Recall 19V-490: 2018–2019 Charles Machine Ditch Witch

Charles Machine Works Inc recall for trailer hitches, reported to NHTSA on Jun 25, 2019, covering about 290 vehicles.

NHTSA number
19V-490
Report date
Jun 25, 2019
Vehicles affected
290
Owners notified
Jun 28, 2019

The problem

Charles Machine Works Inc (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018 Ditch Witch VT17, 2018-2019 VT20 and VT24 trailers. The lock nuts that attach the hitch to the trailer may be insufficient to clamp the load after the hitch height has been adjusted.

The risk

Without a sufficient clamp load, the hitch may unexpectedly detach from the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

Charles Machine has notified owners, and will provide new hardware, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481. Charles Machine's number for this recall is ID0568989.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Recall details

ManufacturerCharles Machine Works Inc
ComponentTrailer Hitches
Recall started bythe manufacturer
NHTSA campaign number19V490000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Charles Machine Ditch Witch2018, 2019All 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 19V-490?

Charles Machine Works Inc (Charles Machine) is recalling certain 2018 Ditch Witch VT17, 2018-2019 VT20 and VT24 trailers. The lock nuts that attach the hitch to the trailer may be insufficient to clamp the load after the hitch height has been adjusted.

How is recall 19V-490 fixed?

Charles Machine has notified owners, and will provide new hardware, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2019. Owners may contact Charles Machine customer service at 1-800-654-6481. Charles Machine's number for this recall is ID0568989.

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.