Metabo has recalled select rat tail angle grinders. The on/off power switch can lock in the “on” position, which can pose a laceration hazard. Metabo is repairing or replacing affected grinders.
There are only about 1100 grinders affected by this recall. The recalled grinders feature rat-tail handles and a braking mechanism.
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Affected 5″, 6″, 7″ grinder model numbers:
- WEPBA 17-125 Quick RT DS
- WEPBA 17-150 Quick RT DS
- WEPB 19-180 RT DS
Affected serial numbers: 70300xxxxx to 70700xxxxx.
The grinders were sold at Industrial, construction, welding supply distributors, including Purvis Industries, WeldStar Co., Pennsylvania Tool Sales and Service, and online at OhioPowerTool.com from April 2017 through October 2017 for about $350.
If your grinder is affected by this recall, stop using it and contact Metabo about how to receive a free repair or replacement tool.
More Info(via US CPSC)
fred says
Despite Metabo’s vaunted reputation for making some of the best electric grinders, I guess that the German’s are not immune to quality issues.
At a $350 sale price it should be a decent tool.
I wonder who the switch OEM was.
BTW – I just looked at current prices for a Cleco pneumatic (current model: 2260AGL-07) like one we used in the shop – and the Metabo is only 40% of the cost.
Stuart says
These things do happen. There aren’t details about how the issue was found. Sometimes tool recalls are proactive, rather than reactive.
For instance, maybe switches were failing in a new tool design being tested, and Metabo thought it prudent to repair or replace other tools built with the same component.
fred says
Yes and companies that do that sort of proactive recall are higher up the list of responsible corporate citizenship than those who replace faulty components only on new production models – telling no one about it – or the real bottom-feeders who do a lot of kicking and screaming replacing dangerous components only after they are forced to do so. Takata airbags come to mind.
Anyway – kudos for Metabo.
Raoul says
Metabo owned by Hitachi. Proactive? Who knows. My old lady complains the Magic Wand button is broke in the on position too but I think that’s a feature.
Ecotek says
Haha. Good one.
RC WARD says
? oops
Blythe says
Most companies have to recall something because the item quits working, metabo has to rein in a tool that won’t take a dang break!