The Recall Desk
Our severity:HighCPSC·00047·Announced 1999-12-30

DeVilbiss Air Power Recalls Portable Generators Due to Fuel Tank Fire Hazard

DeVilbiss Air Power Company is recalling about 295,000 portable generators because fuel tanks may crack, posing a fire hazard. Consumers should limit fuel to three gallons until evaluated.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 3/5 (High).

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a potential fire hazard from cracking fuel tanks. Per the rubric, risk-of-harm products where injury has not yet been reported are classified as High (Score 3).

Plain-English summary

DeVilbiss Air Power Company (DAPC) is recalling approximately 295,000 portable generators sold nationwide from February 1996 to June 1999. The affected units include models branded as DeVilbiss Air Power Company, EX-CELL, PowerBack, Companion Model 919-32721, and Craftsman Model No. 919-32651. The recall specifically targets seven-gallon fuel tanks that bear dates prior to June 1, 1999, which can be identified by the serial barcode label on the tank support rails or the shipping carton label.

The recall is being issued because CPSC and DAPC are investigating whether the fuel tanks can crack where they mount on the frame, which poses a fire hazard. As a precaution while this evaluation is ongoing, consumers are advised not to put more than three gallons of gasoline in the fuel tanks at any time. The notice also highlights the general dangers of carbon monoxide from fuel-burning appliances, noting that exposure can cause symptoms similar to the flu and can be fatal.

Consumers who have observed leakage from the tank should stop using the generator immediately and contact DAPC to obtain a free warranty replacement tank. Those with questions can contact DAPC directly at (800) 544-6986, ext. 21, or visit www.devap.com. Consumers may also contact CPSC at (800) 638-2772.

The recalled product

Product
Portable generators
Manufacturer
DeVilbiss Air Power Company (DAPC), of Jackson, Tenn.
Category
Consumer Product — Portable Generators
Hazard
Affected units
295,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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