Certain Suzuki all-terrain vehicles are being recalled after the company received two reports that the flame arrester screens detached from their mounting rings. No injuries have been reported.
About 1,355 model year 2009 QuadSport LT-Z400 vehicles are affected. They were sold at Suzuki ATV dealers nationwide from September 2008 through June 2010 for about $6,500.
A flame arrester screen is a device that is installed in the air snorkel which connects the air cleaner to the throttle body. The flame arrester screen is designed to prevent the buildup of flammable vapors and to prevent flames from entering the air cleaner in the event of an engine backfire. If the screen were to be dislocated, it could jam the throttle valve. That would prevent the throttle valve from returning to the idle position when the throttle lever is released. In a worst case scenario, the ATV rider could lose control which could pose injuries or death.
American Suzuki Motor Corp. of Brea, CA, has notified owners in a letter dated June 18, 2010.
Customers are urged to stop using the vehicles and contact their Suzuki dealer to schedule a free replacement of the flame arrester screen. Suzuki is asking owners to clean their vehicles thoroughly prior to the repair appointment so that the repair can be made quickly.
