Original; see modified release: Lariat II Riding Lawn Mowers Warning

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

This is the original of a document that has been modified. To see the modified version, click here

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, l987
Release # 87-067

CPSC Warns Of Potential Braking Problem With Lariat II Riding Lawn Mowers

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Roof Manufacturing Company of Pontiac, Illinois today announced a program to alert consumers to a potential braking problem with the company's Lariat II riding lawn mowers.

The Commission is aware of one death associated with the Lariat II riding lawn mower.

The power and braking for the Lariat II are supplied through the left rear wheel of the mower. This wheel is held onto the axle by retaining ring. This ring slip, over the axle and fits next to and to the outside of the hub of the left rear wheel. This retaining ring has two "set screws" which must be securely tightened to insure the continued braking ability of the mower. If the retaining ring comes loose from the axle, all braking ability is lost and the user might lose control of the mower.

Roof Manufacturing is contacting all dealers, distributors and known consumers to alert them to the necessity for tightening these screws and to provide them with a decal to attach to the mover to remind the consumer to retighten these screws if the retaining ring is ever removed for maintenance.

If you own a Lariat II riding lawn mower and have not been contacted by Roof Manufacturing, contact your dealer or call Roof collect on 815-844-3148. Consumers are being supplied with the necessary wrench to make the adjustment and a decal for their mowers. To report unsafe consumer products or to receive safety information call the CPSC toll-free hotline number at 800-638-CPSC. A teletypewriter number for the hearing impaired is 800-638-8270.