Recall Of Electric Paint Removers

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 22) --The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Red Devil, Inc., Union, N.J., and Sears, Roebuck & Co., Chicago, today announced a recall of electric paint removers distributed nationwide between May 1 and October 31, 1977, because of a potential shock hazard. This recall was first announced by Red Devil and Sears in November 1977.

The affected model numbers are Sears 44791 and Red Devil 3401, both retailing for about $24. Red Devil and Sears electric paint removers purchased before May 1,1977, are not being recalled.

Red Devil said that a defect was found in the wiring of the electric paint removers. No injuries have been reported, but sale of the paint removers has been stopped. Anyone who bought the product after May 1,1977 but before mid-November 1977 should not use it. Red Devil is recalling approximately 3,500 electric paint removers sold under its own name and distributed through hardware and paint stores. Model number 3401 is imprinted on the plastic handle and the metal housing of the removers.

Close to 5,700 units sold under the Sears name are being recalled by Sears, Roebuck & Co. The Sears model number 44791 is imprinted on the plastic handle. This is the first potential hazard involving this model number in the 20 years Sears has been selling the unit, the company said.

Owners of the affected Red Devil tools can mail them to: Customer Service, Red Devil, Inc., 2400 Vauxhall Rd., Union, N.Y. 07083, (201/688-6900) for repair or replacement and refund of postage.

Customers who bought the affected Sears paint removers should contact their nearest Sears outlet for a full refund.