Hi Norm

I often use the rake to drag it out into the open or into piles, the only downside being the tines will drag mulch out (especially sugarcane straw mulch).

I have used the 240v ones as well – main problem I have is the same as you – they generally have only single speed motors and suck pebbles and mulch. This petrol one has a paddle under the handle with 5 stops so it will cruise control at the desired speed. I set it at about stop 3 (5000 rpm) and it will pick the leaves off the mulch and even pea gravel with no issue. You really have to ram the nozzle into the ground for it to pickup woodchips and sugarcane is generally matted so it doesn’t touch it.

Sounds stupid that a Ryobi product would be so useful but it is

Luckily I have a spare one for now until I have time to tear into it