Big Tex 29SA, 70TV +19 more: Latches/locks/linkages

Affects Big Tex 29SA, 70TV, 70SP, 70LR, 60SP, 50SA, 50LA, 45SS, 35SV, 35AA, 30SV, 30LS, 12PI, 30AA, 10PI, 14PI, 30SA, 35LS, 35SA, 45LA, 70PI · 2013–2014 — about 8K vehicles.

The hazard

Should both ramp gate latches fail while the trailer is in tow, the ramp gate will fall from the upright, stowed position into the down position, and be dragged behind the trailer. This could result in an increased risk of a crash.

What to do

Big Tex will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental gate latch, free of charge. The recall began on December 10, 2013. Owners may contact Big Tex at 1-800-594-5637.

Critical — crash/injury risk now High — injury risk; see remedy Moderate — fix at next service Low — minor / informational