CPSC, Shindaiwa Inc. Announce Recall of Hedge Trimmers
CPSC recall 04121 · announced April 15, 2004 · Shindaiwa · 15,000 units affected
The product
The 30-inch and 40-inch hedge trimmers have red engine covers, a red fuel cap and a label on the recoil starter that reads "Professional Shindaiwa." The recall includes all double-sided professional hedge trimmer models DH 231 and HT 231 with serial numbers up to 110000. The serial numbers are printed on a nameplate on the engine cover.
The hazard
The muffler's retaining bolts can allow the muffler to come loose from the engine while the hedge trimmer is in operation. A loose muffler can contact and damage the fuel tank, creating a fire hazard.
What to do (per CPSC)
Stop using these hedge trimmers and return them to an authorized Shindaiwa dealer to have the muffler bolts replaced, free of charge.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Shindaiwa has received 26 reports of mufflers coming loose and damaging the fuel tank, and one report of a fire that resulted in the operator suffering minor burns.
Sold at: Shindaiwa dealers nationwide, from January 2001 through November 2003, for between $369 and $450.
Consumer contact: Shindaiwa toll-free at (800) 521-7733 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT 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.