Everything you have ever needed to know about Leaf Blowers

Petrol machine owners have the reputation of being hardy souls who appreciate the great
outdoors. They also should appreciate that 2-stroke motors respond well to a bit of TLC.
Otherwise the spark plug will get carbonized, the carburettor will tend to flood when you
over-choke it on start-up, and the self-same starting process is being hampered by uncleaned
air and fuel filters. For the best results, follow the manufacturer’s service guide and keep your
machine clean! Check it also regularly for all bolts and screws being secure.
If electing for petrol, you would do well to look into any assistance that the makers give you
on the tricky business of pull-cord starting. Damp days, high altitudes, cold weather and sheer
cussedness can afflict motors and if an easy start system is fitted you may soon be blessing
your choice. Ryobi and GMC are among those who claim to have easier-than-usual starting
arrangements. Or for bigger spenders the Ryobi backpack with electronic starting is very
appealing, although it may not seem macho enough for certain users…
Another critical success factor, to use the jargon, is your accuracy in mixing 2-stroke fuel. A
50 to 1 ratio can be quite tricky to get right and many people dread this chore. Make it easier
on yourself by investing in a proper mixing bottle with the right filling inlets and embossed
measurement levels. Also have any different petrol (and diesel) in your workshop separated
in colour-coordinated cans.
Vacuum blowers have the added complication of a rotor blade to chop up and macerate the
material, and this must be sharp or be replaced.
In addition to you and the machine, think about the terrain and in particular the sensitive
plants near where you are operating. You may want to beautify a garden by removing leaf
fall, but get too close to a delicate shrub with a 300 km/hr blower and you will cause the same
damage as if a hurricane had hit it. Keep clear of plant beds and trunks: better still, use a
blower/vacuum machine turned to suck mode and with an adjustable strength that is turned
down low when in such sensitive areas.
This is one of the best examples of how a light touch is the best one when dealing with leaf
blowers. They are immensely powerful therefore they need to be treated with respect and not
(for example) damaged by working in vacuum on stony ground: or damaging others by
blowing loose shingle into nearby windows or peoples’ faces. So use carefully: follow the
instructions: and get the best results.