Which same--the Toro or the BD?

Go to Lowe's and purchase a Troy Bilt. You'll be  glad you did. Just $129.00, and super powerful. Of course, it's gas operated so you may not want it. They do have electric Troy Bilt's for less, though. As quick as I fired my blower up, I knew I was going to like it. I use mine for blowing, not mulching, and it is amazing!

I fully agree, I have the Toro Ultra (red) and it's great.  Does a wonderful job at blowing and mulching for an electric blower.  I also have a gas powered blower that does a great job but 90% of the time I use the electric one if power is available.   People must understand that with an electric blower of this amperage, one must use a heavy duty extension cord. to supply enough power to the blower to prevent overheating and sparking as someone mentioned.  I use an extension cord with at least #14 wire. 

is there a chhance that  you forgot to mix the proper ammount of oil with the gas?  The conditon you mention will occur if you don't provide lubrication for the engine.

I bought the Little Wonder 9HP in early Fall 2008. I agree with Edward Burke's praise for the machine. It was so much fun to use it on the leaves I'd come right home from work, change, and get out there. Once its characteristics became familiar, the best technique revealed itself thru trial and error. I'm always mindful of the neighbors and time of day–not to be used early on a weekend morning! It's also easy to blow the leaves too far, such as over the stone wall into the neighbor's yard. Perhaps one item people should be aware of–the 9HP engine (mine's a Robin, or Subaru) takes a huge pull on the starter cord. There's a lot of resistance since the blower fan does not disengage for starting. Also, the track is quite narrow on the tires, the weight is set high, so the whole machine tends to tip towards you with a strong pull on the rope. I'm still thinking about how to rig up something to not allow that to happen. The 5 year warranty is another good point. There's also a 9HP Honda engine model, don't know if that one is easier or same to start. I'm thinking of setting up a leaf blowing duel or game with like-minded enthusaists. Individual and team rounds. Practice sessions. Coaching. Tweaks to the chute. Helmets with radio. Fakes, defense, huddles and strategy. And more.

Jo,

You can find a huge selection at http://www.mowersdirect.com/accessories/blowers.php.  The site carries the leading brands, and you can compare them side-by-side.  Prices are reasonable and you'll actually save by not paying local sales tax.  Good luck with your search.