NHTSA Campaign 13V480000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Issued by Blue Bird Body Company · Reported Oct 17, 2013 · 393 vehicles affected

What's wrong

Blue Bird Body Company (Blue Bird) is recalling certain model year 2004 Ultra LMB, 2003-2006 Ultra LF and 2004-2007 Express commercial buses equipped with Sure Power-brand battery equalizers containing a particular epoxy sealing, aka 'potting', compound. The specific potting compound used in the subject products for insulation was found to be capable of conducting electricity after being exposed to heat.

Consequence

Once electrically conductive, the material is capable of melting and burning, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Blue Bird will notify owners, and dealers will replace the equalizers, free of charge. The recall began on December 17, 2013. Owners may contact Blue Bird at 1-478-825-2021. Blue Bird's recall number is R13WN.

Vehicles affected by this recall

Make Model Year Units
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4000 2004 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4000 2005 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4000 2006 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4000 2007 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4500 2004 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4500 2005 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4500 2006 393
BLUE BIRD EXPRESS 4500 2007 393
BLUE BIRD ULTRA LF 2003 393
BLUE BIRD ULTRA LF 2004 393
BLUE BIRD ULTRA LF 2005 393
BLUE BIRD ULTRA LF 2006 393
BLUE BIRD ULTRA LMB 2004 393

Source: NHTSA Campaign 13V480000 on nhtsa.gov. To check the current repair status for a specific vehicle, use our free VIN decoder.