Defect. Starcraft Bus is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Allstar XL, Ultrastar, Allstar, Starlite, Starquest, Xpress, Prodigy, Quest, and Allstar MVP transit buses built on Ford cutaway chassis equipped with Ford 5.4L or 6.8L engines and Trans/Air-brand air compressors. In the affected vehicles, depending on the routing of the alternator harness, and the orientation of the heater hose spring clamp at the front of the intake manifold, the alternator harness may be pinched between the spring clamp and the air conditioner compressor mounting bracket.
Risk. The charging system may fail which could lead to the vehicle stalling while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the spring clamp could pierce both the positive and negative wires of the alternator harness creating a short circuit which could result in a fire.
Remedy. Starcraft Bus will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles, correct the clamp installation and repair and reroute the alternator harness, as needed, free of charge. The recall began on February 19, 2014. Customers may contact Starcraft at 1-800-347-7440.