Freightliner LLC has advised its customers with trucks, trailers, or buses equipped with Bendix EC-17-103OR electronic antilock braking systems (ABS) to call their local dealer to schedule inspections. The truck OEM said certain models of its tractors are equipped with the EC-17 ABS, as well as buses made by Freightliner subsidiary Thomas Built Buses.
"We advise parents and concerned citizens to contact their school districts if they have any concerns or questions about their school buses," Freightliner spokeswoman Debi Nicholson said. Repair of the affected braking system involves both inspection of the existing system and then replacing the Bendix ABS electronic control unit with a new ECU. New ECUs became available in limited quantities beginning in mid-September 2000.