Peculiarities of choosing a petrol trimmer for a summer cottage

Garden tools

A neat lawn is an affordable way to beautifully decorate a garden. However, growing grass requires constant adjustments to its height. Trimmers are a great way to manage this. Gas-powered models are often chosen for gardening, as electricity isn't always available, and cords don't get tangled underfoot. Examples of the best lawn trimmers will help users determine the pros and cons of each tool.

Trimmer selection parameters

Trimmers are used to landscape gardens, trim lawns, and cut weeds. Gas trimmers are used for large areas and for landscaping streets around apartment buildings. They are convenient for private use on plots larger than 20 acres. The tool consists of a motor, a rod, a cutting element, and a belt. The correct selection of these four components ensures safe and productive operation.

Engine

A trimmer is powered by a gasoline engine. Its power determines its operating speed. Grass trimmers are equipped with two-stroke, or less commonly, four-stroke, gasoline engines. The latter offer greater power and are used for tackling difficult areas overgrown with brush. Features of two-stroke models:

The fuel is a mixture of gasoline and combustible oil.
The power does not exceed 3.3 kW.
The weight and dimensions have been increased by using heat and sound reflective screens.
Periodic engine maintenance is reduced to a minimum.

Four-stroke engines are more complex in design. This reduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Operating principle:

Fuel (A-92, A-95 gasoline) is poured into a separate tank. Combustion of clean fuel reduces engine temperature.
Lubricating oil is poured into the engine crankcase. The absence of lubricant in the fuel reduces exhaust emissions.
The intake and exhaust valve system installed on four-stroke engines improves operating stability and reduces vibration.
Low noise levels make it comfortable to operate a petrol trimmer.

For your information!

For periodic lawn mowing In front of the yard, a trimmer with a two-stroke engine is sufficient.

Cutting tool

When cutting plants, either metal or plastic line or discs are used as the cutting tool. In the former case, a polymer cord is attached to the mower spindle. It varies in diameter and cross-sectional profile. The maximum permissible diameter is specified by the manufacturer. Using a cord of a larger diameter causes excessive wear on the bushings.

According to the shape, the fishing line can be:

round (cuts green and dry grass);
square (suitable for woody plants: raspberries, tall weeds);
star-shaped (used for cutting ornamental lawns).

If the tool is intended for use only a few times per season, a disc blade is installed. It copes well with long plant stems that become tangled around the scythe spindle. Blades are made of impact-resistant plastic or steel. The former are effective at cutting grass. Undergrowth is cut with steel blades. The number of cutting edges varies from two to eight. For harvesting hay for the winter, a multi-blade tool is used; using a tool with a small number of blades results in finely chopped grass.

Distance bar

The rotational power from the engine to the cutting disc is transmitted via a long shaft located in the spacer bar. It can be rigid or flexible. The shaft type determines the design of the bar. A straight shaft is used for a rigid shaft, while a curved shaft is used for a flexible shaft. The former option is more durable. However, if the area has many uneven surfaces, obstacles, or hard-to-reach areas, a trimmer with a curved shaft may be more appropriate.

Belt equipment

Operating a gas trimmer is a complex process. When mowing, the operator must support the weight of the vibrating tool, control the position of hot and rotating parts, and guide the blades to the cutting surface. This can cause back, arm, and lower back pain. A harness distributes the weight of the tool across the body. A simpler option is to hold it on one shoulder, but this will result in a one-sided load. Double harnesses with elastic shoulder pads are convenient: the weight of the tool is distributed evenly. A hip belt is included with this harness to protect against vibration.

For your information!

The manufacturer supplies an adjustable harness with the equipment. It should be adjusted to the user's size before first use.

TOP 5 popular models

A variety of gas trimmer models are available in stores. While all are compact, the equipment's features and ergonomics are crucial when using the equipment. The tool must be held manually, and some models can weigh up to 10 kg. A minor detail can not only impair ease of use but also cause injury to the user.

The range of similar products available in stores today is so vast that it's easy to get confused and end up buying the wrong model. Examples of the best devices will introduce you to a number of popular mechanisms:

KRÜGER GTK 52-7 brush cutter. Its thoughtful design makes it comfortable to use. The soft-start system allows the engine to start instantly. A comprehensive set of replacement parts and consumables enhances the tool's functionality.
Husqvarna 128R. This Swedish-made scythe offers an excellent price-quality ratio. Its lightweight (only 5 kg) makes it ideal for trimming lawns in small gardens and small backyards. A convenient harness evenly distributes the light weight of the machine across your back, making it even more comfortable to use.
The Makita EBH253U is a next-generation gasoline-powered tool. It features a four-stroke engine and a number of new control systems. This has improved environmental performance and reduced noise and vibration.
Stihl FS 55. The chrome-plated engine parts make this model extremely durable. Its advantage lies in its additional features: a two-point hitch and a set of replacement blades are included.
The PATRIOT PT 555 is a budget-friendly mower designed for individual use at a dacha or garden plot. It's suitable for managing lawns and dense weeds. Controls located on the handle make operation easy.