Need a new weedwacker!

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So, can anyone recommend a good weedwacker from Stihl that would last? I mow 3 lawns total and would love to stay under the $350 dollar range. Plus I need a straight-shaft. Any suggestions on model and what kind of 2-stroke oil to use?
 
In my opinion, ANY model from Stihl that meets your requirements (straight shaft) is excellent. All Stihl equipment is high quality, unlike some makes that their cheaper models are more cheaply made.
 
Use stihl oil.

You need to go handle the trimmers your self. See which one fits you at a price you want.

I have the smallest straight shaft they make. It has more than enough power for general trimming. If you were going to be cutting thick grassy areas you would want something bigger.
 
Originally Posted By: old1
In my opinion, ANY model from Stihl that meets your requirements (straight shaft) is excellent. All Stihl equipment is high quality, unlike some makes that their cheaper models are more cheaply made.



Yep. It's pro-grade stuff. Find a local Stihl dealer and try a few out. Pick the one that fits your needs.

My dad asked for a new one about 5 years ago and I got him a Stihl. He loves it, says he'll never buy anything else now.
 
If you buy a 6 pack of Stihl oil with the trimmer it doubles the warranty, not that you'll need it.

Agree any model (including KombiMotor) is fine.
 
Stihl is hands down the best for commercial use. Echo is fine for personal use. Right now I have an Echo that been running for 6 years, Before that my Stihl lasted for 10 years.

Been using Tru-Fuel for last couple years, Before that I used Amsoil Saber
 
Stihl or Echo are the two best in that price point, IMO.
I looked at both, and bought the Echo.
As far as which model, since that is somewhat of a personal preference, best to go check them out yourself and see what you prefer.
I'd say look at the Echo before you make a final decision. Go to an actual Echo dealer instead of the big box option (HD.) Same price and you get much better service.

As far as oil, I use Echo in all my 2 cycle.
 
Buy whatever, including the cheapest Walmart Murray ones, for $69.99. Use run your oil no less than 32:1. Take off the engine side and and lube the shaft once a year(not a major job) 4 bolts. Mine is still going and I run the snot out of it. I refuse to pay for a Stihl or Echo. Its up to you, but your buying the name.
 
My Craftsman 21 cc/15" cut is going on 21 years of service and my Homelite blower is going on 12 years. I bought my two stroke ;LawnBoy in 1996 and it still starts first pull. I always mixed my two stroke oil out of a qt. container and never used Stihl, Echo or Lawnboy oil. I actually used Amoco oil for the first 10 years, till I couldn't get it any longer. I use a TC oil and run it rich, 20;1 OR 32;1, never any less regardless of what the manufacture says. I run them hard, full throttle and it apparently works, because they all still run good.
 
Originally Posted By: Panzerman
Buy whatever, including the cheapest Walmart Murray ones, for $69.99. Use run your oil no less than 32:1. Take off the engine side and and lube the shaft once a year(not a major job) 4 bolts. Mine is still going and I run the snot out of it. I refuse to pay for a Stihl or Echo. Its up to you, but your buying the name.


Stihl makes quality stuff, Not just a name.
 
Originally Posted By: Panzerman
Buy whatever, including the cheapest Walmart Murray ones, for $69.99. Use run your oil no less than 32:1. Take off the engine side and and lube the shaft once a year(not a major job) 4 bolts. Mine is still going and I run the snot out of it. I refuse to pay for a Stihl or Echo. Its up to you, but your buying the name.


Epic posting fail.
 
I've tried a few Stihl's and always go back to my Echo SRM-210. I use it about 45 minutes a week for the past 6-7 years, with never a problem. Starts in 2 pulls, light weight, plenty of power for general trimming. Plus it's more fuel efficient than the Stihl trimmers, although that doesn't make much of a difference unless you are running your trimmer commercially.
 
Originally Posted By: Panzerman
My Craftsman 21 cc/15" cut is going on 21 years of service and my Homelite blower is going on 12 years. I bought my two stroke ;LawnBoy in 1996 and it still starts first pull. I always mixed my two stroke oil out of a qt. container and never used Stihl, Echo or Lawnboy oil. I actually used Amoco oil for the first 10 years, till I couldn't get it any longer. I use a TC oil and run it rich, 20;1 OR 32;1, never any less regardless of what the manufacture says. I run them hard, full throttle and it apparently works, because they all still run good.

Years ago I lived in Germany and had a "Meister Moped" with a Sachs 50cc 2 stroker. I found the motor had more poop with a healthier dose of oil. I also learned to mix the oil and gas before putting it in the moped. A slug of straight oil in the old Bing carburetor would convert you into a pedestrian in a heartbeat.
 
I have a husqvarna trimmer and a stihl stick edger. Both start super easy,are light, powerful, and just work. I've also had great luck with echo stuff. Don't think you can go wrong with any of those.
 
Stihl FS 55 is a great trimmer. I've been running one for a couple years and it has done an outstanding job. Although, if you want to run attachments such as a blade for cutting down saplings you need to step up to at least an FS 90.

As for oil, Stihl Ultra is excellent and doubles your warranty if you buy the 6 pack when you purchase your trimmer. Good luck with the decision!
 
I like the Echo units. Not just because they are high quality, but also because they are very light and smooth running. Mine is now 10 years old and still performs like a champ. I fully expect it will last another 10 years.

My silly neighbor proudly purchased one of those 4 stroke models. (About 2 years later, I see it on the side of the road, awaiting the garbage man) He was so proud of it when he got it, had me try it, I hated it. Too heavy and too much vibration. Some two stroke models also vibrate too much and are too heavy.
 
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