03 · Concrete Equipment

Power Trowel

Also called Concrete trowel · Helicopter · Power float · Walk-behind trowel

A walk-behind machine with rotating blades that gives concrete slabs a smooth, dense, level finish.

Petrol engine

Sizes & models we rent

36"Walk-behind46"Covers more floor per pass
View in the rental catalogue ↗Compare →

Overview

A power trowel gives flat areas of concrete a smooth, dense and level surface.

Under the machine are one or two sets of adjustable steel blades. They usually turn at about 150 rpm to smooth concrete that has almost set.

The engine sits at the centre of gravity above the blades, which makes the machine more stable and balanced.

Choosing a size: there are no set rules, but job size is a good guide. 24″ and 30″ machines suit garages, small shed slabs, stipple-finish driveways and pathways, and dedicated edging on industrial work.

34″, 36″ and 40″ machines suit house slabs, large shed slabs, commercial factories and high-rise flatwork.

46″ machines are the biggest walk-behind trowels, used on large commercial slabs and warehouses. They give a flatter finish and are great for a burnt (burnished) finish.

Best uses

  • Garage, shed and house slabs
  • Commercial and warehouse floors
  • Burnished (burnt) finishes
  • Edging on large industrial pours

Troubleshooting

Machine pulls to one side or is hard to control

Checks to try, in order

  1. The concrete may still be too wet. Wait and test again.
  2. Check all blades are set to the same pitch.
  3. Worn or bent blades cause uneven pull.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Leaves swirl marks, burns or gouges

Checks to try, in order

  1. Too much pitch too early — flatten the blades.
  2. Keep the machine moving. Don't let it dwell in one spot.
  3. Use float pans on the first pass if the surface is still soft.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Engine won't startShared · Petrol engine

Likely causes

  • Fuel valve or switch off
  • Stale fuel
  • Low oil sensor
  • Choke position
  • Spark plug cap loose

Checks to try, in order

  1. Turn the fuel valve ON and the engine switch to ON.
  2. Cold engine: close the choke. Warm engine: leave the choke open.
  3. Check there is fresh petrol in the tank — stale or water-contaminated fuel is the most common cause.
  4. Check the engine oil. Many engines have a low-oil shutdown that stops them starting when oil is low or the machine is on a slope — top up and set the machine on level ground.
  5. Make sure the spark plug cap is pushed fully onto the plug.
  6. Pull the starter rope with a smooth, firm pull — don't let it snap back.

If the starter rope is locked or unusually hard to pull, stop — don't force it. Tag the unit and return it to the workshop.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Starts, then stalls or runs roughShared · Petrol engine

Likely causes

  • Choke left on
  • Blocked air filter
  • Low fuel
  • Low-oil shutdown

Checks to try, in order

  1. Open the choke gradually once the engine has warmed up.
  2. Check the fuel level and that the fuel cap vent isn't blocked.
  3. Check the air filter — a dusty filter chokes the engine. Tap it out or swap it.
  4. Check the oil level again; the low-oil sensor can cut the engine on uneven ground.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Smell of fuel or a visible leakShared · Petrol engine

Checks to try, in order

  1. Switch the engine off immediately and move away any ignition sources.
  2. Turn the fuel valve OFF.
  3. Check the fuel cap is seated and look for a wet fuel line or carburettor bowl.

Don't run a machine that is leaking fuel. Tag it out and report it.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

  • Keep both hands on the handle. Know where the kill switch is and test it before you start.
  • No loose clothing near the rotating guard ring.

For petrol engine

  • Refuel only with the engine off and cool. No smoking or open flames nearby.
  • Exhaust contains carbon monoxide — never run it indoors, in trenches or in enclosed spaces without ventilation.
  • Wear hearing protection, safety glasses and safety boots.

Videos & links

Related equipment

All Concrete Equipment →

Always follow the manufacturer’s manual and site safety rules. Favourites and viewing history are stored on this device.