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Vehicle, tire, and automotive equipment recalls from NHTSA. Check if your car, truck, or motorcycle has safety recalls.
August 14, 1990 Release # 90-138 WASHINGTON, DC -- Bianchi, USA, Inc. of San Francisco, CA, is voluntarily recalling approximately 1,600 "Randonneur" bicycles which may have defective front forks. The fork could crack and break at the junction of the crown and blade resulting in a fall to the riders. The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Randonneur bicycles were sold nationwide from January 1982 to June 1984. CPSC and Bianchi, USA have learned of three incidents where front forks broke and riders were thrown to the ground suffering broken bones. Consumers with Randonneur bicycles are urged to contact their nearest Bianchi dealer or call Bianchi at (510) 264-1001 to learn if their bicycle is subject to the recall; new forks will be provided at no charge to the consumer. You can identify your model year by inspecting the fork crown to see if it has a "B" on it. Only Randonneur bicycles without a "B" are subject to this recall
Boy's And Girl's Sidewalk Bicycles Recalled NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: December 1, 1989 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-016 Boy's And Girl's Sidewalk Bicycles Recalled WASHINGTON,D.C.. -- Sante Fe Trading, Inc., Houston, Texas is voluntarily recalling its BMX sidewalk bicycles, item 121 and its BMX sidewalk bicycles, item 124, both imported from Taiwan. These bicycles are equipped with hand brakes and a freewheeling feature which permits the wheels to operate independently of the pedal motion. This presents a significant risk of injury to a young child who might not be able to stop the bicycle. Since January, 1989 over 5,000 of these bikes have been distributed to customers located in South Texas, mostly in the Houston area. Although neither the Commission nor the firm is aware of an injury, the recall is being taken as a precautionary measure. Consumers who have these bicycles should contact the retail store where they were purchased so that arrangements can be made to remove the handbrakes and freewheeling features of the bicycles at no cost to consumers.
Ming Ta Supply U.S.A. Recalls Model #1615 Mountain Jr. Bicycles NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: December 1, 1989 (301) 504-7908 Release # 90-017 Ming Ta Supply U.S.A. Recalls Model #1615 Mountain Jr. Bicycles WASHINGTON, D.C.--Ming Ta Supply U.S.A., Santa Clarita, California is voluntarily recalling its 16-inch Mountain Jr. Bicycle, Model #1615, imported from Taiwan. The 16-inch sidewalk bicycle, which was sold by K mart stores throughout the country in March and April 1989, is not equipped with a chain guard to prevent a child's clothing from getting caught in the moving chain, the seat post is too long for a sidewalk bicycle, the handlebar stem is painted over making the minimum insertion marks unclear, and the bicycle is not provided with safety or operation instructions. These problems present a significant risk of injury to young children. A total of 11,000 Mountain Jr. Bicycles were imported by Ming Ta Supply, U.S.A., and only 7,900 of them were distributed to K mart Corporation stores throughout the United States. K mart sold approximately 1,200 of these bicycles in March and April of 1989. Bicycles sold after June, 1989 have been reconditioned. Although no injuries have been reported to the importer, K mart, or to the Commission due to these defects, the recall is being undertaken as a precautionary measure. Consumers who have these bicycles should bring them to any K mart retail store for reconditioning as a sidewalk bicycle. The store personnel will add a chain guard, replace the handlebar stem and seat post, and provide a set of safety and operating instructions without cost to the consumer. The 16-inch Mountain Jr. bicycles equipped with chain guards have been modified and are not subject to the recall.
February 2, 1989 Release # 89-008 Toro Recalls Rear Engine Riding Mowers WASHINGTON - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that it has reached an agreement with the Toro Company, Minneapolis, MN, whereby rear engine riding mowers manufactured by Toro between 1972 and 1979 are being recalled. Toro has learned that there is a possibility that, after starting the mower with the auxiliary rope starter, which is located under the hinged rear body/seat, the user can fall or sit on the rotating starter cup. In addition to the recall program, Toro has also agreed to pay the CPSC a civil penalty of $75,000 in settlement of allegations of the Commission staff which are denied by the company that the company violated the defect reporting requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Act, with regard to the riding mowers. The company has found that there is a possibility that the 1973 mowers can be started in gear if the shift linkage is not properly adjusted, and that 1972-1976 mowers can be accidentally kicked or bumped into gear. Severe laceration injuries to the buttocks have occurred when, after starting the engine, the user climbed on the mower and fell, or simply sat, on the exposed rotating starter cup while the seat was still raised. In cooperation with the CPSC, Toro is offering to install a recoil version of the auxiliary starter at no charge. Consumers should contact their local Toro Authorized or Master Service Dealer to arrange for this service. In addition, Toro is offering to inspect and/or adjust the shift linkage on the 1973 riding mowers.Toro has sent notices to some 19,000 registered owners of the 1974-1979 mowers and has posted notices of this recall program in dealer's showrooms. Consumers who own one of these mowers, but have not received notice, should contact their nearest Toro Service dealer or call Toro toll-free at 1-800-444-8676. The rear engine riding mowers involved in this program can be identified by the following numbers which are located on the engine base plate to the left of the engine: Model Serial Range 56575560255603056027560335604456044 200001-299999300001-399999300001-399999400001-599999400001-599999600001-7999998000001-9999999 The Toro Company can be reached by calling the toll free number between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm, Central Time or by writing to the Consumer Service Department -- The Toro Company, 8111 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55420
BMX-12" Bicycle Wheels Replacement By Rand Bicycle NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 3, 1988 Release # 88-010 Replacement Program Announced For Rand Bicycle Wheels WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Rand International of Farmingdale, New York, today announced a voluntary replacement program involving approximately 40,000 Model BMX-12 inch sidewalk bicycle wheels, distributed through Otasco and other small retail chain stores in Eastern, Southern and Southwestern U.S., prior to January 1987. The bicycle in question is a 12" boys bicycle in blue with pneumatic tires. The bicycle can be identified by the Rand label on the stem of the front fork and its black tires (with the following marks imprinted on them): SHYH HWA Inflate 40-50 PSI 12 l/2 x 12 l/4 Made in Taiwan The potential hazard involves wheel rim breakage during the inflation process. When the tire is inflated beyond the recommended P.S.I. (pounds per square inch), the plastic rim may shatter and cause injury to the inflator or to bystanders. Over-inflation beyond the recommendation noted on the tire is inconsistent with inflation instructions. CAUTION must be exercised by the consumer. Rand and the Commission are not aware of any incidents involving injury with this product; however, laboratory tests have indicated the potential for breakage with the Model BMX-12 when over-inflated. To determine if your product is affected by the announcement, consumers can call the CPSC for toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
1986 Polaris Indy Trail And Indy 400 Snowmobiles Recall NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 19, 1987 Release # 87-071 Safety Recall Of 1986 Polaris Indy Trail And Indy 400 Snowmobiles WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Polaris Industries, Minneapolis, Minnesota today announced a voluntary recall from consumers of all 1986 Polaris Indy Trail Snowmobiles, Models No. 0860761 and 0860661 and 1986 Polaris Indy 400 Snowmobiles, Model No. 0860759. The brake caliper bridge bolt nuts may loosen and cause the loss of brakes. Polaris is aware of eight reported instances where the nuts came loose. All resulted in vehicle damage and one resulted in personal injury involving a bruised chest and stomach. The snowmobiles have been sold since 1985 through approximately 850 U.S. Polaris dealers nationwide. Users are cautioned not to use the snowmobiles until the replacement, locking nuts are installed and torgued to 17ft/lbs. The retail price of the snowmobiles range from $3499 to $3749. Only the 1986 Polaris Indy Trail, Models No. 0860761 and 0860661 and the 1986 Polaris Indy 400, Model No. 0860759 snowmobiles are affected. The recall involves 9268 snowmobiles. Consumers should contact their dealer to see if locking nuts 3/8-24 NF have been installed on the brake caliper assembly of their 1986 Indy Trail or 1986 Indy 400 Snowmobile according to Polaris Service Bulletin No. S-86-07. If this change has not been performed, consumers should make arrangements with their dealer for this correction. To determine if your product is affected by this announcement consumers may call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 8000638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Magna Sidewalk Bicycle Wheel Rims Repaired By Dynacraft NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 04, 1987 Release # 87-043 Replacement Program Announced For Dynacraft "Magna" Sidewalk Bicycle Wheel Rims WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Dynacraft Industries Inc. of Ashland, Massachusetts today announced a voluntary replacement program involving plastic wheel rims on approximately 6000 Model #8522 "Magna" l2-inch sidewalk bicycles sold since March 1985. The potential hazard involves wheel rim breakage during the inflation process. If the tire is inflated beyond the recommended 30 psi. there is a possibility that the plastic rims may shatter and strike the user or bystander which may cause injury. Tests indicate the possibility of such breakage when the user inflates the tire to 90 psi or above. Dynacraft and the Commission are not aware of any incidents involving injury with this product, but because laboratory tests have indicated the potential for breakage with the Model #8522 "Magna", Dynacraft has offered to replace the plastic wheel rims with non-plastic rims. Consumers may obtain a replacement of the affected wheel rims free of charge by returning the entire bicycle to the Child World store from which it was purchased. The bicycle itself need not be replaced, but consumers must return the bicycle to obtain a replacement for the wheel rims.
Bicycle Child Carrier Harness Recalled by Championship NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 30, 1987 Release # 87-037 Safety Recall Of Shoulder Harness On Championship Brand Bicycle Child Carrier Sold by Sears WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, D&R Industries, Inc., Lincolnwood, Illinois, announced a voluntary recall from consumers of the shoulder harness on a Championship Deluxe Bicycle Child Carrier sold through the Sears, Roebuck and Co. stores. The plastic buckle on some of the shoulder harnesses may unbuckle or disengage during use and a child could fall from the carrier. D&R Industries is aware of six reported instances where the buckle failed to engage. Parents are cautioned not to use the carrier until the shoulder harness buckle is replaced. The carriers have been sold to consumers nationwide. The retail price of the carrier may be as much as $40.00. Only those carriers sold between February and July, 1986 are affected. The carrier can be identified by stock number 82595 on the outside of the box. Consumers may order a new shoulder harness free-of-charge from D&R Industries, Inc., 7111 Capitol Drive, Lincolnwood, IL 60645 by calling toll-free l-800-323-2852 or residents of Illinois, Hawaii, Alaska may call 312-677-3200 collect. For further information consumers may also call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
12" Sidewalk Bicycles Replaced by Roadmaster NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR RELEASE December 19, 1986 Release # 86-79 Replacement Program Announced For Roadmaster Corporation 12" Sidewalk Bicycles W/Plastic Wheels WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, the Roadmaster Corporation of Olney, Illinois today announces a voluntary replacement program involving several thousand plastic "mag" wheels on boys and girls models 9693-KM & 7973-KM 12" sidewalk bicycles. The hazard involves a wheel breakage problem which may occur when the tire is inflated significantly beyond the recommended inflation pressure. Roadmaster and the Commission have been informed of two incidents where minor injuries occurred when plastic "mag" wheels broke during tire inflation. Since many air pumps are not metered, bicycle tires are frequently over inflated. Over inflation of the tires may cause these plastic wheels to fragment and pieces to be propelled striking the user and bystanders. This announcement is being issued in conjunction with Roadmaster's replacement program undertaken during the past six months. Roadmaster is replacing, free of charge, all affected sidewalk bicycle wheels. Only models 9693-KM & 7973-KM sidewalk bicycles are involved in this free replacement. Both of the affected models were sold nationwide by K mart retail stores. Roadmaster's engineering analysis indicates that the problem wheels may break when over inflated. Roadmaster stopped shipment of the subject models immediately upon learning of the potential failure. Customers having one of these sidewalk bicycles should contact the Roadmaster Parts and Service Department at 800-626-2811. Replacement steel-spoked wheels will be provided in exchange for the returned plastic "mag" wheels.
Bicycle Forks Recalled by Cannondale NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 29, 1985 Release # 85-060 Cannondale Recalls Bicycle Forks Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Cannondale Corporation of Georgetown, Connecticut, has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 5,000 forks used on its Model SR900, SR600 and SRSOO bicycles and Model SF900 and SF500 framesets. The estimated retail cost of these bicycles ranged between $595 and $995. The firm has received some complaints of problems with these forks that have resulted in a loosening of the steering tube in some bicycles. Cannondale is voluntarily replacing these forks free of charge to prevent the possibility of injuries from falls due to a loss of control of the bicycle. Anyone who purchased one of these bicycles prior to 1985 and has not yet had it repaired should stop riding the bike immediately and take it to a local authorized Cannondale bicycle dealer who will, should the fork be one of the defective ones, replace the fork free of charge. For assistance or additional information regarding this recall, consumers may contact Cannondale's Customer Service Department toll- free by calling 800-BIKE-USA. Consumers in Connecticut may call 203-838-4488. The address for Cannondale's Customer Service Department is P.O. Box 122, Georgetown, CT 06829. Consumers may also call the Commission's toll-free Hotline, 800-638-2772. The Commissions teletypewriter number for the hearing- impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Flying Wheels Playground Swings Repaired by Miracle NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 9, 1985 Release # 85-017 Miracle Recreation Equipment Company To Repair "Flying Wheels" Playground Swings WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Miracle Recreation Equipment Company of Grinnell, Iowa, today announced a repair program affecting 274 "Flying Wheels" tire swings produced by the firm between 1977 and 1983. A five-year old girl in Lorain, Ohio was killed in June 1984 after part of a Flying Wheels swing fell and struck her. Flying Wheels is a playground swing consisting of four tires suspended from cross beams that rotate about a central metal shaft. The accident in Ohio occurred sometime after a weld on the unit had failed. Flying Wheels swings subject to this program were sold nationally to local park and recreation departments and to some schools and churches. From its sales records, Miracle Recreation Equipment Company will contact directly, by registered mail, each purchaser of a Flying Wheels unit to notify them of the potential hazard and arrange for a field repair intended to prevent the swing assembly from the central shaft. The firm will provide needed charge, for the repair and an allowance of $50.00 for from separating parts, without welding costs. Until the repair has been completed, the Commission and the manufacturer urge that the tire swings be removed from all Flying, Wheels units purchased prior to 1984. For additional information, please contact Miracle Recreation Equipment Company, P.0. Box 275, Grinnell, Iowa 50112 (515-236-7536.) or call the Commission toll-free Hotline on 800-638-CPSC. The Commission's teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Parkcycle Front Forks Replaced By Columbia NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 28, 1984 Release # 84-070 Replacement Program Offered For Columbia Parkcycle Front Forks WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In voluntary cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Columbia Manufacturing Company of Westfield, Massachusetts announces a continuation of its free replacement program involving the front forks of 15,390 Parkcycles (children's sidewalk bicycles) manufactured between August 1 and November 1, 1983. The Commission is aware of 2 complaints of lacerations and contusions of the face resulting from children falling from these Parkcycles and approximately 30 reports of front fork failure that did not involve injury. All but one of these incidents were brought to CPSC's attention by Columbia. Prior tolerating of any fork failures, Columbia's internal testing program indicated that it would be desirable to strengthen the Parkcycle front forks and Columbia commenced using a heavier gauge steel for the front forks on all Parkcycle production as of November 1, 1983. Because of an inspection and replacement program conducted by Columbia, all Parkcycles sold after February 9, 1994, already have the strengthened front fork. Replacement forks are still being offered free of charge to all owners of Columbia Parkcycles purchased prior to February 8, 1984, and consumers are encouraged to participate in this program.The affected units are 16-inch children's bicycles identified as the boys' "X2 Tiger", Model No. 2122, and the girls' "Rainbow Connection", Model No. 2121. The Parkcycles were distributed nationally and retailed for approximately $75.00. PARKCYCLES PURCHASED AFTER FEBRUARY 8, 1984 ARE NOT AFFECTED. This announcement is being issued as a supplement to the program initiated by Columbia in March 1984 through and with the cooperation of its major retail accounts. Over 9,600 Parkcycle front forks have been replaced, and this announcement is intended to inform again those purchasers who have not had their Parkcycles repaired how to obtain a replacement fork. If your X2 Tiger or Rainbow Connection Parkcycle has a serial number at the rear of the Parkcycle beginning 3212 or lower, and you have not yet obtained a replacement fork, you should do so at once. You may ask your retailer for a new fork and easy assembly instructions or ask your retailer for a preaddressed postcard and Columbia will ship the new fork and instructions directly to you. Consumers may also write to Customer Service, Columbia Manufacturing Company, 1 Cycle Street, Westfield, MA 01086. Please specify whether your Parkcycle is the Model 2122 (black) or model 2121 (pink). For information about this replacement program, consumers may also call the Commission's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. The teletypewriter number for the hearing-impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Bicycle Handlebar Stem Assemblies Recalled by Murray Ohio NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 1983 Release # 84-039 Replacenent Program Announced For Murray Ohio Bicycle Handlebars Stem Assemblies Washington, D.C. -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission the Murray Ohio Manufacturing Company of Brentwood, Tennessee, today announces a voluntary replacement program involving bicycle handlebar stem assemblies on approximately 62,300 BMX bicycles manufactured from August, 1982 through May 1983, The situation involves a random stem weld problem which may permit the stems on the affected units to separate from the handlebars allowing the handlebars to fall off the bicycle. Murray Ohio and the Commission have been informed of approximately 48 incidents where handlebars have reportedly become loose or separated from the bicycle. There have been 17 reports of injuries to the rider due to falls possibly associated with the problem stems. This announcement is being issued in conjunction with Murray Ohio's replacement program undertaken during the past twelve months involving several major retail outlets which reported problems of handlebar separation to Murray Ohio. To date over 12,000 stems have been replaced. The purpose of this announcement is to information consumers who may not already have had their bicycles repaired as to how they may obtain service or replacement parts. Murray Ohio's policy is to replace, free of charge all affected block stems, The following BMX bicycle models are involved in the replacement program: 3-5330x21 3-5330x25 3-5330x38 3-5330x47 3-5330x52 3-5330x63 3-5332x25 3-5622X21 3-5337x52 3-5532x6 3-5430x27 3-5430x30 3-5432x47 3-5432x6 3-5432 3-5532 3-5430 3-5537 3-5337 Murray Ohio's engineering analysis indicates that the problem handlebar stems may cause some looseness in the handlebars, usually early in the bicycle's use, prior to separating from the bicycle. However, there have been a few reports where the stem has separated causing the handlebars to fall off without warning. Murray Ohio redesigned the handlebar stem assemble beginning in May, 1983, to eliminate the problem. The Company has also notified its service centers to replace or repair pillow block stems on all BMX bicycles involved which have been brought in for any service or repair. Consumers who have purchased these bicycles may identify their unit by the model number stamped into the metal on the left or right side of the front of the frame. Dates of production can be verified from the identification decal above the pedal crank. Dates on the decal would be 08-82 through 12-82 and 01 through 05-83. Customers having one of these bicycles, who have not already had them repaired, should contact the nearest Murray Ohio Service Center as listed in the Yellow Pages or in the literature received with the unit. A replacement stem will be installed free of charge by the Service Center. For customers having questions, Murray Ohio can be reached on the following Toll Free number: 1-800-251-9991. Additional information may also be obtained by calling the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Toll Free Hotline at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is (301) 595-7054.
Seat Attachment Parts On Exercise Bikes Replaced by Beacon NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 13, 1981 Release # 81-026 Seat Attachment Parts To Be Replaced On 120,000 Exercise Bikes WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 19) -- Beacon Enterprises, Inc., of Yonkers, N.Y., is conducting a program to replace the seat-attachment hardware on more than 120,000 stationary exercise bikes because of reports that some customers failed to follow the assembly instructions properly and were seriously injured when the metal seat post unexpectedly broke through the seat. The manufacturer, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, announced that the voluntary recall involves units of its Scandia model 462 dual-action cycler built between August 1976 and July 1980. The bikes were sold under the Beacon name through catalogs of major merchandisers including Montgomery Ward and Alden's, and at a number of retail stores nationwide, Some units also were sold through catalogs of Sears, Roebuck and Co, under the Sears name as model 2930. Retail prices ranged from about $20 to $30. No exercise bikes other than Beacon's Scandia model 462 or the Sears model 2930 are involved in the recall. Beacon and the CPSC warn that if customers ignore the products assembly instructions and neglect to secure the seat with a bolt and nut supplied in the parts bag accompanying each bike, the unit's plastic seat may be punctured by the seat post. The CPSC said that no reports of injury were received when the bikes were properly assembled. According to the CPSC, six injuries were reported between 1979 and 1981. No injuries were reported from bikes sold by Alden's or Sears. As part of its voluntary program, the manufacturer is providing a free replacement kit consisting of a bolt, lock washer, nut, warning decal, and instructions for attaching the seat. The kit also tells customers how to look for signs of possible seat failure, The CPSC said that design changes for the seat mount which the company made starting in August 1980 limit the recall to units manufactured before that date. Exercise bikes built after August 1980 bear orange-red decals on the seat tops. The agency said that owners of units without the seat bolt and nut in place should stop using them and contact the manufacturer. Owners of units with the bolt and nut in place should make sure that the nut is secured tightly. Beacon has established a 24-hour telephone service to provide full information about the product and to take orders for the free replacement kits. Consumers are urged to call 212-683-9288 collect for further details about the recall.
December 8, 1978 Release # 78-102 Mattel Puts Safety Labels On Toys WASHINGTON, D.C. (Dec. 8) -- Mattel, Inc., Hawthorne, California, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced that it has initiated a voluntary program of attaching labels on warehouse inventories of certain of its Battlestar Galactica line of space toys. The label states: "Caution: Do Not Point Or Fire Red Missiles Into Mouth Or Toward Face." The small red missiles are sold with Mattel's "Colonial Viper" (No. 25311, "Colonial Scarab" (No. 25341, "Colonial Stellar Probe" (No. 2533), and "Cylon Raider" (No. 2532) space vehicles and each is equipped to launch the missiles. Mattel emphasizes that the products meet or exceed all existing and proposed product safety standards. The action is being taken in response to reports of three accidents involving the products. In each case, a child swallowed or aspirated a red missile, received medical treatment and was released. Mattel and the Consumer Product Safety Commission remind parents that small pieces are found in many manufacturers' toys and games intended for older children. Parents should caution children against putting small objects of any type in their mouths even in fun and should insure that small pieces from older children's toys are kept away from younger brothers and sisters. For further information, consumers may call Mattel toll-free on 800/421-2826; California residents call collect to 213/644-2752. Letters may be addressed to Mattel, Inc. at 5150 Rosecrans Avenue, Hawthorne, California 90250
Chain Guard Kit for Bicycle Offerred by Columbia NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 15, 1978 Release # 78-091 Columbia Bicycle Offers Chain Guard Kit WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 15) -- The Columbia Manufacturing Company, Westfield, Mass., in cooperation with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), is providing consumers with a chain guard kit. This kit will be furnished free to consumers who have purchased Columbia bicycles which do not meet Federal bicycle requirements. The bicycles in question, which were manufactured between November 13,1976 and August 13,1978 and distributed nationwide, consist of the following: 3-speed, 24-inch racers called "Miami," girls' Models Nos. 1433 and 1439, and boys' Model No. 1434; and "Gold Crest" 3-speed 26-inch racers, men's Model No. 3648. The round disc-type guard affixed to the front sprocket on these Columbia models, while acceptable on derailleur-type bicycles, does not provide coverage of the top of the chain or of any part of the chain to the rear of the front sprocket. To date, no consumer complaints or injuries have been reported. Federal bicycle regulations, effective 11/13/76, require a full coverage chain guard on all bikes having a single front and single rear sprocket, and set specifications for the extent of chain coverage for such bicycles which are intended to prevent entrapment of clothing or body parts. Consumers are advised to contact the place of purchase of their bikes to receive the chain guard kit. The kit consists of a new chain guard which is to be fitted over the existing disc-type guard and a complete set of instructions. According to Columbia, installation of the new chain guard can be easily accomplished by the owner using a screwdriver. Inquiries should be addressed to Customer Service Department, Columbia Manufacturing Company, Westfield, Mass. 01083.
September 20, 1978 Release # 78-075 J.C. Penney Alerts Consumers To Potential Bike Defect WASHINGTON, D.C. (Sept. 20) -- The J.C. Penney Co., Inc., New York City, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today warned bike riders that about 33,500 bicycles marketed under the "J.C. Penney" brand name may have a defective pedal crank that could break, possibly resulting in serious injury to the rider. The bicycles with the possibly faulty cranks are deraillure-type, 24-, 26-, and 27-inch, lo-speed, lightweight vehicles. They are painted light tan or dark grey and were manufactured in 1977 and 1978. J.C. Penney marketed the bicycles in their retail and catalog stores in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. One bike sold under the Penney's name was associated with a laceration injury that occurred when the pedal crank broke. Consumers can tell if they have one of the bicycles by looking for the numbers 2131A2, 2141A2, 2180Al or 2181Al on the outside of the left, rear, metal axle plate where the wheel is attached. Also appearing with each number is a J.C. Penney catalog number. The light tan bikes are imprinted with catalog numbers 927-3525, 927-3533, 927-7070, 927-7088, 927-7096, 927-7104 or 927-7112. The dark grey bicycles bear catalog number 927-7120. Penney's and CPSC strongly urge consumers who own one of the possibly defective bikes to contact a J.C. Penney store or catalog center for free inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the pedal crank. A recall that included the J.C. Penney bicycles was first announced by the Huffy Corp. and CPSC on May 31, 1978. To verify model and catalog numbers, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638-2772
June 13, 1978 Release # 78-046 WASHINGTON, DC (June 13) -- Coast to Coast Stores, Inc., Minnetonka, Minn., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today warned consumers that some "Coast King" bicycles sold in Coast to Coast Stores after January 1, 1978, may contain a pedal crank which could break and result in serious injury to the rider. The bicycle with the problem crank is Coast to Coast model C8798T men's, 27-inch, 10-speed, deraillure-type bicycle sold under the "Coast King" brand name in 26 states. The model number is on the bicycle's left rear axle plate. The bicycle is the only 1978 "Coast King" model which is royal blue. Anyone who bought this model should return it to the Coast to Coast store where purchased for a free inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the crank. A recall which included the "Coast King" model was originally announced by the bicycle manufacturer, Huffy Corp., Dayton, Ohio, and CPSC on May 31, 1978. Other "Coast King" bicycles sold by Coast to Coast Stores have different cranks and are not subject to this recall
May 31, 1978 Release # 78-040 Bicycle Recall Announced WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 31) -- Huffy Corp., Dayton, Ohio, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today warned consumers that about 54,000 bicycles manufactured by Huffy may contain pedal cranks that could break without warning. Sudden breakage of the crank will cause one pedal to fall off and may result in the rider falling or otherwise losing control of the bicycle. CPSC believes that serious injury could happen if this occurs. The bicycles are front-free-wheel-type 24-inch, 26-inch and 27-inch, 10-speed, lightweight bicycles manufactured in 1977 and 1978 and sold under the "Huffy," "J.C. Penney," "Omega" and "Coast King" brand names. Bicycles that may contain pedal cranks subject to breakage can be identified by the following numbers: C2694 C2695 C927-7096 C238OC1 C2381C1 C2131C2 C2141C2 C927-7070 C927-7088 2141Al C927-7112 C218OC1 C927-7120 C2131C1 C2141C1 C927-7104 CZHO-80370 P C8798T 2380A1 2381A1 2131A2 2141A2 2180A1 2180A2 2131Al The numbers are located on the left rear axle plate of the bicycle. Huffy Corp. reported to CPSC approximately 46 incidents involving crank breakage on front-free-wheel-model bicycles. In one incident, it was reported that laceration injuries on head, arm, and leg were sustained by a bicycle rider who fell when the crank broke. Huffy emphasizes that two different types of cranks, which they did not make, were used on the bicycles. All reported breakage incidents have involved only one type of crank. Consumers who have a bicycle purchased before May 22,1978, that bears one of the affected identification numbers should return it to the store where purchased or an authorized Huffy service center for free inspection and, if necessary, replacement of the crank. For information about the location of authorized Huffy service centers, contact Huffy, P.O. Box 1204, Dayton, Ohio 45401, Attn.: Bicycle Customer Service Department. If consumers cannot contact Huffy, they may call CPSC's toll-free hotline at 800/638-2772. Other models of bicycles manufactured by Huffy have different cranks and are not subject to this recall
Bicycle Child Carriers Recalled by Hamill & Hufman NEWS from CPSC U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 15, 1976 Release # 76-070 CPSC, Hamill Manufacturing Co., And Huffman Manufacturing Co., Announce Recall Of Bicycle Child Carriers WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 15) -- Hamill Manufacturing Company, Washington, Michigan, and the Huffman Manufacturing Company, Dayton, Ohio, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, today warned consumers that 25,000 bicycle child carriers may separate from the bicycle if not carefully installed. The carriers were sold nationally under the trade name "Tote Along" during the summer of 1976. Persons who have these carriers should carefully inspect both the latching mechanism which locks the detachable child seat to the carrier and the metal clamp which attaches the front of the carrier to the bicycle frame. Before placing a child in the carrier, check to see that the seat and clamp are secure. The warning was issued after the companies reported to CPSC 10 accidents which involved either a separation of the seat from the carrier or of the carrier from the bicycle. Separation of the seat from the carrier appears to have been caused by a failure to push the seat onto the carrier far enough to secure the locking mechanism. Separation of the carrier from the bicycle may have been caused by consumer misalignment of the metal clamp components and/or extreme over-tightening of the bolt passing through the clamp. In the interest of child safety, the companies are recalling the "Tote Along" carrier and are offering a refund to consumers who send them the seat clamp. For instructions on how to receive a refund, consumers should write The Hamill Manufacturing Company, Consumer Relations Department, P.O. Box 255, Washington, Michigan 48094, or call Hamill collect at the following number: 216/379-7792.