsh road conditions. *lj
Bulletin:
SU-1503
Component:
356000 equipment adaptive
Summary:
Blue bird: correct information provided for the front hub torque specification, not found in manuals for certain buses for hub and rotor assembly and front installation. model 2005-14 vision, all-american and activity. *pe
Bulletin:
SU1702
Component:
117000 digital instrument panel
Summary:
The intent of su1702 is to provide service part replacement instructions for our new ametek instrument cluster. the new cluster will be in full production beginning june 5, 2017. during the time between now and june 5, 2017 blue bird will b
Bulletin:
SM1601
Component:
355200 equipment:other:owners/service/other manual
Summary:
Blue bird troubleshooting guides: blue bird announcement of the addition of troubleshooting guides for assisting in the service of the blue bird products. these troubleshooting guides are available on the vantage website.
Bulletin:
SU1603
Component:
117000 digital instrument panel
Summary:
Actia instrument cluster replacement: instructions for actia instrument cluster replacement features.
Bulletin:
S16YJ
Component:
063000 engine and engine cooling:exhaust system
Summary:
Service bulletin: rear engine exhaust cables: certain 2011 through 2017 model year blue bird all american rear engine school and non-school buses manufactured from june 5, 2010 through december 8, 2015, and equipped with optional cummins
Bulletin:
SM1304
Component:
355200 equipment:other:owners/service/other manual
Summary:
Gen 4 analog def level sensor troubleshooting: original date of issue: february 25, 2013 revision: july 5, 2016 the service memorandum updates the model year range, engine models affected, and includes tank assembly information.
Bulletin:
SM1608
Component:
355200 equipment:other:owners/service/other manual
Summary:
New blue bird support center - technical bus support: dealer memo to announce the new on-line blue bird support center for technical bus support requests.

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