CPSC Recall in 1978: Warning Issued On Portable Air Tanks

Updated on January 18, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 1978.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 78-096

Date: November 23, 1978

Product Name: Portable air tanks

Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 24 ) -- Citation Mfg. Co., Inc., Siloam Springs, Ark., in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), today issued a warning that some portable air tanks manufactured by the company, may rupture or explode because of defects in the metal tank casing.The company has received numerous reports about ruptured tanks causing injuries since 1973, including one death in Tennessee.The tanks are used for such purposes as pressurizing tires. A recall of these same products was conducted by the company individually on several occasions and with the help of CPSC in 1973, but the firm suspects 118,000 tanks may yet be in the hands of consumers.The tanks were made between 1969 and 1975. They may be painted red, blue or yellow. Red tanks may be labeled, "Citation Power Cleaning Equipment"; Yellow tanks, "Camel Big Airy No. 5510"; and blue tanks, "General Service Line No. 9-774 Portable Air Tank". Each tank is cylindrical in shape, 21 inches long and 14 inches high and weighs 23 pounds. Anyone wanting more information about these tanks should contact Mr. Delbert Phillips at Citation (501/524-6471).To verify model numbers and brand names, call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800/638- 2772.

Hazard Description:

Citation Mfg. Co., Inc., issued a warning that some portable air tanks manufactured by the company may rupture or explode because of defects in the metal tank casing.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

No Remedy Available

Units: About 118,000

Incidents:

The company has received numerous reports about ruptured tanks causing injuries since 1973, including one death in Tennessee.

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