String Trimmers

[paulsharvey]

I ordered the tune and carb kit for the Husq for like $13. Even if that fixes everything, ill probably get a battery trimmer too, just for convenience. I've seen some good deals on the trimmer/blower combo from dewalt and I think Milwaukee, but we already have a Rigid blower, with a 4ah, 3ah, and 2-1.5ah batteries that match my drill/Sawzall. Got a good 18" Stihl chainsaw.

The Stihl has a labor trade. Family member needed a bunch of trees cut, and bought me the saw in trade for my labor. From the very get-go, that saw has only used canned pre-mix gas, to avoid any ethanol bs or poorly mixed gas. Also, you can keep a couple cans of it for years, and it has like 5 year shelf life.

 

[Midniteoyl]

I'm running a 2-cycle Chinese unit I bought for $150 from Amazon. I'd consider it a brush cutter/clearing saw. The engine is about 42cc, bigger than a $1,000 Stihl.

I was doing the same (Timberwolf Pro) until I left gas it over the winter and the lines all disintegrated Thing is a beast though.

 

[two_bit_score]

I have had a Stihl FS 110 for so many years I can’t even remember. It runs fine and I’ve run metal brush cutters of all kinds on it as well as string trimmer heads. Used it extensively at rent property and it’s never let me down.

But, ...... just a couple weeks ago I bought a Stihl Kombi Motor powerhead KM 131R. This is a dream machine!

I bought the Hedge trimmer and string trimmer attachments with it. It’s powerful and so versatile. I just went today and bought the straight shaft edger attachment. I have used a McLane edger for 30 years and it’s a good powerful machine but this Kombi Motor with the edger attachment is so much easier to use and transport than the McLane. I used the string trimmer on the FS110 sometimes for convenience instead of dragging out the McLane but this edger attachment is much easier to use and does a much better job than a string trimmer.

I was skeptical that the attachment would work as good as the McLane but it’s every bit as good on the drive way and sidewalk I tested it on today.

 

[Grumpycat]

I wonder if my less than stellar battery time was het related?
Do batteries have shorter life in direct sun @ 95*? They are 9AH.
I see DeWalt makes a larger 12AH battery, but they are $245!
Thats $100 more than I paid for the 60v weed wacker brand new!

I was shocked at your 60V 9Ah having such poor run time. So I looked up the Dewalt Flexvolt batteries and lost a lot of respect for Dewalt. The 9AH is in 20V mode, is 3AH in 60V. Even so you should get longer run time than cited.

I have an EGo 15" string trimmer which is comparable in size and power to the Husqvarna 128 (which I also have). Charger says there is at least 25% remaining on my 56V 2.0Ah battery after 30 minutes. Am thinking EGo is more truthful about run time and battery capacity than Dewalt?

All EGo devices use interchangeable 56V batteries. Think my 2.0Ah is discontinued in favor of 2.5Ah, but they also sell 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 now. The bare 7.5Ah is $400. Got a backpack blower on closeout for $300 which included the "$400" battery.

The bigger batteries fit and work just fine on the trimmer but the 2.0 is already heavier than I enjoy. A neck strap is a non-optional option.

 

[ArlyA]

I have had a Stihl FS 110 for so many years I can’t even remember. It runs fine and I’ve run metal brush cutters of all kinds on it as well as string trimmer heads. Used it extensively at rent property and it’s never let me down.

But, ...... just a couple weeks ago I bought a Stihl Kombi Motor powerhead KM 131R. This is a dream machine!

I bought the Hedge trimmer and string trimmer attachments with it. It’s powerful and so versatile. I just went today and bought the straight shaft edger attachment. I have used a McLane edger for 30 years and it’s a good powerful machine but this Kombi Motor with the edger attachment is so much easier to use and transport than the McLane. I used the string trimmer on the FS110 sometimes for convenience instead of dragging out the McLane but this edger attachment is much easier to use and does a much better job than a string trimmer.

I was skeptical that the attachment would work as good as the McLane but it’s every bit as good on the drive way and sidewalk I tested it on today.View attachment 705079

Two bit, please post a review in the Kombi KM 131 thread.

 

[ArlyA]

I was shocked at your 60V 9Ah having such poor run time. So I looked up the Dewalt Flexvolt batteries and lost a lot of respect for Dewalt. The 9AH is in 20V mode, is 3AH in 60V. Even so you should get longer run time than cited.

I have an EGo 15" string trimmer which is comparable in size and power to the Husqvarna 128 (which I also have). Charger says there is at least 25% remaining on my 56V 2.0Ah battery after 30 minutes. Am thinking EGo is more truthful about run time and battery capacity than Dewalt?

All EGo devices use interchangeable 56V batteries. Think my 2.0Ah is discontinued in favor of 2.5Ah, but they also sell 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 now. The bare 7.5Ah is $400. Got a backpack blower on closeout for $300 which included the "$400" battery.

The bigger batteries fit and work just fine on the trimmer but the 2.0 is already heavier than I enjoy. A neck strap is a non-optional option.

I'm a pro battery tool guy but short run time is why we have no saws or whackers that are battery or 110 volt powered.

 

[oosik]

I have a Stihl FS350. Several string trimmer heads, a saw blade, a tri-tip metal blade and a head with three free swinging nylon blades. Took a new free swinging blade to the local welding shop. Had them make two sets( six blades ) out of high carbon steel.

With the steel blades this unit will cut down just about anything. Up to and including about an inch in diameter. It's still a real workout - even when using the harness.

It's what I use to keep the Buck brush cut back. Poor mans bush hog.

 

[bmg88201]

I have 11 year old Echo commercial trimmer, Ive got 3 acres to take care of plus a widows yard to keep up. There’s no way a battery operated trimmer will do the job. If I had an urban lot where the neighbors are 20 feet away I can see it might useful. I guess I’m too old school. I am about to buy a new Echo 2620 trimmer since I am about to move to an 8 acre property.

 

[two_bit_score]

Two bit, please post a review in the Kombi KM 131 thread.

I just posted it. I had been thinking about those for years and as a result of your review thread decided to pull the trigger on one.

Anyone needing a strong String trimmer, hedge trimmer, pole saw, edger, etc should consider a KM 131R.

 

[kubota shifty]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

I had a 128 that crapped out after a couple of years. I ended up buy a 129L and it has been great. Always starts. It has a larger engine than the 128. It gets hard use. I always use premixed gas so the gas can't be blamed for the demise of the 128. I actually sold the 128 not running for a $100.

 

[TBarD]

I have had the Oregon 40V MAX system for a while and love it (chainsaw, pole saw, string trimmer, edger so far). Plus many Stihl tools, all of which are problematic. There is no alternative for the big chainsaws, but for the smaller tools cordless is way better. With two of the 40V batteries one can go all day (or at least, I will wear out before the batteries do).

 

[marksmand]

Just a thought but why not go with the makita 2 x 18volt and buy one of their brushless combo tool kits. You will 4 x 18v batteries you can use use on multiple tools

 

[rosey]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

I know that this doesn’t answer your question but the main culprit in gas powered equipment hard starting/ no start issues is ETHANOL …… gums up the fuel system. Learned that the hard way & only use non ethanol gasoline. PROBLEM SOLVED.

 

[bottletree]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

I have a few Kobalt items, hence I have two batteries. So I usually have a charged battery if the other one fails. Don't have a weed eater, but have the blower and pole saw. Satisfied with both. my weed eater is a Stihl. Does the job well. Also found roundup is a great saver rather than spend a day or two weedeating,

 

[twowoode]

I would second the Honda brush cutter with the handle bars. I have been using one for about 18 years and it still starts on the first or second pull. The second option is the Milwaukee 18 volt battery because you can buy one power head and add all the attachments you need. They also have an adjustable hedge trimmer attachment that is great for weeds and small saplings.

 

[MillWeld]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

Don't buy the squeeze bulbs. Check out this post:A solution to poor quality squeeze bulbs

 

[Robert walker]

I would have husky repaired and then go to the pure, no ethanol gas. It cost $3.50+ a gallon but the carb and hoses won’t deteriorate. I personally have a Stilh FS85 for 20 years. Had to have a carburetor put on once but it runs like a champ.

 

[Skypilota72]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

I have never had a great experience with battery-operated garden tools. Contaminates entering so-called sealed areas, temperature-related problems, recharge cycle issues, and so forth. My preference is always gasoline-operated garden tools. In reference to your husky, I would get a good carb cleaner and/or blow out the gunk in the needle valves. Further, the greatest problem any gas-operated garden tool has is using corn-based fuel. Always consider 100% premium (no ethanol) fuel. Secondly, regardless of temps, always use stabilizers. Whether a chain saw, string/shrub cutters, mowers, etc, they will usually run without issues if you use these. I can go an entire season before using some of my equipment (I reside in Wisconsin). All it takes is a couple of pulls to start them. Fuel hasn't degraded/separated significantly, and the carb (needle valves, float, etc) hasn't been gummed up with ethanol. You have a great string cutter. Try these suggestions and you can keep a reliable and capable tool without buying again.

 

[Bentrim]

If interested my 3 1/2 cents. (note that is adjusted for inflation) As for repair or buy new I am not a fan of home owner rated equipment at least not to have a long life. They will do a job for a short while, but if you want a a unit to last a while look for a commercial or at the minimum what they call prosumer.
As for the life of a unit not using a unit is just as bad as abusing a unit. If ethanol containing fuel is used and the unit is not used much and fuel is left in the unit--Yes I know there are stabilizers that claim to last a year or more, but I can't find any that do---the carburetor WILL need replaced often remember the carburetor has very small passages and ports just a slight deposit can mess with the fuel flow and diaphragms the ethanol attacks. One of two things can correct that situation 1. Drain the complete fuel system - run until it quits 2. use "canned" fuel yes it is expensive but usually won't cause issues. An alternative to the canned fuel is if you run a lot run ethanol gasoline and before finishing change to canned fuel so the canned fuel is in the carburetor for storage.
For battery operated equipment be sure to study the length or estimated run time and the recharge time especially if you are going to use the unit a lot at one time. Another consideration is to consider a specific brand that any future purchases of different equipment uses the same battery. At replacement time batteries can cost more than the original unit and if you are replacing 2 or more different brands it can get costly.
And one more concern before I post is be careful of the brand you buy. Is it a well known respected brand or is it a fly by night "one time use' brand (that is it is good unit it breaks then you find there is no service and no parts available).
Just in case you are wondering why I give this information I work at a small engine repair and internet sales place. I see a lot of consumer grade equipment used as commercial and now a whole bunch of the newest craze of battery powered equipment that people purchase and are dissatisfied with because of some of these issues.
Personally I'd put a carburetor on it and be very careful about the fuel I used. It should be good for a long time.

 

[DGeorge747]

I have a 3 year old Husqvarna 128 string trimmer that doesn't run anymore, but really doesn't have that many hours on. I replaced the primer bulb and carb a year ago, used it a few times and won't run more the minute or two now. Thinking about going with a cordless trimmer, like Kobalt 40v or Atlas 40V, or having the Husqvarna serviced. The Husq would obviously be more powerful, but the battery ones are real convenient, and kids/wife can easily start and use. Ive got two acres, about 0.75 of Yard yard, about 0.75 rough yard, some fence line, around the house ect. Anyone have thoughts on durability of the cordless or cost of deal service of Husq? My current cordless tools are Rigid, but they don't offer a weedeater. Ryobi 40V
Kobold 40V
Atlas 40V
Husqvarna 128 dealer service
other thoughts?

I too have the Husqvarna 128 and it has worked great for me every year for the last four years.

You might want to check out the fuel lines. They may be cracked or deteriorated and sucking air due to ethanol gas, if that's what you've been using. I only use gas with NO ethanol in all of my small engine equipment.

If you decide to replace the fuel lines, only use Genuine Tygon fuel lines by Oregon of the correct inside and outside diameters. The Tygon fuel lines don't get hard and crack or break. They remain flexible and resist the affects of ethanol gas.

I myself don't like cordless lawn tools or equipment due to less power, durability and the excessive cost of batteries.

It may be OK for those who don't like to mess with gas, especially women or men who aren't mechanically skilled.

This is only the third weed wacker I've owned in over 43 years.

The first was an electric plug-in Craftsman which was before the gas models even came out. When the gas models came out I bought a Ryobi and sold the electric model. I have had my Ryobi and attachments for over 40 years and still have it, but I need to replace the fuel lines.

When the fuel lines started leaking the last time, I needed a weed whacker immediately and I bought the Husqvarna 128. When I replaced the fuel lines on the Ryobi the last time, there were no Tygon fuel lines, which was quite awhile ago.

Good luck on whatever you decide.