Toro Power Clear 180 Snow Blowers Recalled for Fire Hazard

Plain-English summary

The Toro Company is recalling approximately 35,700 Power Clear 180 Single Stage snow blowers in the United States and 2,300 in Canada. The recall involves model numbers 38272 and 38282 with serial numbers ranging from 310000001 through 310999999. These units were sold at Toro dealers and The Home Depot stores nationwide from November 2009 through May 2010 for between $400 and $440.

The hazard exists because exposure to ethanol in gasoline can cause the carburetor needle to become corroded. A corroded needle can stick in the open position, allowing fuel to leak from the carburetor, which poses a fire hazard to consumers. Toro has received 2,200 reports of carburetor leaks, but no fires or injuries have been reported.

Consumers should immediately check to see if their snow blowers are included in this recall by locating the model and serial number on a decal on the lower right side of the unit. Affected consumers should contact an authorized Toro service dealer to arrange a free repair. For additional information, consumers can contact Toro toll-free at (877) 738-4440 between 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit www.toro.com.

The recalled product

Product

Power Clear 180 Single Stage Snow Blowers

Manufacturer

The Toro Company, of Bloomington, Minn.

Category

Consumer Product — Snow Blowers

Hazard

• fire
• fuel-leak

Affected units

35,700

Distribution

Related recalls