Recall: Shindaiwa Inc. Recall of Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2005
Release #05-188
Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 521-7733
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908


CPSC, Shindaiwa Inc. Announce Recall of Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Shindaiwa Gas-Powered Professional Hedge Trimmers

Units: About 25,000.

Importer: Shindaiwa Inc., of Tualatin, Ore.

Hazard: The heat from the hedge trimmer's muffler can damage the fuel tank, cause a fuel leak and create a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Shindaiwa has received 10 reports of fuel tanks leaking. Two small fires were reported, resulting in minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: Shindaiwa Gas-Powered Professional Hedge Trimmers are available in both 30-inch and 40-inch sizes. The products have red engine covers, a red fuel cap and a label on the recoil starter that reads "Professional Shindaiwa." The recall includes all single and double-sided gas-powered professional hedge trimmer models DH231 and HT231 with serial numbers 1010000 through 5050000. The serial number is printed on the engine cover.

Sold At: Shindaiwa dealers nationwide from January 2001 through April 2005 for between $389 and $449.

Manufactured in: Japan

Remedy: Consumers should stop using these hedge trimmers immediately and contact an authorized Shindaiwa dealer to have a new fuel tank and heat shield assembly installed free of charge.

Consumer Contact: Call Shindaiwa toll-free at (800) 521-7733 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit Shindaiwa's Web site at www.shindaiwa.com


Picture of Recalled Hedge Trimmer


Picture of Recalled Hedge Trimmer