The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·04542·Announced 2004-03-10

Harbor Freight Recalls Heavy Duty Portable Industrial Cord Reels

Harbor Freight Tools is recalling 9,390 cord reels because the internal grounding conductor may not be properly secured, posing a risk of electric shock or fire.

What this means for you

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 risk of electric shock or fire, which are serious hazards, but the source explicitly states that no injuries have been reported, fitting the criteria for a High severity score.

Plain-English summary

Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif., is recalling approximately 9,390 Heavy Duty Portable Industrial Cord Reels. The recalled units are yellow with a carrying handle, an extendable/retractable extension cord, and 6 electrical outlets/plugs. They are marked "Cord Reel Portable Power" and sold as "SKU 42053." The label on the rear of the unit indicates the product was made in Taiwan, R.O.C.

The recall is being conducted because the internal grounding conductor may not be properly secured to the receptacle. This defect creates a possibility of electric shock or fire. No injuries have been reported in connection with this recall.

The affected cord reels were sold through Harbor Freight Tools catalogs and website only from January 2000 through the beginning of February 2004 for approximately $10 to $13. Consumers should stop using the cord and reel immediately. To obtain a refund, consumers should call Harbor Freight Tools at (800) 444-3353 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.harborfreight.com. Harbor Freight Tools is also contacting owners of affected cord reels by direct mail where the name is known to the firm.

The recalled product

Product
Heavy Duty Portable Industrial Cord Reel
Manufacturer
Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.
Category
Consumer Product — Electrical Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
9,390

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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Same hazard · electric shock

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