CPSC recall 02-126, announced March 21, 2002, covers Exmark-brand Commercial-grade Riding Mower (about 21,000 units). The riding mower's exhaust system can ignite fuel vapors from spilled fuel if the engine backfires. The notice cites 15 incident reports and 1 injury. Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled mowers and contact Exmark or their local Exmark dealer to determine if their riding mower's model numbers and serial numbers are included in the recall. Recall contact: call (800) 479-8379, go to www.exmark.com, or email service@exmark.com.
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.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
The recall includes Exmark-brand Lazer Z HP series riding mowers, which are red. They are equipped with 17 to 23 horsepower engines and have mowing decks from 44 to 52 inches. The mowers have independently controlled rear-drive wheels, front casters, and a centrally mounted mowing deck. The brand and series names (Exmark Lazer Z HP) appear on the front of the mower. Some of these riding mowers previously were recalled in February 2001. Even if consumers previously had their riding mower repaired, they need to contact Exmark for this additional repair.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
The riding mower's exhaust system can ignite fuel vapors from spilled fuel if the engine backfires.
Incidents and injuries
Exmark has received 15 reports of fires caused when these mowers backfired and ignited nearby fuel vapors. At least one serious burn injury was reported, and two other users reported minor burns. Property damage has varied from minor damage to the machine itself to several thousand dollars damage to other mowing equipment stored nearby.
Official remedy
Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled mowers and contact Exmark or their local Exmark dealer to determine if their riding mower's model numbers and serial numbers are included in the recall. The model and serial numbers are visible from the right side of the unit. They are located on a decal on the right side of the controls console. If needed, the dealer will schedule a repair of the riding mower's exhaust system.
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Exmark- Commercial-grade Riding
- Manufacturer
- Exmark Manufacturing, of Beatrice, Neb.
- Product type
- Lawn mowers
- Recall number
- 02-126
- Units
- About 21,000
- Sold at / sales period
- Exmark dealers nationwide sold these riding mowers, between January 1998 and December 2001, for between $6,000 and $7,300.
Exmark-brand Commercial-grade Riding Mower
CPSC product type: Lawn Mowers & Accessories
Recall contact information
For more information, contact Exmark at (800) 479-8379 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or write an email to service@exmark.com. Consumers also can go to the firm's website at www.exmark.com
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.
