Mcelrath Trailers Vx75 Xcel recalled over injury risk

Recall date

January 13, 2023

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Gratimax, LLC recalls 2013–2023 Mcelrath Trailers Vx75 Xcel

Recall number

23V008000

Brand / firm

Mcelrath Trailers

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 31 units

Why it was recalled

Incorrect placement of the taillights may reduce the visibility of the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash. During a crash, a vehicle that travels under the rear of the trailer increases the risk of injury.

What was recalled

Gratimax, LLC (Gratimax) is recalling certain 2013-2023 McElrath Trailers VX75 Xcel vacuum excavator trailers. The design of the rear impact guard resulted in the incorrect placement of the taillights. In addition, the guard may fail to prevent a vehicle from traveling under the trailer during a rear impact crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 224, "Rear Impact Protection."

What to do

Dealers will reposition the taillights and modify the rear impact guard, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2023. Owners may contact Gratimax customer service at 1-864-814-2220. Gratimax's number for this recall is 21434.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.