Recall: Bench Grinders Repaired by J.C. Penney

J.C. Penney Conducts Repair Program For Bench Grinders

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 28) -- The J.C. Penney Company, Inc., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and McGraw-Edison Co., has announced a voluntary repair program of about 2,700 J.C. Penney six-inch bench grinders that may pose an electric shock hazard. The model 4030 grinders were sold by J.C. Penney between June 1973 and approximately June 1975.

A protective sleeve that insulates a lead wire may wear through if in contact with the motor shaft. Severe shock could result if the bench grinder is not properly grounded, and the user is grounded or touching a grounded metal object such as a water pipe.

The repair program applies only to model 4030 grinders purchased after June 1973 which are not imprinted with a three-digit date code (such as 57C) on the nameplate. The bench grinder should not be used until it has been inspected and reworked. Owners of the bench grinders should contact their local J.C. Penney store to make free inspection and repair arrangements.

A repair program that included the J.C. Penney grinders was first announced by the McGraw-Edison Co. and CPSC on August 29,1978.

To verify the model number, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772.