Latches/locks/linkages10/17/201313V508000
Big Tex Trailer Manufacturing (Big Tex) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 10PI, 12PI, 14PI, 29SA, 30AA, 30LS, 30SA, 30SV, 35AA, 35LS, 35SA, 35SV, 45LA, 45SS, 50LA, 50SA, 60SP, 70LR, 70PI, 70SP, and 70TV utility trailers manufactured March 2013, through September 30, 2013. The affected trailers are equipped with a fold flat ramp gate system. Vibrations from towing the trailer may cause the ramp gate latches to fail.
Consequence
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.
Remedy
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.
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.