On October 27, 2011 almost 300,000 Harper Trucks, Inc. hand trucks were recalled after multiple injuries were reported due to exploding overinflated tires. The recall was made by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) when 19 people reported injuries by overinflated tires that exploded. The exploding overinflated tires caused the victims broken bones, contusions, lacerations and one victim even lost his eye sight in one eye.
The tires not only explode, but due to the blast, the wheel hub breaks off and/or separates, causing pieces of it to fly about, which could potentially cause injury to bystanders, according to the CPSC.
The following Harper Trucks, Inc. models are affected by the recall:
Model K52K16, with a P Handle and 1-piece, composite wheel
Model JEDKT1935P, with a dual hand/platform truck (convertible) and a 3-piece, four bolt, metal/chorme plated wheel
Model 51K19 with dual handles and a 3-piece, four bolt, metal/chrome plated wheel
Model BKTAK19 with a P handle and a 3-piece, four bolt, metal/chrome plated wheel
Model PGCSK19BLK with a dual hand handle and a 3-piece, four bolt, metal/chrome plated wheel
The model numbers on the Harper Trucks can be found on an adhesive sticker on the trucks frame cross member. The trucks were sold at Home Depot from September 2008 thru March 2009 and at Sam's Club from January 1993 thru January 2002. The recalled trucks cost between $28 and $42.
Any consumers using the affected trucks are recommended, by the CPSC, to stop using them and contact Harper Trucks, Inc immediately at (800)835-4099 or www.harpertrucks.com. Harper Trucks will send you a repair kit at no cost.
