Tl* the contact owns a 1999 dodge ram 1500. the contact stated that the band that held the fuel tank was rusted and fractured. the failure was repaired by an independent mechanic. the manufacturer stated that there were no recalls on the vehicle. the dealer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 46,649. *bf *jb
Driving 30 mph sudden strong smell of gasoline then visible white fog of vapor rose from defrost vents (defroster/fan not on) pulled over immediately but brake pedal went to floor with no activation of brakes. all this happened quickly, within 10 seconds used emergency brake to stop vehicle to evacuate 10 year old daughter and self barely in time. bystander shouting that it was on fire. fire erupted from under hood and spread into cab. fire dept. called by bystander as we used fire extinguishers unsuccessfully. truck was engulfed and destroyed. recalls were addressed spring of 2003. a later recall not realized by us includes fix for antilock brake controller corrosion that could cause fire. geico claim # 0480694490101028 but no compensation, as not covered for fire. fire dept. took a report, police said no collision so they didn't. i don't currently have the fire dept. report but may be able to obtain it.