The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·01139b·Announced 2001-05-02

Harbor Freight Tools Recalls Propane Torches Due to Hose Burst Risk

Harbor Freight Tools is recalling propane torches because the hose can crack or burst, causing fire and explosion hazards.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural defect (hose bursting) that resulted in reported significant injuries, including third-degree burns, which aligns with the rubric criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Harbor Freight Tools of Camarillo, Calif., is recalling approximately 500 propane torches. The recall is due to a defect in the hose that comes with the torch, which can crack or burst, presenting a fire and explosion hazard.

CPSC and Harbor Freight Tools have received two reports of torch hoses cracking and then bursting into a flash flame. One consumer suffered third-degree burns on his legs, and a second consumer suffered first-degree burns to his hand and arm.

The recalled propane torches measure about 22.5 inches long and were sold as a kit with a wand, flow valve, turbo blast trigger, hard rubber grip, and a hose that attaches to propane tanks. The hose is marked "IN-8MM OUT-13MM BURST 525 PSI PRESSURE WORK 150 PSI MADE IN CHINA." The torches were sold in Harbor Freight Tools stores and catalogs nationwide from May 2000 through September 2000 for about $20. Similar torches marked "Made in Italy" are not part of this recall.

Consumers should stop using the propane torches immediately and call Harbor Freight Tools at (800) 444-3353 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday to obtain a refund.

The recalled product

Product
Propane Torches
Manufacturer
Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.
Category
Consumer Product — Tools
Hazard
Affected units
500

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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