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January 13, 2023 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 23V008000
Incorrectly Designed Rear Impact Guard/FMVSS 224
Incorrect placement of the taillights may reduce the visibility of the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash. During a crash, a vehicle that travels under the rear of the trailer increases the risk of injury.
NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V008
Manufacturer Gratimax, LLC
Components EXTERIOR LIGHTING, STRUCTURE
Potential Number of Units Affected 31
Summary
Gratimax, LLC (Gratimax) is recalling certain 2013-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel vacuum excavator trailers. The design of the rear impact guard resulted in the incorrect placement of the taillights. In addition, the guard may fail to prevent a vehicle from traveling under the trailer during a rear impact crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment” and 224, “Rear Impact Protection.”
Remedy
Dealers will reposition the taillights and modify the rear impact guard, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2023. Owners may contact Gratimax customer service at 1-864-814-2220. Gratimax’s number for this recall is 21434.
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.nhtsa.gov.
7 March 2023
FIELD CAMPAIGN SERVICE BULLETIN #: SMV2023-013
Rear Impact Guard and Lighting Kit (VMV000056)
Background:
Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. has decided that a defect that relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain model year 2013 – 2021 McLaughlin or Vermeer «MODEL» vacuum excavator.
REAR IMPACT GUARD AND LIGHTING NONCOMPLIANCE
Affected vacuum excavation trailers were designed with rear impact guards and lighting that do not conform to the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108.
Solution:
IMMEDIATE MACHINE MODIFICATIONS REQUIRED
VMV000056 has been created to provide the necessary parts and instructions to bring the rear impact guards and lighting into compliance with the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108. The kit must be installed as soon as possible.
Vermeer Corporation is administering this campaign on behalf of Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc.
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7 March 2023
FIELD CAMPAIGN KIT #: VMV000056
Rear Impact Guard and Lighting Kit
Purpose:
This kit includes parts and instructions to develop and produce kits that will include necessary parts to achieve compliance with S5, FMVSS 108 and 224, while maintaining compliance with S5, FMVSS 223.
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Chronology :
On December 8, 2022, Gratimax was notified by its customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., of a possible compliance issue relating to the design of the affected trailers. An investigation of the design was opened at that time, including review of applicable regulations, standards, manufacturing documents, and design files, and production of the affected trailers was placed on hold. On January 4, 2023, Gratimax decided that a non-compliance with FMVSS 108 and 224 existed.
11 Affected Products
Vehicle
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| MCELRATH TRAILERS | VX75 XCEL | 2013-2023 |
13 Associated Documents
Noncompliance Notice 573 Report
RCLRPT-23V008-7288.PDF 216.399KB
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Recall Acknowledgement
RCAK-23V008-7199.pdf 645.569KB
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Recall 573 Report – February 28, 2023
RCLRPT-23V008-5127.PDF 218.009KB
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Recall 573 Report – February 28, 2023
RCLRPT-23V008-7019.PDF 218.01KB
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Safety Bulletin
RCSB-23V008-9082.pdf 494.529KB
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Remedy Instructions and TSB
RCRIT-23V008-2840.pdf 2748.421KB
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Part 577 Owner Notification Envelope
RONE-23V008-7337.pdf 145.483KB
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Part 577 Owner Notification Envelope
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Owner Notification Letter(Part 577)
RCONL-23V008-9241.pdf 245.934KB
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Recall Quarterly Report #1, 2023-1
RCLQRT-23V008-4731.PDF 211.131KB
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Recall 573 Report – 05/01/2023
RCLRPT-23V008-6503.PDF 218.096KB
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Recall Quarterly Report #2, 2023-2
RCLQRT-23V008-3809.PDF 211.23KB
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Recall Quarterly Report #3, 2023-3
RCLQRT-23V008-1960.PDF 211.447KB
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Latest Recalls Documents
https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/acms/cs/documentList.xhtml?docId=23V008&docType=RCL
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Last update on 2024-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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SEOCONTENT-START
Vermeer and the Vermeer logo are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S and/or other
countries. © 2023 Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Page 1 of 6
Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc.
Trenchless
Piedmont, South Carolina 29673 USA
FIELD CAMPAIGN SERVICE BULLETIN #: SMV2023-013 DATE: 7 March 2023
CAMPAIGN
TYPE:
Mandatory – Product Compliance
DEALER INSTALLATION ONLY
CAMPAIGN
CATEGORY: Kit and Bulletin
MACHINE/
ATTACHMENT
MODEL(S):
SERIAL NUMBERS:
Included Excluded Kit version
VX75
See attached listing on page
4 of this bulletin for specific
Vacuum VIN and trailer VIN.
V800 N/A VMV01
VX80
Subject:
Rear Impact Guard and
Lighting Kit
(VMV000056)
UNITED STATES MACHINES ONLY
Background: Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. has decided that a defect that relates to motor vehicle
safety exists in certain model year 2013 – 2021 McLaughlin or Vermeer «MODEL»
vacuum excavator.
REAR IMPACT GUARD AND LIGHTING NONCOMPLIANCE
Affected vacuum excavation trailers were designed with rear impact guards and
lighting that do not conform to the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108.
Solution: IMMEDIATE MACHINE MODIFICATIONS REQUIRED
VMV000056 has been created to provide the necessary parts and instructions to
bring the rear impact guards and lighting into compliance with the requirements of
FMVSS 223, 224 and 108. The kit must be installed as soon as possible.
Vermeer Corporation is administering this campaign on behalf of Vermeer MV
Solutions, Inc.
PRODUCT
COMPLIANCE
FIRST NOTICE
SMV2023-013 7 March 2023 Page 2 of 6
Please be reminded that it is a violation of Federal law for you to sell or lease the
machines covered by this notification until this recall has been performed on these
machines. Substantial civil penalties apply to violations of this law.
DEALER PARTICIPATION
REVIEW REPORT, ORDER KITS, CONTACT CUSTOMERS
1. Review report. Reports will be emailed during the week of March 7, 2023, to
dealerships shown in our records which have units in their territory affected by
this alert. Please review the report for accuracy, including owner and/or address
changes.
If the information contained in the report is not correct, please notify the product
safety and compliance department on or before March 13, 2023, at:
Telephone: 641-621-7060
Fax: 641-621-8562
Email: productsafety@vermeer.com
2. Dealership orders kits by calling Vermeer MV Solutions – South Carolina 864-
277-5870. Each dealership should determine the quantity of kits to order,
initially depending upon the number of units that may be available for immediate
upgrade. Do not order more kits than needed for immediate installation.
3. Contact your affected customer(s) to schedule a mutually acceptable time to
upgrade their machine(s). Note: Letters will be sent to the customer(s) on or
about March 14, 2023. Also refer to Owner Notification section below.
If you have any questions concerning the installation of VMV000056, please contact
the Vermeer MV Solutions Service Department – South Carolina.
REIMBURSEMENT
Kit installation. Upon completion of each kit installation, a campaign warranty
claim must be submitted to the warranty department for reimbursement of the cost
of parts and labor to install the kit. Labor hours to install: 8 hours.
Travel will be paid up to $200 ($1 per mile with a $200 max round trip) with copy of
work order attached for retailed machines not in dealer inventory. If dealer repairs
more than one machine at same location on one trip, travel will only be paid on one
of the model/VINs.
Note: Future notices to dealers and owners are dependent upon the receipt of
warranty claims.
OWNER NOTIFICATION
Sample letter: Included at the end of this bulletin is a sample letter which will be
sent by Vermeer Corporation directly to the owners on or about March 14, 2023.
The owner letter will only be available in English.
This owner notification/letter instructs the owner to contact their local dealership
to arrange for a time to have the kit installed. After receiving VMV000056 from the
parts distribution center, you must contact your affected customer(s)
immediately and schedule a mutually acceptable time to upgrade their machine.
We regret any inconvenience these corrective measures may cause you. The
required work is to ensure your machine is in compliance with applicable Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
SMV2023-013 7 March 2023 Page 3 of 6
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT
Attachment:
VMV000056 Kit instructions
Completion schedule:
Product Safety Alert: Install immediately
Product Compliance: Install immediately
90 days from MM/DD/YYYY
180 days from MM/DD/YYYY
1 year from MM/DD/YYYY
Only units within standard limited
warranty period
N/A
Reimbursement:
Product Safety Alert
Product Compliance
All units listed above
Parts Labor paid (Labor code: SB23)
Only units within standard limited warranty
period
No reimbursement
Internal reference:
TREAD Act Code
(Choose one or
more applicable
codes)
— Not applicable 12 Exterior lighting
02 Suspension 16 Structure
03 Service brake system, hydraulic 17 Latch
04 Service brake system, air 19 Tires
05 Parking brake 20 Wheels
11 Electrical 21 Trailer hitch
SMV2023-013 7 March 2023 Page 4 of 6
AFFECTED MACHINES ‐ VMV010056
VACUUM
MODEL VIN TRAILER VIN
V800
V800
V800
V800
V800
V800
V800
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX75
VX80
VX80
VX80
VX80
VX80
VX80
VX80
VX80
SMV2023-013 7 March 2023 Page 5 of 6
VERMEER MV SOLUTIONS, INC.
Administered by:
Product Safety Department
Vermeer Corporation
1210 Vermeer Rd East
Pella, Iowa 50219 USA
productsafety@vermeer.com
March 17, 2023
Dear «MODEL» owner:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. National Traffic and Motor Vehicle
Safety Act.
Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. has decided that a defect that relates to motor vehicle safety exists in certain model
year 2013 – 2021 McLaughlin or Vermeer «MODEL» vacuum excavator. The model and serial number are
shown at the top center of this letter.
REAR IMPACT GUARD AND LIGHTING NONCOMPLIANCE
Affected vacuum excavation trailers were designed with rear impact guards and lighting that do not conform to
the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108.
IMMEDIATE MACHINE MODIFICATIONS REQUIRED
VMV000056 has been created to provide the necessary parts and instructions to bring the rear impact guards
and lighting into compliance with the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108. The kit must be installed as
soon as possible. Vermeer Corporation is administering this product safety alert on behalf of Vermeer MV
Solutions, Inc.
Please be reminded that it is a violation of Federal law for you to sell or lease the machines covered by this
notification until this recall has been performed on these machines. Substantial civil penalties apply to violations
of this law.
Please contact your authorized independent Vermeer dealer immediately to arrange a mutually acceptable
time and location to install VMV000056 at no cost to you for labor or materials. The installation of this kit is
estimated at 8 hours of labor. If the Vermeer dealer travels to the unit to install the kit, costs may be incurred
by the owner. You must have your machine upgraded for these safety features.
Contact your local Vermeer dealer: «Service_Dealer_Name»
«Serv_Dealer_Add1» «Serv_Dealer_Add2»
«Serv_Dealer_City» «Serv_Dealer_St» «Serv_Dealer_Zip»
«SERV_DEALER_COUNTRY»
Telephone: «Serv_Dealer_Phone»
Model: «Model»
Serial #: «SerialN»
Trailer # «SerialN»
PRODUCT
COMPLIANCE
First Notice
Rear Impact Guard and
Lighting Kit
(VMV000056)
NHTSA SAFETY RECALL NUMBER 23V-008
SMV2023-013 7 March 2023 Page 6 of 6
If you no longer own this unit, please notify the product safety and compliance department at:
Toll-free: 800-829-0051, option 1
Telephone: 641-621-7060
Email: productsafety@vermeer.com
If possible, please provide the name and address of the new owner.
We regret any inconvenience these corrective measures may cause you. The required work is to ensure your
machine is in compliance with applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Federal regulations require that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice
to the lessee within ten (10) days.
If the authorized dealer has failed or is unable to remedy the defect without charge and within a reasonable
time, contact Vermeer Product Safety by email at productsafety@vermeer.com or by calling 800-829-0051 or
641-621-7060. You may also submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20590 or call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-
327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
Regards,
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT
**************************************************************************************************************
Ve eer Manufacturing Company in the
nd/or other countries. © 2023 Vermeer MV Solutions Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Page 1 of 10
Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. Trenchless
Piedmont, South Carolina 29673 USA
FIELD CAMPAIGN KIT #: VMV000056 DATE: 7 March 2023
For Dealer Reference: Service Bulletin #: SMV2023-013 Rear Impact Guard and Lighting Kit
CAMPAIGN TYPE:
CAMPAIGN CATEGORY:
MACHINE/ ATTACHMENT MODEL(S): SERIAL NUMBERS:
Included Excluded Kit version
VX75 V800 VX80 7 of this kit for specific Vacuum VIN and trailer VIN. N/A VMV01
Purpose: This kit includes parts and instructions to develop and produce kits that will include necessary parts to achieve compliance with S5, FMVSS 108 and 224, while maintaining compliance with S5, FMVSS 223.
Mandatory – Product Compliance DEALER INSTALLATION ONLY Kit and Bulletin
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE
ALERT Special tools and conditions:
• N/A WARNING: Use the following shutdown procedure before attempting to do any of the work described in this kit.
STOPPING THE MACHINE
NOTICE: For your safety and the safety of others, use the shutdown procedure before servicing, cleaning, unclogging or inspecting the machine.
A variation of this procedure may be used if instructed within this manual, or if an emergency requires it.
Step 1: Reduce engine speed to idle.
Step 2: Verify all switches are in off/down position. Step 3: Move reverse flow control to neutral.
Step 4: Allow engine to idle for five minutes before turning it off after full-load operation.
NOTICE: Failure to allow engine to idle for the recommended time may result in turbocharger damage. Remove lower hose storage bracket assembly:
A. 1x HOSE CONTAINER WELDMT (BOTTOM).
B. 1x GASKET INLET/OUTLET DOOR LE (8046191). Keep for re-use
C. Mounting hardware for hose storage bracket. C
Step 1 A Remove and disconnect lighting: B
D. 2x Stop/Turn Lights and Gasket (8095893-35).
Keep for re-use. E D
E. 4x Red Running Lights and Gaskets (8095893-
34).
F. 1x License plate holder and hardware
(8095893-36) F
G. 1x License plate and hardware, if present. G
Keep for re-use. Step 2 VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 2 of 10 Mark and drill holes in fenders on both sides for re- routing of wiring, Mag-drill recommended.
H. Mark hole in location shown.
I. Drill 2x Ø1.13 holes on rear sides of fenders. Install drain cover plate as shown:
J. Step 4 Parts:
a. 1x GASKET CVR, OUTLET DOOR XCEL (8090720). Included with kit.
b. 1x GASKET INLET/OUTLET DOOR LE (8046191). Reused from step 1.
c. 4x SCREW, HC .375-16 X 1.5, YZ, G8
(U000465). Included with kit. H, I Step 3 d. 4x NUT, LOCK .375-16 NY YZ G8 (U120114). Included with kit.
e. 8x WASHER FLAT .375 SAE THRU HARD (U20085). Included with kit.
K. Install new cover plate as shown.
L. Torque bolts to Vermeer Standard Torque for
3/8” – 16 NC Grade 8 with Nylock Nuts: 33 ft- Jb
lbs Mark and drill holes in main trailer rail for installation of rear-guard structure, Mag-drill recommended:
M. Remove conspicuity tape and fix paint if conflicting with hole locations.
N. 12x Ø0.6875 holes at locations shown in image. Jb, Jc, Jd. Je Ja, K Step 4 L Step 5
N VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 3 of 10 Install rear guard structure by sliding mounting frames into rails and bolting in place, using shims as appropriate for gaps.
O. Step 6 parts:
a. 1x WELDMENT, REAR GUARD (135007297). Included with kit.
b. 12x SCREW, HC .625-11X4.00 ZP G8
(U001321). Included with kit.
c. 12x NUT,LOCK, NY, .625-11 ZP G8 (U120025). Included with kit.
d. 24x WASHER FLAT .625 ZP SAE HARD (U200150). Included with kit.
P. Torque bolts to Vermeer Standard Torque for 5/8” – 11 NC Grade 8 with Nylock Nuts: 159 ft- lbs Mark and drill holes in trailer to mount chute as shown, Mag-drill recommended:
Q. 4x Ø0.4375 holes at locations shown in images P Q Center Step 6 Q Ob, c, Oa Step 7
Q Left side Q Right side VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 4 of 10 8. Install chute as shown
R. Step 8 Parts:
a. 1x CHUTE, XCEL 75 UNDERRUN KIT (135007414). Included with kit.
b. 4x SCREW, HC .375-16 X 1.5, YZ, G8
(U000465). Included with kit.
c. 4x NUT,LOCK .375-16 NY YZ G8 (U120114). Included with kit.
d. 8x WASHER FLAT .375 SAE THRU HARD (U20085). Included with kit.
S. Torque bolts to Vermeer Standard Torque for 3/8” – 16 NC Grade 8 with Nylock Nuts: 33 ft- Step 8 S Rb, c, d Rb, c, d Ra lbs Step 9 Right side Install lighting on rear guard, as shown.
T. Step 9 Parts:
a. 2x Stop/Turn Lights and Grommets (8095893-35). Re-use from step 2.
b. 4x Red Running Lights (135000528) and Left side Tb U Grommets (135000529). Included with kit.
c. 1x LIGHT, DIRECTIONAL LED, LICENSE PLATE (8097874). Included with kit.
d. 2x SCREW, PAN HD PHIL #8-32 X .75 (U030802). Included with kit.
e. 2x WASHER FLAT #8 ZP (U030801). Included with kit.
f. 2x NUT, NY #8-32 (U030800). Included Tb V Ta
U U
Tc, d, e, f Step 10 with kit.
U. Insert retention grommets and lights into light boxes on rear guard.
V. Use #8 Hardware to install license plate light. Install conspicuity tape on rear guard as shown:
W. Use conspicuity tape (8041236). Included with kit.
X. Maximize coverage on horizontal surfaces of vacuum. Left side W W Rear W
Right side VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 5 of 10 Reconnect wiring between lighting on rear guard and trailer:
Y. Step 11 parts:
a. 1x WIRING KIT, LIGHT RELOCATION, VX75 XCEL (135007540). Included with kit.
b. 2x P-CLAMP, 3/8″ ID, 3/8″ BOLT (135002707). Included with kit.
c. 4x WASHER, FLAT 1/4 ZP (U200020). Included with kit.
d. 2x NUT,LOCK, NY, .250-20 ZP G2 (U120000). Included with kit.
e. 2x SCREW, PAN HD PHIL 1/4-20 X 1″ (U030851). Included with kit.
Z. Install p-clamp and grommets as shown (grommets included in wiring kit).
AA. Cut wiring to necessary length and create extensions using included connectors.
BB. Prior to butt-connector, cut existing harness and add connectors to add extension.
CC.Route wiring through p-clamp and grommets to relocated lighting.
Reinstall license plate using removed hardware if removed during step 2. Step 11 Y, a, b, c, d, e Z, CC Step 12 License plate VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 6 of 10 VACUUM MODEL
V800 V800 V800 V800 V800 V800 V800 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX75 VX80 VX80 VX80 VX80 VX80 VX80 VX80 VX80 AFFECTED MACHINES ‐ VMV010056
VIN TRAILER VIN VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 7 of 10 WARNING: Pressurized fluid can penetrate body tissue and result in death or serious injury. Leaks can be invisible. Keep away from any suspected leak. Relieve pressure in the hydraulic system before searching for leaks, disconnecting hoses, or performing any other work on the system. If you must pressurize the system to find a suspected leak, use an object such as a piece of wood or cardboard rather than your hands. When loosening a fitting where some residual pressure may exist, slowly loosen the fitting until oil begins to leak. Wait for leaking to stop before disconnecting the fitting. Fluid injected under the skin must be removed immediately by a surgeon familiar with this type of injury. VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 8 of 10 UNIT OWNER COPY:
Insert in parts manual for future reference. Figure 1 1 2 3 135007297 135007414 135007540 4 5 6 7 8 135000528 135000529 135002707 8090720 8097874 9 10 11 12 U001321 U120025 U200150 U000465 13 14 15 16 17 U030800 U030801 U030802 U030851 U120000 18 19 20 21 22 232 24 25 U120114 U200020 U200085 8041236-.015.00
8041236-.016.00
8041236-.021.00
8041236-.055.00
8041236-.067.00 VMV000056 7 March 2023 Page 9 of 10 Ver ermeer Manufacturing Company in
.S and/or other countries. © 2023 Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. All Rights
Reserved.
Page 10 of 10 REF. NO.
Figure 1 parts list
PART NO. DESCRIPTION IK01 1 135007297
2 135007414
3 135007540
4 135000528
5 135000529
6 135002707
7 8090720
8 8097874
9 U001321
10 U120025
11 U200150
12 U000465
13 U030800
14 U030801
15 U030802
16 U030851
17 U120000
18 U120114
19 U200020
20 U200085 Weldment, rear guard 1
Chute, XCEL 75 underrun kit 1
Wiring kit, light relocation, VX75 XCEL 1
Red marker light 4
Grommet 4
3/8 med duty .406 hole diameter vinyl cushion tube clam 2
Gasket cvr, outlet door XCEL mods N900040 1
Light, directional LED license plate 1
Screw, HC .625-11×4.00 ZP G8 12
Nut, lock, NY, .625-11 ZP G8 12
Washer flat .625 ZP SAE hard 24
3/8”-16×1.5” hex cap screw GR8 8
Nut, lock, NY, #8-32 2
Washer flat #8 2
Screw, pan HD phil #8-32x.750 2
Screw, pan HD phil ¼-20×1” GR 316 2
Nut, lock, NY, .250-20 ZP G2 2
Nut, lock, .375-16 NY YZ G8 8
Washer flat .250 ZP 4
3/8 SAE thru hard flat washer 16 21 8041236-015.00 Tape, 2” conspicuity, 15” LG 2
22 8041236-016.00 Tape, 2” conspicuity, 16” LG 2
23 8041236-021.00 Tape, 2” conspicuity, 21” LG 1
24 8041236-055.00 Tape, 2” conspicuity, 55” LG 2
25 8041236-067.00 Tape, 2” conspicuity, 67” LG 3
Kit includes all items in Figure 1 parts list.
**************************************************************************************************************
VERMEER MV SOLUTIONS, INC.
Administered by:
Product Safety Department
Vermeer Corporation
1210 Vermeer Rd East
Pella, Iowa 50219 USA
productsafety@vermeer.com
March 17, 2023
Dear «MODEL» owner:
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act.
Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. has decided that certain model year 2013 – 2021 McLaughlin or Vermeer «MODEL» vacuum excavator fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 223, 224,108. The model and serial number are shown at the top center of this letter.
REAR IMPACT GUARD AND LIGHTING NONCOMPLIANCE
Affected vacuum excavation trailers were designed with rear impact guards and lighting that do not conform to the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108.
IMMEDIATE MACHINE MODIFICATIONS REQUIRED
VMV000056 has been created to provide the necessary parts and instructions to bring the rear impact guards and lighting into compliance with the requirements of FMVSS 223, 224 and 108. The kit must be installed as soon as possible. Vermeer Corporation is administering this product safety alert on behalf of Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc.
Please be reminded that it is a violation of Federal law for you to sell or lease the machines covered by this notification until this recall has been performed on these machines. Substantial civil penalties apply to violations of this law.
Please contact your authorized independent Vermeer dealer immediately to arrange a mutually acceptable time and location to install VMV000056 at no cost to you for labor or materials. The installation of this kit is estimated at 8 hours of labor. If the Vermeer dealer travels to the unit to install the kit, costs may be incurred by the owner. You must have your machine upgraded for these safety features.
Contact your local Vermeer dealer: «Service_Dealer_Name»
«Serv_Dealer_Add1» «Serv_Dealer_Add2»
«Serv_Dealer_City» «Serv_Dealer_St» «Serv_Dealer_Zip»
«SERV_DEALER_COUNTRY»
Telephone: «Serv_Dealer_Phone»
Model: «Model»
Serial #: «SerialN»
Trailer # «SerialN»
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE
First Notice
Rear Impact Guard and Lighting Kit (VMV000056)
NHTSA SAFETY RECALL NUMBER 23V-008
IMPORTANT SAFETY RECALL
If you no longer own this unit, please notify the product safety and compliance department at:
Toll-free: 800-829-0051, option 1
Telephone: 641-621-7060
Email: productsafety@vermeer.com
If possible, please provide the name and address of the new owner.
We regret any inconvenience these corrective measures may cause you. The required work is to ensure your machine is in compliance with applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Federal regulations require that any vehicle lessor receiving this recall notice must forward a copy of this notice to the lessee within ten (10) days.
If the authorized dealer has failed or is unable to remedy the defect without charge and within a reasonable time, contact Vermeer Product Safety by email at productsafety@vermeer.com or by calling 800-829-0051 or 641-621-7060. You may also submit a complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20590 or call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
Regards,
PRODUCT COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT
**************************************************************************************************************
OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Gratimax, LLC JAN 13, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-008 Manufacturer Recall No. : 21434 Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Gratimax, LLC
Address : 3375 Chesnee Highway
Chesnee SC 29323 Company phone : 8648142220
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 31 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2013-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. One model has been identified as having the non-compliant design. A total of 31 vacuum excavator trailers are affected. The affected trailer is custom designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., and built for one customer. All trailers of the affected model were built to this design, since the starting model year indicated above. Trailers were built without proper lighting location and visibility from all specified positions, due to a custom rear impact guard design which limits visibility. 31 trailers have been identified using assembly 8048802 designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., built by McElrath Trailers and its successor in interest, Gratimax, LLC, beginning in 2013 and continuing until the present. Production Dates : JAN 01, 2013 – JAN 04, 2023
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1229DS284400 End : 1G91A2027NC615039 ✔ Not sequential Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 2 Description of Noncompliance : Description of the Noncompliance : The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. FMVSS 1 : 108 – Lamps, reflective devices, and assoc. Equipment FMVSS 2 : 224 – Rear impact protection
Description of the Safety Risk : When towing the vacuum excavator trailer on public roadways, death or
serious injury may result if drivers of other vehicles do not see the trailer at night or during limited sunlight and strike the trailer. In the event of a rear- impact crash, the other vehicle may travel under the rear of the trailer, increasing the risk of death or serious injury to someone in the other vehicle or to the towing vehicle occupants. Property or equipment damage may also occur.
Description of the Cause : The cause is due to the original design by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. which is the customer of McElrath Trailers. These trailers are build by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., specification for their own machines. McElrath Trailer builds these trailers according to Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., design. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None Involved Components : Component Name 1 : NR Component Description : NR Component Part Number : NR Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : Gratimax, LLC dba McElrath Trailers Address : 3375 Chesnee Hwy
Chesnee South Carolina 29323
Country : United States Chronology : The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
Page 3
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
On December 8, 2022, Gratimax was notified by its customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., of a possible compliance issue relating to the design of the affected trailers. An investigation of the design was opened at that time, including review of applicable regulations, standards, manufacturing documents, and design files, and production of the affected trailers was placed on hold. On January 4, 2023, Gratimax decided that a non- compliance with FMVSS 108 and 224 existed.
Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Gratimax will prepare field remedy kits, which will include the necessary
parts and instructions to resolve the noncompliance issues described above. These field remedy kits will be provided to authorized dealers of Gratimax’s customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., for installation. Upon installation and receipt of field remedy kit warranty claim, those dealers will be reimbursed for the parts and labor. Gratimax will collaborate with Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. to notify owners of the affected trailers of the non-compliance and potential safety risk and of the available field remedy kit by letter, according to available product database records. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production : The field remedy kit provides the necessary parts and instructions to re- position the trailer taillights at prescribed, most practicable locations per NHTSA regulations and applicable SAE publications. The design of the necessary parts and instructions to resolve the non-compliance of the trailers’ rear impact guards with FMVSS 224 is pending completion at this time and will be completed prior to notification to the owners of affected trailers.
Production of the affected trailer model was placed on hold when the potential non-compliance was discovered. This production hold will remain in place until an approved solution can be implemented.
Through the Engineering Change Notification process, the bill of materials for the affected model will be updated to install adequate and properly positioned components to meet FMVSS 108 and 224.
Recall Schedule :
Description of Recall Schedule : Dealer notification will begin within 45 days, by email, including a list of
affected trailers in each dealer’s area of responsibility. Owner notification letters will be sent within 59 days.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 01, 2023 – APR 30, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 06, 2023 – MAR 31, 2023
* NR – Not Reported
**************************************************************************************************************
OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Gratimax, LLC FEB 28, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-008 Manufacturer Recall No. : VMV0056 Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Gratimax, LLC
Address : 3375 Chesnee Highway
Chesnee SC 29323 Company phone : 8648142220
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 30 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2017-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. One model has been identified as having the non-compliant design. A total of 31 vacuum excavator trailers are affected. The affected trailer is custom designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., and built for one customer. All trailers of the affected model were built to this design, since the starting model year indicated above. Trailers were built without proper lighting location and visibility from all specified positions, due to a custom rear impact guard design which limits visibility. 31 trailers have been identified using assembly 8048802 designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., built by McElrath Trailers and its successor in interest, Gratimax, LLC, beginning in 2013 and continuing until the present. Production Dates : NOV 13, 2017 – JAN 04, 2023
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1228JS284058 End : 1G91A2027NC615039 ✔ Not sequential Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 2 Vehicle 2 : 2013-2014 McElrath V800 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : OCT 12, 2013 – MAR 27, 2014
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1224DS284384 End : 1M9FE1222ES284630 ✔ Not sequential Vehicle 3 : 2014-2017 McElrath VX80 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : DEC 19, 2014 – JUL 15, 2017
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1229ED284107 End : 1M9FE1220HS284727 ✔ Not sequential Description of Noncompliance : Description of the Noncompliance : The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. FMVSS 1 : 108 – Lamps, reflective devices, and assoc. Equipment FMVSS 2 : 224 – Rear impact protection
Description of the Safety Risk : When towing the vacuum excavator trailer on public roadways, death or
serious injury may result if drivers of other vehicles do not see the trailer at night or during limited sunlight and strike the trailer. In the event of a rear- impact crash, the other vehicle may travel under the rear of the trailer, increasing the risk of death or serious injury to someone in the other vehicle or to the towing vehicle occupants. Property or equipment damage may also occur.
Description of the Cause : The cause is due to the original design by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. which is the customer of McElrath Trailers. These trailers are build by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., specification for their own machines. McElrath Trailer builds these trailers according to Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., design. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 3 Involved Components : Component Name 1 : NR Component Description : NR Component Part Number : NR Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : Gratimax, LLC dba McElrath Trailers Address : 3375 Chesnee Hwy
Chesnee South Carolina 29323
Country : United States Chronology :
On December 8, 2022, Gratimax was notified by its customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., of a possible compliance issue relating to the design of the affected trailers. An investigation of the design was opened at that time, including review of applicable regulations, standards, manufacturing documents, and design files, and production of the affected trailers was placed on hold. On January 4, 2023, Gratimax decided that a non- compliance with FMVSS 108 and 224 existed. Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Gratimax will prepare field remedy kits, which will include the necessary
parts and instructions to resolve the noncompliance issues described above. These field remedy kits will be provided to authorized dealers of Gratimax’s customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., for installation. Upon installation and receipt of field remedy kit warranty claim, those dealers will be reimbursed for the parts and labor. Gratimax will collaborate with Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. to notify owners of the affected trailers of the non-compliance and potential safety risk and of the available field remedy kit by letter, according to available product database records. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : The field remedy kit provides the necessary parts and instructions to re- position the trailer taillights at prescribed, most practicable locations per NHTSA regulations and applicable SAE publications. The design of the necessary parts and instructions to resolve the non-compliance of the trailers’ rear impact guards with FMVSS 224 is pending completion at this The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
Page 4
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
time and will be completed prior to notification to the owners of affected trailers. The remedy is installing a rear impact guard at the rear of the trailer that meets FMVSS 224 requirements.
Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production :
Production of the affected trailer model was placed on hold when the potential non-compliance was discovered. This production hold will remain in place until an approved solution can be implemented. Through the Engineering Change Notification process, the bill of materials for the affected model will be updated to install adequate and properly positioned components to meet FMVSS 108 and 224.
Recall Schedule :
Description of Recall Schedule : Dealer notification will begin within 45 days, by email, including a list of
affected trailers in each dealer’s area of responsibility. Owner notification letters will be sent within 59 days.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 07, 2023 – MAR 07, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 14, 2023 – MAR 14, 2023
* NR – Not Reported
**************************************************************************************************************
OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Gratimax, LLC MAY 01, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-008 Manufacturer Recall No. : VMV0056 Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Gratimax, LLC
Address : 3375 Chesnee Highway
Chesnee SC 29323 Company phone : 8648142220
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 30 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2017-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. One model has been identified as having the non-compliant design. A total of 31 vacuum excavator trailers are affected. The affected trailer is custom designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., and built for one customer. All trailers of the affected model were built to this design, since the starting model year indicated above. Trailers were built without proper lighting location and visibility from all specified positions, due to a custom rear impact guard design which limits visibility. 31 trailers have been identified using assembly 8048802 designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., built by McElrath Trailers and its successor in interest, Gratimax, LLC, beginning in 2013 and continuing until the present. Production Dates : NOV 13, 2017 – JAN 04, 2023
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1228JS284058 End : 1G91A2027NC615039 ✔ Not sequential Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 2 Vehicle 2 : 2014-2017 McElrath VX80 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : DEC 19, 2014 – JUL 15, 2017
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1229ED284107 End : 1M9FE1220HS284727 ✔ Not sequential Vehicle 3 : 2013-2014 McElrath V800 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : OCT 12, 2013 – MAR 27, 2014
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1224DS284384 End : 1M9FE1222ES284630 ✔ Not sequential Description of Noncompliance : Description of the Noncompliance : The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. FMVSS 1 : 108 – Lamps, reflective devices, and assoc. Equipment FMVSS 2 : 224 – Rear impact protection
Description of the Safety Risk : When towing the vacuum excavator trailer on public roadways, death or
serious injury may result if drivers of other vehicles do not see the trailer at night or during limited sunlight and strike the trailer. In the event of a rear- impact crash, the other vehicle may travel under the rear of the trailer, increasing the risk of death or serious injury to someone in the other vehicle or to the towing vehicle occupants. Property or equipment damage may also occur.
Description of the Cause : The cause is due to the original design by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. which is the customer of McElrath Trailers. These trailers are build by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., specification for their own machines. McElrath Trailer builds these trailers according to Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., design. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 3 Involved Components : Component Name 1 : Weldment, rear guard
Component Description : Rear guard weldment by Gratimax Component Part Number : 135007297 Component Name 2 : Red marker light
Component Description : Red marker light supplier purchased Component Part Number : 135000528 Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : Gratimax, LLC dba McElrath Trailers Address : 3375 Chesnee Hwy
Chesnee South Carolina 29323
Country : United States Chronology :
On December 8, 2022, Gratimax was notified by its customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., of a possible compliance issue relating to the design of the affected trailers. An investigation of the design was opened at that time, including review of applicable regulations, standards, manufacturing documents, and design files, and production of the affected trailers was placed on hold. On January 4, 2023, Gratimax decided that a non- compliance with FMVSS 108 and 224 existed. The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
Page 4
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Gratimax will prepare field remedy kits, which will include the necessary
parts and instructions to resolve the noncompliance issues described above. These field remedy kits will be provided to authorized dealers of Gratimax’s customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., for installation. Upon installation and receipt of field remedy kit warranty claim, those dealers will be reimbursed for the parts and labor. Gratimax will collaborate with Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. to notify owners of the affected trailers of the non-compliance and potential safety risk and of the available field remedy kit by letter, according to available product database records. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production : The field remedy kit provides the necessary parts and instructions to re- position the trailer taillights at prescribed, most practicable locations per NHTSA regulations and applicable SAE publications. The design of the necessary parts and instructions to resolve the non-compliance of the trailers’ rear impact guards with FMVSS 224 is pending completion at this time and will be completed prior to notification to the owners of affected trailers. The remedy is installing a rear impact guard at the rear of the trailer that meets FMVSS 224 requirements.
Production of the affected trailer model was placed on hold when the potential non-compliance was discovered. This production hold will remain in place until an approved solution can be implemented.
Through the Engineering Change Notification process, the bill of materials for the affected model will be updated to install adequate and properly positioned components to meet FMVSS 108 and 224.
Recall Schedule :
Description of Recall Schedule : Dealer notification will begin within 45 days, by email, including a list of
affected trailers in each dealer’s area of responsibility. Owner notification letters will be sent within 59 days.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 07, 2023 – MAR 07, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 17, 2023 – MAR 17, 2023
* NR – Not Reported
**************************************************************************************************************
OMB Control No.: 2127-0004
Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
Manufacturer Name : Submission Date :
Gratimax, LLC FEB 28, 2023 NHTSA Recall No. : 23V-008 Manufacturer Recall No. : VMV0056 Manufacturer Information :
Manufacturer Name : Gratimax, LLC
Address : 3375 Chesnee Highway
Chesnee SC 29323 Company phone : 8648142220
Population :
Number of potentially involved : 30 Estimated percentage with defect : 100 %
Vehicle Information : Vehicle 1 : 2017-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. One model has been identified as having the non-compliant design. A total of 31 vacuum excavator trailers are affected. The affected trailer is custom designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., and built for one customer. All trailers of the affected model were built to this design, since the starting model year indicated above. Trailers were built without proper lighting location and visibility from all specified positions, due to a custom rear impact guard design which limits visibility. 31 trailers have been identified using assembly 8048802 designed by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., built by McElrath Trailers and its successor in interest, Gratimax, LLC, beginning in 2013 and continuing until the present. Production Dates : NOV 13, 2017 – JAN 04, 2023
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1228JS284058 End : 1G91A2027NC615039 ✔ Not sequential Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 2 Vehicle 2 : 2013-2014 McElrath V800 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : OCT 12, 2013 – MAR 27, 2014
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1224DS284384 End : 1M9FE1222ES284630 ✔ Not sequential Vehicle 3 : 2014-2017 McElrath VX80 Vehicle Type : TRAILERS
Body Style :
Power Train : NR
Descriptive Information : Using various manufacturing documents and drawings for the model identified above, research identified non-compliance to 49 CFR 571.108 and 224. Production Dates : DEC 19, 2014 – JUL 15, 2017
VIN Range 1 : Begin : 1M9FE1229ED284107 End : 1M9FE1220HS284727 ✔ Not sequential Description of Noncompliance : Description of the Noncompliance : The trailers are not compliant because the rear impact guard does not meet the design requirements of S5, FMVSS 224. In addition, due to the current design of the rear impact guard, the taillights do not meet the visibility or placement requirements of applicable SAE publications per S5, FMVSS 108. FMVSS 1 : 108 – Lamps, reflective devices, and assoc. Equipment FMVSS 2 : 224 – Rear impact protection
Description of the Safety Risk : When towing the vacuum excavator trailer on public roadways, death or
serious injury may result if drivers of other vehicles do not see the trailer at night or during limited sunlight and strike the trailer. In the event of a rear- impact crash, the other vehicle may travel under the rear of the trailer, increasing the risk of death or serious injury to someone in the other vehicle or to the towing vehicle occupants. Property or equipment damage may also occur.
Description of the Cause : The cause is due to the original design by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. which is the customer of McElrath Trailers. These trailers are build by Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., specification for their own machines. McElrath Trailer builds these trailers according to Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., design. Identification of Any Warning
that can Occur : None The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008 Page 3 Involved Components : Component Name 1 : NR Component Description : NR Component Part Number : NR Supplier Identification : Component Manufacturer
Name : Gratimax, LLC dba McElrath Trailers Address : 3375 Chesnee Hwy
Chesnee South Carolina 29323
Country : United States Chronology :
On December 8, 2022, Gratimax was notified by its customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., of a possible compliance issue relating to the design of the affected trailers. An investigation of the design was opened at that time, including review of applicable regulations, standards, manufacturing documents, and design files, and production of the affected trailers was placed on hold. On January 4, 2023, Gratimax decided that a non- compliance with FMVSS 108 and 224 existed. Description of Remedy :
Description of Remedy Program : Gratimax will prepare field remedy kits, which will include the necessary
parts and instructions to resolve the noncompliance issues described above. These field remedy kits will be provided to authorized dealers of Gratimax’s customer, Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc., for installation. Upon installation and receipt of field remedy kit warranty claim, those dealers will be reimbursed for the parts and labor. Gratimax will collaborate with Vermeer MV Solutions, Inc. to notify owners of the affected trailers of the non-compliance and potential safety risk and of the available field remedy kit by letter, according to available product database records. How Remedy Component Differs from Recalled Component : The field remedy kit provides the necessary parts and instructions to re- position the trailer taillights at prescribed, most practicable locations per NHTSA regulations and applicable SAE publications. The design of the necessary parts and instructions to resolve the non-compliance of the trailers’ rear impact guards with FMVSS 224 is pending completion at this The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573 Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-008
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The information contained in this report was submitted pursuant to 49 CFR §573
time and will be completed prior to notification to the owners of affected trailers. The remedy is installing a rear impact guard at the rear of the trailer that meets FMVSS 224 requirements.
Identify How/When Recall Condition was Corrected in Production :
Production of the affected trailer model was placed on hold when the potential non-compliance was discovered. This production hold will remain in place until an approved solution can be implemented. Through the Engineering Change Notification process, the bill of materials for the affected model will be updated to install adequate and properly positioned components to meet FMVSS 108 and 224.
Recall Schedule :
Description of Recall Schedule : Dealer notification will begin within 45 days, by email, including a list of
affected trailers in each dealer’s area of responsibility. Owner notification letters will be sent within 59 days.
Planned Dealer Notification Date : MAR 07, 2023 – MAR 07, 2023
Planned Owner Notification Date : MAR 17, 2023 – MAR 17, 2023
* NR – Not Reported
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