Leaf Blowers (Tanaka) – safety concern (1995)
Hazard assessment based on recall description.
This AI-generated summary is provided for general informational purposes only and is derived from publicly available recall notices. It supplements but does not replace official agency classifications or safety instructions.
Check Your Product
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Product
Ariens leaf blowers
Brand
Tanaka
Lot Codes / Batch Numbers
Not specified in CPSC notice. Check official source for details.
Tanaka is recalling Ariens leaf blowers. The hazard is: Fire & Fire-Related Burn. Based on CPSC recall notice.
Summary derived from CPSC notice
The following details were not provided by CPSC: remedy information, UPC codes.
Reason for Recall
As stated by CPSC
December 20, 1995 Release # 96-050 WASHINGTON, D.C. - CPSC, Tanaka America of Kent, Wash., is announcing the recall of approximately 11,000 Tanaka and Ariens leaf blowers. The blower's fuel tank could leak, presenting a possible fire hazard.The blowers are mounted on a black metal backpack frame with padded shoulder staps, an orange fuel tank, and black blower tubes. The names and model numbers of the manufacturer are printed in the center of the blower's fuel tank or on the recoil starter. Tanaka models TBL-455 and TBL-500 and the Ariens model BB-430 blowers are involved in this recall.The leaf blowers were sold nationwide from January 1986 to December 1992 for between $400 and $460 each.Consumers who own Tanaka and Ariens blowers with these model numbers should stop using them immediately and return them to any Authorized Tanaka Servicing dealer. The backpack blowers will be fitted with a redesigned fuel tank at no charge. For more information, consumers should call Tanaka at 253-333-1200, ext 217.Tanaka has not received any reports of consumers who were injured in incidents involving the fuel leaks. Tanaka is conducting this recall to prevent the possibility of injury
Reported concern (CPSC)
Fire & Fire-Related Burn
Recommended Action
Per CPSC guidance
The CPSC advises consumers to stop using the product. Contact the manufacturer or return the product to the place of purchase.
Verify this information on the official source
For complete details and official instructions, check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) directly.
View official CPSC recall noticePage updated: Jan 6, 2026