Vehicle recall 86V018000 · January 5, 1986

1985-1986 Freightliner Freightliner

The central tube part of the drag link, which is set in a rotational position, does not have enough clearance between the nut or bolt head and the axle beam.

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

Summary: The central tube part of the drag link, which is set in a rotational position, does not have enough clearance between the nut or bolt head and the axle beam. Consequence of defect: there could be interference during a right turn wheel cut and may cause the steering linkage to bind, leading to the loss of steering control and an accident.
Remedy: Replace adjustable drag link with an assembly on which only the forward end is adjustable. Also, stake rear end.
Notes: System: steering. Vehicle description: heavy duty trucks fitted with a model GKN120 front axle.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 86V018000
Reported to NHTSA: January 5, 1986
Filed by: FREIGHTLINER CORP.
Owner notification: April 2, 1986
Vehicles potentially affected: 226
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Steering › Linkages › Drag › Link › Connection

Recall 86V018000 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.

Freightliner Freightliner (1985-1986): 1986, 1985

Has your Freightliner been repaired?

Recalls here come from NHTSA’s records for the model and year. Not every vehicle of a model is included in every recall, and this site can’t see whether a repair has been done. Only a VIN lookup can tell you that.

Check your VIN with NHTSA

NHTSA’s VIN search doesn’t show recalls that were already repaired, recalls more than 15 years old, or some small manufacturers’ recalls. A Freightliner dealer can also check your VIN. Recall repairs are free.