Originally Posted By: hate2work
Originally Posted By: mpvue
FWIW, when I worked at HD a few yrs back, the deal was they only sold 3 models of echo, and a local echo independent came in to set them up. if you need service later, you just need to go to an independent (which begs the question, why not just go to the independent to begin with).
but, when it came time to buy one myself, I got a stihl (forget which model; the lowest price straight shaft). can't beat the local service. all the units are setup and test run, they filled it with gas, the dude spent a good 15 minutes w/ me on how to use it properly, and filled out and sent in the warranty card for me.
I just finished selling a FS 55 ( the entry level straight shaft )this morning to a fellow and his 15 yo son. The boy is going to start doing some lawn work this summer, and his dad wanted him to start out with a good trimmer. I spent 20 minutes explaining all aspects of using and maintaining the unit to them both, and they left with a good working knowledge of how it all works. Warranty registrations are all done online now.
Johnny is right, an FS 90 would be plenty for what you want to do. One thing about these "new" 4 mix technology units Stihl puts out is that you really should be running the white bottle full syn Stihl oil. The other oils were leaving carbon/calcium deposits on the exhaust valve, whereas the full syn oil does not.
that's what I bought last season, the FS55. I love that trimmer. my yard is small; I didn't buy it for the workload, but I wanted a reliable unit that wouldn't be overworked. very good machine.