DEARBORN, Mich., May 2, 2000 - In the interest of customer safety, Ford Motor Company is issuing a voluntary recall of certain 1997-2000 model year Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators to improve trailer hitch performance.

There are eight bolts attaching the trailer hitch to the frame of the vehicle that may loosen. Some customers have experienced a rattle emanating from the rear of the truck and have had the bolts tightened. In the unlikely event the bolts were to loosen to the point where they fall out, separation of the hitch from the vehicle could result -- although Ford has no reports of any hitches completely separating from any vehicle.

To prevent this bolt loosening, Ford will replace the trailer hitch mounting bolts and nuts with stronger ones installed at a higher torque and with adhesive.

"With the summer trailer-towing season approaching, we want to encourage owners of these vehicles to have this work done before they tow," said Ann O'Neill, director, vehicle service and programs, Ford Customer Service Division.

Ford will inform owners of the free service via first-class mail in mid-May. Customers can also access recall information affecting Ford or Lincoln Mercury vehicles through the web site http://www.ownerconnection.com.

Approximately 628,703 1997 through 2000 model year Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators are affected by this vehicle campaign.