Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

As part of my latest OPE Madness,   I've been thinking about a backpack blower. It seemed to me that a handheld would become tiresome on the arm if used for an extended period of time and a backpack would fit the bill. While in HD today I came across an ECHO 40 cc reconditioned blower that was laying on the floor unopened. I never tried one on before and thought, what the heck. Man, I was suprised at the weight and how it felt. I found as I walked around with it that I was bending forward to counter act the weight of the blower. This in itself seems like it would be tiresome.  Now I admit, I'm only 5'4" and 144 lbs, but I'm no weakling. I liked the idea of a backpack blower, but not sure if thats the direction I want to go in now. Any opinions or suggestions as to a lighter machine or alternative are appreciated. I figure at worst if I buy one, I could hook up a dual tube to the back and fly around the neighborhood.

                                                  Thanks,  Kevin

Hi LL. Thanks for the heads up on the parts manual. I just went in and DL'ed the operators manual and sent an E-mail for the parts manual. I got a good deal if the units in one piece, LOL. Another unit like mine went for $184 with shipping on E-bay last night. As long as the parts you need are free, You got an excellent deal at $179. The 145BT was my first choice, until I put the 21 LB Echo on my back at HD. They are the same weight and I felt that was a little too much. At 13 LBS the 125BT should do the job and be more comfortable to work with. I guess we'll find out. Did you get the last part you need for yours yet?
                                                                                               Thanks,   Kevin

Glad to hear you got what you wanted @ the price that's good to you.  I'm sure you will enjoy playing with it. 

eBay is a funky place.

Some things go for a great price when the identical item goes for a lot  more the next day.  I recently won a $250 watch on an $88 bid (free shipping too!).  Go figure.

I think it all depends on who's looking at the time and who's bidding on the item.  Some people just hate to lose and will continue to bid the price up long after the value is gone.

Final blower parts are "scheduled" to arrive Wednesday.  I'll keep you posted.

LL