What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently announced a significant safety recall involving specific models of gas-powered trimming and cutting equipment manufactured by MTD Southwest. This action, issued on April 16, 2020, targets a distinct group of lawn care tools that have been identified as posing a serious risk to users. The affected products are primarily Troy-Bilt and Craftsman-branded string trimmers, alongside Remington-branded polesaws. These are not electric or battery-operated devices; they are powered by 25cc 2-Cycle gasoline engines, which means they require fuel mixing and regular maintenance, making the mechanical failure described in this recall particularly notable.
The scope of this recall is defined by very specific visual and technical characteristics. For the trimmers, you should look for a housing that features a red and black color scheme. The brand name—either Troy-Bilt or Craftsman—will be clearly printed on the top of the unit. In contrast, the recalled polesaws are distinguished by an orange and black housing with the Remington brand name printed on top. These visual cues are important for initial identification, but the definitive way to determine if your equipment is part of this recall is by checking the model and serial numbers located on the white model label found on the engine cover.
The specific models included in this recall are as follows:
- Troy-Bilt Models: 41AD252S766 (TB252S Straight Shaft Trimmer) and 41CDZ25C766 (TB22 Curve Shaft Trimmer).
- Craftsman Models: 41BDZ20C791 (also known as CMXGTAMDZ20C, WC215 Curve Shaft Trimmer) and 41BDZ22C791 (also known as CMXGTAMDZ22C, WS215 Straight Shaft Trimmer).
- Remington Models: 41CDPS1C983 (RM2599 Polesaw).
While the official recall notice provides these detailed model numbers and their corresponding UPC codes, it does not explicitly state the total number of units sold or the specific geographic regions where they were distributed. However, because these are widely recognized consumer brands often available at major home improvement retailers and garden supply stores, it is likely that many households across the United States may have purchased these items. If you own any of the models listed above, particularly those with serial numbers ranging from 1K199DG1886 through 1L059DH1017, you need to verify your unit immediately against the white label on the engine cover to see if it falls within this range.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a mechanical failure that transforms a routine gardening tool into an unpredictable danger. The specific issue with these MTD Southwest trimmers and polesaws—sold under the Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Remington brands—is that the cutting head continues to spin even after you have let go of the throttle trigger. In a properly functioning gas-powered string trimmer or pole saw, releasing the throttle should cause the engine to idle down and eventually stop, or at least drop to a speed where the blade or line is no longer dangerous. However, in these recalled units, the mechanism that controls the engine’s speed fails to disengage the rotational force from the cutting head.
This might seem like a minor glitch, but the physics of it are serious. These tools use a 25cc two-cycle gasoline engine designed to deliver high torque and rapid acceleration for cutting through thick brush and weeds. When the throttle is released, the expectation is that the connection between the engine’s power and the cutting attachment is broken or significantly reduced. Instead, the head keeps rotating at dangerous speeds. This means that if you are holding the tool while it is still running, or even if you have just set it down on the ground thinking it has stopped, the cutting line or blade remains a high-speed projectile.
The primary risk here is laceration. When the trimmer head or polesaw blade continues to rotate unexpectedly, it can strike whatever is in its path with considerable force. For the user, this often happens during moments of transition—when you are changing direction, stepping over an obstacle, or simply trying to pause and assess your work. If the line whips out while your hand is near the housing, or if you accidentally brush against a still-spinning blade, it can cause deep cuts to your skin, muscles, and tendons. These injuries are not superficial scrapes; they are serious lacerations that may require medical attention, stitches, or even surgical intervention to repair damaged tissue.
Furthermore, this hazard creates a false sense of security. Gardeners often rely on the immediate cessation of motion as a cue that it is safe to adjust their grip or step closer to the work area. When that mechanical feedback fails, there is no warning before contact occurs. The tool does not beep, vibrate differently, or slow down gradually; it simply keeps going. This lack of intuitive stoppage is what makes the defect particularly insidious, as it bypasses the natural reflexes people use to protect themselves from moving machinery.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk for injury from this recall are homeowners and gardeners who regularly use gas-powered outdoor power equipment. Specifically, individuals who own Troy-Bilt or Craftsman-branded trimmers and Remington-branded polesaws manufactured by MTD Southwest fall directly into the danger zone. This includes people maintaining large lawns, clearing brush along property lines, or trimming hedges in residential areas. Because these tools are designed for heavy-duty use, they are often operated for extended periods, increasing the likelihood of fatigue, which can compound the mechanical failure risk inherent in the recalled units.
While the hazard itself—a rotating head that continues to spin after the throttle is released—can inj anyone, certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to physiological and physical factors. Young children are at particular risk if they happen to be nearby while these tools are being operated or stored improperly. Even though the recall does not report any current incidents involving minors, the nature of a laceration hazard means that unexpected movement of the cutting head can cause severe cuts if a child approaches the equipment. Parents and guardians must recognize that a "stopped" tool is not necessarily safe until it has completely cooled and stopped rotating.
Elderly users or those with reduced physical strength may also be more susceptible to injury in this scenario. The mechanism of failure relies on the user releasing the throttle, expecting the tool to stop. However, if the head continues to rotate, a user who cannot quickly move away or lacks the reflex speed to avoid contact could suffer significant lacerations. Older adults may have slower reaction times or thinner skin, which is more prone to tearing and injury from sharp, rotating blades. Furthermore, individuals using these tools in uneven terrain are at greater risk; if they stumble while the tool is still spinning due to this defect, they may fall into the blade path, leading to more severe injuries than a simple cut.
Additionally, users who are inexperienced with gas-powered equipment might be less aware of the normal cooldown period or the specific sounds associated with engine shutdown. This lack of familiarity can lead to a false sense of security, causing them to reach for the tool too soon after turning it off. The combination of mechanical failure and user expectation creates a perfect storm for injury. Therefore, anyone who has used these trimmers or polesaws in the past year, particularly those with limited mobility or those living in households with children, should treat this recall with utmost urgency. The risk is not just about the tool breaking; it is about the unexpected and uncontrollable movement of a sharp object in close proximity to the body.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action, the most critical step is confirming whether your specific tool is part of this recall. Because MTD Southwest manufactures equipment for several well-known brands under license, it can be easy to assume that a trimmer or polesaw from a different manufacturer is safe while yours is not. However, this recall specifically targets units branded as Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and Remington. If your tool does not bear one of these three logos prominently printed on the top of the unit’s housing, it is likely not included in this specific safety notice. That said, because the hazard relates to a mechanical failure in the head rotation mechanism common to this class of 25cc 2-Cycle gasoline engines, you should always exercise caution with similar tools regardless of brand.
To verify if your item is affected, you need to look for two distinct pieces of information: the visual design of the tool and its unique identification numbers. Start by examining the housing color and branding. The recalled trimmers feature a red and black housing, with either "Troy-Bilt" or "Craftsman" printed on the top. If you have a polesaw, it will have an orange and black housing with "Remington" printed on top. While color is a helpful first clue, it is not definitive proof. You must locate the white model label attached to the engine cover. This label contains the serial number, which is the definitive identifier for the recall.
The affected serial numbers fall within a specific range: from 1K199DG1886 through 1L059DH1017. If your serial number falls within this sequence, your tool is subject to this recall. Below is a detailed list of the specific model numbers included in this action. Please cross-reference the label on your engine with the following data:
- Troy-Bilt Models: 41AD252S766 (TB252S Straight Shaft Trimmer), 41CDZ25C766 (TB22 Curve Shaft Trimmer). UPC codes are 084931848528 and 084931845725, respectively.
- Craftsman Models: 41BDZ20C791 (CMXGTAMDZ20C) (WC215 Curve Shaft Trimmer) and 41BDZ22C791 (CMXGTAMDZ22C) (WS215 Straight Shaft Trimmer). UPC codes are 084931847729 and 084931847736, respectively.
- Remington Models: 41CDPS1C983 (RM2599 Polesaw). UPC code is 084931843950.
If your model number and serial number match the details above, do not use the tool. The recall was issued on April 16, 2020, so if you purchased a new or used version of these specific models after that date, there is a high probability it is part of the batch. For any uncertainty, always refer to the serial number on the white label rather than relying solely on the model name, as production runs can vary.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled trimmers or polesaws from MTD Southwest, the most critical action you can take is to stop using them immediately. This is not a situation where you should finish your current project and deal with it later. The defect involves the cutting head continuing to rotate even after you have released the throttle, which creates an unexpected laceration hazard. Even if the tool feels like it is shutting down normally when you let go of the trigger, the internal mechanism may still be spinning with enough force to cause serious injury. Please place the equipment in a safe, secure location where no one, including children or pets, can accidentally reach it or attempt to use it without your knowledge. Once you have secured the item, you need to initiate the remedy process by contacting MTD Southwest directly. The company has established specific channels for consumers to resolve this issue at no cost to you. You can call their toll-free number at 888-848-6038. When you reach out, please be prepared to speak with a representative during their business hours, which are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Having your model and serial numbers ready before you call will help speed up the process, as the representative will need to verify that your specific unit is part of this recall batch. Alternatively, if you prefer to handle this online, you can visit the MTD Southwest website at www.mtdproducts.com. Once on the homepage, scroll down to the very bottom of the page and look for the "Product Recall" tab. Clicking on this link will direct you to detailed information about the recall and provide instructions on how to proceed with your claim. Whether you choose to call or visit the website, the goal is to get official instructions on obtaining a free replacement trimmer or polesaw. MTD Southwest is providing these replacements as their primary remedy for this specific safety defect. Please do not attempt to fix the issue yourself by trying to repair the throttle mechanism or replace parts. This recall involves a fundamental design flaw in the head rotation control, and unauthorized repairs may not address the core hazard or could void any warranty protections. By sticking to the official remedy provided by MTD Southwest, you ensure that the replacement unit is certified safe for use. Take your time to gather your product details, whether it is the red and black Troy-Bilt or Craftsman trimmer, or the orange and black Remington polesaw, and reach out through one of the official channels mentioned above as soon as possible.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your trimmer or polesaw is part of this recall, the good news is that MTD Southwest has established a clear and accessible remedy to resolve the issue. You do not need to navigate complex paperwork or wait for a mailed check in the mail. Instead, the company has opted for a direct replacement program designed to get you back to work safely as quickly as possible. Specifically, consumers are entitled to obtain a free replacement trimmer or polesaw. This means that rather than offering a partial refund or asking you to repair the defective component yourself, MTD Southwest is taking full responsibility for the safety defect by providing a new, functioning unit at no cost to you.
To initiate this process, you will need to contact MTD Southwest directly. The manufacturer has provided a dedicated toll-free number for recall inquiries: 888-848-6038. This line is staffed during standard business hours, specifically from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Calling this number is the most direct way to speak with a representative who can verify your serial number, confirm the eligibility of your specific model, and arrange for the shipment of your replacement unit. It is advisable to have your product’s model and serial numbers ready before you call, as these will be required to process your claim efficiently.
If you prefer to handle this online or need additional documentation, MTD Southwest has also set up a digital pathway for assistance. You can visit their official website at www.mtdproducts.com. Once on the homepage, look carefully at the bottom of the page for the "Product Recall" tab. Clicking this link will direct you to the specific recall information and likely provide further instructions or forms to complete the request for your free replacement. Using the online portal can be helpful if you need to review the details at your own pace or if you are unable to call during business hours.
It is important to understand why this remedy is structured this way. The defect involves a mechanical failure where the cutting head continues to rotate even after the throttle is released. This is not a minor cosmetic issue or a simple software glitch that can be fixed with a patch; it is a fundamental safety hazard that requires a complete unit swap to ensure your safety. By providing a free replacement, MTD Southwest ensures that you are not left with a dangerous tool while waiting for parts, nor are they asking you to incur the cost of buying a new machine yourself. Simply stop using the recalled item immediately and reach out through the channels above to secure your replacement.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is entirely understandable why a homeowner might hesitate to stop using a piece of equipment that has become part of their daily routine. Perhaps the trimmer is sitting in the garage because the weather turned cold, or maybe you are in the middle of a yard maintenance project and feel that finishing the job is more important than pausing to call a customer service line. This instinct to push through can be dangerous when dealing with mechanical failures, particularly those involving high-speed rotating parts. The core issue with these recalled MTD Southwest trimmers and polesaws is not just that they are broken; it is that they are unpredictably active. When you pull the trigger on a gas-powered tool, you expect the blade or string head to spin at high velocity. When you release the throttle to stop the engine, you expect immediate silence and stillness. The defect described in this recall shatters that expectation.
If you continue to use these units despite knowing about the potential flaw, you are risking a laceration hazard that can result in serious physical injury. Because the head can continue to rotate even after the throttle is released, the tool retains kinetic energy long after you believe it has stopped. This creates a false sense of security. You might set the tool down on the grass, lean against it for a break, or attempt to clear debris from around the head, believing it is dormant. If the throttle mechanism fails to disengage properly, the trimmer line or saw blade remains a spinning projectile. Contact with this moving part can cause deep cuts, tendon damage, or other lacerations that may require medical attention and stitches. The severity of these injuries depends on the speed of the rotation and what it contacts—whether it is your leg, hand, or an object nearby—but the risk is inherent in the design flaw.
It is important to note that, according to the current reports from the CPSC, there have been no incidents or injuries reported for this specific recall. While this lack of reported harm might tempt you to think the risk is minimal or theoretical, it does not mean the hazard is absent. In product safety, "no reported incidents" often reflects early stages of a recall rather than proof of safety. The defect is mechanical and consistent; if the throttle linkage fails on one unit, it can fail on another under similar conditions. Ignoring the recall means gambling with your physical well-being based on the assumption that you will be lucky enough to never encounter the failure at the wrong moment. There is no way to predict when the mechanism will stick or fail to disengage during use.
Beyond the immediate risk of personal injury, ignoring the recall also exposes you to potential liability issues. If an unreported injury occurs because you continued to use a known defective product, it can complicate any future insurance claims or legal recourse. More practically, it undermines the purpose of the free remedy offered by the manufacturer. MTD Southwest is providing a replacement unit at no cost to ensure your safety and restore the functionality of your tool. By waiting, you are not saving money or time; you are simply extending the window during which you could be injured. The consequence of inaction is not just a broken tool that needs repair—it is an unnecessary exposure to a preventable physical danger.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a mechanical flaw in certain MTD Southwest trimmers and polesaws, the underlying issue—a cutting head that continues to spin after the throttle is released—highlights a critical safety principle for all gas-powered outdoor equipment: proper maintenance is your first line of defense. These tools rely on complex carburetor systems where fuel flow must be precisely regulated. Over time, varnish from old gasoline or debris can cause internal components to stick, leading to the exact "runaway" behavior described in this recall. To prevent similar hazards with your own gear, make it a habit to use fresh, stabilized fuel and run your engine dry before long-term storage. This simple step prevents the formation of gummy deposits that can interfere with throttle linkages and idle circuits, ensuring the tool stops exactly when you expect it to.
Beyond mechanical upkeep, safe operation requires strict adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) and environmental awareness. When using any rotating cutter, always wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect against flying debris, along with heavy-duty gloves and long pants to minimize the risk of lacerations from accidental contact. It is also vital to maintain a clear work zone; ensure that no bystanders, especially children or pets, are within a two-zone radius (approximately 15 feet) of your operation. If you notice any unusual vibrations, sounds, or delays in the engine responding to throttle inputs, shut the tool off immediately and do not attempt to use it until it has been inspected by a qualified technician. Ignoring early warning signs can turn a minor maintenance issue into a serious injury.
Finally, proactive vigilance is key to long-term safety. Regularly check your equipment for wear and tear, particularly on control cables, triggers, and safety guards. Ensure that all safety features, such as chain brakes or blade guards, are functioning correctly before each use. Additionally, stay informed about product safety by signing up for recall alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and visiting their website periodically. Manufacturers may issue updates or safety bulletins for older models that were not part of a public recall but still pose risks. By treating your power tools with respect and maintaining them diligently, you ensure that they remain helpful allies in your yard work rather than potential hazards.