NHTSA recall 19V487000
Service brakes, electric
Charles Machine Ditch Witch
Reported Jun 21, 2019796 vehicles affectedCharles Machine Works Inc
The defect
Charles Machine Works Inc. (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Ditch Witch VT9, VT12, VT14, VT17, VT20 and VT24 trailers. The brake wire terminals may have been improperly crimped, which can result in the trailer brakes failing to apply when commanded.
The risk
If the trailer brakes do not apply as expected, the distance required to stop the trailer may be lengthened, increasing the risk of crash.
The remedy
Charles Machine has notified owners, and dealers will replace the brake terminals with a machine terminal, free of charge. The recall began June 25, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481.