Makita Backpack Blower

When I first got my hands on the Makita EB7660TH Backpack Blower, I was eager to see how it would hold up against the competition. As someone who spends a significant amount of time maintaining large outdoor spaces, I’ve used a fair share of blowers over the years. Right off the bat, I noticed that this blower had a robust build and a series of features that promised ease of use and efficiency.

One of the standout features of this Makita blower is its 75.6 cc commercial-duty 4-stroke engine. The advantage of a 4-stroke engine, especially for someone like me who has dealt with the hassle of mixing fuel and oil in 2-stroke engines, is significant. It simplifies the process, reduces emissions, and in my experience, makes for a cleaner operation overall. This blower has a maximum air speed of 206 mph and an air volume of 706 cubic feet per minute, which is quite impressive and promises to tackle even the most stubborn wet leaves and debris.

Starting up the blower was a breeze, thanks to the mechanical automatic engine decompression. It consistently started on the first or second pull, which is a huge plus in my book. No one wants to waste time yanking on a pull cord endlessly. The padded shoulder straps and back panel were another thoughtful touch. I found the blower comfortable to wear, even during extended periods of use. The heavy-duty anti-vibration mounts also contributed to reducing fatigue, making it easier to handle for longer jobs.

Noise level is often a concern with powerful tools, but the Makita blower manages to keep it at a relatively reasonable 76 dBA, thanks to its large capacity muffler. While it’s not whisper-quiet, it’s certainly less jarring than some of the other blowers I’ve used. I still recommend ear protection, but it’s a step in the right direction for anyone working in noise-sensitive areas.

The blower’s performance in the field was nothing short of impressive. It handled everything from dry leaves to heavier, wet debris without missing a beat. The power delivery was smooth and consistent, and I appreciated the ability to adjust the tube length easily. This made it versatile enough to handle different types of tasks without having to switch tools.

However, there are some areas where the Makita blower falls short. One of the first things I noticed was the quality of some of the smaller components. The jubilee clips and tubing felt a bit subpar, and I had to replace them with higher-quality parts to feel confident in the overall durability of the blower. This is a bit disappointing, considering the price point and Makita’s reputation for quality.

Additionally, the blower could benefit from a chest strap on the harness. During use, I found that the shoulder straps tended to slip, especially when moving around a lot. This issue could be easily solved with a horizontal strap to keep the harness in place. I ended up using a strap from another piece of equipment, but it would be nice if this was included as standard.

Another point of contention is the weight. At 24.1 lbs, the blower is on the heavier side. While the padded straps and back panel help distribute the weight, it’s still something to consider if you’re planning on using it for extended periods. For me, the weight was manageable, but it’s worth noting for those who might have back issues or less upper body strength.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Makita EB7660TH delivers where it counts. Its powerful engine, ease of use, and efficient performance make it a valuable addition to any professional or serious DIY landscaper’s toolkit. The switch to a 4-stroke engine is a game-changer in terms of convenience and environmental impact, and the overall build quality (aside from a few small components) is what I’ve come to expect from Makita.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Makita EB7660TH Backpack Blower to anyone in need of a reliable, powerful, and relatively quiet blower for commercial or large residential use. While it has a few areas that could be improved, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Its performance, comfort, and ease of starting make it a standout choice in the crowded field of outdoor power equipment. If you’re looking for a blower that can handle tough jobs with ease and won’t leave you smelling like a gas station, the Makita EB7660TH is definitely worth considering.