Recall 23V287 affects 14 2021-2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 shredding trucks for paper buildup that overheats. Shred-Tech installs a new bulkhead wall free.
Shred-Tech is recalling 14 2021-2023 MDS-4-33 shredding trucks because shredded paper can build up between the cutting knives and the bulkhead wall. That excess paper can compress and overheat, which increases the risk of a fire; Shred-Tech dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The bulkhead wall in the 2021-2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 is part of the shredding chamber structure. It sits near the cutting knives and helps hold the chamber shape so shredded paper moves through the designed path instead of collecting near the cutter area.
On affected trucks, the shape of the bulkhead wall leaves space where shredded paper collects between the knives and the wall. As the knives keep turning, that trapped paper rubs in a tight area. The friction creates heat, and excessive heat inside a paper-filled shredding chamber creates a fire risk.
An operator can notice a burning odor or visible smoke from the shredding chamber. A visual inspection can also show dark coloration or blueing on metal parts, which is a sign that the chamber has been getting too hot.
Who's affected?
Covers the 2021, 2022, and 2023 model years, all tied to the same bulkhead wall and associated fittings.
| 2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 | body or structural component |
|---|---|
| 2021 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 | body or structural component |
| 2022 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 | body or structural component |
| Units affected | 14 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged 1 field incident to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle.
What's the safety risk?
Excess shredded paper can build up, compress, and overheat, increasing the risk of a fire. Burning odor, visible smoke, or dark coloring or blueing inside the cutting chamber means the unit has been exposed to excessive heat. Stop operation and arrange service promptly. Repair is free at any franchised Shred-Tech dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2021-2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 is included in this recall.
- Contact Shred-Tech customer service to schedule the free bulkhead-wall repair that keeps shredded paper from building up near the cutting knives and overheating.
- Bring the recall notice if Shred-Tech mailed one. If not, reference recall number 23V287 when you call.
- Avoid running the shredding system if paper is accumulating near the cutting knives; keep the truck out of service until Shred-Tech gives repair instructions.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Shred-Tech technician inspects the area between the cutting knives and the bulkhead wall, where shredded paper can build up. The technician installs a new bulkhead wall if the truck needs it. The recall repair is free, and parts and labor are covered. Ask the service desk to confirm that the work is tied to recall 23V287 before the repair order is opened.
Timeline
| April 21, 2023 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| April 24, 2023 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 1, 2023 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 23V287?
Recall 23V287 covers 14 2021-2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 shredding trucks. Shredded paper can collect between the cutting knives and the bulkhead wall, then compress and overheat. Shred-Tech will install a new bulkhead wall, as necessary, for free.
What should I do if my 2021-2023 Shred-Tech MDS-4-33 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific shredding truck is included in recall 23V287. If it is, contact a franchised Shred-Tech service provider or Shred-Tech customer service at 1-800-465-3214 to arrange the bulkhead-wall repair. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost. For recall 23V287, Shred-Tech will install a new bulkhead wall, as necessary, free of charge.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is fire. In recall 23V287, excess shredded paper can build up near the cutting knives and bulkhead wall, then compress and overheat. If your VIN is included, arrange the free Shred-Tech repair before returning the truck to normal service.
When were owners notified about recall 23V287?
Shred-Tech mailed owner notification letters beginning May 1, 2023. If you bought the truck used or never received a letter, check your VIN and reference recall 23V287 when you contact Shred-Tech customer service at 1-800-465-3214.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/23V287000 |
|---|---|
| Shred-Tech customer service | 1-800-465-3214 |
| NHTSA recall # | 23V287 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 23V287000 |
Source documents
-
Download Quarterly Report (PDF) - Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 20, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →