2014–2015 Coach and Equipment Metro Lite, 2015 Coach and Equipment Pegasus, 2014–2015 Coach and Equipment Phoenix Recall: Platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack

The defect

Coach and Equipment Mfg Corp. (Coach and Equipment) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Metro Lite buses manufactured October 1, 2014, to October 31, 2015, 2015 Pegasus buses manufactured August 1, 2015, to August 31, 2015, and 2014-2015 Phoenix buses manufactured September 1, 2014, to November 30, 2015, equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts by Ricon. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack. Additionally, the 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 platform side plates crack or the platform mounting fails from out-of-position bearings, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the vehicle's doors are opened, the platform may fall onto the lift operator, increasing their risk of injury.

The fix — what to do

Coach and Equipment will notify owners, and Ricon 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 June 29, 2016. Owners may contact Coach and Equipment customer service at 1-800-724-8464.

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.