Echo Recalls Gas-Powered Hand Tools Due to Fuel Line Fire Hazard

Plain-English summary

Echo Inc. is recalling approximately 540,000 gas-powered grass trimmers, brush cutters, hedge clippers, power blowers, and power edgers. The recall is due to a defect in the fuel lines, which can develop an "alligator surface" appearance that may lead to the leakage of gasoline and fuel vapor. This condition poses a fire hazard to consumers.

The affected tools were sold nationwide at Home Depot, home centers, hardware stores, and power equipment dealers from February 2003 to May 2004 for between $149 and $300. Echo has received three reports of fuel leakage, but there have been no reported injuries or property damage.

Consumers should stop using the recalled tools immediately. To identify if a tool is affected, check the model and serial numbers on the product nameplate against the specific list provided in the recall notice. Consumers can contact an Echo dealer for a free repair or call Echo toll-free at (800) 673-1558 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.

The recalled product

Product

Echo-brand gas-powered grass trimmers, brush cutters, hedge clippers, power blowers, and power edgers

Manufacturer

Echo Inc., of Lake Zurich, Ill.

Category

Consumer Product — Power Tools

Hazard

• fire
• fuel-leakage

Affected units

540,000

Distribution

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