Well my Sears $99.00 gas leaf blower has finally given up its ghost. Can't complain since I had it for about 6 years and didn't really think it would last that long. Need a new one as the leaves are starting to pile up. Thinking of getting the low end Stihl that lists at around $149.00. I have owned their low end weed whacker for at least 12 years and it continues to run strong. Any thoughts on a new blower? Is Stihl still reliable? Thanks for your thoughts and recommendations.