What is blade brake clutch on a lawnmower?
Blade brake clutch (known as BBC) is a feature on petrol lawnmowers that allows you step away from your lawnmower without shutting off the engine. The blade brake clutch disengages the blade and stops it turning, whilst the engine continues to run.
Since 1995 it has been in UK law that lawnmower blades must stop turning when the operator is no longer in control of the mower. This is why all lawnmowers feature operator presence levers, a safety feature which stops the lawnmower when the operator releases the handles.
On many lawnmowers the engine will shut off, but a lawnmower with a blade brake clutch will disengage the blades and stop them rotating but keep the engine running.
What are the benefits of blade brake clutch?
The main benefit of blade brake clutch is that you'll only need to start your engine once each time you use your lawnmower, even if you step away from your lawnmower to move an obstacle
An added benefit is that you can "drive" a self-propelled lawnmower between areas of grass without the blades turning.
A blade brake clutch is especially beneficial if your lawnmower has a recoil start with a pull cord instead of an electric start system.
How does blade brake clutch work?
A clutch between the engine and blade disengages the blades but leaves the engine running, a similar concept to a clutch pedal in a car.
Which lawnmowers feature blade brake clutch?
In 2022 there are many petrol lawnmowers available with a blade brake clutch, including models from Honda and Hayter. Petrol lawnmowers with blade brake clutch include:
Browse all of the Blade Brake Clutch Lawnmowers we supply.
Posted: 21 June 2022