Recall 03V-173: 2002–2003 Indian Chief, 2002–2003 Indian Chief Vintage

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE COMPANY recall for fuel system, gasoline, reported to NHTSA on May 5, 2003, covering about 1,979 vehicles.

NHTSA number
03V-173
Report date
May 5, 2003
Vehicles affected
1,979
Owners notified
May 13, 2003

The problem

On certain motorcycles, due to the positioning of the gas tank vent tube, the vent tube can become clogged with debris, particularly in wet weather. Vent tube clogging can cause interruption of fuel flow to the carburetor, causing the motorcycle to stop. A clogged vent tube may also cause pressure to build up in the gas tank and push a small amount of gas out of the fuel filler cap seal.

The risk

Fuel leakage in the present of an ignition source can result in a fire.

The fix

Dealers will replace the current vent tube with a longer tube repositioned to prevent clogging. Owner notification began may 13, 2003. 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 indian motorcycle at 1-888-899-2997.

Notes

Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Recall details

ManufacturerINDIAN MOTORCYCLE COMPANY
ComponentFuel System, Gasoline
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number03V173000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Indian Chief2002, 2003All years
Indian Chief Vintage2002, 2003All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 03V-173?

On certain motorcycles, due to the positioning of the gas tank vent tube, the vent tube can become clogged with debris, particularly in wet weather. Vent tube clogging can cause interruption of fuel flow to the carburetor, causing the motorcycle to stop. A clogged vent tube may also cause pressure to build up in the gas tank and push a small amount of gas out of the fuel filler cap seal.

How is recall 03V-173 fixed?

Dealers will replace the current vent tube with a longer tube repositioned to prevent clogging. Owner notification began may 13, 2003. 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 indian motorcycle at 1-888-899-2997.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.