1998 International Harvester IC Problems, Complaints & Recalls

Problem: On certain transit and school buses, a brass fitting connects the double check valve to the brake relay valve. With certain inputs to the vehicle, the weight of the check valve on the fitting can cause the assembly to resonate. The subject vibration can cause excessive strain levels in the fitting, which could eventually fatigue and fail.

Risk: If the fitting breaks, the rear service brakes will cease to operate without warning, resulting in an extended stopping distance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will install a kit to remount the double check valve with a flexible hose on the amjority of vehicles. On a small number of units with clearance issues or traction control, a kit with a new relay valve that has a built-in double check valve will be installed. Owner notification began august 30, 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 international at 1-800-448-7825.

Problem: Certain heavy duty trucks, truck tractors, and buses equipped with 195/75r22.5 tires mounted on 7.5 inch wide wheels fail to comply with requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 120, "tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars." these tires and rims do not match.

Risk: Tires mounted on rims that are too narrow could experience a decrease in sidewall durability, and could also experience higher treadwear for tires mounted on the steering axle.

Fix: Dealers will install new rims of an acceptable width (8.25 - 9 9inches) for the 295/75r22.5 tire size. Owner notification began august 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 international at 1-800-448-7825.