Table Of Contents
What’s the Problem?
The recalled mini-cultivator attachment is 1 of 15 interchangeable attachments to the STIHL KombiMotor KM model powerheads, which are sold separately, according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) [1].
“The gearbox could have mistakenly been installed upside down by the STIHL dealer causing the tines to rotate backward toward the operator, posing a laceration hazard to the user,” CPSC said.
Stihl mini-cultivators have 4 black discs with tines mounted to a gearbox and attached to a metal drive tube with a black deflector. The recalled attachments were assembled by STIHL dealers with the gearbox installed upside down.
The recalled attachments were sold at authorized STIHL servicing dealers nationwide from January 2005 through August 2020 for about $190.
If you purchased a cultivator attachment that is affected by this recall, you should stop using it and take it to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer for a free inspection and proper assembly.
This recall began on September 30, 2020.
What are the Safety Precautions for a Cultivator?
- Locate and make sure you are familiar with all cultivator machine operations and controls.
- Ensure all cultivator guards are fitted, secure, and functional.
- Check for loose/missing nuts, bolts, and screws. Tighten and/or replace as needed.
- Look for signs of damage to tillage tines, and replace if needed.
- Inspect fuel lines, tank and area around carburetor for fuel leaks.
- Watch for material ejected from cultivator. Make sure no person or animal is nearby when operating the machine.
- Adjust the cultivator handles to a position for comfort and good balance.
- Set the tine depth per soil conditions and the user manual.
- Before starting, ensure the cultivator is securely held and is on firm and even ground.
- Keep clear of rotating machine parts while the engine is on.
- Maintain a straight wrist position. Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended or twisted position.
- Be alert for rocks and other obstructions when operating the rotary hoe.
Related Articles:
FAQs
Can I file a lawsuit if my Stihl cultivator attachment malfunctioned but did not cause damage?
You may still be able to file a lawsuit if the defect posed a significant risk of danger or required you to incur costs for repairs or replacements.
What steps should I take if I’ve been injured by a defective Stihl cultivator attachment?
Seek immediate medical attention, document your injuries, preserve any evidence (such as the attachment and medical records), and consult with an attorney to evaluate your legal options.
Are rental or borrowed Stihl cultivator attachments covered under the recall?
Rental or borrowed attachments may be covered under the recall. It’s advisable to check with the rental company or lender to ensure the attachment is inspected and repaired.
See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Do I Have a Stihl Cultivator Attachment Lawsuit?
The Products Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Stihl Cultivator Attachment Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was injured by a recalled cultivator, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.