Echo has put a lot of effort into designing and manufacturing a series of quieter gas blowers. I was impressed with the noise levels made by the 260 models employing a 25.4 cc engine. But, I am stunned that they have been able to do it again with this much more powerful version of their backpack blowers. In fact the PB 460 Echo backpack blower only makes 65db of sound using a 44 cc engine and for this reason it must be the quietest on the block. This is precisely the same level as the less powerful 260 version. The PB 460 uses particular noise attenuation mechanisms to reduce the noise down to this remarkable level. Even at full throttle it still makes only the same amount of sound. It makes this model very suitable for neighborhoods where keeping the noise down is very desirable. Even so, you need to check your local regulations to make sure that this machine agrees with the law.
As for capability: the 44 cc two stroke engine creates an air speed of 175 MPH. This is comparable to the STIHL 420 blower which gives roughly the same air peed but with a much more hefty 56.5 cc engine. Air speed is good if you want to be able to blow heavier pieces of debris or break up matted sticky, wet leaves and piles of damp grass clippings. The volume of air moved is 380 CFM. This is measured at the tip of the tube. This quantity of air is less than the STIHL 380 model which produces 465 CFM. But, the engine in the Echo is littler than the 56.5cc of the STIHL model. You should consequently expect it to be less able to keep the debris moving and a bit more difficult to deal with further way leaves that need blowing.
As with all Echo products this blower uses the easy start pro fire ignition system. There is a cold start position on the choke assembly and a pump primer bulb to get the fuel flowing. It should start within 5 short pulls of the recoil starter handle. The electronic ignition system makes starting this blower very easy. It has a 1.9 Liter transparent fuel tank which has to be filled with a standard 50:1 2 stroke mixture of gas and oil. It has a heavy duty automotive style air filter which is easy to change and stops dirt and blowing debris from getting into the engine.
As far as ergonomics, this blower has a padded backrest and shoulder straps that are easy to adjust. The design of the frame also helps with comfort, as it is actually a light weight roll cage which is made from durable high impact plastic. This also makes servicing the machine easier as getting to the main parts is easy compared to other backpack blowers. The overall weight of the tool is 26.4 lbs and so it could start to feel a little heavy if you work with it for long periods of time. There is a hip mounted throttle control for simple and easy to get to operation.
This is a professional level backpack leaf blower that has a light weight and quiet operation. It has a reduced noise output and creates a high air speed that will easily cope with most leaf and grass clear ups. If you are looking for a blower that is comfortable to use and has the power to do most tasks then you absolutely should consider the PB 460.
A leaf blower is for working and not resting in the corner of your garage broken or useless. Making the right choice is therefore important. For full details on leaf blower choices and the ratings that are important you should take a look at TJS Vincent’s web site. You should then be able to choose your leaf blower with confidence Echo backpack Blower
Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Gardening Articles Via RSS!
