Recall of portable generator that amputated 24 fingers is reannounced

Among the biggest news from last week’s recalls is a portable generator that can amputate fingers.

Generac and DR 6500 Watt and 8000 Watt portable generators have caused 37 injuries, 24 resulting in finger amputations and five in finger crushing, according to reports to Generac.

The problem is an unlocked handle can pinch consumers’ fingers against the generator frame when the generator is moved, posing finger amputation and crushing risks.

About 321,160 of the generators were previously recalled in July 2021 in the United States with an additional 4,575 recalled in Canada.

The recall involves 6500-watt and 8000-watt Generac portable generators with unit type numbers XT8000E XT8000EFI, GP6500, GP6500E, and GP8000E, HomeLink 6500E portable generators, and DR models PRO 6500M and PRO 6500E portable generators.

The recall also involves all of the generators listed above purchased after July 29, 2021 through November 3, 2022, containing a repair kit which included full cover handle guards.

The portable generators – which have gasoline-powered engines that are used to generate electricity for use as backup power –  have two-wheels and a single, U-shaped, two-grip, flip-up pin-lock handle to help move the generator.

The unit type is identified on the front of the product. The model and serial numbers are printed on a label on the product.

For unit types and model numbers, click here. Consumers can also check specific unit type, model number, and serial number location information at www.generac.com/service-support/product-support-lookup.

The generators were sold at home improvement and hardware stores nationwide and online, including Ace Hardware, Amazon, Blain’s Farm & Fleet, City Electric Supply, Costco, Do it Best, Fastenal, Home Depot, Lowe’s Stores, Napa Auto Parts, Northern Tool & Equipment, Orgill, Power Equipment Direct, Ravitsky Bros., True Value, and W.W. Grainger from June 2013 through June 2021. The cost was between $790 and $1,480.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled portable generators, unless the locking pin has been inserted to secure the handle in place before and after Moving the generator, the company and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission advise. Consumers need to contact Generac for a free repair kit, which is a set of spacers to move the handle away from the frame, eliminating the pinch point.

For more information, call Generac at 844-242-3493 or visit www.generac.com/handlespacer.