What was recalled
In January 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving specific models of tow-behind field and brush mowers. This action was taken by Country Home Products, the manufacturer behind the well-known DR® brand of outdoor power equipment. The company is widely recognized for producing durable tools designed to help homeowners and land managers maintain large properties, but in this instance, a critical defect in their machinery prompted an urgent withdrawal from the market to protect consumer safety.
The recall specifically targets the Pro-XL-44 model of the DR® brand tow-behind field and brush mower. These are not standalone walk-behind units; they are substantial pieces of agricultural-grade equipment designed to be hitched behind a riding lawn mower or an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV). Their primary purpose is to clear acres of thick grass, weeds, and heavy brush that standard mowers cannot handle. The machines in question are visually distinctive, featuring a bold black and orange color scheme that makes them easily identifiable in a field. They are built robustly with two cutting blades and four wheels, spanning a width of 44 inches to cover ground efficiently.
To determine if you own one of the affected units, you must look closely at the engine and the serial number location. The recalled mowers are equipped with an electric start 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. This is a crucial detail because other variants of the DR mower may use different engines and might not be included in this specific recall. You can verify your unit by checking the serial number, which is printed on the rear right corner of the frame, near the engine control panel. The affected serial numbers fall within the range of TB21001001 to TB21002555. If your machine falls outside this numerical sequence, it is likely not part of this particular recall batch.
The recalled units are marked by a large label located directly below the machine's fuel tank. This label clearly reads "DR Field and Brush Mower" and features a round DR logo in the right-hand corner. While Country Home Products did not specify an exact number of units sold in the public record, they noted that they had received ten reports of incidents related to these specific serial ranges. The products were distributed widely as part of their standard retail channels for heavy-duty outdoor equipment. If you have this specific model and serial range, it is vital to recognize that these are not just minor manufacturing quirks but serious safety concerns that require immediate attention.
Understanding the scope of this recall helps clarify why the agency stepped in. This was not a vague warning about a potential future issue; it was a response to confirmed failures in the fuel system. The recall affects a finite set of machines produced during a specific window, identified by the serial number range. By knowing exactly what to look for—the black and orange Pro-XL-44, the Briggs & Stratton engine, and the specific serial numbers—you can quickly assess whether your equipment is part of this safety alert. This precise identification is the first step toward ensuring your property remains safe and that you avoid the risks associated with the defective fuel tank valve.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific mechanical failure within the fuel system of the affected DR® Pro-XL-44 mowers. These machines rely on liquid gasoline to power their 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engines, a standard and generally safe setup for heavy-duty outdoor equipment when functioning correctly. However, in the recalled units, the valve controlling the flow of fuel from the tank has been identified as prone to malfunctioning. This is not merely a small leak; it is a structural issue where the valve fails to hold its seal or position properly under normal operating conditions.
When this valve malfunctions, the integrity of the sealed fuel system is compromised. Specifically, the malfunction causes the fuel tank itself to expand unexpectedly. In engineering terms, fuel tanks are designed to handle specific pressure levels, but a failing valve can disrupt the balance of vapors and liquid within the container. As the tank expands, it forces gasoline in its liquid form, as well as highly flammable gasoline vapors, to escape from the system. This release is not a slow drip that you might notice over time; it is an unexpected and potentially rapid expulsion of fuel.
This physical mechanism creates two distinct and immediate dangers: fire and severe burns. Gasoline vapors are invisible but extremely volatile. When they are released into the air, especially near the hot components of an engine or the exhaust system of a tow-behind mower, they can ignite instantly. Even without an open flame, the heat generated by the engine during operation is often sufficient to trigger combustion of these escaped vapors. This leads to the reported incidents of fires erupting around the machine.
The risk of burn injury is equally serious and direct. If the expanding tank forces liquid gasoline out, it can spray onto hot surfaces or directly onto the operator if they are nearby adjusting or inspecting the mower. Liquid gasoline on skin causes immediate chemical burns and freezes tissues due to rapid evaporation, while simultaneous ignition leads to thermal burns. The fact that this hazard has already resulted in one reported burn injury to a consumer’s hand underscores how quickly a mechanical valve failure can translate into physical harm. It is not just about property damage; it is about the unpredictable nature of fuel escaping under pressure near high-heat machinery.
Understanding this helps explain why the remedy is so urgent. You cannot simply tighten a screw or wait for the part to "settle." The valve failure is an active defect that will continue to release hazardous materials every time the machine is used. For users who operate these mowers to clear acres of thick brush, the environment is often dry and filled with combustible plant matter. Adding an uncontrolled source of fuel and potential ignition to that mix significantly amplifies the risk beyond just the operator, potentially spreading fire to the surrounding landscape. The malfunction is inherent to the design of this specific valve model, meaning it will not resolve itself with normal use.
Who is most at risk
Understanding who is most vulnerable to this recall begins with looking at the specific environment in which these mowers operate. The DR® Pro-XL-44 is not a typical residential lawn mower found in a suburban garage for trimming edges. It is a heavy-duty, tow-behind field and brush mower designed to clear acres of thick grass, weeds, and brush. This means the individuals at highest risk are not casual weekend gardeners, but rather property owners, farmers, or landscaping professionals who use riding mowers or ATVs to manage large, overgrown plots of land. These users often work in remote areas where vegetation is dense and uneven, requiring them to push through tough conditions that put significant stress on the equipment’s components.
The primary hazard involves the fuel tank valve malfunctioning, which causes the tank to expand and release gasoline liquid or vapors unexpectedly. For the operator of the vehicle towing this mower, the risk is immediate and severe. Because the mower is towed behind a moving machine, the user is often seated in the cab of a tractor or ATV, potentially at a distance from the source of the leak until it is too late. The release of gasoline vapors creates an invisible cloud of flammable gas around the machinery. If this vapor comes into contact with any ignition source—such as the hot exhaust system of the towing vehicle, sparks from the mower’s own electric start engine, or even static electricity—the result can be a sudden, intense fire. This is particularly dangerous for operators who may be wearing synthetic clothing that can melt to skin in the event of a flash fire.
Among all potential users, those with reduced mobility or slower reaction times are at the greatest peril. While the recall does not explicitly segment demographics by age, the nature of the hazard—sudden fuel expulsion and fire—disproportionately affects individuals who might struggle to escape quickly. For elderly users, who may comprise a significant portion of rural property owners managing their own land, the physical ability to jump off a moving ATV or tractor in an emergency is limited. A burn injury, such as the one reported to the manufacturer involving a consumer’s hand, can be catastrophic for someone with slower healing times or pre-existing health conditions.
Furthermore, there is a secondary risk to bystanders. Field and brush mowing often occurs during daylight hours when neighbors, family members, or workers might be nearby. The unexpected release of flammable vapors does not stay contained within the machine; it drifts. Therefore, anyone standing downwind of the mower or the towing vehicle is at risk of ignition. This includes children who might be playing on the property or other adults assisting with yard work. The combination of heavy machinery, flammable fuels, and thick brush creates a high-consequence scenario where a single mechanical failure can lead to serious injury or property damage for everyone in the immediate vicinity.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your equipment is part of this specific recall requires a careful inspection of several distinct physical characteristics and documentation details. Because Country Home Products manufactures the DR® brand line of tow-behind field and brush mowers, the first step is to confirm that you are looking at a DR model, specifically the Pro-XL-44. This is not a general recall affecting all Country Home Products items, so it is crucial to verify the exact model designation before proceeding with any further checks.
The most definitive way to confirm if your mower is affected is by locating and reading the serial number. You should look toward the rear right corner of the machine’s frame, specifically near the engine control panel. The serial number is printed directly on the metal frame in this location. For this recall, the affected units have serial numbers falling within the range of TB21001001 to TB21002555. If your serial number falls outside this specific numerical window, your unit is not part of this particular safety notice. It is important to note that while other DR mowers may look similar, only those within this precise serial number bracket are subject to the remedy offered by the manufacturer.
In addition to the serial number, you can identify the recalled mowers through their visual and structural features. The affected units are characterized by a black and orange color scheme. They are 44 inches wide and feature two blades and four wheels. These mowers are designed to be towed behind a riding mower or an ATV to clear thick grass and brush, rather than being walk-behind push mowers. Underneath the machine’s fuel tank, there is a large label that clearly reads "DR Field and Brush Mower." Additionally, you should look for a round DR logo positioned in the right-hand corner of this label. These visual cues can help you quickly narrow down your search if you are unsure about the model.
Finally, verify the engine specifications. The recalled mowers are equipped with an electric start 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. If your unit has a different engine type or horsepower rating, it is likely not included in this recall. By cross-referencing the serial number range with these physical descriptions—black and orange finish, 44-inch width, two blades, four wheels, and the specific label placement—you can confidently determine whether your equipment requires immediate attention.
What to do — step by step
If you own a tow-behind field and brush mower that matches the description above, your immediate priority is safety, not finishing your landscaping job. The hazard involved here—gasoline leaking or vaporizing due to a faulty tank valve—is serious enough to cause fires and burns. Therefore, the very first thing you must do is stop using the equipment entirely. Do not attempt to mow another patch of brush, do not tow it behind your ATV, and do not try to start the engine to "test" it. Even if the mower appears to be working perfectly right now, the malfunction can happen unexpectedly at any moment. Treat the machine as if it is already leaking fuel until you have confirmed otherwise with the manufacturer.
Once you have secured the equipment in a safe location away from your home or other structures, you need to initiate the repair process. Country Home Products has established a specific remedy for this recall: they are providing a free repair kit to all registered owners. To get this kit, you must contact them directly. You have three convenient ways to reach their support team, and you should choose whichever method feels most comfortable for you.
- Call the toll-free number: Dial 877-271-5677. This line is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Speaking to a representative can be helpful if you have questions about your specific serial number or need clarification on the repair process.
- Send an email: If you prefer written communication or need to provide detailed information about your unit, you can email tbmrecall@chp.com. Be sure to include your name, contact information, and the serial number of your mower in this message.
- Visit the website: Go to www.DRPower.com and scroll to the bottom of the page to click on "Product Recalls." This online portal should provide additional instructions and forms to streamline the process.
When you contact them, have your serial number ready. As noted in the product description, this number is printed on the rear right corner of the frame, near the engine control panel. It will fall somewhere between TB21001001 and TB21002555 for the recalled units. Providing this exact number helps them verify that your specific machine is part of this recall batch.
After you have contacted Country Home Products, they will arrange for a free repair kit to be sent to you. Once the kit arrives, do not attempt to install it yourself unless the instructions explicitly guide you through safe DIY steps. The remedy states that you should "schedule a free repair from a dealer." This means the manufacturer will likely direct you to an authorized service center where trained technicians can properly install the new valve components. Having a professional handle this ensures that the fuel tank is sealed correctly and that the fire hazard is fully eliminated. Do not rush this process; taking the time to get the official fix is the only way to ensure your equipment is safe for future use.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Country Home Products DR® Pro-XL-44 field and brush mowers, the good news is that a clear and cost-free remedy has been established to address the safety concern. You do not need to worry about paying for parts, labor, or shipping to resolve this issue. The manufacturer, Country Home Products, has committed to providing a complete repair at no charge to you. This means that the financial burden of correcting the defective fuel tank valve is entirely on them, allowing you to focus solely on getting your machine back in working order safely.
The specific remedy involves scheduling a free repair through an authorized dealer. Country Home Products is taking a proactive step by sending a specialized repair kit directly to all registered owners. This approach is designed to streamline the process for you, ensuring that the correct components are available before you even visit the service center. However, because the repair must be performed by a qualified technician to ensure the fix is safe and effective, you cannot simply install the part yourself at home. Instead, your next step is to contact Country Home Products to schedule this appointment. They will coordinate with a local dealer who has access to the necessary repair kit and the expertise to install it correctly.
To initiate this process, you can reach out to Country Home Products through several convenient channels. You may call their toll-free number at 877-271-5677 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you can send an email to tbmrecall@chp.com. Additionally, you can visit their website at www.DRPower.com and navigate to the "Product Recalls" section located at the bottom of the page for further details and assistance. When you contact them, be prepared to provide your serial number (which falls between TB21001001 and TB21002555) to confirm that your specific unit is included in this recall.
It is important to note that the recall notice does not mention a full refund or a direct replacement with a new mower as an option. The primary remedy offered is the repair of the existing machine via the dealer network. Therefore, if you prefer not to have your current mower repaired, you would need to discuss alternative arrangements directly with Country Home Products, though the standard path forward is the free dealer repair. Until that repair is completed, please remember to stop using the mower immediately, as continuing to operate it poses a significant fire and burn risk due to the potential for fuel leaks.
By taking advantage of this free repair program, you are ensuring that your equipment remains safe to use while avoiding the danger of gasoline vapors or liquid releases. The company’s decision to send kits to registered owners suggests they aim to minimize wait times, but prompt action on your part is still recommended. Once the dealer installs the repair kit, your mower should be safe to resume normal operation for clearing thick grass and brush behind your riding mower or ATV.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your equipment. You have likely invested significant time and money into maintaining your yard, and the prospect of pausing your work to deal with a recall feels like an unnecessary interruption. However, ignoring this specific warning from Country Home Products carries consequences that extend far beyond a simple inconvenience or a minor repair bill. The core issue here is not just mechanical failure; it is a fundamental breach of safety regarding how fuel is contained and managed under load. When you continue to operate the recalled DR Pro-XL-44 mower, you are allowing a known defect to persist in an environment that is already prone to high heat and ignition sources.
The hazard stems from the fuel tank valve’s ability to malfunction, causing the tank to expand unexpectedly. In practical terms, this means that gasoline liquid or hazardous vapors can escape without warning. This is particularly dangerous because field and brush mowers are designed to cut through thick vegetation, a process that generates substantial friction and heat in the engine and cutting blades. When you add an expanding fuel tank that may leak volatile hydrocarbons directly into this hot operational zone, the risk of ignition skyrockets. Gasoline vapors are invisible but highly flammable; once they escape the tank due to the valve malfunction, they can easily find a spark from the engine’s electrical components or the extreme heat of the exhaust system.
This is not merely theoretical risk. The manufacturer has already documented ten separate reports of fires associated with this specific defect. More concerning still is the report of a consumer suffering a burn injury to their hand. While one injury may seem like an isolated incident, it serves as a stark indicator of the physical reality of these failures. When a fuel tank expands and ruptures or leaks during operation, the escaping liquid can soak clothing or skin, especially if you are standing close to the machine while guiding it. If that soaked material ignites, the result is immediate and severe thermal injury.
Furthermore, consider the setting in which these mowers are typically used. They are towed behind ATVs or riding mowers to clear acres of land, often in areas with dry brush, tall grass, or accumulated debris. A fire starting at the mower’s fuel tank can rapidly spread to the surrounding vegetation, potentially leading to an uncontrolled brush fire that threatens not only your property but also neighboring homes and natural habitats. By ignoring the recall, you are not just risking your own safety; you are introducing a significant environmental hazard into your work area. The remedy is straightforward—a free repair kit—but the cost of inaction is measured in potential burns, property loss, and the spread of fire that could have been prevented with a simple valve fix.
Staying safe: broader tips
When you are dealing with heavy-duty outdoor power equipment like tow-behind mowers, understanding the mechanics of fuel systems is just as important as knowing how to operate the blades. The primary danger in these situations often stems from the volatility of gasoline itself. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can settle in low-lying areas or around the engine block, creating an invisible ignition source. To mitigate this risk, always ensure your equipment is on a level, stable surface when refueling or performing any maintenance. This prevents fuel from spilling into hot engine components, which can instantly vaporize and cause a flash fire. It is also wise to allow the engine to cool down for at least fifteen minutes before adding fuel; a cold tank reduces the pressure inside and minimizes the chance of overflow during the fill process.
Maintenance is your first line of defense against mechanical failures that lead to hazardous leaks. Regularly inspect all fuel lines, connections, and the fuel tank valve for signs of wear, cracking, or looseness. Over time, vibration from the engine can cause fittings to back out, leading to the kind of expansion and release described in recent safety alerts. If you notice a strong smell of gasoline while the machine is running, shut it off immediately and investigate. Do not attempt to tighten connections while the engine is hot or running. Instead, let the equipment cool completely, then check that all clamps are secure and that no hoses are brittle or deteriorated. Replacing worn seals and lines proactively can prevent the catastrophic failures that turn a minor leak into a major fire hazard.
Finally, cultivate a habit of staying informed about the safety status of your tools. Manufacturers issue recalls not because they want to cause inconvenience, but because they have identified a flaw that could lead to serious injury or property damage. Sign up for email notifications from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and register your equipment directly with the manufacturer after purchase. This ensures you receive immediate alerts if a safety defect is discovered in your specific model. Additionally, consider keeping a basic fire extinguisher rated for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) fires in your shed or garage where these machines are stored. Knowing how to use one and having it accessible provides a critical buffer in the event of an emergency, giving you time to react before a small spark escalates into an uncontrollable blaze.