The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·12108·Announced 2012-02-14

STIHL Recalls MS 391 Chain Saws Due to Flywheel Crack Risk

STIHL is recalling about 3,000 MS 391 chain saws because the flywheel can crack and separate, posing a risk of injury to users or bystanders.

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-harm product where the flywheel can separate and strike users, but the source explicitly states that no injuries have been reported, fitting the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

STIHL Inc. is recalling about 3,000 MS 391 gas-powered chain saws. The recall involves units with an orange top casing, gray base, and black front handle and hand guard. The model name "MS 391" and brand "STIHL" are printed in an orange circle on the starter side of the unit. The serial number is located on the crankcase to the right of the muffler when viewed from the rear of the saw. Affected serial numbers range from 28535 1759 through 28535 1956, 28664 5278 through 28664 6277, 28665 1283 through 28665 5577, 28724 4317 through 28724 4480, and 28735 3627 through 28735 3647.

The flywheel on the recalled chain saws can crack, causing parts of the flywheel to separate and strike users or bystanders. This poses a risk of injury. No injuries have been reported in connection with this recall.

The recalled chain saws were sold at authorized STIHL dealers nationwide from March 2011 through July 2011 for between $530 and $550. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled chain saws and return them to an authorized STIHL dealer for the installation of a free replacement flywheel. For additional information, consumers can contact STIHL at (800) 610-6677 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit www.stihlusa.com.

The recalled product

Product
MS 391 Chain Saws
Manufacturer
STIHL Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va.
Category
Consumer Product — Power Tools
Hazard
Affected units
3,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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