Harbor Freight Tools Recalls Cordless Drills Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239

Drill Master 18-Volt Cordless Drills

Recall Date: December 1st, 2015
Type: Portable Power Drills And Accessories
Units: About 1.7 million units
Hazards: An internal switching mechanism can become stuck in the "on" position and overheat, posing fire and burn hazards.
Remedies: Replace
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled drills and return the unit to the nearest Harbor Freight Tools store to receive a replacement drill.

Description

This recall involves Drill Master 18-volt cordless drills with item number 68239 and item number 68287. The drills are black with a red switch and were sold with an 18 volt rechargeable battery pack. Item number 68239 was sold individually and item number 68287 was sold as part of a kit, which included a flashlight. The flashlight is not included in the recall. The item number is located on a black label on the right side of the drill, just beneath the serial number. Drills with item number 69651 and item number 69652 are not included in the recall.

Images:

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68239

Harbor Freight Drill - Item number 68287

Harbor Freight Drill - Location of Item Numbers

Consumer Contact:

Harbor Freight Tools at 800-444-3353 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or online at www.harborfreight.com and click on Recall Safety Information under Customer Service for more information. Consumers can also email Harbor Freight Tools at [email protected].

Injuries:

Harbor Freight Tools has received 25 reports of the drill switch overheating, including six reports of burns to the hands and fingers, and five reports of minor property damage.

Retailers:

Harbor Freight Tools stores nationwide, Harbor Freight Tools catalog, and online at www.harborfreight.com between May 2011 and September 2015 for about $35 for item number 68239 and $46 for item number 68287.