The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with STIHL Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va., today announced a voluntary recall of about 2.3 million Gas powered STIHL trimmers, brushcutters, KombiMotors, hedge trimmers, edgers, clearing saws, pole pruners, and backpack blowers that utilize a toolless fuel cap.
Hazard: The level of ethanol and other fuel additives can distort the toolless fuel cap, allowing fuel to spill, posing a fire and burn hazard.
Incidents/Injuries: STIHL has received 81 reports of difficulty installing and/or removing the fuel caps and fuel spillage. No injuries have been reported.
Description: The following yard power tools and model numbers are included in this recall:
Visit STIHL's website, www.stihlusa.com for additional photos of the power tools involved and photos of the toolless fuel cap.
Sold at: Authorized STIHL dealers nationwide from July 2002 through May 2011 for between $190 and $650.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using these products and return them to an authorized STIHL dealer for a free repair. Consumers can contact STIHL for instructions on identifying these toolless fuel caps.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact STIHL toll-free at (800) 233-4729 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.stihlusa.com or e-mail to stihlrecall@stihl.us.
