55,000 Sears Miter Saws To Be Recalled Because Of Blade Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 21, 1980) -- A program to repair approximately 55,000 "Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws" which may pose a laceration hazard to consumers is being conducted by Sears, Roebuck & Company.

Sears is conducting the program voluntarily in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The saws can accommodate several types of blades, including a carbide-tipped blade often used to cut soft metals. Because a carbide-tipped blade is thicker than the original blade provided with the saw, consumers may improperly fasten the carbide blade to the motor shaft, creating the possibility that the saw blade may spin off the saw while in use.

CPSC has been informed of three instances in 1980 in which carbide-tipped blades being used on the saws disengaged while still spinning. One incident resulted in severe facial lacerations to the consumer. No injuries were reported in the other two cases.

The repair program applies to the model 315.23730 and the 315.23731 "Craftsman Motorized Miter Saws." The model numbers can be found on a plate on the saw motor.

The saws have been sold by Sears nationwide from July 1978, through June, 1980, for approximately $200. Consumers immediately should stop using carbide-tipped blades with these saws.

To obtain a free repair kit, complete with installation instructions, consumers should contact their local Sears retail store or call toll-free 800-845-4781.

Anyone wishing to verify the brand name or the model numbers should contact CPSC's toll-free Hotline at 800-638-2772.