The 2008 Ford E-450 has 6 recalls, all involving aftermarket equipment, with the most serious being multiple defects in wheelchair lift systems that can cause a wheelchair occupant or standing passenger to fall.
Several recalls cover different failure modes in Ricon and Braun wheelchair lifts fitted to certain transit and specialty bus conversions. Roll stop latches on Braun lifts can bend or misalign, allowing a wheelchair to ride over the barrier. On Ricon lifts, the platform side plates can crack and cause the platform to separate and drop against the lift door. A software issue in certain Ricon lift controls can cause the platform to overshoot floor level and tilt at an angle steep enough to tip a wheelchair or knock a standing person off. There is also a concern with the restraint belt on some Ricon public-use lifts, where the lift can move even if the belt is not properly buckled, putting the user at risk of injury. On the visibility side, certain ambulance conversions are equipped with a backup camera monitor that can display a mirror-image view, causing the driver to steer the wrong way when reversing.
At a glance
What can fail
The backup camera monitor may unexpectedly reset to factory settings, causing the camera image to display in reverse.
What the fix does
ASA Electronics will repair or replace the display monitor at no charge. Contact ASA Electronics at 1-800-384-4400.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The platform side plate on certain Ricon wheelchair lifts installed in Farber specialty vehicles may develop cracks.
What the fix does
Ricon dealers will install support bumpers to reinforce the platform. Cracked platforms will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The platform side plate on certain wheelchair lifts may crack, potentially compromising lift stability and safety.
What the fix does
Ricon dealers will install supplemental support bumpers. Cracked platforms will be replaced at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The roll stop latches on the wheelchair lift outer barrier may bend or misalign over time or with frequent use, potentially affecting lift operation.
What the fix does
Dealers will repair the roll stop latches at no charge. Braun will contact owners with appointment details.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The wheelchair lift's up function software has a timing issue. If you release the up switch before the lift reaches floor level, it may continue rising for about 1 second and overshoot the stopping point.
What the fix does
Ricon is developing a software fix. Until available, you'll receive an operation bulletin and training DVD. Once ready, authorized Ricon dealers will install the software update at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The restraint belt on the public lift can be inserted into the buckle without fully latching. This allows the lift to operate even though the belt appears secured, risking movement with a passenger on the platform.
What the fix does
Ricon will provide a warning decal and training DVD to ensure operators fully engage and latch the restraint belt before operating the lift.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
