CPSC, Milwaukee Tool Corp. Announce Recall of Automotive Chargers
CPSC recall 02156 · announced May 13, 2002 · Milwaukee Electric Tool · 18,000 units affected
The product
The recall includes Power Plus automotive chargers that plug into automotive cigarette lighters, and Impact wrench kits containing these chargers. A label on the front of the charger reads, "Milwaukee...POWER-PLUS 9.6 Volt - 18 Volt AUTOMOTIVE CHARGERS." A nameplate on the back of the charger lists the catalog number. Impact wrench kits containing these chargers have serial numbers within the range listed below. The serial number is located on the side of the Impact wrench kit. Catalog Numbers Serial Numbers Charger 48-59-0184 All Serial Range Charger 48-59-0184 All Serial Range Wrench Kit 9079-23 241A401520001 through 241A402080126
The hazard
The automotive chargers are often used on job sites to charge power tool batteries. When used under low voltage conditions, the chargers can overheat. This poses a fire hazard.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using the chargers immediately and return them to their nearest Milwaukee factory service center or authorized power tool service center. Consumers can choose from three options: an exchange for a 12, 14.4 or 18 volt battery pack, a replacement charger or a refund.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): CPSC and Milwaukee Electric Tool have received six reports of the chargers overheating. No injuries or property damage have been reported involving these chargers.
Sold at: Home centers, hardware stores and industrial distributors sold these chargers and wrench kits containing these chargers nationwide, from March 2000 through April 2002. The chargers sold for about $115. The Impact wrench kits containing these chargers sold for about $325.
Consumer contact: For further details about options, consumers can contact Milwaukee Electric Tool at (800) 414-6527 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday.
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.