Ford Says It Can’t Get Part for Fuel Tank Test

Ford Motor Co. said it hasn’t been able to get fuel bladders needed for safety tests after the deaths of three Arizona Highway Patrol officers in crashes involving the auto maker’s Crown Victoria sedans.

The auto maker said it wants five fuel-tank bladders, which are supposed to prevent gasoline from leaking in crashes, for testing.

The supplier, Aircraft Rubber Manufacturing Inc.’s Fuel Safe, sells the bladders to government agencies and has told Ford it doesn’t have extras for the auto maker.

The Arizona officers died in fires after the fuel tanks on their Crown Victorias ruptured when the cars were rear-ended at high speed, state officials have said.

The state suspended Crown Victoria purchases and asked for a safety review.

Ford maintains the cars meet safety standards and don’t need to be recalled.

Ford shares fell 36 cents to $11.92 on the NYSE. They have declined 23% this year.