U.S. Postal Service, Headquarters Purchasing, Room 4541, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW., Washington, DC 20260-6230

B -- LONG LIFE VEHICLE STEERING ENHANCEMENT SOL 102590-98-A-0005 POC Audrey R. Sizer, Purchasing Specialist, 202/268-5617, Contracting Officer, Peter J. Schwind, 202/268-4121 The U. S. Postal Service (USPS) is seeking qualified sources with extensive knowledge of light truck steering systems, design and engineering, and component production capabilities. The USPS is experiencing unsatisfactory front tire wear on the fleet of 142,488 Long Life Vehicles (LLV) and is aware that certain steering enhancements would significantly increase the current tire life. The project consists of two phases. During the first phase the contractor(s) are to analyze the vehicle steering characteristics to determine the tire wear cause(s); design the corrective solution; and test the proposed corrective solution to the satisfaction of the Postal Service. Phase 1 will be accomplished at the contractor's expense. The contractor(s) that successfully completes Phase 1 will be eligible to compete for Phase 2 of the contract. The winner of Phase 2 (contingent upon funds approval) will manufacture components tested during Phase 1; deliver 142,488 kits to the Postal Service; and provide customer service. Qualified sources must request a copy of the solicitation by submitting a written request to the address set forth above within 15 days after this notice or by fax to (202) 268-3888. Reference Solicitation No. 102590-98-A-0005. No telephone inquiries please. (0261)

Loren Data Corp. http://www.ld.com (SYN# 0004 19970922\B-0001.SOL)