String Trimmer Recommendations

 I am looking to buy a decent string trimmer for a small home. I want
something that won't keep breaking the string constantly. Please offer
any suggestions on good models as well as any advice you can share.

 On Wed, 30 May 2007 23:01:52 -0400, bargaindealsman


String sucks!
After you buy a "decent string trimmer," replace the head with
"Monster Cutters."  (as seen on TV) <G>

 

The string is going to break on all string trimmers, which is why
they come with a spool to hold extra string.
That said, obviously the heavier material holds up better, so don't
get one that uses .065 dia, go with something with .090 or .095.

I might add that brand is important.  Getting a cheap one with a
curved shaft near the head is a very poor choice.  You should also
not that the starter rope is in front (below) the engine.  This
makes more difficult to replace or repair the starter mechanism,
something many homeowners won't or can't do themselves.  So it means
taking it to a shop where you end up with a $30 or more bill for
labor, plus parts.

My recommendation is Echo (and no I don't sell them or any other
brand).  You usually find them for around $200, which is double the
cost of a cheapy.  But when you buy quality, it only hurts the one
time when you pay for it, but buy cheap and it hurts every time you
use it.

The engines on the cheapies have only one crankshaft bearing
(bushing actually) and the engines are rated at 150 to 200 hours.
An Echo has bearings on both ends of the crankshaft and are rated at
1000 hours.  Not bad for twice as much.

Also, take a look at the starter rope.  These frequently break.
Take a look at the cheapy and think about replacing the rope.  Then
look at the Echo and see that you can do it in a few minutes with
only a screw driver.

Hope this helps.
Bob-tx

 I have a Homelite, from Home Depot. It's easy to maintain and I have no
complaints.  I also agree with Bob about the String thickness. I purchased
.90 String when the original spool ran out, after a few weeks I misplaced it
so not knowing what size I needed, I got a spool of .80. Using the .80 I had
more breaks, constantly replacing the string time and time again. I probably
restrung it every other time I cut the grass.  I eventually found the .90
and used that this spring, probable early April. I have yet to have to re
string the spool.. So Size does matter.
Good Luck

 
Your advice on string is good, but I assume from op that small home
might have small lot and cheap electrical unit would be adequate.  I
have a Troy-bilt for bulk of lot but bought an el-cheapo Weed Eater
for front where wife likes these solar lanterns and Troy-bilt will
tear out of ground.  My advice for small home is small, electric unit.
Frank