Vehicle recall 85V124000 · October 7, 1985

1983-1985 Chevrolet Astro

The rear brake release time may be greater than the time specified in FMVSS 121, "air brake system".

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: The rear brake release time may be greater than the time specified in FMVSS 121, "air brake system". In addition, some tractors may have warped parking brake apply springs which also effect the rear brake release time. Consequence of defect: tractors fail to meet the stopping distance specified in FMVSS 121 which is required to stop the truck safely.
Remedy: Install a quick release valve in the trailer service air line and increase the diameter of the rear service brake line. Also inspect rear spring brake chamber and release if necessary.
Notes: System: air brakes. Vehicle description: tractors equipped with rpo RQ3 tractor application.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 85V124000
Reported to NHTSA: October 7, 1985
Filed by: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Vehicles potentially affected: 4,870
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Parking brake › Driveline › Air › Chamber

Recall 85V124000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

Chevrolet Astro (1983-1985): 1985, 1984, 1983

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