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Choosing a Leaf Blower03-01-02 | 16
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Today's market offers a wide array of leaf blowers, and choosing the one that's right for you can be quite a chore. With this in mind, LCM set out to gather information on the most current blower models from several manufacturers. We've also included a sidebar on the current state of the leaf blower banning movement that has been causing headaches for the industry for several years.

Let's kick things off with a look at the latest in leaf blowers...

Husqvarna's latest entry into the market is its 145 BT/BF backpack blower, which features a 175 mph maximum air velocity while weighing in at 19.4 pounds and holding 3.4 pints of fuel at maximum. This model also comes in a slightly more powerful version, the 155 BT/BF, which offers 183 mph air velocity and a 4.2-point fuel capacity, while weighing exactly the same as the 145.

Echo, Inc. is currently promoting its PB-460LN backpack blower, which offers patented sound-attenuating techonology--making it both powerful and less noisy than other blowers. While it features a maximum air speed of 175 mph, it delivers only 65 dB(A) per testing done by the ANSI B-175.2-2000 noise standard. Other design features include patented, flexible, side-mounted, hip-throttle, padded backrest and heavy-duty automotive-type air filter.

Little Wonder/Mantis offers five models of the walk-behind High Output Power Blower, which features height-adjustable ergonomic handles, a computer-balanced steel fan, anti-clog intake, three 10-inch steel hubbed, ball bearing, pneumatic wheels, and a patented adjustable air deflector. It also comes with a 5-year limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship.

John Deere's BP60 backpack model has a maximum air velocity of 201 mph, 517-cfm tube-end air volume and a, 59.2-cc Kawasaki engine. The large 67.6-oz. fuel tank allows for longer run times, and the "pistol type" throttle on the tube provides precise, comfortable control of sweeping force during operation. Padded shoulder straps offer comfort and can be easily adjusted while the blower is on the operator’s back. The BP60 carries a two-year consumer warranty and a one-year commercial warranty

Cub Cadet's BB45 Backpack Blower features a heavy Duty 44.8 cc, two-Cycle Engine, a throttle lock, a dual piston ring, tube-mounted controls and adjustable shoulder straps. It delivers a 180 mph maximum air speed and weighs in at 19.6 pounds. As part of the Cub Cadet Commercial line, this blower is covered by a next-day parts program and a competitive commercial warranty.

Giant Vac's Whisper Jet leaf blowers are designed for performance and durability. They feature one-piece welded-construction housing and uni-body construction that reduces vibration, extends machine life and prevents axle wear. Large inlet openings allow leaves and other debris to pass through, to reduce the number of times the operator has to stop to clear the machine. With six models ranging from 6 to 16 horsepower, Giant Vac claims it is the "industry's most powerful blower."

MacKissic offers the ROLLEEZ Blower, which now comes standard with a pneumatic front wheel that either locks forward or swivels for ease and accessibility when working around shrubs and bushes or when clearing corners or between cars on parking surfaces. It features the Briggs & Stratton INTEK I/C OHV engine and an impeller system engineered with a high-impact polymer that provides high output with less noise and vibration. MacKissic offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturers defects on the impeller and front cover. The ROLLEEZ comes in two models with either 6.5 or 10 horsepower.

Maruyama's BL6700 Blower features a 59.2cc Kawasaki Engine, 700 cfm maximum air volume, and weigh 21.5 pounds including tubes. The BL6700 is maximized for high output, up to 700cfm in air volume. It's available in both right-hand pistol grip style and left-hand frame mounted style throttles.

Buffalo Turbine's new generation of debris blowers provide up to 10,000 CFM at 175+ mph. The Model KB II is a self contained Debris Blower using a 23 horsepower Kohler engine (or optional 20hp Honda engine), turf tire trailer or skid mount, a 12v / 360-degree remote nozzle and throttle control kits. The HURRICANE/PTO is a 3 Point Hitch model requiring 540 RPM and a minimum of 16hp at the PTO. The electric nozzle control and rear roller is standard equipment. Weighing in at 475 lbs., it can be towed by utility vehicles, golf cars, garden tractors, ATVs or any vehicle with an adequate braking system.

The new STIHL BR 420C Magnum is the catalytic muffler version of STIHL’s BR 420 backpack blower. It claims all the features of the BR 420 with the addition of a catalytic converter that "significantly reduces engine exhaust emissions." The BR 420C Magnum features a 56.5 cc engine delivering air speeds of over 170 mph. This blower is also fitted with a heavy-duty filter system that has a self-cleaning, vertical pleated air filter. Additional features include a compensating carburetor for long running times at full power and a shock-absorbing starter handle for easy starting.

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