CPSC Recall in 2002: CPSC, Exmark Manufacturing Announce Recall of Riding Mowers

In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Exmark Manufacturing, of Beatrice, Neb., is voluntarily recalling about 21,000 Exmark-brand commercial-grade riding mowers. 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.

The riding mower's exhaust system can ignite fuel vapors from spilled fuel if the engine backfires.

Repair

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.

Exmark dealers nationwide sold these riding mowers between January 1998 and December 2001 for between $6,000 and $7,300.