There’s more to using Cub Cadet’s BB230 Blower than pulling the starter cord and aiming the outlet at lawn debris. From fueling up to shutting down, these tips will help you use this tool safely and efficiently.
Safety
The engine and impeller are loud enough to cause permanent hearing damage. Always wear hearing protection when using this blower.
Debris moved by the blower pose a serious safety hazard for both the operator and bystanders. Always wear safety glasses that meet ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards along with boots, a long sleeve shirt and full length pants when operating the blower. Keep people and animals at least 50 feet (15 m) away while working.
Check the blower for loose parts and debris build-up before using, particularly around the air intake and muffler.
Fueling
The engine in this blower should be fueled using a 50:1 fuel/oil ratio. Cub Cadet sells 2.6 oz bottles of oil designed for this application: that’s the exact amount needed to get the right ratio for one gallon of gasoline. If factory oil isn’t available, use a high quality 2 stroke oil and 0.8 oz (23 ml) of fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL for every gallon of fuel.
Fuel should be mixed in a separate container and added to the fuel tank rather than being mixed directly in the tank.
Gasoline used in this engine should be no more than 30 days old and should contain no more than 10% ethanol (E10.) Gasoline blended with methanol or MTBE can also be used.
Starting
The motor has an On/Off switch mounted to the handle, but it’s always in the “On” position unless the switch is being held down.
1. Slowly press and release the primer bulb at lest 10 times. The engine is primed when fuel is visible inside the bulb.
2. Move the choke lever to Position 1 (|-|.)
3. Turn the cruise control lever clockwise to the “Fast” position.
4. If starting the engine manually, crouch behind the starter rope. Pull the rope 5 times. If you are using the optional electric starter or Power Start bit, press the unit into the slot in the back of the motor and turn on the power for two seconds.
5. Set the choke lever to Position 2 (|\|.)
6. If starting manually, pull the rope three to 5 times. If using the electric starter or power start bit, power the device in 2 second pulses. The engine should start. Let the engine warm up for 30 to 60 seconds.
7. Set the choke lever to Position 3 (|||) and give the motor an additional 60 seconds to warm up before use. If the engine hesitates, set the choke lever back to Position 2 (|\|,) give the engine some more time to warm up, then set the choke to Position 3 (|||) again.
If the engine doesn’t start, repeat this process one time. If it still doesn’t start, set the choke lever to Position 3 (|||) and pull the rope or pulse the bit/starter until the engine starts.
For more information on the electric starter or Power Start bit, check the included manual.
Stopping the Engine
Hold down the On/Off switch on the top of the handle.
Wearing the Blower
To put on the blower, place the shoulder supports over your shoulders so that the engine is on your back. Pull the straps down to tighten the supports.
To take the blower off, shut off the engine, then pull the buckles on the shoulder straps upward to loosen the supports. Slide out of the straps and place the engine on a level surface.
Controlling Engine Speed
Engine speed can be adjusted using the trigger for momentary burst or by adjusting the cruise control lever to hold a steady speed. When the cruise control is engaged, the trigger will recede into the handle. To switch back to trigger control, turn the cruise control lever counter-clockwise to the “Slow” position.
Tips
Always keep a firm grip on the handle and never direct the unit at anyone while it is running to prevent injuries from flying debris. Likewise, avoid aiming the air stream toward open windows and freshly washed vehicles to keep these areas clean.
Blowers are noisy, and the BB230 is no exception. The blower will get louder as engine speeds get higher, so set the throttle just high enough to get the job done. Be a good neighbor and only use the blower during daytime hours; some areas may have local ordinances which restrict when the blower can be used due to noise pollution.
Using a rake or broom to loosen debris will make them much easier to push around with the blower.
Lightly dampening surfaces in dusty conditions will reduce the dust kicked up when using the blower while still making it easy to move debris.
Where to Buy Cub Cadet Parts
www.cubparts.com is a full line OEM dealer of Cub Cadet parts from classic tractors to their latest products like the BB230. Whether you need a hose clamp or an engine, they can ship what you need anywhere in the U.S. and Canada.