The Propane Stripping Beast

An Overview of the Pioneer Eclipse 440ST Barracuda

The Pioneer Eclipse 440ST Barracuda is one of the industry’s most recognizable and highly-regarded propane floor stripping machines. Designed for maximum productivity in large commercial and institutional facilities, the Barracuda is built to drastically reduce the time and labor involved in floor finish removal.

PIONEER ECLIPSE 440ST BARRACUDA PROPANE STRIP MACHINE

Key Features of the 440ST Barracuda

The 440ST is a heavy-duty machine focused entirely on aggressive, efficient stripping.  It comes in two sizes:  30-inch and 38-inch.  The 38-inch model is particularly known for its sheer productivity because of its wider cleaning path.

  • Engine: Powerful 18 HP Kawasaki Engine for continuous, robust operation.

  • Stripping Width: 38-inch model uses two 20-inch brushes and covers approximately 33,500 sq ft/hour for maximum area coverage.  30-inch model uses two 16-inch brushes and covers approximately 26,500 sq ft/hour.

  • Brush System:  Dual counter-rotating drivers remove old floor finish evenly and effectively while reducing stripping splash.

  • Pad Speed: A high brush speed of 325 rpms delivers aggressive stripping action.

  • Maneuverability: Low-profile deck enables edge-to-edge operation, allowing the machine to reach closer to walls and fixtures.

  • Start-Up: 12V Battery and Key Start for ease of use.

Pros and Cons of the 440ST

Pros:

  • Ultimate Productivity:  The 38-inch path and high speed make it one of the fastest machines for large-area finish removal

  • Built-In Safety:  SAFR™ and catalytic mufflers are standard on these high-end propane machines, providing peace of mind regarding indoor air quality.

  • Low Maintenance Cost:  Features like extended oil change intervals and fuel efficiency (reportedly using 34% less fuel than competitors) reduce long-term operating costs.

  • Simple Operation: Despite its power, the Rok-Bak™ system and ergonomic design make brush changes and general use surprisingly simple.

Cons:

  • Size:  The 38-inch model is large and best suited for wide-open spaces.  It is not ideal for tight, congested rooms or hallways.

  • Propane Management:  Requires managing propane tanks, fuel levels, and following proper ventilation protocols, which is an operational factor not present with cord-electric machines.

  • Initial Cost:  As a premium, high-performance propane machine, the initial investment (new or used) is higher than entry-level or corded units.

PIONEER ECLIPSE 440ST BARRACUDA PROPANE STRIP MACHINE

440ST Barracuda vs. Aztec Sidewinder

Feature Pioneer Eclipse Barracuda Aztec Sidewinder
Stripping Width 30 or 38 inches 24, 28, or 30 inches
Pad/Brush System Dual Counter-Rotating Discs                                     (Aggressive, splash-reducing) Planetary Drive with 3 Counter-Rotational Brushes                                      (Unique scrubbing pattern)
Stripping Action Relies on high pressure, high RPM, and wide coverage Relies on high RPM (up to 1,150 RPM), and unique dual-direction scouring action
Key Advantage Sheer size and speed for maximum sq. footage coverage per hour Extreme speed and aggressive action, often claimed to strip 7 layers in one pass.
PIONEER ECLIPSE 440ST BARRACUDA PROPANE STRIP MACHINE

Bottom Line

  • Choose the Pioneer Eclipse 440ST if your primary goal is covering the largest possible area in the shortest amount of time.

  • Choose the Aztec Sidewinder if you need the most aggressive removal for heavily layered floor finishes, prioritizing intensity over maximum width.

Machine Manuals and Resources

Ultra Care Systems Preowned Floor Scrubbers

Ultra Care Systems can be relied on for quality new and preowned floor machines! We have a steady rotation of fully refurbished and preowned floor machines of various sizes, styles, and applications. Call Ultra Care Systems today to find the perfect floor machine for your commercial cleaning needs!