RepairPal Expert Overview
Summary:
Ford has recalled certain 1992-1994 E and F Series vehicles due to improper tension in the accessory drive belt. On some vehicles, the belt can detach from the pulleys, which can cause multiple system failures. Dealers will install a new tensioner pulley, drive belt, belt guide, and idler pulley.
Mfr's Report Date:
October 21, 1996
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 96I003000
NHTSA Action Number: EA95012
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Potential Number of Units Affected: 240000
Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE FRONT END ACCESSORY DRIVE (FEAD) SERPENTINE DRIVE BELT CAN DETACH FROM THE ENGINE PULLEYS DURING CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATIONS. THE DIESEL ENGINE CAN CAUSE THE BELTS TO STRETCH IN EXCESS OF THE TENSIONER CAPACITY AND THE BELT DETACHES FROM THE PULLEYS.
Consequence: BELT FAILURES CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AND THE LOSS OF BRAKE ASSIST ONCE THE VACUUM RESERVOIR IS DEPLETED. ALSO FEAD BELT FAILURE POSES A RISK OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS IF IT RESULTS IN THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER HOSE RUPTURE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW TENSIONER, DRIVE BELT, BELT GUIDE AND AN IMPROVED IDLER PULLEY.
Notes: NOTE: FORD HAS DECIDED TO CONDUCT A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE FEAD SERPENTINE BELT WITHOUT CHARGE. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-285-4545.
Recall data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration