Makita RBL500 backpack leaf blower, any good?

[normandylumberjack]

Hi Guys and Gals,

 

Has any body got or used one? I have been offered one for 150 euros and am told it just needs a new flexi pipe. Never used a makita, and was after a stihl, but it seems fairly cheap, and may be suitable for me?

 

Should i jump on it, or avoid?

[Le Sanglier]

If it is just the flexipipe I would go for it, Makita have a good rep. Plus blowers don't get the stick that saws and hedge cutters get cos they're not working against anything.

There is no need to be brand snobby on these things (IMO) unless of course you like to keep things....matching.

[normandylumberjack]

Cheers for that, I only wanted a stihl as i have first hand experience with their blowers, anf tbh i would like most of my tools to match, few huskys in their tho!

[Le Sanglier]

Yeah I know, didn't want to sully your collection! I've got a 4mix stihl back pack blower and its no great shakes, I'd swap it for a two stroke Echo tomorrow.

[jpbeaver]

I've got an old rbl500. I'm happy enough with it, it's far better than the hand held stihl I have and was dirt cheap.

[openspaceman]

Hi Guys and Gals,

 

Has any body got or used one? I have been offered one for 150 euros and am told it just needs a new flexi pipe. Never used a makita, and was after a stihl, but it seems fairly cheap, and may be suitable for me?

 

Should i jump on it, or avoid?

 

I have an old one that looks the same as the picture on google and it has been good, I was given it as unclaimed recovered and taped up the tube, replaced the throttle cable and ignition . Over 20 years occasional use and less bulky than the stihl backpacks we have at work. Only other experience I have is the Stihl hand held and it's more powerful and reliable.

[likeitorlumpit]

Hi Guys and Gals,

 

Has any body got or used one? I have been offered one for 150 euros and am told it just needs a new flexi pipe. Never used a makita, and was after a stihl, but it seems fairly cheap, and may be suitable for me?

 

Should i jump on it, or avoid?

 

We used one a few years ago.

Nice and quiet and easy start but I would fit the flexipipe before parting with your cash thinking why hasn't the person selling done that.

Good for grass cuttings and dry leaves. Struggled with the Autumn from memory.

Oh yes- and blue looks out of place on a truck full of orange:001_smile:

[normandylumberjack]

Went and picked her up today, did a bodge with some gaffa tape and some ventilation ducting, and it went well for about 5 mins until the glue on the gaffa tape melted in the searing heat of the day, so pleased that it all otherwise works.

 

Thanks for all the advice chaps, I feel ive done ok on this.