The problem
Turtle top is recalling certain model year 2001-2007 transit buses built on various GM and Ford chassis from August 2, 1999 through September 1, 2007, equipped with trans/air ta73 evaporators. The evaporator utilizes a power resistor to regulate blower speed. Should a short occur in the "low or medium speed" circuit while the blower is in high speed, the short will cause the supply voltage to feedback through the resistor to ground, not drawing enough current to trip the fuse.
The risk
This would cause the resistor temperature to rise to a point where it will melt and possibly ignite the plastic blower housing to which it is mounted. The overheating can result in a fire.
The fix
Trans/air, in cooperation with turtl top, will install a thermal shutdown device in series with the speed resistors. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on November 24, 2010. Owners May contact trans/air warranty and service center at 1-800-673-2446.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 10V-548 (10V548000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Turtle Top |
| Component | Equipment |
| Report date | November 5, 2010 |
| Owners notified | November 24, 2010 |
| Vehicles affected | 1,817 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 26 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 10V-548 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Trans/air, in cooperation with turtl top, will install a thermal shutdown device in series with the speed resistors. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on November 24, 2010.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,817 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.