NHTSA Recall 03V357000: Check valve (service brakes)
WHEELER STEEL WORKS, INC. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 176 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Wheeler Gravel Pup.
| NHTSA campaign | 03V357000 |
|---|---|
| Component | SERVICE BRAKES, AIR › SUPPLY › CHECK VALVE |
| Report received | September 26, 2003 |
| Owner notification | December 3, 2003 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
On certain trailers equipped with sealco spring brake control valve assemblies incorporated in arvinmeritor axles, part no. 110800, there is a recessed area on top of the valve in which a brass guide pin fits down inside the body of the valve and is held in place by a steel snap ring. The recessed area allows accumulation of water, dirt, and/or chemicals to build up behind the snap ring to the point where it will no longer contain the guide pin resulting in a failure of the air valve.
Safety risk
Failure of the valve in an empty or lightly loaded trailer while the vehicle is in motion could result in a hard application of the spring brakes, possibly locking up the trailer wheels and resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Sealco will provide a repair kit and installation instructions to customers free of charge. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact sealco at 602-253-1007 or wheeler at 573-262-6240.
Notes
Also, customers can contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicles covered by recall 03V357000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.