Electric Train Transformers
CPSC Recall #77-035 - April 14, 1977
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | 77-035 |
| Recall Date | April 14, 1977 |
| Remedy Type | Refund, Replace |
| Units Affected | Approximately 400 |
Product
Electric Train Transformers
Description
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Apr. 15) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today announced the recall of three(3) electric train transformers which fail to comply with federal regulations for electrically- operated toys and are, therefore, banned from sale. The recalled items, all distributed by Boyd Models, Costa Mesa, California, are "Marklin Mini-Club Transformer Model #6727," "Marklin Transformer, Model #6153," and "Marklin Transformer, Model #6667." Model numbers 6667, 6727, and 6153, contain improperly soldered connection and are therefore in violation of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA). All three(3) transformers are constructed of blue plastic. The model number is printed on the metal face plate of these transformers. The toys were distributed nationwide to hobby and toy stores. Model #6727 retailed from $29.95 to $52.95; model #6153 retailed from $38.95 to $54.95; and model #6667 retailed from $31.95 to $39.95. Approximately four hundred(400) units are being recalled. The FHSA requires banned products to be repurchased by the manufacturer, distributor and dealer. Therefore, Boyd Models, in compliance with the FHSA regulations, is asking consumers to return the toys to the place of purchase or directly to the distributor, Boyd Models, 1837 Whittier Avenue, Building(B)-1, Costa Mesa, California 92626 for a full refund including tax and reasonably necessary transportation costs. If the consumer agrees replacement of the product, in place of repurchase, is also possible. The Commission learned of this violation as the result of a nationwide electric toy survey it conducted late last fall. The Commission's Los Angeles Area Office is monitoring the recall.
Hazard
The train transformers fail to comply with federal regulations for electrically- operated toys and are, therefore, banned from sale.
Remedy Instructions
Therefore, Boyd Models, in compliance with the FHSA regulations, is asking consumers to return the toys to the place of purchase or directly to the distributor for a full refund including tax and reasonably necessary transportation costs. If the consumer agrees replacement of the product, in place of repurchase, is also possible.
What Should You Do?
Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Refund, Replace at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly, either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Refund, Replace) at no cost to you.
No, you should stop using the product entirely, not just unplug it. Electric shock and fire hazards in recalled electrical products often involve internal wiring defects, faulty components, or insulation failures that can cause harm even after the product has been off for a period of time. Do not attempt to repair the product yourself. Keep it unplugged and stored safely until you receive the manufacturer's remedy. If the product has already shown signs of overheating, sparking, or discoloration, handle it carefully and consider contacting your local fire department for guidance on safe disposal.
In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.
If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney, parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.