About 480,000 Briggs & Stratton snow-thrower engines are being recalled because they pose a fire hazard to users, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said Monday.

Excess fuel can overflow into the carburetor and catch fire during use, the CPSC said. The company has learned of 48 engines of fire, including one report of minor property damage.

The recall applies to the Briggs & Stratton OHV engines with the model numbers 12, 15, 20, or 21, and a date of manufacture code between 000601xx and 070301xx. The engines were installed in the Ariens, Canadiana, Craftsmen, Frontier Equipment, Husqvarna, Poulan Pro, Simplicity and Snapper machines.

The snow throwers were sold from June 2000 through February 2007 for between $630 and $2,350 US each.

Consumers should contact the company for a free repair.

Recall notice

Company website