Saturday, August 16, 2008

 

THE RV LIFESTYLE ON $4 A GALLON

From the Wall Street Journal
By JONATHAN WELSH
August 14, 2008; Page D1

At a fuel stop where drivers pay before pumping, Ted LeBaron recently surprised others in line when he asked the attendant for $300 worth of fuel. "The guy behind me just about came unglued," Mr. Le-Baron says.

At the time, the plumbing-company owner from Camarillo, Calif., was driving his 34-foot Winnebago motor home, which despite its size, he says, is more efficient, pound for pound, than a big SUV. Still, he concedes, he feels a bit conspicuous while filling up, though the reaction he usually gets is one of sympathy.

Drivers who feel they suffer by paying $100 to fill the tank of their sport-utility vehicle should try road-tripping in a motor home or other large recreational vehicle. Filling up one of these rolling manses can cost anywhere from $350 to nearly $500.

Most of the large "type A" motor homes run on diesel fuel, which can cost as much as $5 a gallon or more, depending on the region. They have tanks that hold up to 100 gallons, but the fuel goes quickly at seven to 10 miles per gallon. Travelers pulling large trailers with pickup trucks get similar fuel economy, as do smaller "type C" motor homes that often run on gasoline.

As a result, many RV owners are altering their travel plans. Some are simply leaving them home or driving to a campground and staying put, while others are cutting the number of destinations and side trips on their next long journey.

"People are still RVing, but they definitely aren't going as far," says Susan Bray, executive director of the Good Sam Club, which calls itself the world's largest RV owners' club.

Roxanne Camron and her husband, Robert, had planned for years to take their recreational vehicle on a trip to Alaska, and this was to be the year. But the high price of diesel fuel for the large pickup truck they use to tow their RV made the Paso Robles, Calif., couple reconsider. Instead, they took a shorter, 2,600-mile multistate trip that included Jackson Hole, Wyo., and Yellowstone National Park. Even their shorter trip got squeezed, though, as the Camrons sought to further trim the fuel bill.

"We actually cut out Mount Rushmore," says Ms. Camron, a freelance editor. "Still, there were days when we'd spend a couple hundred dollars on fuel alone."

Even as prices at the pump have fallen in the past few weeks, RV drivers worry that they could surge again, say industry observers. The average price of regular gasoline is about $3.81 a gallon this week, down 7 cents from last week but up more than $1 from a year ago, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Diesel was $4.35 a gallon, down almost 15 cents from last week but up $1.50 from last year.

For many seasoned RV travelers, the price of fuel is an uncomfortable topic -- akin to a family secret no one wants to talk about. Dave Morgen, a retired tobacco executive who is leading an RV trip of Good Sam Club members around the Great Lakes, says he tries not to dwell on the bill when he fills up his motor home. "You just sign the ticket and go," he says.

Robert and Roxanne Camron put off an Alaska trip because of high fuel costs.
The surge in fuel prices is more alarming for the $14.5 billion RV industry -- which includes dozens of small manufacturers as well as a few big players, such as Fleetwood Enterprises Inc. and Thor Industries Inc. -- than it is for RV owners, since it appears to be scaring off potential new customers. Sales of the vehicles, which range from $5,000 popup camping trailers towed by a car to $400,000 hulking motor homes as large as a bus, have declined 14% this year to a projected 304,000 vehicles by year's end, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, a trade group in Reston, Va.

That's not much worse than the 11% drop in sales of cars and light trucks. But while most people will eventually need new cars, RVs are the kind of extravagance consumers tend to forgo when they feel financially pinched.

Winnebago Industries Inc., which makes RVs in a range of sizes and styles, recently reported a 73% decline in net income for its fiscal third quarter. The Forest City, Iowa, company, which some consider a barometer of consumer confidence, attributed the decrease in part to inventory reductions by dealers responding to falling demand. Deliveries of its large, high-profit type-A motor homes fell 53% in the quarter ended May 31, according to a recent earnings report, while its backlog of orders fell 68% for type-A vehicles and 51% for smaller type-C models compared with the year-earlier period.

To be sure, it's no surprise that sales of recreational vehicles are down. What's more surprising is that the downturn isn't worse, especially because RVs are squeezed between two sinking markets: autos and housing. Many people who bought RVs in the past decade, especially in the industry's post-Sept. 11, 2001, boom, financed the purchases with home-equity loans. Many prospective buyers can't get such loans in today's tight credit market.

One reason RVs are faring better than some might expect is because fuel economy isn't necessarily as much of a concern to buyers as comfort and convenience features. Travelers are likely to compare the cost of operating motor homes or large trailers not just to the cost of driving the car, but also the price of hotel rooms and restaurant meals. Compared with the cost of driving a car and staying in hotels for family vacation, using an RV saves between 27% and 61%, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.

Sophie Adler, with sons Steven and Shawn, hasn't given up her RV -- yet.
Ms. Camron from Paso Robles, for example, said she and her husband spent about $2,500 on their monthlong trip. Another couple traveling with them but driving an SUV and staying in hotels "spent at least twice as much," she says.

Indeed, the price of fuel may be just one of many factors that drive some owners away from what RVers call "the lifestyle."

Last week, Lance and Sophie Adler sought shelter in a Montclair, N.J., restaurant with their sons Shawn, 12, and Steven, 9. Mr. Adler was using his laptop to find a shop to replace a damaged tire on their Winnebago Outlook motor home that sat conspicuously in the parking lot. The family was on its way back to Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., after vacationing in Montreal.

Ms. Adler said she's upset that $100 -- which covered about three-quarters of a tank this time last year -- barely buys half a tank of gas this summer. But other hassles, such as hard-to-find parts and a water heater that just "died," are more urgent.

Mr. Adler looked up wearily and said, "Gas is the least of our worries."

Write to Jonathan Welsh at jonathan.welsh@wsj.com

Thursday, August 14, 2008

 

WEEKEND WARRIOR IS NOW HISTORY

Bob Ashley
RV Business
Thursday, August 14, 2008

Weekend Warrior Trailers Inc., the Perris, Calif., manufacturer that led the boom in sport utility RVs (SURVs) over the last decade, has ceased operations.

Given the company's production line closures and related layoffs in recent weeks, the news comes as no surprise to most in the industry.

“It's not a bankruptcy, but there is an assignee here who will be selling the assets,” Weekend Warrior founder and President Mark Warmoth told RVBusiness. “It's a voluntary deal, but Warrior is going all the way down. We are liquidating the company.”

An auction is expected within the next two months to dispose of Weekend Warrior's equipment, furniture and raw material, Warmoth said.

“We are still here trying to sort things out for customers,” Warmoth said. “The biggest regret is that I'm leaving a whole bunch of customers out there hanging. I hope the dealers will stand up for the customers, but this industry is a little weak on after-sale services.”

Efforts to find a purchaser for the company failed, resulting in Thursday's (Aug. 14) announcement, Warmoth said.

The auction of assets will be used to pay down first and second mortgages on two Perris factories that Weekend Warrior owns. Two other plants were being leased by the company. Weekend Warrior, founded in 1988, at one time employed about 2,000 people in four plants totaling more than 215,000 square feet of capacity in Perris.

“All-in-all, we did some wonderful stuff in the last 20 years,” said Warmoth, adding that the industry slowdown and internal management errors doomed the company.

“It's a damn shame what's going on in this industry right now,” he added. “I have no regrets at all, except for this short window the industry is in right now. I am in awe of what the current situation is doing to RVs.”

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

 

RECALL: 2008-2009 DAMON MOTOR HOMES: REAR SUSPENSION

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
DAMON / ASTORIA 2008
DAMON / ASTORIA PACIFIC 2008-2009
DAMON / ESSENCE 2008
DAMON / TUSCANY 2008
Manufacturer : DAMON CORPORATION Mfr's Report Date : JUL 30, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V391000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: SUSPENSION
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 179
Summary:
DAMON IS RECALLING 179 MY 2008 ASTORIA, TUSCANY,ESSENCE, AND MY 2008-2009 ASTORIA PACIFIC MOTOR HOME CHASSIS EQUIPPED WITH SAF-HOLLAND ADL SERIES REAR SUSPENSIONS. IN SOME INSTANCES THE TRANSVERSE BEAM WAS NOT PROPERLY WELDED WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FAILURE OF THE WELD.
Consequence:
IF THE WELD FAILS, VEHICLE STABILITY WHILE CORNERING COULD BE AFFECTED RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH. IN ADDITION, THE TRANSVERSE BEAM COULD DROP TO THE GROUND CAUSING SPARKS THAT COULD CAUSE A FIRE HAZARD.
Remedy:
DAMON IS WORKING WITH DAIMLER TRUCKS/SAF-HOLLAND TO HAVE A VISUAL INSPECTION OF THE ADL TRANSVERSE BEAM PERFORMED. IF A WELD DEFECT IS IDENTIFIED, SAF-HOLLAND WILL PROVIDE A SERVICE REPLACEMENT KIT THAT CONTAINS A NEW TRANSVERSE BEAM, ALL NECESSARY INSTALLATION HARDWARE, BEAM REPLACEMENT, AND INSTRUCTIONS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 08E031). THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER TRUCKS AT 1-800-547-0712, SAF-HOLLAND AT 1-231-773-3271 OR DAMON AT 1-800-860-3812.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2008 FLEETWOOD FIESTA AND TERRA TRAILERS: WIRE HARNESS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
FLEETWOOD / FIESTA 2008
FLEETWOOD / TERRA 2008
Manufacturer : FLEETWOOD ENTERPRISES, INC. Mfr's Report Date : JUL 24, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V388000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 369
Summary:
FLEETWOOD IS RECALLING 369 MY 2008 TERRA AND FIESTA MOTOR HOMES. THE BATTERY CONTROL CENTER (BBC) MISCELLANEOUS WIRE HARNESS IS ROUTED BETWEEN FRAMING AT THE DRIVER'S WHEEL WELL AND THE FRONT LEVELING JACK.
Consequence:
THIS ROUTING CAN CAUSE THE WIRES TO BE PINCHED RESULTING IN SHORTED OR OPEN CIRCUITS WHICH COULD LEAD TO BLOWN FUSES, HOUSE COMPONENT NONOPERATION AND MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REROUTE THE BBC MISCELLANEOUS WIRE HARNESS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 22, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FLEETWOOD AT 1-800-509-3418.
Notes:
FLEETWOOD RECALL NO. 80724. CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 1999-2002 GULF STREAM MOTOR HOMES: NORCOLD REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
GULF STREAM / FRIENDSHIP 1999-2002
GULF STREAM / SCENIC CRUISER 1999-2002
GULF STREAM / SUN VOYAGER 1999-2002
GULF STREAM / TOURMASTER 1999-2002
Manufacturer : GULF STREAM COACH, INC. Mfr's Report Date : JUN 24, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V383000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08009
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 413
Summary:
GULF STREAM IS RECALLING 413 MY 1999-2002 SUN VOYAGER, SCENIC CRUISE, FRIENDSHIP, AND TOUR MASTER MOTOR HOMES EQUIPPED WITH NORCOLD REFRIGERATORS. A FATIGUE FAILURE IN THE SECTION OF THE COOLING UNIT WHICH CONTAINS THE REFRIGERANT COULD ALLOW THE LIQUID SOLUTION TO SLOWLY LEAK.
Consequence:
EXTENDED OPERATION OF A LEAKING COOLING UNIT COULD LEAD TO A FIRE FROM GAS WHICH MIGHT ESCAPE.
Remedy:
GULF STREAM IS WORKING WITH NORCOLD TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E030). NORCOLD WILL PROVIDE THERMAL SWITCH KITS TO OWNERS ALONG WITH THE NECESSARY FORMS AND INSTRUCTIONS. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT NORCOLD AT 1-800-767- 9101 OR GULF STREAM AT 1-574-773-7761.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2003-2006 SUNDOWNER HORSE TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
SUNDOWNER / SUNLITE LQ 2003-2007
Manufacturer : SUNDOWNER TRAILERS, INC. Mfr's Report Date : AUG 05, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V382000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 2185
Summary:
SUNDOWNER IS RECALLING 2,185 MY 2003-2006 SUNLITE LQ HORSE TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
SUNDOWNER IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR SUNDOWNER AT 1-580-937-4256.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL 2004-2007 STARCRAFT TRAILERS AND MOTOR HOMES: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
STARCRAFT / AMBIENT 2005
STARCRAFT / ANTIGUA 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / ANTIGUA XLT 2006
STARCRAFT / ARUBA 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / ARUBA FW 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / ARUBA TAHITI 2005
STARCRAFT / ARUBA TAHITI FW 2005
STARCRAFT / HOMESTEAD 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / HOMESTEAD FW 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / HOMESTEAD RANCHER 2005
STARCRAFT / HOMESTEAD RANCHER FW 2005
STARCRAFT / HOMESTEAD SETTLER 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / NXP 2007
STARCRAFT / STARCRAFT ST 2006-2007
STARCRAFT / STARSTREAM 2007
STARCRAFT / TRAVEL STAR 2004-2007
STARCRAFT / TRAVELSTAR XLT 2006
Manufacturer : STARCRAFT RV, INC. Mfr's Report Date : JUL 29, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V381000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected :
Summary:
STARCRAFT IS RECALLING CERTAIN MY 2004-2007 ANTIGUA, ARUBA, ARUBA FW, HOMESTEAD, HOMESTEAD FW, HOMESTEAD SETTLER, TRAVEL STAR, MY 2005 ARUBA TAHITI, ARUBA TAHITI FW, AMBIENT, HOMESTEAD RANCHER, HOMESTEAD RANCHER FW, MY 2006 ANTIGUA XLT, TRAVELSTAR XLT, MY 2006-2007 STARCRAFT, AND MY 2007 STARSTREAM AND NXP MOTOR HOMES, FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
STARCRAFT IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR STARCRAFT AT 1-260-593-2550.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2005-2008 HEARTLAND RV TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
HEARTLAND / BIG COUNTRY 2007-2008
HEARTLAND / BIGHORN 2005-2008
HEARTLAND / CYCLONE 2007-2008
HEARTLAND / LANDMARK 2005-2008
HEARTLAND / RAZOR 2007-2008
HEARTLAND / SUNDANCE 2006-2008
HEARTLAND / TRAIL RUNNER 2007
Manufacturer : HEARTLAND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES, LLC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 30, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V380000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 6002
Summary:
HEARTLAND RV IS RECALLING 6,002 MY 2005-2008 BIG COUNTRY, LANDMARK, BIG HORN, CYCLONE, RAZOR, SUNDANCE, AND TRAIL RUNNER FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
HEARTLAND RV IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR HEARTLAND RV AT 1-574-262-8030.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2003-2006 BISON HORSE TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
BISON / ALUMASPORT 2003-2006
BISON / STRATUS 2003-2006
Manufacturer : BISON MANUFACTURING LLC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 29, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V379000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 1266
Summary:
BISON IS RECALLING 1,266 MY 2003-2006 ALUMASPORT AND STRATUS HORSE TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
BISON IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR BISON AT 1-574-658-4161.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2003-2007 FRONTIER RV EXPLORER TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
FRONTIER RV / EXPLORER 2003-2007
Manufacturer : FRONTIER RV OF GEORGIA, LLC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 23, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V378000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 66
Summary:
FRONTIER RV OF GA IS RECALLING 66 MY 2003-2007 EXPLORER TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
FRONTIER RV OF GA IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR FRONTIER RV OF GA AT 1-903-247-9400.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2003-2006 FRONTIER RV TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
FRONTIER RV / ASPEN 2003-2006
FRONTIER RV / EXPLORER 2003-2006
FRONTIER RV / RANGER 2003-2006
Manufacturer : FRONTIER R.V. INC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 18, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V377000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 361
Summary:
FRONTIER RV IS RECALLING 361 MY 2003-2006 EXPLORER, RANGER, AND ASPEN FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
FRONTIER RV IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR FRONTIER RV AT 1-903-247-9400.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2007-2008 DREAM SHAK NAMAKAN TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
DREAM SHAK / NAMAKAN 202 2007-2008
DREAM SHAK / NAMAKAN 203 2007-2008
Manufacturer : DREAM SHAK, LLC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 14, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V376000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 9
Summary:
DREAM SHAK IS RECALLING 9 MY 2007-2008 NAMAKAN 202 AND 203 TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
DREAM SHAK IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR DREAM SHAK AT 1-612-819-9139.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2003-2008 RVSQUARED PROTEGE TRAILERS: DOMETIC REFRIGERATORS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
RVSQUARED / PROTEGE 2003-2007
Manufacturer : RVSQUARED INC. Mfr's Report Date : JUL 17, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V375000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 3
Summary:
RVSQUARED IS RECALLING 3 MY 2003-2007 PROTEGE 26BH TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
RVSQUARED IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR RVSQUARED AT 1-574-457-9341.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2008-2009 KEYSTONE TRAILERS: EXTERIOR SIDE MARKER LIGHTS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
KEYSTONE / EVEREST 2008
KEYSTONE / HORNET 2008-2009
KEYSTONE / LAREDO 2008-2009
KEYSTONE / OUTBACK LOFT 2008-2009
KEYSTONE / SPRINTER 2008-2009
Manufacturer : KEYSTONE RV COMPANY Mfr's Report Date : JUL 30, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V371000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 2990
Summary:
KEYSTONE IS RECALLING 2,990 MY 2008 EVEREST, MY 2008-2009 HORNET, LAREDO, SPRINTER AND OUTBACK LOFT FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS FOR FAILING TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108 "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE INTERMEDIATE SIDE MARKER LIGHTS ARE MISSING.
Consequence:
PULLING A VEHICLE AT NIGHT WITHOUT THE PROPER SIDE MARKER LIGHTING INCREASES THE RISK OF OTHER MOTORISTS NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE THE VEHICLE AND COULD POSSIBLY RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE MISSING SIDE MARKER LIGHTS FREE OR CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KEYSTONE AT 1-866-425-4369.
Notes:
KESTONE RECALL NO. 08-110. CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL:2007-2008 GULF STREAM: FREIGHTLINER CHASSIS: STEERING ARM BOLTS

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
GULF STREAM / CRESCENDO 2007-2008
GULF STREAM / TOURMASTER 2007-2008
GULF STREAM / YELLOWSTONE 2007-2008
Manufacturer : GULF STREAM COACH, INC. Mfr's Report Date : JUL 02, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V354000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 68
Summary:
GULF STREAM IS RECALLING 68 MY 2007-2008 CRESCENDO, TOUR MASTER AND YELLOWSTONE MOTOR HOMES BUILT ON FREIGHTLINER CHASSIS. THE AAC FRONT AXLE STEERING ARM BOLTS WITH A LATCH LEVER PIVOT BOLT ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN OVER-TIGHTENED WHICH MAY RESULT IN FATIGUE OR FRACTURE OF THE STEERING ARM BOLTS.
Consequence:
SHOULD THESE BOLTS FRACTURE, THE RESULTING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL COULD CAUSE A CRASH.
Remedy:
GULF STREAM IS WORKING WITH DAIMLER TRUCKS (FREIGHTLINER) TO REPAIR THESE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07V306). OWNERS MAY CONTACT FREIGHTLINER AT 1-800-547-0712 OR GULF STREAM AT 1-574-773-7761.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

RECALL: 2005-2006 SILVER CROWN MOTOR HOME: DOMETIC REFRIGERATOR

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
SILVER CROWN / MOTOR HOME 2005-2006
Manufacturer : SILVER CROWN, LLC Mfr's Report Date : JUL 18, 2008
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 08V293000 NHTSA Action Number: EQ08010
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 36
Summary:
SILVER CROWN IS RECALLING 36 MY 2005-2006 RECREATIONAL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION. THE REFRIGERATOR MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
IF THIS SOLUTION IS EXPOSED TO AN IGNITION SOURCE UNDER CERTAIN SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES, IT CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy:
SILVER CROWN IS WORKING WITH DOMETIC TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 08E032). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST THE OWNER IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC/STERICYCLE AT 1-888-446-5157 OR SILVER CROWN AT 1-269-483-7900.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS 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 HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

 

FREIGHTLINER TO LAY OFF 100

RV Business
Tuesday, August 12, 2008

About 100 workers at the Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. plant in Gaffney, S.C., will be laid off early next month, the company said Tuesday (Aug. 12).

As reported by local TV station WYFF, the plant makes chassis for motorhomes, delivery vans as well as school and shuttle buses.

Company spokeswoman Amy Sills said that the layoffs would be effective Sept. 8.

Freigtliner will consolidate its operations into a single shift on that date, Sills said. The plant currently employs 790 full-time workers.

"Due to the ongoing economic downturn and its impact on our industry, approximately 100 plant employees were notified today regarding a reduction in force," Sills said in a news release.

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