Recall - Crossmember to Frame Saddle Spotwelds defective: Overview
January 1999Safety Recall No. 796
Rear Crossmember-to-Frame Saddle Spot Welds
Models:
1998 (PL) Dodge and Plymouth Neon
NOTE:
This recall applies only to certain vehicles built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant ("D" in the 11th VIN Position) from May 20, 1998 through May 30, 1998 (MDH 052014 through 053022).
IMPORTANT:
Many of the vehicles within the above build period have already been inspected or repaired and, therefore, have been exchided from this recall.
IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory, and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service as determined by using the DIAL VIP System.
Subject
Some rear crossmember-to-frame saddle spot welds on about 3,600 of the above vehicles may be missing. Missing spot welds weaken the frame and increase the potential for fuel leakage in the event of a rear end collision. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an underbody fire. In addition, missing spot welds can lead to structural cracks in the crossmember, frame saddles and/or floor pan.
Repair
Each involved vehicle must be inspected for missing crossmember-to-frame saddle welds. If spot welds are missing, the rear crossmember must be riveted to the frame saddle(s).
Alternate Transportation
If inspection determines that rear crossmember repair is required and the vehicle must be held overnight, dealers should attempt to minimize customer inconvenience by placing the owner in a loaner vehicle.
Parts Information
Part Number Description
CBA07960 Rivet Package
Each package contains the following components (to repair either the left or right side of the rear crossmember):
Quantity Description
12 1/4" Rivets (includes 2 spares)
1 Shim Plate
Due to the small number of involved vehicles expected to require rear crossmember repair, no parts will be distributed initially. Rivet packages should be ordered only after inspection determines that repair is required.
Power Rivet Gun Requirement
A special air/hydraulic power set riveter tool is required for installation of the rear crossmember structural rivets. ALL Chrysler-Plymouth and Dodge dealers received ONE (1) W-AK175ACH Power Set Riveter, free of charge, through Pentastar Service Equipment (PSE) in December 1998. Additional power riveters may be ordered through PSE at dealer cost by calling 1-800-223-5623 or faxing 1-800-734-4334. Additional power riveters are NOT reimbursable by DaimlerChrysler.
Completion Reporting and Reimbursement
Claims for vehicles that have been serviced, must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.
Use one of the following labor operation numbers and time allowances:
Labor Operation Time
Number Allowance
Inspect rear crossmember 02796181 0.2 hours
Inspect rear crossmember and rivet one side 02796182 1.1 hours
Inspect rear crossmember and rivet both sides 02796183 1.6 hours
NOTE:
Time allowance includes rear wheel toe alignment.
Add the cost of the recall parts package plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.
NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section for complete recall claim processing instructions
Parts Return
Not applicable.
Dealer Notification & Vehicle List
All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the CMMS and the "TIL" will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.
DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP
All involved vehicles will be entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP at the time of recall implementation for dealer inquiry as needed.
Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number is listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "ORD796".
Owner Notification and Service Scheduling
All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner notification letter is included.
Enclosed with each owner notification is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.
Vehicle Not Available
If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Vehicle Disposition Form portion of the Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:
DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive East
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757
Additional Information
If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.