2000 Coachmen Catalina problems & recalls

Problem: Vehicle description: travel trailers and fifth wheel vehicles equipped with tekonsha or bargman breakaway switch assemblies. the subject switches are base parts 2011 and 50-85-009, and are branded tekonsha (2011) and bargman (50-85-009). these may be packaged in kit numbers 1026, 1028, 2011-23, 2028-23, 2011p, 2011ap, 20005, 20010, 20015, 20020, 2026, 2026-lb, 2028, 1026-lb, 50-85-200, 50-85-201, 50-85-250, 5061404, 5061406, 5061407, 5061408, 5061410, 5061506, 5061507, 5061508, 5067406, 5067407, 5067408, 5067409, and 5067410. the internal switching mechanism may fail to make proper contact and provide electrical continuity when the breakaway pin is pulled. this condition may result in

Risk: In the event of a trailer breaking loose from a tow vehicle, the malfunction of a breakaway switch could result in a vehicle crash, personal injury, property damage or both.

Fix: Tekonsha is notifying distributors and original equpiment manufacturers and will replace the defective breakaway device with new breakaway kits free of charge. also, tekonsha will reimburse for all freight charges to and from its customers on recalled part number.

Problem: Vehicle description: class a and c motor homes equipped with safety belt assemblies built by am-safe. on some seat belts, the buckle and connector may unlatch during a collision.

Risk: Serious injury or death could occur if the vehicle occupant is not properly restrained.

Fix: Am-safe in notifying customers that they will inspect and replace the defective buckle assemblies free of charge.

Problem: On certain rear diesel motor homes equipped with optional gas generators, the generator fuel fill gas cap provided with the unit may not completely seal against the rim of the fill tube.

Risk: This could allow any gas that is splashed against the cap during vehicle operation, sudden stops, or turns, or a crash, to leak out. if gas is allowed to leak out through the unsealed cap/fill connection, the potential for a fire exists.

Fix: Dealers will replace the generator fuel fill tube and cap assembly. owner notification began january 23, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact coachmen at 1-800-453-6064.

Problem: On certain motor homes, travel trailers, and fifth wheel trailers equipped with samsung microwave ovens, these units were produced with a defective panel. an electrical short can occur between circuit patterns on the membrane panel, especially overlapped by a "jumper" or jump wire. this may cause the oven to activate without pressing any key pads.

Risk: An electrical short can occur causing the oven to activate without pressing any key pads. this could result in excessive heat, smoke, or possibly a fire.

Fix: Samsung will notify customers and repair the panel free of charge. in the meantime, consumers should unplug their microwave, if possible. if the consumer is unable to unplug the microwave, they should leave the door ajar until the panel is replaced. consumers should never use the microwave oven for storage or leave any towels, paper, cloth or other products in the microwave after use. owners w