About The Echo PB 260L Backpack Blower
By: Leon Rhodes
The PB 260L model of backpack-style leaf blower was manufactured by Echo Incorporated starting in 2006. At the time it was an affordable alternative to full-size blowers while being more powerful than hand-held units.
If you're considering getting a used Echo PB 260L, or own one that needs some TLC, here are some tips and information you'll need to get it humming again.
Echo PB 260L Blower Specs
| Echo PB 260L | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length | 14.8 in. (37.59 cm) |
| Width | 16.1 in. (40.89 cm) |
| Height | 18.1 in. (45.97 cm) |
| Weight | 14.7 lbs (6.67 kg) |
| Engine Type | Air-cooled 2-stroke |
| Displacement | 25.4 cc |
| Bore | 1.34 in. (34.03 mm) |
| Stroke | 1.1 in. (27.94 mm) |
| Carburetor | Walbro (w/ diaphram) |
| Ignition | Flywheel w/ magneto |
| Spark Plug Type | NGK BPM-8Y (0.26 in. gap) |
| Exhaust | Muffler w/ catalyst |
| Fuel Mixture | 40 to 1 (gas/oil) |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.3 oz. (0.58 Liters) |
| Idle Speed | 2,400 - 3,200 RPM |
| WOT Throttle Speed | 7,000 - 9,000 RPM |
| Max Air Speed | 155 MPH (249 KPH) |
| Loudness | 65 dB @ 50 feet |
PB 260L Starting Procedure
To start your Echo PB 260L leaf blower move the throttle lever to the start position. Make sure the choke is in the 'cold start' position. Press the purge bulb repeatedly until fuel moves through the return(clear) line, and 4-5 times more as per the manufacturer's recommendation.
Next, pull the recoil handle outward until 2/3 of the length of string is visible and return it gently. If the unit didn't start try again. You'll need to re-prime the carburetor with the purge bulb after every 5 pulls.
Once the engine is running return the choke lever to the off position.
To shut off your PB 260L blower move the throttle lever to the "detente" position, wait a moment to settle the idle speed, then move the throttle lever to the off position.
Troubleshooting your PB 260L leaf blower
I find my PB 260L blower to be very durable. Expect to perform routine maintenance on yours once per season and, occasionally, to clean the carburetor but beyond that problems should be minimal.
Troubleshooting Leaf Blowers - If you have issues with your PB 260L that are preventing it from working properly refer to this leaf blower troubleshooting guide for solutions.
Spark Plug for the PB 260L
The PB 260L model of leaf blower uses an NGK BPM-8Y spark plug (BPMR-8Y in Canada). You'll need a t-wrench and a feeler gauge to remove, inspect and replace the spark plug.
Spark plug gap should be set to 0.65mm(0.026 in.). PB 260L spark plug torque should be set to between 130-150 in. lbs.
Is the PB 260L Echo blower any good?
375 cu ft. of airflow from a backpack blower in this price range was a good deal. Replacement parts are still readily available for the PB 260L and, if well maintained, it is still a good blower today.
Where can I get a PB 260L manual?
Echo industries offers a free PB 260L maintenance manual in PDF format online, it's located on their official site at echo-usa.com.
About Echo Chainsaws
The Echo company also makes great chainsaws, among other types of yard equipment. You might like to find out more about them.