Shindaiwa Corp. Recalls Backpack Blowers Due to Laceration and Impact Hazards
CPSC recall 08271 · announced May 15, 2008 · Shindaiwa Kogyo Co · 23,000 units affected
The product
This recall involves Shindaiwa Models EB8510 and EB8510RT. All models up to serial # 7014728 are included. The backpack blowers weigh approximately 24 pounds and include Serial Numbers through February 2007 production (S/N 702XXXX) which are located on the side label. These machines are black and blue with a red and black label that reads, "EB8510, Shindaiwa."
The hazard
The blower's impeller (fan) can separate from the base and break apart, causing plastic pieces to be blown out of the machine, and pose a laceration and impact hazard to consumers. The flying pieces also can cause property damage and injury to bystanders.
What to do (per CPSC)
Consumers should stop using the backpack blowers immediately and contact Shindaiwa for the closest dealer location to schedule a free inspection and impeller replacement. Consumers who have registered their equipment should have already received correspondence from Shindaiwa about this recall.
Notes
Incidents (per CPSC): Shindaiwa is aware of 13 incidents involving broken impellers. One incident involved a minor head injury and minor property damage to a nearby automobile.
Sold at: Shindaiwa dealers nationwide from September 2005 through January 2007 for about $600.
Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Shindaiwa at (800) 521-7733 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.shindaiwa.com
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal, medical, or repair advice.