NHTSA Complaint #11427543 — 2021 FORD F-350

I was recently informed by Ford that my vehicle is subject to a recall (21S31) because the rear axle may deform and detach from the vehicle. I believe the Ford Safety Recall Report (and NHTSA Recall Number) is 21V-536. My concern is related to the proposed remedy. Ford States that additional welds will be applied to the axle. Based on the information provided, I believe this will only mask the symptoms of a failure (detachment of the axle), and not the problem itself (crushing of the axle tubes due to insufficient tube wall thickness). I am a licensed professional engineer, which is to say that I have a basic understanding of material behaviour. With this in mind, I would respectfully ask you to consider the following: 1) Primary: Outright replacement of the defect axle housing with a unit that is manufactured with the "old design" axle tubes. If item 1 above is not chosen, I propose the following alternatives (in combination): A) Requiring replacement of the axle housing if paint loss is observed at the locations where the u-bolts are used to strap the axle to the spring perches. Many people have observed paint loss at this location, and it would indicate deformation of the tubing. B) Warrantying the axle housing for an extended period of time - perhaps 8 years or 100000 miles as was done by Toyota due to the frame defects which affected their pickups. C) Certification by a licensed professional engineer that the proposed remedy (welding the axle) will prevent deformation under rated conditions. I believe this is important because it will require a "person" to certify the adequacy of the repair. My intent in suggesting this is to ensure that the defect is not left in place. Again, the proposed remedy seems only to "mask" the problem. I fear it could result in another "Firestone Situation", where the public is put at unnecessary risk. I greatly appreciate you considering this request.