Honda recalls about 18,500 snowblowers

WASHINGTON - Just as the Northeast continues to dig itself out of a blizzard, Honda is recalling about 18,500 snowblowers whose fuel tanks may leak, posing a fire hazard.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday that the fuel tank joint and O-ring located on the underside of the recalled snowblowers can seep or drip over time. American Honda Motor Co., based in Torrance, Calif., has received 90 reports of leaks, but no reports of  fires.

Snowblowers involved in the recall contain model number HS724 with frame serial number SZBE-1037913 through 1046577; model number HS928 with frame serial number SZAS- 1151080 through 1169012 and model number HS1132 with frame serial number SZBF- 1018734 through 1025998. The model numbers can be found on the side of the front scoop. Frame serial numbers are located on the rear of the snowblower just below the engine.

They were sold nationwide from April 2005 through November 2010 for $2,000 to $3,400.

The CPSC said consumers should stop using the snowblowers immediately and call their Honda Power Equipment dealer to have the parts replaced for free.Combined wire services