A couple of years ago this came up and the GM hitches at the rally were inspected. We now have some new members and people have put some miles on their rigs. It might be time to get down under and check them again. Always hitch your brake activating lanyard to the bumper not the hitch.
| NHTSA Action Number: PE07025 Make/Models: Model/Build Years: Chevrolet/Avalanche 2500 2002 Chevrolet/Silverado 2500 2002 Chevrolet/Suburban 2500 2002 GMC/Sierra 2500 2002 GMC/Sierra 2500 HD 2002 GMC/Yukon XL 2500 2002 Manufacturer: General Motors Corp. Component: Trailer HitchesSummary:ODI has received four consumer complaints alleging the factory installed (OEM) trailer hitch receiver failed. Two owner reports allege bending/deformation of the pin box area while towing. One owner report alleges welds failed around the pin box area and another report alleges complete weld failure of the pin box leading to a full separation of the trailer from the tow vehicle. In this last report, the trailer safety chain and emergency brakes were not activated as both safety features were still attached to the two openings in the pin box that broke off with the trailer. No crash or injury resulted as the vehicle and trailer were maneuvering in a storage lot. An investigation is being opened for further assessment and study of this issue.For more information, owners may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327– 4236 or visit www.safercar.gov. |