Polaris Industries Inc. Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Loss of Control Hazard

WASHINGTON , D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Model Year 2006 FS Classic, FS Touring, FST Classic, FST Touring and FST Switchback Snowmobiles

Units: About 2,700

Manufacturer: Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Hazard: The right and left front suspension shock towers can separate due to inadequate welding during the manufacturing process. Separation of the welded joints can result in stiffer steering or the shock mount failing suddenly, causing the rider to lose control of the snowmobile and crash.

Incidents/Injuries: Polaris has received eight reports of a failure to the upper shock tower due to the inadequate weld. One incident resulted in the driver losing control of the snowmobile and breaking his collarbone.

Description: Only 2006 model year Polaris snowmobiles are part of this recall. The model and serial number identification decal is located on the right side of the tunnel underneath the seat. The recalled model names and numbers are listed below.

Sold at: Polaris snowmobile dealers nationwide from February 2005 through March 2007 for between $8,400 and $9,900.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using their snowmobile immediately and contact their Polaris dealer to schedule an appointment for a free repair. The dealer will install a kit that will replace the original shock towers with new versions. Polaris has directly notified registered consumers with units involved in this recall.

Consumer Contact: Call Polaris at (800) 765-2747 between 8 a.m. and 12 a.m. ET everyday, or log onto the company's Web site at www.polarisindustries.com