2015 Ameritrans 285 problems, complaints & recalls

Defect: Ameritrans Bus, Inc. (Ameritrans) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 285 shuttle buses manufactured March 2, 2015, through December 23, 2015, built on Ford E-450 chassis and equipped with certain model S2000, S5000, and S5500, wheelchair lifts manufactured by the Ricon Corporation. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack. Additionally, the lifts are equipped with folding link arms that may have pivot holes that are too big, allowing the bearings to move out of

Risk: If the platform side plates crack or the platform mounting fails from out-of-position bearings, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the vehicle's doors are opened, the platform may fall onto the lift operator, increasing their risk of injury.

Fix: Ameritrans will notify the purchasers of the lifts, and Ricon dealers will inspect the side plates for damage and for displaced bearings. The platform will be inspected for cracks. Any damaged parts will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Ameritrans customer service at 1-574-262-8935, or Ricon customer service at 1-800-322-2884.

Defect: Ameritrans Bus, Inc. (Ameritrans) is recalling certain model year 2012-2016 285 shuttle buses manufactured from August 1, 2012, through May 13, 2016 and built on Ford E-450 chassis. The certification labels may have an inaccurate gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."

Risk: If the GVWR is unknowingly exceeded, vehicle handling may be adversely affected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Ameritrans will notify owners, and dealers will remove and/or reposition bus seats as necessary and install a corrected labels, free of charge. The recall began on July 18, 2016. Owners may contact Ameritrans customer service at 1-574-262-8935.