Consider available features and specifications to choose a string trimmer that’ll meet your needs:
- The rating for volts on a cordless trimmer and cubic centimeters (cc) on a gas trimmer indicates power output.
- Two-cycle engines on gas trimmers offer a good balance of power and weight but run on a blend of oil and gasoline. ...
- Four-cycle engines run on gasoline alone. ...
- Spring-assist starting makes gas trimmers easier to crank.
Full Answer
How to start a gas powered string trimmer?
Method 3 Method 3 of 3: Trying the Trimmer Out
- Go to a store to try out trimmers in person to find the right one. ...
- See if the trimmer weight feels comfortable. Trimmers come in multiple weights. ...
- Look for a trimmer that's the right height for you. ...
- Make sure the trimmer feels balanced. ...
- Start the trimmer and feel how intense the vibration is. ...
What's the best string trimmer?
- Husqvarna Group
- Stanley Black & Decker
- Schiller Ground Care
- Deere & Company
- Techtronic Industries
- Toro
- Briggs & Stratton Corporation
- Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
- Excel Industries Inc.
- STIGA S.p. A.
How do you pull more string out of Trimmer?
- Place the Stihl FS 55 trimmer on a level surface.
- Hold the body of the trimmer head with one hand.
- Press down on the spool and rotate slightly to the left then pull it straight off the trimmer head.
How to start a trimmer?
- Then take off the primer cap from the line and spray carb cleaner down the tube where the cap was attached and replace the primer.
- Press a few times, forcing the carb cleaner in the line into the carb.
- Repeat this process a few times.
What kind of string trimmer do I need?
String trimmer line comes in a range of thicknesses or sizes. For light work, such as trimming grass, 0.065″-0.085″ should be sufficient. For thicker grass and weeds, a line in the 0.085″-0.110″ range will get the job done, and for thicker underbrush, anything thicker than 0.110″ will work.
What voltage trimmer do I need?
Light-duty trimmers, up to 3 A, 24 V or 20 cc, are great for small jobs, like grass tufts and thin weeds. Heavy-duty trimmers, over 56 V or 35 cc, are great for deep grass, stalky weeds and even brush and saplings.
What does CC mean in trimmers?
The rating for volts on a cordless trimmer and cubic centimeters (cc) on a gas trimmer indicates power output. Two-cycle engines on gas trimmers offer a good balance of power and weight but run on a blend of oil and gasoline.
What's better straight or curved trimmer?
As a result, curved shaft trimmers are generally less durable and less suitable for long hours of use than straight shaft trimmers, though braided cables provide some reinforcement. Also, all cable drives on curved string trimmers turn clockwise.
Is 20V or 40V better?
Battery Voltage The higher the voltage, typically, the more cells that are in the battery pack. So when comparing a 40V pack to a 20V pack, in most cases the 40V pack will have more cells which means more power capacity available.
What should I look for when buying grass trimmers?
If you're looking to use a trimmer on a small lawn, or for light use, electric models from 250 to 400W or cordless models with 12V and above will be suitable. For larger lawns with difficult areas, more power will be required – opt for a cordless electric model above 14V, a corded trimmer above 450V or a petrol model.
What's better 2 cycle or 4 cycle trimmer?
Although 4-stroke string trimmers have a reputation for lower emissions, better fuel efficiency, and high torque output, 2-stroke trimmers have their own advantages: Lighter weight. Easier maintenance.
Are gas or electric trimmers better?
Electric grass trimmers are also much quieter than gas-powered models. You will still want to follow string trimmer safety and use earplugs, but less noise means you won't bother your neighbors as much. Maintaining the lawn with your electric grass trimmer will also be easier on the people in your house.
How many horsepower is a 25cc engine?
The 25-cc engine in 2014 Husqvarna trimmers is a four-cycle engine that spins at a maximum speed of 7,000 rpm and, like the 28-cc engine, produces between 1.07 and 1.1 horsepower. Because it's a four-cycle design, the 25-cc engine runs on unmixed gasoline.
What is a straight shaft trimmer good for?
Often slightly lighter in weight than a straight trimmer, the shaft also is a bit shorter because of the curve. This gives users more control, but not as much flexibility of use; straight trimmers usually enable you to trim in tight areas that a curved shaft has trouble reaching.
What are straight shaft trimmers best for?
STRING TRIMMER STRAIGHT VS CURVED SHAFT COMPARISON TABLEModelFeature 1Used forString Trimmer Straight ShaftLevel driveline keeps power consistentTrims weeds along borders, hard to reach places, and under obstacles. Edges lawns and rockscapes.1 more row•Jul 12, 2016
Can you edge with a straight shaft trimmer?
In addition to cutting tall grass in hard-to-reach spots, your string trimmer can also function as an edger to give your yard a professionally landscaped look. Edging creates a crisp line, free from grass and weeds, along the edge of a patio or walkway.
What is a string trimmer?
Gas-powered string trimmers are made for large lawns that need heavy trimming. They're capable of easily mowing down thick weeds and other brush, which makes them the top choice of landscaping professionals. Some models can be outfitted with attachments that allow you to take on other tasks in addition to trimming:
What is a walk behind string trimmer?
Walk-Behind (Wheeled) String Trimmers. When you’ve got a lot to trim and not much time, a walk-behind or wheeled string trimmer is the perfect solution. These machines use the following features to trim twice as fast in half the time, all while reducing fatigue: Large wheels to navigate uneven terrain.
What to do after you finish mowing your lawn?
Once you've finished mowing your lawn, you still have to cut down unruly grass and weeds in and around gardens, trees, fences, or other obstacles. You also might need to clear overgrown brush that's too much for a mower to handle.
What are the advantages of electric string trimmers?
Electric trimmers offer a number of other benefits: Lightweight. Easy to maneuver. Quiet. Lower in maintenance. Electric string trimmers are powered in one of two ways. Corded electric string trimmers require extension cords, while cordless electric string trimmers run on battery power.
What are the different types of brush cutters?
They're available in three different versions, each made for areas of different size: Handheld brush cutters. Walk-behind brush cutters. Tow-behind brush cutters. If your string trimmer's been struggling to keep up with your workload, you might benefit from stepping up to a brush cutter.
Can you use a string trimmer without a trimmer?
Without a string trimmer, you can finish only part of your yard work, leaving your lawn looking unfinished and untamed. String trimmers (also called line trimmers and weed whackers) come in a few styles: Electric string trimmers. Gas-powered string trimmers. Walk-behind string trimmers. Brush cutters.
Can models be outfitted with attachments?
Some models can be outfitted with attachments that allow you to take on other tasks in addition to trimming:
What is a good string trimmer?
Bottom line, a good string trimmer makes the job of maintaining a yard a lot easier, eliminating back-breaking chores like hand-clipping or hand-edging.
How much does a cordless string trimmer cost?
Prices range from $75 to more than $200 and spare batteries can range from $40 to $125.#N#Browse: Battery-Powered String Trimmer
What do you need to groom a shed?
To create the look of a professionally groomed landscape, you need one tool in your shed: a string trimmer. Also known as a weed-eater or weed-wacker, it’s the secret weapon to giving your planting areas and hardscape a polished look. Typically, you use a string trimmer for those areas that a mower can’t reach.
Why are my hands numb when I use a gas trimmer?
Low vibration: Operating gas-powered trimmers can leave your hands numb due to the intense vibrations the machine produces. Look for a trimmer with anti-vibration technology. It’s standard fare in most newer models. Easy feeding and loading: Weed trimmers cut via a rapidly whirling string.
What is a cutting guard?
Many models offer a cutting guard that extends to limit the trim range and protect plantings. Other uses: A weed trimmer can offer a host of optional attachment heads to expand its usefulness. Options include things like an edger, blower, pole saw, hedge trimmer, mower or tiller.
What should be included in a safety guard on a trimmer?
Safety features: Standard safety guards should include a shield over the string to prevent debris (rocks, weeds, mulch pieces, etc.) from flying and striking you.
Can a string trimmer cut a lawn?
Any string trimmer can cut sharp lawn edges along hardscape or planting beds (you just tilt the trimmer). But newer trimmers feature heads that flip to create a rolling lawn edger — and you don’t need any real skill to do the job well. If you have many areas to edge, consider a trimmer with a built-in edger.
What is the source of power for a string trimmer?
String trimmers draw power from one of three sources: gas engines, electric outlets, and rechargeable batteries. Our tests have found great performers among each type, so let your yard guide your choice.
Which trimmer has a bend in the shaft?
Curved-shaft models, which have a bend in the shaft just above the trimmer head, are generally easier to maneuver and control, in part because the weighty trimmer head is closer to the user while cutting. The Poulan Pro PP25CFA, $110, and the Ryobi RY252CS, $100, are both exceptionally easy to use and cut well.
How much does an extension cord cost?
They’re the cheapest and lightest, but the length of the cord will limit where you can cut, and a 100-foot outdoor extension cord of the proper gauge—we recommend 12-gauge—can cost $75 . We like the Black+Decker GH3000, $70.
Is a string trimmer cheaper than a battery trimmer?
Gas-powered string trimmers are generally cheaper than battery-powered trimmers but need more upkeep. Battery-powered models, which are significantly quieter, may be worth the upcharge if you have a lot of weeds to cut along your property line, where the roar of a gas engine could bother your neighbors.
What to wear when using a string trimmer?
They have a shield to deflect most debris, but even so, you’ll want to wear gloves, protective eyewear, boots, and long pants, in addition to hearing protection for gas models. String Trimmer Ratings.
What is a string trimmer?
A string trimmer gets into places that a lawn mower can’t. It’s the ideal tool for keeping the edges of your garden or walkway neat and tidy and for manicuring around fence poles and tree trunks. It can tackle tall grass and weeds, too, which might bog down a regular lawn mower.
How much does a string trimmer cost?
All the gas-powered string trimmers in our tests are loud enough to require hearing protection for the user. Cost: $70 to $330.
How long is a corded electric cord?
Most have a short cord and require a long outdoor-rated extension cord—you can typically find these cords in lengths up to 100 feet. Corded-electric string trimmers tend to be the cheapest, plus they start instantly and run indefinitely, and you don’t need to worry about buying gas or charging a battery.
What is a bump feed on a trimmer?
A bump-feed releases line from a spool when you bump the trimmer’s head on the ground, but more models are using fixed-line heads with short lengths of line to help elimina te the jams and tangles associated with loading new line. You thread in a piece of line as needed—though you’ll have to do that relatively frequently. Fixed-line heads are also available as aftermarket items. Auto-feed heads come pre-wound and release line on their own as needed.
Who makes the MTD string trimmer?
MTD makes electric and gas string trimmers and sells them under the Bolens, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Yard Machines, and Yard-Man brand names. MTD 's diverse line of string trimmers includes corded- and cordless-electric types, models with two- and four-stroke engines, and split-shaft designs for attachments. MTD products are sold at a broad array of retailers, including Home Depot, Lowe's, Sears, Tractor Supply, and Walmart.
How long should an extension cord be?
A small number of models are corded, with cords that are only a foot long, so you'll want an extension cord that's at least 50 to 100 feet in length to plug into. Take note that electrics are both better for the earth and have improved exponentially in how well they perform in recent years.
What is string trimmer?
String trimmers are a versatile solution for dealing with grass and brush in areas where a normal mower can’t easily fit, or for jobs that are too small to tackle with a traditional mower. Let’s take a quick look at how to pick the right trimmer for your yard.
Can you use a plug in trimmer on a large yard?
On the other hand, if you have a large yard then you may not be able to use a plug-in unit, as an extension cord might not reach. Battery-powered trimmers offer a compromise between both worlds, but you’ll need to make sure you have enough batteries to do your entire yard at once, which could be an expensive proposition.
Do string trimmers have handles?
The vast majority of the string trimmers you will encounter are models that you carry. Some split the handles front and back, while others put them both out in front of the users. You may also find trimmers that use a harness setup to shift the weight from your arms to your shoulders.
Can a battery powered trimmer cut trees?
Battery-powered trimmers often don’t offer enough power to cut into shrubs and scrub trees. At the same time, if this is what most of your work will consist of, you may want to move past the string trimmer world and instead seek out a bladed trimmer. The general rule of thumb is if the string you are using wraps around the stem ...
Can a string trimmer reach tight nooks?
They aren’t nearly as maneuverable, though, which means they can’t reach as many tight nooks and crannies as a handheld — which in some ways defeats the purpose of using a string trimmer, to begin with. String trimmers provide a versatile and inexpensive solution for tackling summer projects.
What is string trimmer?
String trimmers, which cut greenery with whirling plastic lines, can trim right up to trees, steps, and rocks. They're great for maintaining a neat edge along walks and beds, and they can tidy a rocky hillside that's too irregular to mow. Many can also accept a metal blade for leveling tough scrub and small saplings.
What happens when you use trimmer string?
Typically, trimmer string comes wound around the head and is slowly eaten away with use. Some heads release more string automatically; others you tap on the ground. Eventually, when the spool is empty, you have to stop and wind a new one.
How much does a trimmer cost?
The trimmers themselves come in two basic varieties: the more costly and powerful gas models (2-cycle or 4-cycle engine, the latter up to $350) and the economical electric (cordless or corded, some less than $50). The right choice depends on the property's size, its terrain, and your tolerance for noise and pollution. Keep in mind: Trimmer tips spin at close to 400 mph, so don't forget eye and ear protection, as well as boots, long pants, and gloves. And stay clear of outdoor wiring, lest you zap yourself instead of the weeds.
How to strip bald lawn with string trimmer?
A string trimmer can strip a lawn bald if held too close to the surface. Keep the string head about 2 to 3 inches off the ground, just like a mower blade, and sweep the machine side to side in a steady motion parallel to the ground. Don't worry if you don't get it right the first time; we all make mistakes, and it will grow out—just like a bad haircut.
How fast do trimmer tips spin?
Keep in mind: Trimmer tips spin at close to 400 mph, so don't forget eye and ear protection, as well as boots, long pants, and gloves. And stay clear of outdoor wiring, lest you zap yourself instead of the weeds. Photo by Jennifer Levy.
What is the best mower for rocky lawns?
For rocky and hilly acreage, consider a 4-cycle, two-wheel trimmer/mower. It will cut grass like a rotary mower without the shriek of metal blades scalping rocks, and because the string head sits way out in front, it trims right up to posts and walls. The disadvantages are price (starting at $450) and the fact that you can't flip it up on edge for maintaining a crisp border around beds and walks, as you can with a regular string trimmer.
What are the pros and cons of a swath mower?
PROS: Power to clean up a big yard, large cutting swath (16 to 18 inches) CONS: Weight, noise, pollution, maintenance; the need to keep gas and oil on hand.
