This page may contain affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affliliate commision.
Premium blowers are expected to provide the right mix of power, weight, and ergonomics, and if the product page is to be believed, the Toro PowerPlex 51690 Brushless 40V MAX 480 CFM 150 MPH Cordless Blower has promised a lot. For instance, we find this unit using brushless motors, a handy turbo button, providing excellent CFM and generally beating the competition heavily on paper. However, it is the combination of all factors that matter and then we have to verify these while monitoring Toro’s tall claims about battery life. As we shall see, Toro can’t achieve the best of everything, but it comes mightily close.
⇨ RELATED: Best Partner Leaf Vacuum Mulcher Blower Review
Toro PowerPlex 51690: Main Features
1. Sheer CFM muscle
While most of the products in this price range offer 120mph speeds, this beast can ramp up the brushless motor to produce 150mph without breaking a sweat. In real clearance terms, this means that the unit can produce a powerful 480CFM. While this may not be the highest a blower has ever achieved, the excellent construction ensures that it is more than enough to clean out a yard.
2. Excellent Battery Juice and Charging Speed
Since most of the units these days come with standard 1.5Ah batteries rated at 40V or nearabouts, it is imperative that Toro’s blower live up to its claim of providing an hour of solid service. Obviously, this longevity cannot be expected at top speeds, but we did get close to the medium and low speeds without having any obvious mechanical problems. Charging time, as much as could be verified, also proved to be highly accurate.
Toro PowerPlex 51690 Brushless 40V MAX 480 CFM 150 MPH Cordless Blower
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Voltag: 40V
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Special Feature: Turbo, Cordless
- Air Flow Capacity: 480 Cubic Feet Per Minute
- Included: Blower, T90 Battery, Quick Charger Speed
- Components: Insert Attachment Collar Operators Manual
- Item Weight: 6.2 Pounds
3. Turbo Boost and Speed Lock
While not unique to Toro, turbo boost works especially well with this electric leaf blower because of its very responsive motor. As a result, we found that adjusting the speed even minutely resulted in major changes in response, without there being any obvious signs of lag or unwanted memory. Speed lock, on the other hand, allowed us to maintain the required speed without tiring out our hands.
4. Versatile Attachments
Toro believes in creating a unified space for its various power tools. As a result, its attachments, such as the gutter cleaning kit, would work with other Toro blowers as well, while the attachment ring would fit into other models (to a limited extent). Given that users found these attachments to be highly useful and durable. Investing in even those attachments that don’t come with the tool itself may be a good bargain in the long run.
5. Ergonomic One-handed design
While the unit is far from being the lightest among blowers, it does manage to provide an excellent form factor. This allows users wishing to manage the blower with one hand the ability to operate virtually all the major features without having to tire out both hands at once.
Pros
- Excellent CFM and speed in this price bracket
- Highly responsive motor allows for speed management
- Battery and charging capacities are above average
- One-handed operation possible without any major adjustments
Cons
- Some popular accessories have to be purchased separately.
⇨ RELATED: WORX WG517 Corded Electric Leaf Blower Reviews
People also ask about Toro PowerPlex 51690 on Amazon
Toro PowerPlex 51690 is an all-around, power-packed leaf blower that is convenient and efficient. You have some queries to make regarding the model:
What does this Toro PowerPlex 51690 model weigh?
The overall weight of the Toro PowerPlex 51690 leaf blower is about 8.9 pounds (4.04 kilograms). It has been made so light in order to be easily moved and minimize weariness during extended usage.
How does this blower work with wet leaves?
In fact, The Toro PowerPlex 51690 handles well damp leaves. It has a powerful engine blowing and a strong airflow which can help to dislodge as well as move wet litter. However, never forget that no leaf blowers are meant for heavy or matted foliage or wet leaves. For good performance, ensure the blower is used on slightly damp or dry leaves.
Is there a shoulder strap for this Toro PowerPlex 51690 model?
Absolutely! Shoulder straps can be used with Toro PowerPlex 51690. During long-time activities, it provides extra support and comfort than carrying it by your hand only since the weight of the machine will be spread over your shoulders thereby easing pressure from your arms while lifting up and enhancing control ability. If you need more convenience during purchase you can buy it separately as an accessory.
Can the battery be left on the charger?
A lithium-ion battery is used by Toro PowerPlex 51690, and it is most often safe to leave the battery on the charger. However, Toro recommends that you consult their specifications for charging and storage procedures. Charging beyond what is required may lead to a decrease in its longevity; thus ascertaining that one follows the manufacturer’s guide will ensure the best care for the battery.
Does the battery need to be replaced often? How much does the battery usually cost?
The lifetime of a battery depends on several factors such as usage patterns, charging practices, and overall maintenance. With good care, you can use your Toro PowerPlex 51690’s battery for many years. However, just like any other rechargeable battery, it will eventually reach its end life and require replacement if need be. The price of another cell can vary so it is advisable to go through Toro authorized dealers or check online retailers who sell them to find out prices at present time. Battery costs have become fairly cheaper over recent years with technological advancements compared to past times when they were expensive in general.