MSA issues recall for Auto-Belay and Redpoint descenders
MSA recently became aware of two incidents where climbers using the Redpoint Descender experienced a rapid rate of descent -- one of which occurred in Boulder, Colo. The company's initial investigation indicates that under certain conditions the model of one-way bearing used in the descenders may not operate as intended and can result in the brakes not engaging during descent.
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MSA recently became aware of two incidents where climbers using the Redpoint Descender experienced a rapid rate of descent — one of which occurred in Boulder, Colo. (click here to read our story).
The company’s initial investigation indicates that under certain conditions the model of one-way bearing used in the descenders may not operate as intended and can result in the brakes not engaging during descent.
The one-way bearing in question was used on Redpoint Descenders manufactured from August 27, 2004 through April 6, 2005. It was also installed on certain Redpoint and Auto-Belay Descenders serviced during this time period. This notice is being issued to customers who may have these units.
Not all Redpoint or Auto-Belay descenders are affected by this recall. Only those manufactured and/or serviced as indicated below are subject to the recall:
Redpointâ„¢ Descenders manufactured or serviced from August 27,
2004 through April 6, 2005. Part Numbers 10024873, 10027646,
10027798Auto-Belay Descenders serviced between August 27, 2004 and
April 6, 2005. Part Number 10021806
The part number, date of manufacture, and the date of the last factory service of the unit can be found on the white date of manufacture label affixed to the back of the descender’s housing.
MSA is asking customers to immediately remove all affected descenders from service and return them to MSA for installation of a new one-way bearing. Call MSA Customer Service at 800-MSA-2222 to make arrangements for the return and repair of the affected descenders.
Descenders will be upgraded with a new and different model of one-way bearing and in addition, the annual service will be performed for free.
MSA apologizes for any inconvenience that this recall may cause and has stated the company will make every effort to service and return units as quickly as possible.
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