Stihl FS 310 Bike Handle Trimmer/Brushcutter ignition-module vibration laceration hazard (CPSC December 16, 2010, Alert 11-711)

## Affected machines This bulletin covers the Stihl **FS 310 Bike Handle Trimmer/Brushcutter** sold at authorized Stihl dealers nationwide from **June 2009 through April 2010** for about $550. The recalled unit has "STIHL" printed on the engine head and "FS 310" printed on the shaft and on the flywheel housing below the starter grip. ### Affected serial-number ranges Two ranges: - 27961 1030 through 27961 1119 - 27984 3607 through 27984 4556 The serial number is on an adhesive label affixed to the bottom of the fuel tank and etched into the metal frame on the bottom of the engine. US units in scope: **~1,000**. ## Issue **Vibration from the ignition module** can transfer to the trimmer head mounting and cause the trimmer head to **loosen and detach** from the mount during operation. A detached trimmer head spinning at operational RPM is a laceration hazard. Reported field incidents at time of recall: - 3 reports of incidents - 0 injuries ## What to do 1. Verify the model number on the shaft and on the flywheel housing below the starter grip. 2. Check the serial number against the two ranges above. 3. If the unit is in scope, **stop using it immediately**. 4. Take it to an authorized Stihl dealer for **free installation of a replacement ignition module**. 5. Contact Stihl Inc. at (800) 610-6677 or email stihlrecall@stihl.us with questions. Stihl mailed direct notification letters to registered purchasers after April 15, 2010. ## Hazard Severity is rated **warning** based on the small affected population (~1,000 units), low incident count (3), and zero injuries. The remedy is a free dealer-installed ignition module replacement. ## Source - U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, "Trimmers/Brushcutters Recalled by STIHL Incorporated Due to Injury Hazard," Recall Alert 11-711, December 16, 2010. - Stihl FS 310 recall reference: https://www.stihlusa.com/safety/recalls/