CPSC, Megatech Announce Recall of Rechargeable Battery Packs for Radio Controlled Airplanes
CPSC recall 02546 · announced June 6, 2002 · Megatech · 3,000 units affected
The product
These rechargeable, NiMh battery packs used with certain Megatech radio-controlled airplanes were included with Skyliner model radio-controlled airplanes. They are 7-cell, 8.4V battery packs and are covered in a light green plastic. They measure 1-1/4 inches wide, 3-7/8 inches long, and 1/2 inches thick. The batteries were made in China and the battery packs were assembled in Taiwan.
The hazard
The internal battery cell connections may slip and result in arcing and overheating, posing a fire or thermal burn hazard.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using these batteries immediately and contact Megatech for information on obtaining a replacement power supply.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): There have been 2 reports of these batteries overheating and causing localized burns to the interior of automobiles. No injuries have been reported.
Sold at: Airplanes with the recalled batteries were sold by Hammacher Schlemmer nationwide, from December 2000 to March 2001, for a suggested retail price between $224 and $300. The batteries were also sold separately for approximately $36.
Consumer contact: Consumers may contact Megatech toll-free at (888) MEGA-911 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday for information.
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.