Gas Weed Eater Won’t Start? Try This. Legend force string trimmer

Redback 40V Lithium Ion Cordless String Trimmer/Edger (106065): Product Review

So you’ve decided that it’s time to buy a new string trimmer. You’ve looked at all the pros and cons of gasoline vs. electric vs. cordless and decided that for you, cordless is the way to go. But there’s a quandary. What brand, model, voltage and features do you want?

Well, if it will make your buying decision making process any easier, you should know about a string trimmer that I just tested by Redback, their 40V (Volt) Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) unit.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Redback brand, that’s because it’s a relative newcomer to the US string trimmer market. Redback is now being offered in the US by an American company (Frictionless World) and its joint venture partner NGP (an overseas manufacturer). Redback tools have seen great success in both the Australian and European markets. Currently Frictionless World is the exclusive distributor of Redback 40V branded products in North America and warehouses, ships and supports the products out of their headquarters in Westminster, CO.

Various 40V Options

The batteries and charger can be used with other 40V Redback tools.

Redback offers both “kits” (which include the recommended battery and charger) and chargers and batteries that can be purchased separately (when a trimmer is sold as a stand-alone product).

In the “kit” version of this trimmer/edger, an EC20 (2A) charger is included, along with a 2.0Ah (Amp hour) battery.

I tested the string trimmer using the 2.0 Ah battery, as well as with a 4.0Ah battery and EC50 (5A) charger.

Interchangeable Batteries

Redback has a plethora of 40V tools, such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, pole saws and string trimmers, all of which use the same battery platform.

Redback currently offers 3 different Ah batteries (2.0, 4.0 and 6.0) and while the batteries will fit in all tools in their product line, you’ll want to be sure you’re using the proper Ah for the equipment you’re running (higher Ah for tools that need more power).

I really appreciated this flexibility when I wanted an extra battery for the string trimmer and was able to choose a higher Ah (4.0Ah) to extend run time.

See our FAQs About Li-Ion Batteries

The Redback batteries come in a variety of Ah options.

As a String Trimmer

This Redback trimmer had a lot of nice features.

Bump Feed Twin Line

The cutting head uses a dual line with a bump feed.

The cutting head has a twin spool. Basically this means that it has two cutting lines coming from one spool, with the two lines opposite each other.

When lines break (which inevitably happens from hitting rocks and sharp stuff), it’s simple to get more line; just bump the line spool on the ground. This advances the cutting line out to a cutting blade that’s mounted at the edge of the guard (the guard protects you from flying debris). The cutting blade then cuts each line to the same length for optimum cutting efficiency.

The head can be easily disassembled to replace the line – just push in the tabs on either side and it’ll pop out.

Simple Line Replacement

First, remove the spool head from the cutting head assembly. The instruction manual shows detailed diagrams of how to do this.

The spool can either be reloaded (the most common practice for string trimmers) or a new spool can be purchased from the manufacturer that is preloaded with trimmer string. Reloading the spool yourself is less expensive and only takes a few minutes. Personally, I wouldn’t waste my money buying a preloaded spool, unless the spool broke.

It’s important to load the spool with a maximum of 26.24 feet of line with a string diameter of 0.0629 inches.

When reloading it yourself, it’ll take a little finesse to get the string through the two holes on the side of the cutter head. Redback has made this easier by providing tabs on the reel to hold the line in place while it’s being wound.

As you lower the wound string reel into the cutting head, you have to poke the two string lines through the holes on the side of the cutting head. This can take some dexterity, but I found it was pretty straightforward. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, particularly if you follow the instruction manual. After doing it once, it will become second nature to you.

Plant Guard

To protect plants from being cut down and trees and save shrubs from bark damage, the trimmer has a plant guard built into the front of the trimmer. I like that the guard can be rotated 90 0 up and out of the way when not in use.

The plant guard is adjustable – if you don’t want to use it, just flip it up out of the way.

Adjustable Cutting Head Shaft

A button activates the adjustable cutting head angle. The button is easy to push and the head locks securely into 5 different positions (from 0 0 to 72 0 ).

This, accompanied with the adjustable shaft length, makes it easy for virtually any sized person to use the trimmer. This adjustment feature is also great for extending the shaft to reach under obstructions and still be able to trim.

There’s also a button on the other side of the shaft. That one doesn’t say ‘PUSH’ and it doesn’t adjust the cutting head – so be sure you’re pushing the right button!

Handle

The trimmer handlebar (what your front hand holds on to) is easily adjusted by lifting an unlocking/locking clip under the handlebar to move the handle up and down the shaft.

I found that this made it very easy to create the right balance between the battery at one end of the unit and the cutting head on the other end. And for even greater overall length and corresponding balance, I could slide the handlebar all the way back toward the battery and slide the cutting head shaft forward.

The handle is easily adjustable using the lever (orange tab in the photo).

Variable Speed

Behind the handlebar is the throttle mechanism. It consists of an interlock safety switch (pull lever) and an On/Off lever. Both levers work seamlessly together. I tried to override the interlock safety by not pulling it; this absolutely incapacitated the On/Off switch.

The On/Off switch also acts as a variable speed throttle. There’s a nice smooth transition from no power to full power. Moderate power can be held easily as the On/Off switch has a built-in spring that keeps the perfect tension on the handle at all times.

Shoulder Belt

The shoulder belt helps carry some of the weight of the string trimmer but can be easily removed if you don’t want to use it.

The Redback string trimmer comes with a very nice, padded, and adjustable shoulder belt that clips into the fastening loop near the On/Off switch.

I found this belt extremely comfortable and it really helped take a lot of the weight off my arms and prevented hand, wrist, arm and shoulder fatigue. I wore the strap almost all the time, and experienced no shoulder pain as a result of wearing it.

Balance

The battery compartment is at the end of the trimmer. I like the fact that it accepts the wide range of Ah batteries noted above, although battery weight does affect balance of the string trimmer. For example, the 2.0Ah battery weighs approximately 2.0 lbs. and the 4.0Ah weighs a little over 2 ¾ lbs, and the weight difference means that the string trimmer balance is thrown off if you change batteries.

To compensate for this, all I had to do was adjust the handlebar position. If I really wanted to fine-tune the balance, I could have extended or shortened the shaft length.

Edging With the Redback String Trimmer

Rotate the head 90 degrees by depressing the shaft coupling button and voilà, you have an edger.

Push down on the orange locking button and rotate the shaft to whatever angle you want.

Thanks to the running wheels located on the side of the guard, the powerful cutting string can be run down the side of the lawn.

I’ve owned a tool that was gas operated and specifically designed for edging. It had a sharp steel blade and a set of tracking wheels. This piece of gear didn’t hold a candle to the Redback 40V Cordless String Trimmer/Edger. I was amazed at how perfect a line I was able to get.

The cutter guard provided pretty good protection from flying dirt and grass, but as with all power tools, wearing the proper safety equipment is mandatory, especially safety glasses at all times while using the trimmer/edger (we recommend the John Deere safety glasses from WileyX).

The Redback string trimmer is also a darn good edger.

Charging and Battery Life

The “kit” version of the Redback trimmer/edger includes an EC20 (2A) charger and 2.0Ah battery. With this configuration, I found the charging time was around 70 minutes and the run time was approximately 25 minutes.

I also tested the EC50 (5A) charger and 4.0 Ah battery. The charging time was approximately 45 to 60 minutes for the 4.0Ah battery, depending on how much charge was left, and a run time of just over 50 minutes.

The difference in charging time is nice (shorter is more convenient) but the biggest difference in batteries is the run time. As Ah increases, so does run time. So if you’ll be doing a fair bit of trimming and edging, you may want to consider buying the 4.0 Ah battery instead of the 2.0 Ah that comes with the kit.

One thing I really appreciated was the battery indicator lights. Simply press the button on the end of the battery and the lights will illuminate to show how much charge is left.

A handy battery life indicator on the end of the battery makes it easy to see how much juice is left.

String Trimmer Warranty

Redback offers a 36 month warranty on all its 40V line of products. This covers both stand-alone purchases and kit purchases (where the charger and battery are included). The warranty is a pretty standard one that covers against material defects and workmanship. It doesn’t cover consumables, misuse, abuse, loss, theft or unreasonable/outrageous customer requests.

As Redback points out, “Our customer service team tries to bend over backwards to handle reasonable customer issues”. If a customer has an issue, Redback recommends calling them directly and they will try to remedy (within reason) the problem. They are clearly trying to set themselves apart by providing customer service that goes above and beyond. As Redback puts it, “we take it personally”.

Battery Warranty

The batteries are warranted for 36 months as well. But Redback states that Lithium-Ion batteries are considered “consumables” and as such have a limited lifetime warranty. After 500 discharge cycles, expect the batteries to hold only 80% of a full charge. It’s not defective, it’s just wearing out and will need to be replaced eventually.

The batteries are geared toward homeowners and not towards the commercial user, so someone who only has one battery and charges/discharges it every day, multiple times a day might wear out the batteries in just a year.

Redback prides itself on customer service though, so they encourage anyone with concerns to contact the customer service department for help.

To reach Redbacks customer service: Toll Free: 877-487-8275 (Press “2” at the message to skip straight through to Customer Service) Real people are available 7AM-5PM Mountain Time Monday – Friday Email support is also available at [email protected] – that email goes to the entire Customer Service team.

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Recommendation

This is one of the best string trimmers I’ve tested. It has plenty of power, is quiet, is a supreme edger, and has longer battery run times than I expected. It’s well-balanced and the cutting head and adjustable length shaft make it easy to get into tight spots and areas that I couldn’t have reached with a fixed length shaft string trimmer. The shoulder belt makes a big difference it minimizing body fatigue and the universal battery box that accepts all of Redback’s 40 V Ah batteries is another plus.

Where to Buy It

Extra batteries are also available from Amazon (Prime). range from 69.99 for a 2Ah to 109.99 for a 4Ah.

Gas Weed Eater Won’t Start? Try This

Weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – no matter what you call it, here’s how to get it running again.

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No matter what you call it – weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – chances are at some point it won’t start. Few things are more annoying than destroying your shoulder trying to start a gas weed eater when there’s work to do.

Fortunately, gas weed-eater engines are pretty simple, so most DIYers with a few tools and some basic know-how can troubleshoot a stubborn trimmer and get it running.

) Check The Gasoline

Gasoline can break down in as little as 30 days, especially today’s ethanol-containing gas.

Homeowners sometimes stash their string trimmer in the garage at season’s end without stabilizing the gas. Oxygen has all winter to break down and ruin the gasoline, leaving you with a trimmer that won’t start in the spring.

If your trimmer falls into this category, empty the old gas from the fuel tank and replace it with fresh fuel.

If your weed eater won’t start, trying removing the air filter and spraying carburetor cleaner into the intake.

) Clean The Carburetor

Once gas breaks down, varnish, gums and other debris can form inside the carburetor and clog the tiny fuel passages. This prevents fuel from reaching the combustion chamber and igniting, leaving you to struggle with a trimmer that won’t start.

Remove the air filter and spray carburetor cleaner into the intake. Let it sit for several minutes to help loosen and dissolve varnish. Replace the filter and try starting the trimmer.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, consider disassembling the carburetor to give it a more thorough cleaning.

Beware, however – taking apart a carburetor marks a point-of-no-return, of sorts. Understanding how the delicate gaskets, tiny screws and needle valves go back together can be a challenge, even on a relatively simple string-trimmer carburetor. Take pictures with your phone throughout the process to help reassembly. Clean all the openings and passages with carburetor cleaner.

If you’re reluctant to take apart the carb, visit the servicing dealer.

Remove the spark plug and use light sandpaper to clean electrode deposits to help fix a gas trimmer that won’t start.

) Clean/Replace Spark Plug

Oil deposits and carbon can foul the spark plug in a two-stroke engine if a low-quality oil is used. Deposits on the electrode prevent the plug from firing properly, which can reduce performance or prevent the engine from running altogether.

Plugs are inexpensive, so replace it if it’s fouled. If you don’t have a new plug available, clean the deposits from the electrode with light-duty sandpaper and check the gap. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct gap size.

If you know the spark plug is good, but the engine still doesn’t produce spark, the coil is likely to blame and requires replacement.

Direct compressed air from the inside of the air filter toward the outside to remove debris that may be restricting airflow.

) Clean/Replace Air Filter

A clogged air filter prevents the engine from receiving sufficient air to operate properly.

Before removing the air filter, brush away loose debris from around the filter cover and filter element. Tap rigid filters on a tabletop or the palm of your hand to dislodge any dirt or debris. Compressed air also works well. Make sure you direct air through the filter from the inside to avoid lodging debris deeper in the filter.

Avoid washing paper filters as this can collapse their micro-fine structure. Foam filters, however, can easily be washed using mild detergent and warm water.

As with the spark plug, however, replacement is often the best practice, especially if the filter is excessively dirty.

A spark-arrestor screen clogged with deposits can choke off airflow enough to prevent the trimmer from starting.

) Clean The Spark-Arrestor Screen

On many trimmers, a small screen covers the exhaust outlet and prevents sparks from exiting the muffler and potentially starting a fire.

As with plug fouling, too much oil in the gasoline, inferior oil and continued low-rpm operation can plug the screen with carbon deposits. This prevents exhaust-gas flow, which leads to power loss. In extreme cases, heavy deposits choke airflow enough to leave you with a weed eater that won’t start.

To fix the problem, remove the spark-arrestor screen and spray it with a heavy-duty cleaner, like AMSOIL Power Foam to soften the deposits before cleaning the screen with an abrasive pad. Reinstall the screen and test the trimmer.

Replace the screen altogether if it’s excessively plugged with carbon.

AMSOIL Performance Testing

Laboratory tested and proven on the road.

See how AMSOIL products perform in the lab and in the field.

The Best Weed-Eater String That Gets the Job Done Faster—2023 Buyer’s Guide

Weed-eater string for your weed whacker or trimmer may seem like a small thing to buy, but having the right string for the job can help you get more work done with less effort. String shape, material, durability, welding resistance, and line size are all important things to consider, and this updated buyer’s guide will help you choose the best weed-eater string for the task at hand.

It may seem like a small thing, but what kind of string you use in your weed eater (also called a weed whacker or string trimmer) can have a big impact on your gardening.

Heading out to your yard to maintain it should be an enjoyable—or at least hassle-free—experience. But we all know that using the wrong products can make yard upkeep a very frustrating experience.

And if you’ve ever been trimming your weeds only for the string to break or stick inside the spool, you know what I mean.

When this happens, you have to keep stopping to reload the string, which not only makes the job more time-consuming, it can lead to a rough and uneven cut.

The right kind of trimmer string is long-lasting and not easily breakable. It should provide clean and easy cuts, be able to handle thicker weeds and grass, and be quick and easy to reload when needed.

If you’ve recently purchased a new string trimmer (or if you’re in the market for one, here’s my guide to the best cordless trimmers and weed eaters), it likely came with a spool of string to start you off. But these strings aren’t always the best for the job, so it’s worth knowing what else is out there when it comes time to replacing them or buying more.

Below, you’ll find some of the best weed-eater strings available, as well as a buyer’s guide with key features to look out for.

Disclosure: All products on this page are independently selected. If you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Best weed-eater string

Maxpower Residential Grade Trimmer Line

If you like getting your money’s worth, look no further than the Maxpower Residential Grade Trimmer Line. A massive 855-foot roll, it can reload your trimmer 42 times at only 31.76 per roll—that’s 0.76 per refill!

But don’t let the low price dissuade you. This is a great quality product, tearing through dense, heavy vegetation as well as doing an impressive job trimming grass and small weeds. It also offers great abrasion resistance and tensile strength while trimming around concrete walls, curbs, and stone.

• Holds up well on concrete: This trimmer line has an edge over others in that it can hold up well on concrete and chain-link fences.
• Long-lasting: Worry no longer about restringing after each job, as this impressive trimmer line can last up to six jobs.
• Classic round shape: This shape feeds better and can be more aerodynamic than other shapes. It also increases RPMs and cutting power.
• Bright, vibrant color is easy to see: The vibrant orange string is easier to see among the grass so you know where you’re going with it.
• Durable: This string is tough, while not being so heavy that it reduces RPMs.
• May fuse in the spool: Some customers have reported that the string starts to fuse in the spool after 30 to 40 minutes of use. This may be because the spools will get hot after about 45 minutes of continual use.
• Includes (1) 3 lb. Spool of round cut trimmer line
• Measures 855″ In length 095″ in diameter
• Approximately 42 refills
• Made in the USA

Cyclone Commercial Grade Grass Trimmer Line

With a copolymer formulation, the Cyclone Commercial Grade Grass Trimmer Line is sure to accomplish any trimming task.

It is stronger and has more abrasion resistance than old-fashioned nylon string, which makes it longer lasting. The round shape gives extra durability and makes sure this string can hold its own against abrasion when edging curbs and fence lines.

The six edges along the length of the string easily and effectively cut through tall, thick grass, heavy weeds, vines, and even woody seedlings. These edges also help keep the spool cool, so there’s no need to worry about welding. The product is extremely versatile, suitable for a small garden plot or even a few acres of land.

• Feeds smoothly: This string not only feeds smoothly but also does not break inside the spool nearly as much as other strings.
• Doesn’t get as tangled: Due to its ability to feed through smoothly, the string is less likely to get tangled.
• Doesn’t litter yards: To make for an even smoother experience, this string is one of the few that won’t litter your yard with broken pieces of line.
• Not suitable for concrete: While this string is incredibly versatile for use in most yards, it’s recommended that you keep it away from concrete and chain-link fences, as these will tear up the string quickly.
• 0.095 Inch Diameter and 855 Feet Long
• Special copolymer formulation provides longer lasting commercial cutting
• Patented 6 bladed shape for added cutting power
• Choice of landscaping professionals
• Made in the U.S.A.

Oregon 22-855 Heavy-Duty Magnum Gatorline Square Line

If you’re looking for weed-eater string for big trimmers and that can handle serious work, then look no further than the Oregon 22-885 Heavy-Duty Magnum Gatorline Square Line.

It offers all the high cutting efficiency you can ask for but without the exhausting work—just cleaner, straighter cuts. This is all thanks to the square profile.

It’s also incredibly durable, with an extremely strong inner core that resists breakage, giving you more time trimming instead of winding spools.

This string is perfect for work on large properties, heavy vegetation, and underbrush, as well as cleaning up vegetable gardens. However, not every trimmer will be able to handle the large.155-inch diameter of the string so before you buy, check your trimmer’s manual.

• High cutting efficiency: This string allows you to get cleaner, straighter cuts more easily than a traditional trimmer line.
• Durable: The incredibly strong inner core resists breakage and makes for longer-lasting lines.
• Square trimmer line: The shape of this line allows you to cut through vegetation with a clean, even pass and is ideal for professionals cutting through tough vegetation and underbrush.
• Fits several string trimmer models: This weed-eater string is versatile and is suitable for use in several trimmer models, including the Remington RM1159.
• Not kind to fences: Use with caution around lightweight wood fences, as this line may chip some softwoods or remove paint from fences.
• Keep out of sunlight: UV light will weaken the plastic and reduce the longevity of the line. It’s reommended to keep any unused line away from sunlight.
• High cutting efficiency – Magnum Gatorline allows you to get cleaner, straighter cuts with less effort than traditional trimmer line
• Durable.- High-strength inner core resists breakage which means that the line lasts longer and you spend less time winding spools
• Square trimmer line.- Slices through vegetation with a clean, even pass
• .155″ diameter trimmer line is ideal for professionals cutting tough vegetation and underbrush
• Fits several string trimmer models including, but not limited to: Remington RM1159

Husqvarna Titanium Force String Trimmer Lines

Made of a commercial-grade copolymer material for longer life and better performance, this trimmer string has excellent durability and longevity and is perfect for use in a steel-bladed edger. A steel-bladed edger is recommended for setting initial landscapes along curbs, borders, and walkways and is easy to maintain with a string trimmer.

This is also one of those rare string trimmer lines that hold up well against concrete and stone, thanks to its high-quality, abrasion-resistant material and round shape. The grooved string can accelerate fast and has level flight, making for quieter trimming and less fuel consumption.

For jobs that require a lot of edging, this string makes it quick and easy. Plus, the convenient line-cutting tool that comes with this string trimmer line makes it even easier.

• Long-lasting: This product has been designed with cutting-edge technology for better performance, longer use, and faster acceleration.
• High cutting efficiency: Cuts down on time spent getting rid of pesky weeds when paired with the right string trimmer.
• Low noise: The patented low-noise design of this string trimmer line reduces noise by 50%.
• Great for trimming grass: This product is best suited for trimming grass.
• Longer life, Better performance, Faster acceleration. Our design is based on cutting edge technology that delivers longer life, better performance, faster acceleration, level flight characteristics
• High cutting efficiency. Means less work possible with the right choice of materials
• Low-noise. The patented design on Husqvarna‘s low-noise lines reduces the noise level by 50 % which gives a better working environment
• This product is best suited for trimming grass
• Made in the USA

Arnold Maxi Edge. 095-Inch x 100 Foot Commercial Trimmer Line

The Arnold Maxi Edge trimmer line has a near-universal fit and can be used in most gas string trimmers. Not only that, it can cut up to three times more area than economy lines. (However, results will vary depending on the cutting conditions and the type of trimmer head you use.)

There’s no need to worry about constantly re-stringing either, with 100 feet of string and 5 refills included. What’s more, this trimmer line also comes with a cutting tool for more efficient use.

• Comes with a special cutting blade: Due to the strength of the string, the Arnold Maxi Edge comes with a special cutting blade that is sharp enough to cut through it. Simple blades don’t do the trick!
• Star-shaped profile: The star-shaped profile ensures an effective cut and reduces breakage.
• Affordable: At 7.31, this is a terrific budget buy.

Buyer’s guide

Now that we’ve taken a look at some of the best strings on the market, here are a few important factors to consider when buying the best string for your trimmer.

I’ll take you through some key decisions to make as far as finding the right shape, material, durability, weld resistance, and line size. This last factor is crucial, and you should always take a look at your trimmer’s manual or check out the manufacturer’s website to find out what string sizes will fit your machine.

Shape

Trimmer string comes in round, multi-sided, and twisted shapes. The performance is affected by the shape in many ways.

The cleanness of the cut, the durability of the string, and the noise level are all affected by the shape of the string. Different shapes are suited for different jobs so it’s important to find a shape that will match the job you use it for.

Let’s start with a round string. It comes in all sizes and is durable, economical, and easy to reload. If you’re using your trimmer on grassy lawns with minimal weeds, then a round string is the best choice.

Since it tears through weeds rather than cuts cleanly, a round-shaped string is not recommended for particularly weedy areas. A round string is also more likely to overheat and weld together when trimming along fences and concrete walls.

Twisted string is more suitable for thick weeds, as it has a cleaner cut and is more durable around hard surfaces. It’s also quieter and less likely to vibrate than other string shapes due to its reduced air resistance. For the quietest experience, use a twisted string in an electric or cordless trimmer.

If you’re using your trimmer on yards with thick grass and heavy weeds, then a multi-sided string is the best choice. Its sharp edges cut through weeds for a cleaner look. However, if there are a lot of obstacles or objects to maneuver around, then a multi-sided string may not be the best choice as it breaks quite easily along hard surfaces.

Material

Basic trimmer string is made of hardened monofilament nylon, and this has been the industry standard for years. However, manufacturers are developing these products and making constant improvements to increase their capability and durability. So while plain nylon line is still effective, there are stronger materials out there.

For example, reinforced composite nylon is more resistant to breakage. Meanwhile, some products include materials like aluminum that are impregnated into the nylon to make it stronger.

Some trimmer strings are made from non-nylon polymers or copolymers as they are more durable, while some are made with hardened core material to reduce breakage.

Fixing A Ryobi Trimmer That Won’t Start

But while all these options improve the durability of light gauge nylon string, if you’re mainly using your trimmer for light grass trimming, then a simple nylon line will do the job.

Durability

The test for durability comes with consistent use among heavy weeds and hard surfaces. A more durable string lets you do more work per spool, and the durability of the string varies on what material it’s made of, the shape of the string, what’s being trimmed, and friction with surfaces like stone or concrete. But the thicker the string is, the more durable it will be.

Round string tends to be the most durable. This is because it contains more material with less surface area and has a longer wear time. Round string that is made of reinforced nylon or non-nylon polymer, or a string with hardened core material, will be more durable than basic nylon.

Welding resistance

Welding occurs when the trimmer string gets too hot and sticks together on the spool. This happens when the trimmer is being operated at high speed while cutting along a resistant surface, such as a fence or a concrete sidewalk, for an extended period of time.

The added friction causes heat to build up, which softens the string and eventually causes it to stick together. To solve this problem, you will have to remove the spool and restring it.

Materials used to make trimmer strings are usually weld resistant, but some types of strings are more resistant than others. A shaped line is more weld-resistant than round because of the larger surface area. Round string has a smaller surface area which makes it overheat at a quicker rate.

Line Size

Another good indicator of durability is line diameter. Thicker lines last longer but also cost more. When deciding on the right line thickness for you, make sure to take cost, how often you want to reload, and your yard conditions into account. As previously mentioned, not all sizes fit all trimmers, so make sure to consult your trimmer’s manual before purchasing string for your trimmer.

For small to medium yards with few weeds, a light-duty weed-eater string with a diameter of.065 to.085 inch is suitable.

Meanwhile, a medium-duty trimmer string of.085 to.110 inch is recommended for larger yards with thick grass and more weeds.

For even larger properties that have heavy weeds, woody plants, and lots of fence lines and hard surfaces to trim along, a heavy-duty string greater than.110 inch in diameter is recommended.

Frequently asked questions

How do I install a new weed-eater string?

Some string trimmers require pre-cut lengths of line, while others use either one or two long lengths of line that wind onto a spool. This may require you to remove the spool from its housing, or you may need to load it in place.

For more information on your specific trimmer brand and model, consult your trimmer’s manual or the manufacturer’s website.

Which way should I wind the weed-eater string?

You should wind the string in the opposite direction of its rotation. This is usually counterclockwise. You may be able to find an arrow on the spool that shows the proper direction to wind the string.

How often do I have to replace weed-eater string?

You should only ever need to replace the string when it runs out unless it’s not feeding properly. String that is old or has been exposed to the elements over time can become brittle and may need to be replaced as well.

How does weed-eater string work?

A string trimmer usually uses a monofilament to cut through grass, weeds, and small, woody plants. A cutting head spins at a high speed and generates enough centrifugal force to hold the line at a stiff, horizontal angle. This is what makes the cutting possible.

You can manually adjust the height and arc of the string trimmer for cutting around trees, walls, and rock beds. Trimmers can also be turned vertically to edge out lines near sidewalks and driveways.

On many trimmers, the cutting heads and lines can be switched out to accommodate a variety of line gauges. It’s recommended to check what gauges your cutting head can handle, but depending on the job, you’ll still have plenty of options available such as thinner, spooled line; thicker, pre-cut line; serrated and square lines; or you could even use blades or chains.

What are the Best Walk Behind String Trimmers? Reviews Buyer’s Guide

A walk behind string trimmer can be beneficial when trying to maintain a large property with lots of wooded areas. They are generally easier to work with than regular hand-held weed eaters for larger, more demanding jobs.

All string trimmers are a little different; some are more powerful, but also heavy, while others are less powerful, but better to maneuver and store.

So, how do you decide which one you should purchase?

Our Top Walk Behind String Trimmers:

The trick to finding the right model is to know how you will use it. If you are looking to tackle tough jobs like clearing a well-grown area or knocking down tough, invasive weeds, you will want a more powerful model.

However, if you are looking to maintain your yard, a battery powered weed eater may be enough. As with anything in yard work, getting the right tool for the job is the right place to start.

Walk Behind String Trimmer Reviews

1) BLACKDECKER 22-Inch Wheeled Trimmer

With these impressive attributes, this powerful unit is great for tackling any terrain.

It is easy to start and easy to handle. The unique deck shape also makes getting a clean, close cut easy and consistent. The smooth-turning wheels also make maneuvering through curvy terrain and leaving precise lines a simple task.

This machine is designed with a foldable handle that makes storage somewhat simple. With the compact and easy-to-maintain design, this is a great product for anyone looking to keep a well-manicured lawn.

In my opinion, this is the best walk behind string trimmer for most people!

2) ​​​​Earthquake 37676 String Trimmer

The 173cc 4-Cycle gas engine gives it the ability to tackle almost any job on virtually any terrain. Though, the engine has been said to slip when the field or grass gets too thick. Taking more time in the thicker areas will let this mower do its job and leave you with a clean cut.

Its design and light weight make this machine more comfortable to maneuver and causes the user less strain. Some have suggested that the string has a tendency to come undone, but is not difficult to recoil. It has also been said that though the design should make rough terrain easy to maneuver, that it can struggle at times.

3) Southland SWSTM4317 Wheeled String Trimmer

The Southland string mower offers 35% more torque than a standard 25cc hand held trimmer. With a multi-string trimmer head, this machine gives the user multiple line length options. The 5 degree and 10-degree swivel allow for easier rotation and more trimming versatility. This machine works well with grass, particularly short grass, and struggles with thicker debris.

Users have found that this machine works well, but is too short and thus can be difficult to handle. It has also been said to operate just as well as a cheaper, more light-weight string trimmer. Also, the lower quality of the machine results in broken parts and more maintenance – especially if used for heavy duty jobs.

4) Troy-Bilt TB22TM Trimmer Mower

• Large rear wheels make it easy to use in deep grass
• Comes fully assembled with oil and extra lines included
• Wide reach helps to clear more brush faster

• I am not a fan of the auto choke system
• Bulky and somewhat difficult to store

The Troy-Bilt TB22TM is priced right compared to competitors. The powerful motor makes easy work of deep brush and is a good replacement for a handheld weed whacker for bigger, longer jobs.

Overall it’s very easy to use and does a good job of clearing brush. It may not be the best machine for heavy commercial use, but it’s great for homeowners looking to tackle ordinary tasks.

5) Dirty Hand Tools 101085 Walk-Behind String Trimmer

This DHT trimmer has some useful aspects:

• 149cc Kohler XT675 engine
• 5 adjustable heights for cutting
• 14 gauge durable steel frame
• 4-inch diameter trim ball with 4 inch heat-treated blades
• 14 in x 1.75-inch wheel width

The Kohler engines and adjustable cutting heights make this wheeled trimmer a powerful tool. The large wheels allow for better mobility around a rough yard and a more consistent cut line when working on uneven terrain.

Based on our research, this is fairly poor quality machine. The cutting quality, frame strength, and functioning inconsistency cause user frustration. Though, some of these issues seem to be solved by learning to adjust the trimmer for the job appropriately.

3) Poulan Pro 190 cc High Wheel Lawn Trimmer

This mower has a conveniently adjustable deck that ranges from 1.6 inches to 3.04 inches. Great for larger jobs with its 22-inch cutting width. Works well on lawns with rougher terrain and more varied layouts. The high rear wheels provide mobile freedom to make tasks simpler.

Powered by the Briggs Stratton 625 Series gas engine, this trimmer can take on just about any job. Its durability lets you work near driveways, fences, posts, and more while still keeping the nylon line in tack. With its adjustable speeds as well, you can determine how much effort and speed each job will require.

How I Rated the Walk Behind Trimmers

I rated the walk-behind string trimmers based on power, durability, ease of mobility, consistency, maintenance, and price. I looked at each feature thoroughly.

Though each machine has its setbacks, the top rated ones are more reliable and received better reviews across the board. From the top high wheel trimmer with the main problem being size and weight to the lowest rated trimmer have more wrong than right, each had a good review.

As with any machine you purchase, knowing what is important and what doesn’t matter to you is going to be the deciding factor in your purchase. If you are just looking to do simple yard detailing work with a push trimmer akin to a handheld trimmer, #4 may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to take on bigger jobs, #1 may be a better choice.

Reliability (Warranty)

When purchasing a wheeled trimmer, having a warranty is essential. The ones mentioned above have 5 to 2-year warranties.

The higher rated string trimmers typically have a longer warranty because they generally are more reliable. In contrast, the lower rated trimmers normally have a shorter warranty. This difference in duration suggests quite a bit about these machines.

Companies honestly don’t want to deal with customers who theoretically cash-in their warranty because something has gone wrong with the machine. Thus, companies will add an extended warranty on their more reliable machines and a shorter one on the less reliable ones.

Wheel Size

Wheel size is an important aspect of any good push mower. Smaller wheels will require more effort to turn and maneuver over a lawn while larger wheels will be easier to use – in most cases.

A larger wheel has a greater circumference and covers more ground faster than a smaller wheel. So, the larger the wheel, the simpler it will be to redirect the machine. Also, a machine with only two large wheels as opposed to four smaller ones is more easily redirected.

Machines with larger wheels are also easier to push over uneven terrain and up hills.

All of these string trimmer mowers have two wheels, so they are essentially equal save their size. When deciding on a model, the wheel size should play a part in your decision.

Performance

What type of performance do I look for before making a purchase?

• Ability to handle thick grass and weeds
• A motor that doesn’t slip when challenged
• Consistency to trim throughout the entire job

An essential aspect of any good high wheel trimmer is its ability to tackle tougher jobs. A trimmer with a motor that slips when it takes on a thick grass or weeds is not a capable machine. Most of the above-listed trimmers besides the higher ranked one struggle with thicker brush.

If you’re looking for dependable performance, look for ones with good ratings and positive feedback.

Power

The amount of power needed is depends on the needs of a job. If you are looking to tackle tougher brush like a field, shrubs, saplings, thick grass, or dense weeds. You are going to need more cutting ability. If you are working with lighter jobs like already well-kept lawns and thinner grass and weeds, it won’t be as important.

If your job really requires a lot of power, I would look for the best self propelled string trimmer that you can afford. The self-propelled feature will make it much more manageable for larger jobs.

Ease of Use

For many people, there are few things more important than an easy-to-use machine. There is nothing worse than trying to do yard work with a machine that hurts your back the entire time.

Especially if you are an older person, physically limited individual or outdoor worker – time spent with a difficult to maneuver machine is not fun.

The ease of mobility is an important deciding factor. With a string mower, maneuverability makes jobs more manageable. If it’s is difficult to push around on rough terrain, it will strain the user. For machines that are easy to use, look for larger wheels, lighter weight, and well-balanced mowers.

How to Pick the Best Walk Behind String Trimmer

If you’ve spent time with string trimmers in the past, you know that some can be very difficult to load and will have inconsistent string lengths. When comparing the best string trimmer mowers, pay particular attention to the mechanism that holds the string.

The type of string is less of a factor than what holds the line. Save yourself the pain of having to fight changing the string in your machine and trust the string trimmer mower reviews.

Things to keep in mind when looking at wheeled string trimmers:

How Much Power Do You Need?

As I have mentioned, power needed is dependent on the job. If you are looking to take on large tasks with thicker brush, you will need more horsepower.

My pick for the best walk behind trimmer has an engine rating that is higher than the others listed. This gives the machine the ability to tackle tough jobs. However, as stated above, this also leads to a heavier machine which can be more difficult to handle.

Keep in mind that though the more powerful machines can tackle harsh brush, you will still struggle trying to cut down thicker saplings and similar foliage with just a string trimmer.

Don’t expect a 190cc engine to take down a young tree and don’t expect a 100cc engine to handle thick weeds easily. Some of the models may allow you to switch out the string line head for a brush cutter head, but I didn’t research this.

So, be realistic about your expectations for your machine.

Safety Precautions During Operation

As with any heavy-duty machine you deal with, there is always a risk factor if you use it without taking the proper precautions.

Trimmer mowers are high powered machines that can do severe damage. One of the primary safety concerns when working with any trimmer is its ability to cut through just about anything. When it is running, it can easily sever toes and fingers.

Also, do not operate any trimmer wearing loose fitting clothes or hanging jewelry.

Though direct contact with this machine can be harmful, simply being near it can be dangerous without the proper safety equipment. A trimmer can fling debris at high speeds when slicing through a job and this can be very dangerous for your eyes.

• Do not operate over gravel, loose stone, woodchips, or sticks.
• Wear protective eyewear at all times when operating
• Wear protective clothing and shoes when operating (no hanging or lose items)

The engine on these machines can also get very hot. Though it can seem like a less dangerous and more obvious safety tip, mind your hands and legs when the motor starts to heat up.

Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Models

Some users say that getting a pricey machine is a waste of money when the cheaper version does the job just as well. While others say that it’s worth it to invest in the higher priced machine over the cheap one. You could argue both sides.

Though it may seem excessive to spend so much money, sometimes pricey models are better. They come with more features and typically easier to use. Pricier models are also often more durable. When the tough gets going, most of the more expensive models can last through the fight.

Sometimes saving your money and getting a cheaper model will save you more than money at the end of the day. There are some instances where the cheaper versions are hardier. They can take more of a beating and still come out needing little to no maintenance.

Whether you invest in an expensive model or a cheap one, your decision should be dependant on individual performance and needs. If the cheap one outperforms the expensive one, don’t let a price tag fool you into thinking you’ll get a better machine just because it costs more.

How Much Should I Expect to Pay?

After reading the wheeled string trimmer reviews and deciding on the features you need, you can expect to pay anywhere in the range of 100 – 300. As with most things, there are exceptions to either side of that range, but that’s the general rule. However, the quality models listed above run around 300.

A major deciding factor in how much you are going to pay is what quality you are looking for and the type of work required.

• Have tougher, bigger, or thicker jobs
• Want more maneuverability
• Want more cutting ability
• Want a more durable machine
• Want less frequent maintenance

If the tasks you are looking to do are not as challenging, then you likely won’t have to spend as much. A 150 machine may work fine for you.

However, as much as saving money on a cheaper model would be great; you may not want to sacrifice quality for price tag.

Conclusion

Finding the right wheeled string trimmer can be challenging. However, if you know what you’re looking for, finding the right machine should be fairly straightforward.

• 140cc OHV GAS ENGINE: Powerful 4-cycle gas engine helps you clear the tallest, toughest grass and.
• 22-INCH CUTTING SWATH: Unique shape makes trimming around fences, garden beds, and other landscaping.
• USER FRIENDLY: Off-set trimmer head feature helps to trim hard-to-reach places while the 14-inch.
• COMFORT FOLDING HANDLE: Equipped with a comfort folding handle for convenient storage and.

The 5 trimmer mowers that I review above are just some of the more popular models on the market today. Each has its own strength and weakness.

So, how do you know which walk-behind string trimmer is right for you?

As redundant as it may seem at this point, choosing the best trimmer mower is an individual decision. One person’s favorite model may not work well for another person.

Read my walk behind trimmer reviews, but evaluate the ratings in light of what you plan to do. What you need is based on what YOU need, so once you know what you want, go out and get it!

Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Somes Images and Data from Amazon Product Advertising API

Matt Hagens

My name is Matt, and I am the founder of Obsessed Lawn. I am very passionate about my lawn. keeping it looking beautiful but also safe for my family, friends, and our dog Liberty. I hope you find my website helpful in your quest for a great-looking lawn!