Black & Decker Recalls Miter Saws Made Since '82

WASHINGTON - Twelve models of electric-powered miter saws manufactured since 1982 are being voluntarily retrofitted by Black and Decker (U.S.), Inc. of Towson, MD to assure the proper return of the guard assembly after cutting operations.

Undertaken in cooperation with the U.S, Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall involves the following Black and Decker miter saws: model 1703 (Type 1), model 1703-1, model 3090 (Type 2 & 11), model 3091 (Type 1), model 3417 (Type 11), 3417-04 (Type3), model 7715-1 (Types 1, 2 and 3), model 7715-04 (Type 2), model 7716 (Types 1A1, 2 and 11), model 7716-04 (Type 1), model 7717 (Types 3, 11 and 21), model 7718 (Type 2), and Sears model 901.23470 sold by Sears, Roebuck and Co. The model number and type will be found on the decal of the nameplate on the saw.

Black and Decker said that, under certain circumstances, the lower guard may not return to its original safety position, thereby leaving the blade exposed. There have been two reported injuries as a result of this problem. To protect the consumer, the company has developed a spacer, which is attached to the upper guard, to assure the return of the moveable lower guard to its proper safety position. The company has also modified the design of the saw guard to prevent the problem from happening on future model saws.

Consumers having any of the recalled miter saws should stop using them immediately, then call Black and Decker toll-free at 1-800-541-7136, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT, so that a retrofit kit may be sent. The kit contains the spacer and screw with appropriate installation instructions. A screwdriver is the only tool required. The company will mail kits directly to consumers who completed and sent in product registration cards at the time of purchase.

Sears' consumers needing further assistance should contact their nearest Sears Service Center. Other consumers needing further assistance may take their recalled miter saw to the nearest Black and Decker service center where the new spacer will be installed.

To protect the consumer, the company has developed a spacer, which is attached to the upper guard, to assure the return of the moveable lower guard to its proper safety position.

Consumers having any of the recalled miter saws should stop using them immediately, then call Black and Decker toll-free at 1-800-541-7136 so that a retrofit kit may be sent. The kit contains the spacer and screw with appropriate installation instructions.

Sears' consumers needing further assistance should contact their nearest Sears Service Center. Other consumers needing further assistance may take their recalled miter saw to the nearest Black and Decker service center where the new spacer will be installed.

Black and Decker said that, under certain circumstances, the lower guard may not return to its original safety position, thereby leaving the blade exposed. There have been two reported injuries as a result of this problem.