What was recalled
If you own a tow-behind field or brush mower, it is important to check your equipment against the latest safety notice issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). On November 9, 2023, DR Power Equipment initiated a recall affecting specific models of their tow-behind field and brush mowers, as well as units manufactured under the Generac brand. This action was taken after reports surfaced regarding potential safety issues with these machines. The recall is not limited to just one type of mower; it encompasses a range of model numbers from both the DR Power and Generac product lines that share similar components and construction.
The specific models included in this recall are primarily the DR Power Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mowers, which come in several variations: the TB 25044B, the TB 25044B ENC, the TB 25044B ENR, and the TBM series including the 20A ED TDVE OF1, 20A EN TDVE OD3, and TBM20AENTDVEOF3. Additionally, the Generac Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mower, model TB 25044GENG, is also part of this recall. It is crucial to note that the inclusion of a model number in this list does not automatically mean your unit is defective; you must verify the serial number printed on the white label located on the rear frame of the mower, near the right rear tire.
The scope of this recall is defined by precise serial number ranges. For instance, all TB 25044B units with serial numbers starting with "TB2" are included, along with those ranging from 3002188267 to 30024310751. The TB 25044B ENC models cover serial numbers from 30030052232 to 3004525033, while the TB 25044B ENR includes a specific list of individual serial numbers such as 3004734233 and others up to 3008122643. The TBM series has its own distinct ranges, including all units starting with "TB" plus the specific number 300275210, and ranges like 3002188263 to 3002490281 for certain models. Finally, the Generac TB 25044GENG models with serial numbers from 3003540054 to 3004428691 are also affected.
While the recall notice does not explicitly detail where these mowers were sold or the exact date of manufacture beyond the serial number implications, it emphasizes that DR Power Equipment is contacting all known purchasers directly. This suggests a targeted approach to notification for those who have registered their products or provided contact information at the time of purchase. If you are unsure whether your mower falls into this category, checking the serial number on the rear frame label is the most reliable first step. The recall highlights the importance of verifying specific unit details rather than relying solely on brand or general model names, as even within the same model line, only certain production batches are affected by this particular defect.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall is necessary, we need to look closely at the mechanical failure at the heart of the issue. The DR Power Equipment and Generac brand tow-behind field and brush mowers in question are equipped with an exhaust system that has proven susceptible to breaking under normal operating conditions. This is not merely a cosmetic defect; it is a critical structural failure. When the exhaust pipe fractures or detaches, it no longer contains the extremely hot gases produced by the engine. Instead, these high-temperature fumes and heat are released directly into the open environment of the mower deck.
The danger escalates rapidly due to the specific design and intended use of these tow-behind units. As you might know, mowers are designed to process vegetation, which means they constantly churn through cut grass, leaves, and other organic debris. When the exhaust system fails, the exposed hot metal components and escaping heat interact directly with this accumulated material. Dry cuttings act as highly effective kindling. They catch fire easily and burn quickly when subjected to the intense heat that should have been safely vented away from the machine. This creates an immediate fire hazard within the machinery itself.
Furthermore, the risk is compounded by the presence of fuel. Brush mowers often operate in rugged terrain where spilled fuel is a common occurrence. If the broken exhaust system ignites nearby dry vegetation, it can easily reach spilled gasoline or oil. Fuel fires are particularly dangerous because they spread rapidly and produce intense heat that is difficult to extinguish without proper equipment. The combination of an uncontained heat source, combustible debris, and potential fuel spills creates a perfect storm for fire damage.
The physical harm to consumers comes primarily from burns. Because these mowers are towed behind another vehicle, operators might assume they are at a safe distance. However, if the mower catches fire, the flames can erupt suddenly, potentially reaching the operator or bystanders who may be nearby to inspect the damage or attempt to control the situation. The CPSC reports indicate that this failure has already resulted in 14 reported fires causing damage to the mowers themselves. While the report does not detail injuries, the potential for severe burns from contact with the hot exhaust components or from flames erupting from the unit is significant. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a documented physical reality that has occurred multiple times across the affected serial number ranges.
In summary, the hazard is twofold: the mechanical failure of the exhaust pipe allows heat to escape its designated path, and the operational environment of a brush mower provides ample fuel for that heat to ignite. This turns a piece of agricultural equipment into an unpredictable fire source, posing serious risks of property damage and personal injury through burns.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing immediate danger in this recall consists of homeowners and property managers who own tow-behind field and brush mowers manufactured by DR Power Equipment or its subsidiary, Generac. These are not standard lawn mowers designed for manicured residential lawns; they are heavy-duty agricultural and landscaping tools intended for clearing dense vegetation, tall grass, and brush from large plots of land, pastures, or rural properties. If you purchased a tow-behind mower to attach to your tractor or utility vehicle for serious yard work, field maintenance, or commercial landscaping, your specific unit may be part of this recall. The risk is not limited to professional operators; it extends to any individual who uses these machines to manage overgrown land, as the hazard stems from the machine’s mechanical design rather than operator error alone.
The nature of the hazard—specifically the exhaust pipe breaking due to excessive heat—creates a unique danger profile that affects both the equipment and the people nearby. When the exhaust system fails, hot components and potentially burning materials are exposed. This poses a significant burn risk to anyone standing close to the mower during operation or while inspecting it immediately after use. Because these mowers are often towed behind tractors or ATVs, operators may be seated several feet away, but bystanders, family members, or workers nearby are vulnerable if the fire spreads to the unit’s body or surrounding debris. The risk is particularly acute in dry conditions. If you live in an area with dry cuttings, tall grass, or low humidity, the likelihood of that initial spark igniting a larger fire increases dramatically, turning a mechanical failure into a property-wide emergency.
While the recall notice highlights 14 reported incidents of fire causing damage to the mowers, the true scope of risk includes potential secondary injuries. Burns are a serious concern, especially for those who might attempt to investigate or extinguish a small flame without proper protective gear. Additionally, the sudden failure of an exhaust system can cause debris or hot metal fragments to scatter, posing injury risks to anyone in the vicinity. Although there is no specific mention of injuries to consumers in the provided facts, the potential for severe burns or respiratory irritation from smoke inhalation exists for any user who remains near the unit after a malfunction. Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility may face heightened risk if they attempt to handle the heavy tow-behind equipment during an emergency situation, as the added stress could lead to falls or other accidents.
It is also important to note that users of these mowers often work in isolated or rural settings where immediate medical help may not be readily available. This geographical factor amplifies the risk for everyone involved. A fire starting on a remote property can escalate quickly if not addressed, endangering not only the operator but also nearby structures, livestock, or neighbors. Therefore, anyone who owns or regularly operates these specific DR Power or Generac tow-behind mowers should be considered at high risk until they verify their unit’s serial number and take the recommended safety steps.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your tow-behind field and brush mower is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at two key pieces of information: the brand name and the serial number location. The recall involves units manufactured by DR Power Equipment and those branded under Generac. If you own one of these brands, do not assume you are safe; you must verify the model and serial numbers printed on the equipment itself.
The most critical step is locating the white identification label. This label is not hidden inside the engine compartment or on the handlebars. Instead, it is affixed to the rear frame of the mower, specifically near the right rear tire. This placement is deliberate for visibility during maintenance but can be easy to miss if you are approaching the unit from the left side or if debris has accumulated in that area. You will need to clear away any grass clippings or dirt to read the text clearly.
Once you have located the white label, look for the "Model Number" and "Serial Number" fields. The recall covers a wide variety of model numbers across both DR Power and Generac lines. For DR Power Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mowers, affected models include the TB 25044B, TB 25044B ENC, and TB 25044B ENR. If you have a TB 25044B, check if your serial number begins with "TB2" or falls within the range of 3002188267 to 30024310751. For the TB 25044B ENC models, look for serial numbers between 30030052232 and 3004525033. The TB 25044B ENR is a smaller batch, including specific serial numbers like 3004734233, 3004835965, and others listed in the official notice.
If you have a DR Power TBM 20A series mower, check for models such as TBM 20A ED TDVE OF1, TBM 20A EN TDVE OD3, or TBM20AENTDVEOF3. The TB 20A ED TDVE OF1 includes all serial numbers beginning with "TB" plus the specific number 300275210. The other two models cover serial numbers from 3002188263 to 3002490281. For Generac Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mowers, check if your model is TB 25044GENG with a serial number between 3003540054 and 3004428691.
If you cannot find the label, or if the numbers do not match the ranges above, your unit may not be included in this recall. However, when in doubt, it is always safer to contact DR Power Equipment directly using the contact information provided in the remedy section of this notice. Do not rely on visual cues like color or size alone, as these are not reliable indicators of whether a specific unit is affected.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled DR Power Equipment or Generac tow-behind field and brush mowers, your immediate safety is the absolute priority. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear: you must stop using these units right away. Do not attempt to start the engine, do not drag them behind a vehicle for operation, and do not leave them running unattended. The hazard involves an exhaust pipe that can break due to excessive heat, potentially igniting dry cuttings or spilled fuel. By ceasing use immediately, you eliminate the risk of fire and severe burn injuries to yourself or bystanders. Treat this not as an inconvenience, but as a necessary pause to protect your home and family. Once you have secured the mower and ensured it is cool to the touch, your next step is to verify exactly which unit you have. Locate the white label affixed to the rear frame of the mower, specifically near the right rear tire. This label contains the critical model number and serial number information required for the recall remedy. Compare these numbers against the specific lists provided by DR Power Equipment. The affected models include various iterations of the DR Power Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mower (such as TB 25044B, TB 25044B ENC, and others) and the Generac Tow-Behind Field and Brush Mower (TB 25044GENG). If your serial number falls within the specified ranges printed on that label, your unit is definitely included in this recall. If you cannot find the label or are unsure of the model, it is safer to assume it may be affected and proceed with the contact steps below. After confirming your model and serial number, you need to initiate the remedy process. DR Power Equipment is actively contacting all known purchasers directly, so keep an eye on your phone and email for their outreach. However, if you have not heard from them or wish to expedite the process, you should reach out to them yourself. You can contact DR Power Equipment by calling 800-854-1565 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to recalls@DRPower.com or visit their website at www.drpower.com. On the homepage, scroll to the bottom and click on "Product Recalls" for more detailed information. You can also use the direct link http://lvtbrc.com/ for support. When you contact DR Power, explain that your unit is part of this specific fire hazard recall. The company has stated that they will provide a prorated refund or credit toward a new DR Power product. It is important to note that the amount of this refund or credit will be determined based on the age of your unit. This means you will not necessarily receive the full original purchase price back, but rather a value adjusted for how long you have owned it. Be prepared to provide proof of purchase if available, as this helps them calculate the appropriate prorated amount. Do not attempt to repair the exhaust pipe yourself or sell the unit, as doing so could endanger others and void any remedy offered by the manufacturer.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your tow-behind field and brush mower is part of this recall, the most important thing to know right now is that you do not need to attempt a DIY fix. The remedy provided by DR Power Equipment is straightforward but specific: they are offering a prorated refund or credit toward a new DR Power product. It is crucial to understand that there is no standard "repair" kit being sent out for the exhaust pipe itself, nor is there a flat-rate replacement of the entire unit at no cost. Instead, the company has chosen to compensate you based on the value of your equipment at the time of the recall, allowing you to decide whether to take your money back or invest in an upgraded model.
The term "prorated" might sound a bit technical, but it simply means the amount of money or credit you receive will be calculated based on how long you have owned the unit. If you purchased your mower relatively recently, your prorated refund or credit will likely be closer to the original purchase price. Conversely, if you have had the mower for several years, the value will reflect that depreciation. This approach is designed to be fair to both the manufacturer and the consumer, acknowledging that the equipment has already provided some service life. DR Power Equipment is actively contacting all known purchasers directly to initiate this process, so keep an eye on your mail or email for their outreach. However, if you have not heard from them yet, do not wait passively; reach out to them yourself using the contact information below.
To move forward with your remedy, you will need to communicate with DR Power Equipment directly. They have established multiple channels for you to get in touch, ensuring you can choose the method that feels most comfortable for you. You can call their dedicated recall line at 800-854-1565. When you call, be prepared to provide the model number and serial number found on the white label located on the rear frame of your mower, near the right rear tire. This information is essential for them to verify that your specific unit is included in this recall and to calculate your prorated amount accurately. The customer service team is available from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, so plan your call during these hours for the best assistance.
If you prefer written communication or need to reference details later, you can also reach out via email at recalls@DRPower.com. Additionally, DR Power maintains a dedicated section on their website for recall information. You can visit http://lvtbrc.com/ or go to www.drpower.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page. These online resources will provide you with any updated forms or specific instructions that may have been released after the initial recall date of November 9, 2023. Whether you choose to call, email, or browse online, the goal is to secure your prorated refund or credit so you can safely dispose of or return the hazardous unit and move on with peace of mind.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about stopping a project mid-stream or dealing with the administrative hassle of a recall. When you are in the middle of clearing brush or maintaining your property, the last thing you want to hear is that your equipment might be unsafe. You might look at the mower, see no visible smoke or sparks, and think, "It’s been working fine so far." However, ignoring this specific recall carries risks that go far beyond a simple mechanical breakdown. The core issue here is not just about the machine stopping; it is about the potential for that heat to become an uncontrollable threat to your property and your safety.
The hazard identified by the CPSC and DR Power Equipment centers on the exhaust pipe. When this component breaks or fails, it releases excessive heat directly onto the mower’s body and the surrounding environment. In a typical mowing scenario, you are working in areas that are often dry, filled with cut grass, leaves, twigs, and other combustible debris. If that hot exhaust fragment or exposed hot metal comes into contact with these dry cuttings, it can act as an immediate ignition source. This is not a theoretical risk; the company has already received 14 reports of fires causing damage to the mowers themselves. While these reports confirm property damage to the equipment, they serve as a stark warning sign that the conditions for a larger fire are present.
If you continue to use the recalled mower, you are essentially gambling with the possibility that a small, contained fire on the machine could escalate. The heat generated by a broken exhaust system is intense enough to ignite dry vegetation rapidly. What starts as damage to the mower can quickly spread to nearby brush piles, fences, vehicles, or even your home if you are working close to structures. The burn hazard is equally serious; if the exhaust pipe breaks while you are operating the unit, the exposed hot parts are in close proximity to where you would stand or walk. This creates a direct risk of severe burns to your legs or feet, especially since tow-behind mowers often require the operator to be nearby for guidance.
Furthermore, there is the financial and emotional toll of ignoring the remedy. The recall offers a prorated refund or credit based on the age of your unit. If you wait until the mower catches fire or breaks down completely due to heat damage, that value drops significantly, if not to zero. You would be left with a destroyed piece of equipment and potentially more costly repairs than the original purchase price, all because you delayed acting on a straightforward safety issue. The company has already identified the specific serial numbers and is ready to help. Choosing to ignore this recall means accepting unnecessary physical risk and financial loss for no real gain in convenience.
Staying safe: broader tips
Owning heavy outdoor power equipment like tow-behind mowers brings a sense of capability and convenience, but it also comes with the responsibility of rigorous maintenance and operational awareness. The hazard identified in this recall—excessive heat leading to fire or burns—is not unique to one specific brand or model; it is a fundamental risk inherent to any machine that combines high-compression engines with combustible materials like dry grass, leaves, and fuel. Understanding how to mitigate these risks on a broader level can protect your property and ensure your safety long after this specific recall remedy is complete.
First, let’s talk about the relationship between your mower and its environment. The recalled units failed because the exhaust system could not contain heat effectively when surrounded by dry cuttings or spilled fuel. This highlights a critical rule for all tow-behind equipment: never mow in conditions that invite accumulation of hot debris near hot metal parts. If you are working in extremely dry weather, consider slowing down or taking breaks to allow the engine and exhaust components to cool. More importantly, always inspect the area around your mower’s exhaust port before and after use. A quick visual check can prevent a small spark from igniting a pile of dry leaves that may have been kicked up near the rear of the unit.
Fuel safety is another pillar of prevention for this class of equipment. Spilled gasoline is highly volatile, and when combined with the radiant heat from an engine block or muffler, it creates an immediate ignition source. Always refuel your equipment on a level, non-combustible surface such as concrete or dirt, never on grass or wood decking. If you spill fuel, wait for the area to cool completely before wiping it up, and ensure no fuel has dripped onto hot engine parts. It is also wise to store your mower in a well-ventilated shed or garage away from living spaces, reducing the risk of fume accumulation should a small leak occur.
Maintenance is your best defense against mechanical failures that lead to hazards like the broken exhaust pipe mentioned in this recall. Regularly check your equipment for loose bolts, cracked hoses, and signs of wear on the muffler and heat shields. A muffler that is rattling or visibly damaged should not be ignored; it may no longer be directing hot gases safely away from flammable materials. Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule strictly, replacing air filters and spark plugs as recommended, because a poorly tuned engine can run hotter than designed, increasing the stress on exhaust components.
Finally, stay informed about safety beyond your own equipment. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issues hundreds of recalls annually for everything from lawn mowers to home appliances. Signing up for email alerts on the CPSC website ensures you are notified immediately if a product you own is found to be dangerous. Additionally, consider installing smoke detectors in your garage or shed and keeping a fire extinguisher rated for electrical and fuel fires nearby. These layers of protection provide peace of mind, ensuring that if something goes wrong, you are prepared to act quickly and safely.