CPSC recall 01128a, announced April 24, 2001, covers ASTRON and TMC backpack blowers (about 3,000 units). The engine exhaust can emit flames, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers. The notice cites 2 incident reports. Consumers should stop using the backpack blowers immediately, and call their local ASTRON or TMC dealer for a free repair. Recall contact: call (800) 433-5640.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
Affected model numbers
The words, "Astron Backpack Blower" and the model number are on a label on the gas tank and on a cap right above the tank. -The TMC KTBL-5600XA, which was distributed by TMC Power Equipment, has a white fan case and fuel tank, with a black frame.
Which products are included?
The recalled backpack blowers were manufactured under two different model names; though, each uses a TEX54D Kawasaki engine: -The ASTRON KB-541, which was distributed by Star Garden Supply, model has a red fan case, with a white fuel tank and black frame. The words, "Astron Backpack Blower" and the model number are on a label on the gas tank and on a cap right above the tank. -The TMC KTBL-5600XA, which was distributed by TMC Power Equipment, has a white fan case and fuel tank, with a black frame. The model name, "TMC," and the model number are on a label on the fuel tank, and the name "Kawasaki" is on a cap right above the tank. The blower serial numbers can be found on the blower base of the ASTRON products, and on the fan case of TMC products. The engine serial numbers can be found at the bottom of the recoil starter: Product Model Blower Serial No. Ranges Engine Serial No. Ranges ASTRON KB-541 0950001 through 0950700 0X50001 through 0X50700 0Y50001 through 0Y50700 TEX54D-AE80 159675 through 160384 TEX54D-AE80 160901 through 161600 TEX54D-AE80 162056 through 162755 TMC KTBL-5600XA 56010001 through 56011050 TEX54D-AF70 161701 through 16205 TEX54D-BF70 172943 through 173642
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
The engine exhaust can emit flames, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.
Incidents and injuries
Kawasaki has received two reports of flames coming out of the engine exhaust. No injuries have been reported.
Official remedy
Consumers should stop using the backpack blowers immediately, and call their local ASTRON or TMC dealer for a free repair.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- ASTRON and TMC backpack
- Manufacturer
- Kawasaki Motors Corp. U.S.A., of Irvine, Calif.
- Product type
- Leaf blowers
- Recall number
- 01128a
- Units
- About 3,000
- Sold at / sales period
- ASTRON and TMC dealers nationwide sold the backpack blowers to lawn and garden companies, from October 2000 through February 2001, for about $500.
- Distributor
- Star Garden Supply Inc., of Pico Rivera, Calif., TMC Power Equipment Inc., of Monterey Park, Calif.
ASTRON and TMC backpack blowers
CPSC product type: Blowers
Recall contact information
For more information, call Kawasaki toll-free at (800) 433-5640 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
