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Description
The Forestwest BM11170 self-propelled top dressing spreader is a 7HP petrol topdresser for lawn top dressing, lawn renovation and landscaping on larger Australian properties. Forestwest has tested this machine with dry sand, slightly damp sand, compost, potting mix and soil. Its powered travel system means no tractor or ATV is required for operation. Material condition affects feeding and distribution, so confirm suitability and trial your material before a full application.
The hopper is rated for up to 400kg / approximately 0.33m³, helping reduce refills during larger lawn topdressing and acreage maintenance jobs. The spreading width can be adjusted from approximately 3m to 6m depending on travel speed, material and operating conditions, while material flow can be controlled between 15–30L/min to suit different top dressing applications.
This motorised spreader features 3 forward gears, neutral and reverse, together with differential steering to assist turning and manoeuvring. The spreading mechanism operates independently from the travel drive, allowing material to be spread even while the machine is stationary when required. Electric start provides convenient engine starting for regular use.
Key Features & Benefits
- 400kg / Approx. 0.33m³ Hopper: Carry larger quantities of compatible top dressing material, with fewer refills during lawn and landscaping jobs.
- Self-Propelled Operation: Powered travel makes this a standalone top dressing machine, with no tractor, ATV or tow vehicle required for normal operation.
- 7HP Petrol Engine: Provides independent petrol power for machine travel and spreading operation.
- Approx. 3–6m Spreading Width: Adjustable coverage suits lawn top dressing, acreage maintenance and landscaping applications.
- 15–30L/min Flow Control: Adjust material output to suit your topdressing application and operating conditions.
- 3 Forward Gears + Neutral + Reverse: Provides greater control over travel speed and manoeuvring across different working conditions.
- Differential Steering: Helps improve turning and manoeuvrability when operating around larger properties.
- Independent Spreading Mechanism: The spreading system can operate separately from the travel drive, including while the machine remains stationary when required.
- Electric Start: Provides convenient engine starting for repeated use.
- Designed for Larger Properties: A practical powered spreader for larger lawns, acreage, paddocks and landscaping areas where a small push spreader would be inefficient.
No Tractor or ATV Required
The BM11170 is a petrol-powered top dresser with its own travel drive. It does not need a tractor, ATV or ride-on mower to move during normal operation, making it useful when a tow-behind spreader is impractical.
The self-propelled design supports lawn care and property maintenance across acreage, paddocks, landscaping sites and larger properties where compatible topdressing sand, compost or soil needs to be applied. Check that your chosen material is suitable before use.
Suitable for Lawn Renovation & Property Maintenance
For established lawns that require thatch removal before top dressing, overseeding or fertilising, see the Forestwest BM11167 20" Petrol Lawn Dethatcher & Power Rake. This lawn dethatcher removes accumulated surface thatch as part of lawn renovation.
Where compacted lawn soil requires aeration, the Forestwest BM11132 36" Tow Behind Lawn Aerator provides a suitable option for larger grassed areas and properties.
For complete lawn replacement projects where exposed soil needs cultivation before reseeding, see the Forestwest BM11123 Dual Rotating Rear Tine Tiller.
Explore more lawn renovation equipment, garden machinery and acreage maintenance tools in the Forestwest Home & Garden Machinery range.
Specifications
| Model | BM11170 Self-Propelled Top Dressing Spreader |
|---|---|
| Engine | 7HP Petrol Engine |
| Starting System | Electric Start |
| Hopper Capacity | 400kg / Approx. 0.33m³ |
| Spreading Width | Approx. 3–6m |
| Flow Control | 15–30L/min |
| Transmission | 3 Forward Gears + Neutral + Reverse |
| Steering | Differential Steering |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3L |
| Front Tyre | 16 x 6.5-8 |
| Rear Tyre | 13 x 5.0-6 |
| Standard Fuel Consumption | Approx. 1.0L/h* |
| Product Weight | 272kg |
| Package Size | 1970 x 900 x 850mm |
| Package Weight | 316kg |
*Figures are based on manufacturer specifications and may vary depending on terrain, load, material and operating conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the BM11170 need to be towed by a tractor or ATV?
No. The BM11170 is self-propelled and uses its own petrol-powered travel system, so no tractor, ATV or other tow vehicle is required for normal operation.
2. Can the BM11170 be used as a sand spreader or compost spreader?
Forestwest has tested the BM11170 with dry sand, slightly damp sand, compost, potting mix and soil. Material condition affects feeding and distribution, so trial your chosen top dressing material before a full application. For fertiliser, grass seed or other materials, confirm compatibility and follow the operating instructions before use.
3. What is the spreading width of this top dressing spreader?
The specified spreading width is approximately 3–6m depending on travel speed, material and operating conditions.
4. What is the hopper capacity of the BM11170 topdresser?
The hopper is rated for up to 400kg, with an approximate volume of 0.33m³.
5. Can the material flow be adjusted?
Yes. The BM11170 has a specified flow control range of 15–30L/min for more controlled material application.
6. Does this self-propelled spreader have reverse?
Yes. The transmission provides three forward gears, neutral and reverse.
7. Can the spreader operate while the machine is stationary?
Yes. According to the manufacturer specification, the spreading mechanism operates independently from the travel drive, allowing material to be spread while the machine remains stationary when required.
8. What is differential steering?
Differential steering helps the machine turn and manoeuvre by allowing the drive wheels to operate at different speeds during turning.
9. Is the BM11170 suitable for lawn top dressing and acreage maintenance?
The BM11170 is suited to lawn renovation, landscaping and property maintenance. Its self-propelled drive and larger hopper make it a practical option for larger lawns, acreage, paddocks and landscaping areas that need compatible top dressing materials applied.







