CPSC, Makita Announce Angle Grinder And Angle Sander Recall

WASHINGTON, D.C.-In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Makita U.S.A. Inc. of LaMirada, Calif., is recalling approximately 7,500 Makita Angle Grinders and Angle Sanders. If the drive spindle on these power tools breaks during use, the grinder or sanding disc could separate from the tool, injuring consumers using the sanders or damaging the machines.

Makita has received one report of a consumer who injured his arm when the spindle holding the cut-off wheel broke and the cut-off wheel separated from the tool.

Three models of Makita tools are being recalled: Angle Sander (Model 9020L); the seven-inch Angle Grinder (Model 9027L); and the nine-inch Angle Grinder (Model 9029). Hardware stores, tool dealers, and home centers sold the tools nationwide from November 1994 through November 1995. The Angle Sander sold for $269; the seven-inch Angle Grinder sold for $288; and the nine-inch Angle Grinder sold for $294.

Consumers who own one of the recalled angle grinders or angle sanders should immediately stop using the tool and return it to the nearest Makita factory or authorized service center for repair. Makita factories and authorized service centers are listed in the Yellow Pages. For more information about this recall, consumers should call (800) 4-MAKITA.

This recall does not apply to sanders and grinders sold since November 1995 that bear a sticker that says "TYPE 2" on the tool and on the box.