Recall: Go-Kart Axles Repair by Manco Products

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Media Relations
July 16, 1996	(301) 504-7908
Release # 96-167

CPSC, Manco Products Announce Recall to Repair Go-Kart Axles

WASHINGTON, D.C.- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Manco Products Inc., of Fort Wayne, Ind., is recalling for repair approximately 300,000 go-karts with exposed rear axles. Riders can be seriously injured or killed if their long, loose hair or clothing becomes entangled on the rotating axle.

One child died and two others were seriously injured when their hair or clothing became entangled on the rotating rear axles of Manco go-karts. The children ranged in age from eight to 11 years old.

The one- and two-seat go-karts are powered by gasoline engines. Some models have brush bars to protect riders from low tree branches and other foliage. Each go-kart has a black serial number on a white label located on the floor pan immediately in front of the driver's seat.

All Manco go-karts with an exposed "live" rear axle are involved in this recall. To determine whether their go-kart is involved in this recall, consumers should stand behind the kart, with the engine off, and push the go-kart by hand. If the axle connecting the two rear wheels rotates, the go-kart is subject to this recall.

Outdoor power equipment stores, specialty stores, department stores, and hardware stores sold Manco labeled go-karts nationwide from January 1972 through June 1996 for about $600 to $2,000. Sears, Roebuck & Co. sold the go-karts under the Sears name from 1977 to 1983. Western Auto has sold the go-karts under the "Phoenix" label since 1987. Manco has sold the karts under the "Fox" label since 1990.

Consumers should stop using the recalled go-karts immediately and contact Manco at (800) 293-0795. Consumers should provide the model number and serial number of the kart when calling. Manco will send consumers a free axle guard kit with instructions for easy installation. Consumers can also contact the Manco dealer from which their go-kart was purchased for free installation of the axle guard kit.