If you have a Toro snowblower, check your model number.
Recalls for Toro Snow Blowers
Toro is recalling approximately 6,700 Toro Power Max 826 OHAE Snowthrowers in the US. The model number is 37802. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, they are being recalled because of an amputation hazard.
These snow blowers were sold nationwide and online by the following stores:
- Home Depot,
- Ace Hardware and
- Toro authorized dealers
Between November 2020 and January 2021, for around $1,200 US.
What is the safety hazard?
It has to do with the auger- the rotating corkscrew-like device that gathers the snow and pushes it to the impeller, which throws it out the discharge chute.
Toro’s recalled snow blowers have augers that may fail to disengage when the control lever is released. This means the auger might not stop rotating. It poses a significant safety hazard to anyone who gets too close. There is a high risk of injury and amputation of hands and feet.
“The firm has received five reports of incidents related to auger failing to disengage when the control lever is released,” Toro wrote. “No injuries have been reported.”
What to do if You have a Toro snowblower?
Locate the model and serial numbers to confirm if your machine is included in the recall. You might need to consult the manual to find the location of these numbers.
Look for model number 37802. Affected serial numbers can be found on the Toro website.
On Toro’s website, Toro says you should immediately stop using the machine. Contact an authorized dealer for a free repair. Customers can find one by calling toll-free at (833) 254-8856 or by using the online locator tool.