NHTSA Recall 08V068000: Shaft pitman (steering)
CHAMPION BUS, INC. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 14 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Champion 3035RE.
| NHTSA campaign | 08V068000 |
|---|---|
| Component | STEERING › GEAR BOX › SHAFT PITMAN |
| Report received | February 14, 2008 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
Champion bus is recalling 14 my 2008 3035re buses built on freightliner chassis and equipped with zf model 8018 steering gears. These gears may have been assembled with the incorrect recirculating ball spacer. This could potentially allow the recirculation balls to escape from the recirculation ball circuit resulting in a loss of steering.
Safety risk
The operator may notice higher required steering wheel inputs, or the need for more steering wheel adjustments while driving in a straight line in combination with metallic cracking noises prior to a loss of steering. Loss of steering could result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Champion bus is working with freightliner and zf to replace the steering gear (please see 07v343 and 07e049). Owners may contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712 or champion bus at 1-800-331-5761.
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.
Vehicles covered by recall 08V068000
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.