RECALLS #9: Harbor Freight Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills

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Recall Date: December 1, 2015
Recall Number: 16-050

Harbor Freight Tools Recalls Cordless Drills Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Harbor-Freight-Tools-Recalls-Cordless-Drills/

Summary

Name of Product: Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills

Hazard: An internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the “on” position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards.

Remedy: Replace
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drills and return the unit to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a replacement drill.

Consumer Contact: Harbor Freight Tools at 800-444-3353 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or online at www.harborfreight.com and click on Recall Safety Information under Customer Service for more information. Consumers can also email Harbor Freight Tools at recalls@harborfreight.com.

Photos available at: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Harbor-Freight-Tools-Recalls-Cordless-Drills/

Recall Details

Units: About 1.7 million units

Description: This recall involves Drill Master 18-volt cordless drills with item number 68239 and item number 68287. The drills are black with a red switch and were sold with an 18 volt rechargeable battery pack. Item number 68239 was sold individually and item number 68287 was sold as part of a kit, which included a flashlight. The flashlight is not included in the recall. The item number is located on a black label on the right side of the drill, just beneath the serial number. Drills with item number 69651 and item number 69652 are not included in the recall.

Incidents/Injuries: Harbor Freight Tools has received 25 reports of the drill switch overheating, including six reports of burns to the hands and fingers, and five reports of minor property damage.

Sold at: Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide, Harbor Freight Tools catalog, and online at www.harborfreight.com between May 2011 and September 2015 for about $35 for item number 68239 and $46 for item number 68287.

Importer: Harbor Freight Tools, of Camarillo, Calif.

Manufactured in: China

“Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.” Benjamin Franklin

The good news is both my driver and drill from drillmaster (not the same one recalled) died on my shortly after I bought them when i started woodworking. so no fire hazard for me ever from drill master:)

Thanks for the update.

Abbas, Castro Valley, CA