Tall grass and untrimmed walks can ruin the appearance of even the most beautifully kept lawn. Grass and weeds growing wild around fence posts and trees can actually be an eyesore. String trimmers can easily address these problems of lawn upkeep and are very cost effective.
The shaft of a trimmer transfers the power to the cutting lines from the motor or engine. Trimmers made with straight shafts allow for a farther reach offering ease of use under bushes and shrubs. Curved shaft models are more light weight and handle with more ease.
Features of String Trimmers
Split Shaft – This type of trimmer has a shaft which can be partially disassembled to attach an edging blade, leaf blower or various other attachable tools.
Rotating Head – Some models feature the ability to swivel or vertically position the head for better edging.
Cutting Head – The manufacturer should indicate the line replacement size in the literature accompanying the trimmer. Only use the recommended size. If the replacement line is not thick enough will reduce cutting power. Replacement line that is too thick will cause the motor to work at less than optimum efficiency. Double lines can cut more with each pass and can better handle heavy growth.
Bump-Feed – This is a feature that allows the line to be released from the spool when the trimmer head is bumped by the ground.
Fixed-Head – The professional type of design features fixed strips of line instead the spool. This innovation decreases tangles and jams when changing line. Fixed strips are threaded one at a time.
Carrying Aid – Heavier trimmer models are sold with shoulder harnesses for more support while trimming.
Top Mount Motor – The easiest to handle in electric trimmers.
Stop Switch – This important safety feature allows the operator to stop motor or engine quickly without having to move your hands and lose control of the trimmer.
Engine Type – There are two types of gasoline powered engines: Four-stroke and two-stroke. The heavier four-stroke produces less pollution because it uses straight gas and it also starts easier. The two-stroke engine uses a gasoline/water mixture. The majority of trimmers with gas-powered engines take regular 87-octane gasoline, but in some models with high compression 89-octane should be used.
Centrifugal Clutch – Trimmers equipped with this feature are capable of idling without the line spinning. This adds an element of safety and convenience. The line in electric trimmers does not spin unless a switch is pressed.
Starting Aids – Trimmers made with starting mechanisms which are spring assistedstart easier and faster due to the more effective choke and fuel-primer bulb system for delivering fuel to the cold engine.
Exhaust Deflector – Most trimmers that are gas-powered have a deflector which aims the exhaust fumes to the rear.
Translucent Tank – This feature makes it easy for the operator to see the level of fuel.