CPSC Warns of Braking Failure in Lariat II Riding Lawn Mowers

Plain-English summary

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a warning regarding a potential braking problem in Lariat II riding lawn mowers manufactured by Roof Manufacturing Company of Pontiac, Illinois. The Commission is aware of one death associated with this specific model. The power and braking systems for the Lariat II are supplied through the left rear wheel, which is secured to the axle by a retaining ring. This ring is held in place by two set screws that must be securely tightened to ensure the mower's braking ability functions correctly.

If the retaining ring becomes loose from the axle, the mower loses all braking ability, potentially allowing the user to lose control of the machine. Roof Manufacturing contacted dealers, distributors, and known consumers to alert them to the necessity of tightening these screws and to provide a decal for the mower to remind users to retighten the screws if the retaining ring is removed for maintenance.

The manufacturer is no longer in business and cannot be contacted to obtain the necessary wrench or decal. Consumers who own a Lariat II riding lawn mower are advised to contact their dealer to get the necessary wrench to make the adjustment and a decal for their mowers. To report unsafe consumer products or to receive safety information, consumers can call the CPSC toll-free hotline at 800-638-CPSC or the teletypewriter number (301) 595-7054 for the hearing impaired.

The recalled product

Product

Lariat II Riding Lawn Mowers Warning

Manufacturer

Roof Manufacturing

Category

Consumer Product — Lawn Mowers

Hazard

• braking-failure
• loss-of-control
• vehicle-accident

Distribution

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