Petrol Strimmer Maintenance – Replacing The String
Posted on Nov 4, 2009 06:47:05 PM
If you own a strimmer, you’ll eventually have to change its string. The string can break for many reasons; but commonly, the very end of the string (usually a couple of inches from the end) will wrap itself around something (a heavy twig or similar) when rotating at high speed. When this happens, the combination of the bending in the string with the high speed force of the rotation can cause a small tear. After this has occurred, with continued use, the tear will extend into a full break, necessitating the replacement of the string. If you’re careful when using the trimmer, and observe what’s on the ground where it’s being used, you can minimise this type of breakage.
However, once it has occurred, follow these instructions to replace the string. (Note that these are general instructions, but should work with most types of petrol strimmer; for more detailed information about your particular model of strimmer, see the manufacturer’s user manual.)
- I know this is obvious (or should be!), but firstly, and very importantly, make sure the strimmer is switched off before turning it over and completing this process.
- Clean off the underside of the strimmer – this includes dirt, loose grass, etc. It’s not completely necessary, but it is always good practise to properly care for your tools.
- Remove the cap that keeps the string in place.
- Remove the spool of string and take the damaged string off the spool.
- Cut a new piece of string – the length should be 5 to 6 feet.
- Thread one end of the string though the hole in the spool and wrap the string around the spool anti-clockwise.
- Leave 6 inches of string loose at the end; hook this on one of the slots on the spool to keep it secure whilst you’re putting the spool back in.
- Put the spool back into the strimmer.
- Feed the loose end of the tread through the appropriate hole on the head of the strimmer.
- Pull the attached part of the string out of the slot.
- Put the cap back on.
As mentioned, all models of electric & petrol strimmer will be slightly different, but these instructions are usually all you’ll need.
Lawn Care Tips – Using A Strimmer, Mower & Fertiliser
Posted on Oct 25, 2009 12:42:39 PM
There’s plenty of advice available on the web that can help you to keep your lawn in good condition. You don’t need to hire a professional - lawn care can be quite simple, and you can start by following these guidelines.
- It’s important to ensure the grass is mown regularly. If it’s not, weeds (especially moss) can quickly grow and ruin the quality of your lawn. It really depends on what kind of climate you live in as to how often you’ll need to mow. However, in the summer, when the grass is growing quickly, once a week would be a good rule of thumb.
- When mowing, instead of pushing the lawnmower in straight lines, it can be beneficial to push the mower in different directions.
- Grass cuttings are filled with nutrients; it’s a good idea to leave them on the lawn after mowing to allow some of the nutrients to be reabsorbed. Unfortunately mowing will strip the grass of nitrogen, which can lead to a discolouration (commonly the grass will get a yellow tinge). When this happens (and perhaps before), consider using a fertiliser to help keep the lawn in great condition. Fertilisers that also contain weed killer are available, and this can help to keep unwanted weeds at bay. If the lawn is otherwise in good condition, it should only need to be fertilised once or twice a year.
- If it’s summertime, or you live in a year-round dry climate, it’s very important to water the lawn regularly. If you live in the aforementioned dry climate, installing a sprinkler system can be hugely beneficial.
- Finally, if you have plants or garden fencing, it’s usually not a great idea to mow the grass right to the edge – this can cause damage to your fence or well-tended plants. This is where the grass strimmer can really help to easily and carefully cut the edges of the lawn.
Safety Considerations When Using A Petrol Strimmer
Posted on Oct 18, 2009 07:21:26 PM
There are many things you should take into consideration when you’re thinking about using a cordless trimmer. This is because they’re not only a great tool to have and use when looking to clean and maintain your yard, they can also be dangerous and can be harmful if used improperly. There are many different ways to protect yourself when you’re using a petrol strimmer. One of the most important is to follow all of the safety guidelines that accompany the strimmer.
Protecting Yourself
When you’re using a petrol strimmer, you should protect your body; and you can do this by being sure to wear the proper clothing. This would include the wearing of long sleeve shirts as well as long pants. It’s also important to wear boots and / or proper shoes to cover your entire foot. This is because debris and loose stones will get kicked up out of the area being trimmed and could strike you anywhere on the body. By wearing long clothes and the proper shoes, you can protect yourself and allow for your body to not have to deal with injury or cuts.
Eye protection is another necessity when using a petrol strimmer. This is because, just like the debris being kicked up and striking your arms and legs, it can also hit you in the face. If you take the time to either wear goggles or some sort of protective eye wear, then you will be able to save your sight as well as your eyes!
Follow the instructions in how to operate the strimmer. There are different rules as well as instructions one should adhere to no matter what type of strimmer you are using. With a petrol trimmer, usually a mixture of oil and petrol will be in use as the fuel for the tool. Make sure to follow the proper mixing instructions; if you don’t follow the instructions you might destroy your motor and possibly cause an accident. Also make sure to always point the trimmer down when it is in use so as to avoid accidents, and especially to avoid and debris hitting the face.
Make sure to have enough string and that all parts are secured properly to avoid accidents and to allow you to be feel safe when using the strimmer.