Recall: Hedge Trimmers and Augers Recalled by Tanaka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 27, 2000 Release # 00-132

Tanaka Recall Hotline: (888) 401-3885 CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: Mark Ross, (301) 504-7076

CPSC and Tanaka Announce Recall of Hedge Trimmers and Augers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Tanaka America, of Auburn, Wash., is voluntarily recalling about 7,500 hedge trimmers and 1,400 augers. The fuel tank vents on these products can leak, posing a fire hazard.

Tanaka and CPSC have received one report of a hedge trimmer catching fire and causing minor damage. No injuries have been reported.

The products are orange with black handles and have "Tanaka" and the model number printed on the recoil starter cover. The serial number is located on a label on the side of the engine. The model and serial number ranges are:

HEDGE TRIMMERS

Model No.	Serial No. Range
THT-2100	T245721 - U2064452
THT-2120	T218561 - U202762
THT-2510	T246071 - U154280
THT-2520	T218761 - U154380
THT-2540	T260826 - U190886

AUGER

Model No.	Serial No. Range
TIA-340	T236911- V067500

Lawn and garden stores and outdoor power equipment dealers sold the hedge trimmers and augers nationwide from September 1998 through September 1999. The hedge trimmers sold for about $370 and the augers sold for about $500.

Consumers with a recalled hedge trimmer or auger should stop using it immediately and return it to any authorized Tanaka service dealer for a free repair. The equipment will be fitted with a redesigned fuel tank. To locate the nearest authorized dealer or for more information, call Tanaka toll-free at (888) 401-3885 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit Tanaka's web site at http://www.tanakapowerequipment.com/recall.htm.