Recall #03-078 · Published January 30, 2003

Zenith large-screen analog projection televisions

CPSC, Zenith Announce Recall to Repair Large-Screen, Analog Projection Televisions

CPSC published a recall notice for Zenith large-screen analog projection televisions from Zenith Electronics on January 30, 2003. CPSC identifies this hazard: A tear in a gasket can cause coolant fluid to leak from the picture tube assembly. This can cause smoking, charring, and electrical arcing inside of the television, posing a fire hazard to consumers. The official remedy states: Consumers who have one of these televisions should immediately contact Zenith to arrange for a free inspection and repair.

Recalled Zenith analog projection television
Recalled Zenith analog projection television
Image: CPSC recall notice

What to check on the product label

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.

Additional identifying details

The date of manufacture can be found on the white label on the back of the set.

Which products are included?

The projection televisions recalled in this expansion and the earlier program have 46-60 inch screens and were manufactured from April 1995 through July 1997, and August 1998 through November 1998. The date of manufacture can be found on the white label on the back of the set. These televisions were manufactured in Mexico. Projection televisions manufactured after 1998 are not included in this recall.

Confirm these details on the official CPSC notice

Why it was recalled

A tear in a gasket can cause coolant fluid to leak from the picture tube assembly. This can cause smoking, charring, and electrical arcing inside of the television, posing a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents and injuries

Since 1998, Zenith has received 45 reports of incidents involving coolant leakage, causing smoking or charring with the televisions, including four cases where minor property damage occurred outside of the unit. No injuries have been reported.

Official remedy

Consumers who have one of these televisions should immediately contact Zenith to arrange for a free inspection and repair.

Product and sales details

Brand
Zenith Electronics
Manufacturer
Zenith Electronics Corp., of Lincolnshire, Ill.
Recall number
03-078
Units
About 80,000
Manufactured in
Mexico
Sold at / sales period
Major appliance and department stores nationwide sold these televisions, from about April 1995 through April 1999, for between $1,200 and $2,800.

Zenith large-screen analog projection televisions

CPSC product type: Televisions, Mounts, Guards & Antennas

Recall contact information

Consumers may contact Zenith at (800) 777-5195 anytime to arrange for a free inspection and repair. Consumers also can visit the company's dedicated website at www.projorecall.com

Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.

Related recalls

Selected by shared brand or household-product category.