2012–2014 Ameritrans 200, 2012–2014 Ameritrans 225, 2012–2014 Ameritrans 245 and 4 other models Recall: Affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot…

The defect

Ameritrans Bus, Inc. (Ameritrans) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 CTV, 225, 200, 245, 285, 375, and 395 vehicles manufactured August 1, 2012, to July 10, 2014, equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by the Ricon Corporation. The affected lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of position.

The risk

If the bearings move out of position, the stowed platform may have excessive movement resulting in failure of the platform mounting. This failure could cause the wheel chair lift platform to fall out of the vehicle when the doors are opened, increasing the risk of injury for the lift operator.

The fix — what to do

Ameritrans will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the link arms for damage or for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on January 21, 2016. Owners may contact Ameritrans customer service at 1-574-262-8935, or Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.

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.safercar.gov.