String trimmer guard ON or OFF? Will it destroy your Stihl, Echo or Husqvarna? You might be shocked!

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My name is Bre. I took two years of small engine repair at the local college. When I left school, I fell into a wonderful job at a local small engine shop where I worked the counter for a couple years. In 2010 my husband and I opened up our own small engine shop in central Arkansas where I am able to work alongside my family and best friends. We see over 2,000 pieces of small engine equipment every year, and answer 1,000's of small engine questions. We specialize in brands such as Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Echo and Shindaiwa, but work everyday on MANY other brands like Stihl, Husqvarna, Honda, Craftsman, Remington, Red Max, Troy Bilt, Scag, Bad Boy, Hustler, World Lawn, Poulan, Mantis, Etc.. Hopefully, my experience I share, will save you Time, Money and Frustration in the future!
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[@Chickanic]

Thanks for Watching! Find a link to all of my "Must Have", Favorite Tools HERE!! www.amazon.com/shop/chickanic?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfchickanic_9ERPFPBNGQ924P8NS63B

[@mikegore5840]

I ran echos, for 25 years, never replaced a part on any of them, spark plugs only. Ran the hell and abused the crap out of all of them. Not to mention the jacklegs that worked for me. Took the shields off before I left the mower shop. Had to clean exhaust ports out 2 times a season, other than simple maintenance, they still ran great. They were 21 to 25 years old when I got out of that miserable business. Hardest work on your body you will ever do.

[@richerwin6397]

A TRUE experienced commercial landscaper will not only remove the shield, but he will also replace the head with a manual-feed head. They can lengthen and shorten the line as needed for the specific spot they are trimming. This takes any overload off the head and gears that would be caused by an excessive amount of line out.

[@texan131396]

I purchased my Echo SRM-210 to use at my house in 2006. I removed the guard a year later. I keep the line at the proper length. If I unintentionally bump the head and it gets too long, I just clip it. I don’t run it if the string is too long. Knock on wood…I use it weekly and it is still going strong. I appreciate the channel and your videos. Keep up the great work!

[@squirrelcovers6340]

Me too. Easy peasy

[@MrRmh3481]

Folks that have you as their Dealer are blessed because you are honest. Not all are this way. Keep up the good work! The guard requirement on the Echo Trimmer is a safety thing, and you know how they push safety. You can switch out the big wide older SRM guard for the newer small guard and have that meet the demand. Besides, the string really can throw a thin piece of shale or sandstone hard enough to knock your eye out. Keep the guard and wear good glasses~

[@crforfreedom7407]

All these people that think they're going to live forever...

[@Anto-kz5hk]

The guard doesn't guard nothing

[@jed-henrywitkowski6470]

@@Anto-kz5hk I worked for a government contractor. We used Stihl equipment and I can assure you that having a guard in place does help guard against injury. Now, does it guarantee that the operator will not be hit with something? No, that is why we were fully appropriate PPE, however, it is not likely that the operator will be hit by something with the guard in place. And like she said, on some newer models, the guard is an integral part of the system and needs to be in place for full functionality.

[@miller2167]

hell yea i have a stihl fs90 and wasnt even running the trimmer not even half way opened up ye know jus enough to trim around the posts holding up car port and the trimmer STILL kicked a small small gravel towards the front door to my house and guess what .... SHATTERED THE whole door so i cant imagine wha is possible kicking a rock like that running full throttle....some great big ole damage BELIEVE THAT

[@senatorjosephmccarthy2720]

​@@Anto-kz5hk. And whatever was supposed to be guarding your brain didn't guard anything either.

[@albertm8576]

Love your videos always very informative. I run a lawn and landscape business and have been told by my insurance company that if my shields are taken off my equipment, they will not cover any damages caused by running that piece of equipment without the shield, just like you mentioned Echo won’t either. Have a Great Day!

[@andyangle809]

I'm an Echo dealer myself. Something I'm surprised you didn't mention is the damage to the engine running a trimmer without a guard can cause. Running those long "helicopter" trimmer lines actually bogs the engine down, which then causes excessive carbon buildup inside the engine, and on the muffler screen. I've seen this countless times. And carbon buildup can cause a poor running trimmer. That's one of the biggest reasons for the trimmer guards. To keep the string at a length that allows for optimum performance from the engine.

[@freedomisntfree_44]

First thing I do is take the guard off and have ram trimmers for years without a problem. You’ll burn the clutch up before a motor goes. I also remove the spark arrester screen first thing. Just run a little seafoam every now and again you’ll be fine.

[@johndodo2062]

​@Dr Iatrogenesis you cab tell from the sound of the live is to long. Take it to the sidewalk and hit the gas until it's shorter. This isn't rocket science. Always better without the guard. That thing blocks almost nothing of substance and your can't see what tf you're even trimming

[@TylesBrain]

@@johndodo2062learn how to trim

[@miller2167]

you are 100% right...itell all my friends to never take guard off because of that reason

[@miller2167]

​@@johndodo2062what now????? y ur higher then groceries right now bro wha about cant see wha ur cuttin with the guard on hahaha johndodo i do hope ur jokin 😂 fr

[@ryanvercoe1140]

I find her enthusiasm for these topics welcoming. A new perspective. Thanks chicanic

[@toddfloros2662]

Love your videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge so that I have the balls to try fixing my machines.

[@silvergrizzly316]

I bought a Husqvarna 326RJ Xseries back in 2009 and from day one I removed the string guard, to this day she still runs like a brand new one but I only have to use it once maybe twice a week here at the house. When she does die, most likely I will buy another Husqvarna, I've had really good experience with all the Husqvarna equipment I've owned over the years. Great video!!! 👍 👍

[@anthonykeeton9103]

to me the guard is in the way ,but alot of people don't realize u can take the little screw on the side put few drops of gear oil in the head the bearings and gears will last alot longer

[@jonsworld5307]

iv found that adding grease one or twice a year help big time

[@markb.1259]

Great video Chick! 🙂 I love my Echo trimmer. Been running like a dream for 12 years! I never use ethanol fuel in it, no gum up and starts within 3 pulls every time!!!

[@pilotgoals62]

I love your honesty and integrity. Thanks for the content; I'm learning a lot.

[@shashiekka7917]

I had a model older than this one that I love. My sister has difficulty with tools that are too heavy and she actually loved mine and found it easy to use kzbin.infoUgkx_rBCFuDW1zD6blTGhLkvAkxU657uR_lG . This is a newer model but was even lighter which she really appreciates. She enjoys it and I no longer have to go to her house to trim as she can handle it fine. Haven't used it enough to comment on the battery life but lithium batteries last longer than the old style. Being cordless makes it easy to trim the far edges of the property. The entire yard can be trimmed with one charged battery.

[@LWCOWBOYS]

That is why I watch and recommend your channel, because you are honest!!!! Thanks 🙏🏽

[@richardnewman5981]

I had a starting problem for years starting my Stihl trimmer until I watched your video. Now I can start it with no problem. Thanks so much.

[@jimmyboredom3519]

Having done it both ways, I have settled on a narrow after market guard. Still gives some protection and keeps the string cut to proper length without being near as bulky

[@stevenkinnison8044]

I won’t use a trimmer without a guard because I don’t like stuff flying back at me or anyone else.

[@AshGreen359]

Flies back at me regardless, I wear a face shield

[@RdandTrk1]

Guard doesn’t stop much in my experience.

[@MatthewSmith-cp3hu]

? have you tried it without shield

[@jimboneutron8399]

Its honestly the same. The guard hasn’t done anything in that department.

[@rebelyankeesshow5686]

Guard gets in the way, and idk if it's me but chickanic would get it

[@UtahDarkHorse]

I've always removed the shield the second I got the trimmer. Then I got a new trimmer. off came the shield for the first use. At about this time, I started watching your videos and decided to put it back on. Will leave it on from now on. Thanks for the great advice and for sharing.

[@michaelmactavish4445]

i never remove mine because its kinda dangerous without guard with things flying

[@rebelyankeesshow5686]

I've never seen a landscaping crew around that has the shield on. I took mine off and wondered why I kept it on all this time.

[@jstpsgthru]

Always learn something from you! Next trimmer I buy will have the split shaft. My Shindaiwa trimmer didn't get the memo; It's still going strong, all original, except for a new primer bulb after 18 years.

[@freedomisntfree_44]

First thing I do is remove the guard and spark arrestor screen. Been doing this for 20 years and never a problem. Just gotta not be stupid and run the string out a foot.

[@lynnlenox6454]

I keep mine on because of the cutter, I don't want a foot and a half flying out

[@Chickanic]

I concur!!

[@cliffordgoehring7146]

This was a great video, love the back yard setting. Love your personality, keep up the good work girl.

[@JohnKoutsavlis]

I never run my trimmers without a shield. I do however love your Heinz Pickle Pin. Being from Pittsburgh, PA I noticed it immediately! Love your videos. . .I learn sooooooomuch from you. Thanks again. . .You are the best! John

[@hoosierdaddy9373]

I work for a Stihl dealership as one of their certified techs. Sales rep came in and was asking all of us what we liked about Stihl, which pieces we personally use, common issues etc...Basically told him what he wanted to hear. When he left I told the store manager it was a damn good thing he wasn't able to take a look in my garage or I'd have been found out 😆...(full of Echo)

[@tubby6339]

Like the blowers but can't stand the 4 mix trimmers

[@hoosierdaddy9373]

The amount of cam issues I see on those are ridiculous. Plastic cam that's constantly wearing down causing the need for numerous valve adjustments until it's completely gone. Stihl came out with an updated cam cover that funnels the mix more directly onto the lobe, but it hasn't done much to my notice.

[@timw6281]

@@hoosierdaddy9373 if you run them withous a shield then ofc the cam lobes will wear out because of excessive heat exposure...thats why the line cutter on the shield is of major importance...every inch beyond the correct length add 100 degrees more heat to the engine because the engine runs slower reducing the cooling rate from the flywheel...simple physics...one other to prove my point...how many cams have you replaced on the BR500 and up blowers with the same 4 mix engine...betting hardly any because you cant change the designed operating parameters on those like you can on a trimmer by removing the guard...

[@timw6281]

@Out of the Box Models i dont know what model you bought but every stihl blower ive ever worked on works great...im sure if you took it back to the dealer you bought from they would have straightened it out...that said everyone isnt perfect but ive found stihl has a much lower issue rate than most in the past...

[@Seldomheardabout]

That seems really dumb. The engines on stihls are way better and its easier to work on stills most of the time. Unless you are just cheap, that seems like a stupid choice.

[@zaineridling]

Always take the shield off for me, even as I've migrated to the electric trimmers by EGO and Hart. I carry a small set of wirecutters to trim the line if gets uneven. Without the shield I can see where my line is and I have more control around trees and other objects.

[@karmicselling4252]

I love the EGO trimmers. Never take the shields off them. They are there for a purpose. If they weren't necessary, the wouldn't sell them as part of the line trimmer. Shield on makes the trimmer much more efficient. Longer battery life and more effective cutting. You also void your warranties trimming without the shield. I don't know why you have a problem seeing your line or with control. No issues here.

[@mrcryptozoic817]

I depend on the shield to keep me from girdling trees and bushes and protect my ankles from flung gravel. Didn't even 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑘 about engine efficiency. I only wish the shield were expandable to cover more or less area.

[@christanice]

My dad's been in business since the early '90s, and we've always used Shindaiwa's and then Echo's.... With manual heads and no shield. As another commenter said, you use an appropriate length of string.... usually only as much as a shield would let you anyway... However, what you get from taking the guard off is a better view on what you are doing. The only time I let more string out is when I am doing an area when I am basically "mowing" with the trimmer, some place where you can't get with a mower, making sure I am running at full throttle. We never had problems with gear heads. Now that I no longer work for him and I'm a homeowner, we got a new Echo with a speed feed head and I'm having to get used to the bump head. I feel like it's really hard to activate on grass without damaging the grass or the head... I never found it troubling to just tip up the trimmer and manually adjust the string, but that's just my take.....

[@jacktennant8426]

So far, I have not gotten tired of listening to you, keep it going!

[@ericwinton2431]

Your advise is so helpful. I am on a small homestead that is still considered "Residential" (Less than 1 acre) and the "Homeowner" manufacture warranty covers the five year plan. Although I probably use trimmers a little bit more than the average homeowner, it is still covered. Yet another way to save money and a little heartburn for the upkeep on my trimmer. Side note Always hydrate the trimmer line!!!! Thanks to your insight this has been a game changer!!!! Love the vids and please keep them coming. Loyal fan forever!!!!!

[@johnfleming68]

What do you mean by hydrating the trimmer line

[@Chickanic]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6OpiHWPp8RlmqM

[@Chickanic]

@@leonardomigot4040 Actually they are... Google Stihl made in China.. www.stihl.com/stihl-factory-in-qingdao-china-celebrates-10th-anniversary.aspx

[@trevorfilis537]

@@johnfleming68 If your line is dried out, chuck it into water to rehydrate it. Chickanic mentions it in another video about line.

[@Genesis.1-1]

I already get pelted with a lot of debris when I use my trimmer. I'd never use it without the shield. Always appreciate your input.

[@brucechapman5553]

I have a Stihl FS 80 that my dad bought brand new. The guard is still on it and the only thing I’ve done to it is about 4 years ago I had to put a new carburetor on it and it hasn’t missed a beat since. I use .095 square line and it still does a wonderful job. Just had to replace the head this past week too. Keep up the great work!!!!

[@markcollette2036]

I saw the same video and tried it on my Stihl. I used it two times (about 3 tanks of gas) and hated it without the shield. I put it back on. About 75% of my trimming is turned up edging walks and driveways. Glad you did this video. Great, just like the rest of your videos.

[@mdunbar008]

I have a Shindaiwa T230X I bought back in the 90s, still running strong with the original gear head.

[@rghong]

I'm new to gas lawn equipment and I'm only using it for residential. I enjoy watching your tips and informative advice. With that said, I purchased an Echo PAS 2960 attachments. very happy with my purchase.

[@jonadams6846]

I am way over in the UK,but still find your advice priceless,keep up these videos,I love them

[@mowguy1]

I watched the video of the guy that removed the shield I've been mowing commercially for over 20 years so I tried it. Nope I hate being covered with grass, slug goo and dog crap. I put the guard back on. Thank you for the great info.

[@frankparsley1913]

I had a shindaiwa T27 in the early 90s to 2006. It was amazing and the only thing I had to replace was a gas tank. They were great back then. Good old days.

[@chase3253]

I run no-shields on my Echos but keep the line at an appropriate length.

[@jesssic476]

For the residential user, The number one reason for no guard is the bigger swath can give you a nice taper to the mower cut. It allows you to get into tight spaces. I think it gives more control. The bigger swath balances (like a gyroscope) better for less scalping. And I’m not running full throttle either. I adjust the idle screw on the carb so it engages the trimmer without touching the throttle during trimming. The wider swath is also nice to trim back brush growing into the lawn. That’s it. The flying debris comes with the territory. It makes a better looking cut on the property. Pain is beauty. Deal with it. Never had issues with the trimmers because of it either. I’m running my d-Walt flex trimmer around my house for 4 seasons now with no guard. No issues. Just pain and pain is …. Yeah, beauty.

[@williamholton5150]

Sage advice indeed, thank you for the video. I always wondered about that. You save confirmed to me that guards are there for good reason beyond just avoiding a gravel shot to the forehead.

[@jamessmith7691]

I leave the metal tab on my trimmers but I work at a cemetery and the guard has to go. You have a really informative show. Keep them coming.

[@justinpennington7682]

How is that possible

[@michaelspencer301]

Just so you'll know. Husqvarna's have a standard 2 yr warranty. There is extended warranty available 3, 4 and even a 5 yr warranty with stipulations. And the units need to be registered thru Husqvarna. Which is something the big chain stores don't even fool with. All the more reason to buy a unit from a specialty store like yours Bre. Sometimes a little extra money at a specialty shop saves a lot of headaches in the future. Love your videos 👍

[@diggingdeeperwithrick125]

Thanks Chickanic! I just discovered your channel maybe 2 days ago, and it is FANTASTIC!!!

[@benj4131]

Thanks for your videos have been enjoying them. After watching this video I now know why my trimmer head will never stop spinning as the clutch must be gone and has been for awhile. And after 15 year it is probably time for a new one and yes ECHOS are great units.

[@Saxondog]

Love the way you say "Hooskavarna"

[@jimboneutron8399]

Thats how you are supposed to say it lol

[@adamthelawnguy228]

Always off, it's much better for me, especially when edging, i can see where the line goes with my eyes plus the longer string, the more powerful or easier to cut the grass I know the guard is there for a reason, but i take it off over the convenience

[@alexandercopeland2849]

I understand with edging, but you really dont get more power with more string. I got the Stihl KM 131 R with edger so dont need to flip the machine over.

[@projectseventyone]

The guard make zero difference as for visibility. I've never understood why people say that the guard off makes it easier to see it doesn't It's your technique. The guard doesn't obstruct my view at all and I love not having to mess around with string that's too long and use a rock to trim it or a brick wall or something.

[@hobbyist22365]

I have a Husqvarna 324L straight shaft trimmer for over 10 years now and have used this trimmer heavily without the shield with no issues. I do my own maintenance and ensure it runs in tip top shape each season. I usually do more than 2 to 3 hours in trimming with round line 0.95 in a day when in use. This by far has been the best trimmer I've ever used and if Husqvarna will continue to make it I will buy it. I've had no issues with the shield off of it. It's easier to get in between areas I couldn't usually get to before and it makes for quick and easy work. I do use a full face shield when using it though. Love your videos!

[@mongo64071]

Thank you for the tip on saving money on buying the split attachment.

[@doingeverythingblind3282]

I discovered this channel late last night and I just want to let you know I love this channel

[@gleanerman2195]

I have been in the lawn care business for 23 years and just last year I finally decided to try with the shields off, I will never run shields again, what a game changer.

[@MikeJones-jr5hb]

My Stihl trimmer is twenty years old, the only thing I had to do to it is purge bulb finally cracked last week! It’s one I also cut limbs & fire wood for the fire pit. It’s been a nice one.😎

[@herbertsaylor8912]

There is more than a little bit of misinformation on the internet. I have yet to watch one of your videos that I didn't learn something. Your really know your profession, your videos are well done, and a really big plus, you are well spoken and easy to understand. Thanks!

[@Yoteach01]

I'd like to also add that ot depends on the comfort level of the operator of the trimmer along with proper safety gear just as you mentioned. Keep up the great job!!!

[@charlesbeall2589]

Try running a straight shaft trimmer, Left Handed, without the shield, it'll go back on pretty darn quickly!

[@Laser3303]

As an Echo mechanic for many years, I have seen just how the missing line shield can damage the machine. Mostly on commercially used units, but also on some residential units with guards removed, and the lines clearly WAY too long. Which causes the small engine to lack the power to drive such a load at high enough RPM to make the clutch engage completely--without slipping--which gets the clutch parts so hot that the springs lose tension (making the head not freewheel at idle) and causing excessive heat around the clutch cover, etc--and possibly melting the plastic and destroying bearings on some other trimmer models. Troybilt are worst. How you gonna set down a curved shaft running with the guard removed? YOUR machine--YOU are gonna pay for the repairs if you cause damage from running too heavy a load with too long lines. Not me.

[@faulltw]

I appreciate your comment. The line being too long because the cutter attached to the shield is not there makes sense. Additionally, I had not idea what kind of problems that caused.

[@davidrobinette3834]

That was my first thought. Most things like that are there for a reason.

[@simonmorris8651]

Brilliant explanation, thanks 👍👌👏

[@blacksmokematters4521]

I've seen them last 7 years with no guard on... used every day

[@davidcarper5411]

Yes, these landscapers that do this are are stupid

[@johnc4389]

Bre, Thanks for the videos. I find them extremely helpful. Home owner with 22 acres who uses all Stihl products. You stated you were going to post the clutch replacement link in the comments below. Didn't see it... Again, thank you for all your help!!

[@terrencebuller7676]

Thanks for all the information. Really appreciate all the tips and tricks. Take care 👍

[@Herbybandit]

I watched a 1 inch lump of stone (seemingly in slow motion) fly across the yard and through a fence panel afterbeing kicked up by my mid sized strimmer, so for safety reasons I'd recommend you leave the guard in place, that and If your machine is still under warranty as you can void your warranty if not used as recommended. But at the end of the day its up to the user and weather they have the safety of themselves and others in mind! And funnily enough I think I watched said video the other day and thought "what a numbskull" Oh and one final thought, the guard has the string cutter built in to limit the amount the head can get out of balance, that'll slowly destroy the head.

[@2Years2Farm]

I work at a lawn care company and we are hard on our echo trimmers! Drop them on the concrete sometimes hit them with the walkers. They are somewhat disposable. We also sometimes run 2-3 foot long string.

[@frozenfirestix]

How equipment is treated says a lot about the company’s standards. If you treat them better they wouldn’t be disposable! And if you need string that long, u should be using a mower instead

[@Billbobaker]

I have learned a lot from all your videos keep them updating and thanks for sharing your wonderful creations.

[@zzschulzz]

I love this channel! So well explained and intelligent. Thank you so much!

[@benkanobe7500]

With my Stihl FS 66, Made in Japan, I run it( I have two) with the shield off as it will run a longer string with the shield off and I can nearly double my productivity with the longer string and it also seems to use less string when I run it long. I have been running them that way for around 30 years. I do however grease the heads with Stihl grease twice a year.

[@grege2383]

Buy Mom and Pop shop. Echo has price fixing so it's no cheaper at a big box store. I took apart the head on my Echo trimmer and couldn't get it back together. Took it back to where i bought it (Dickinsons in Fredericksburg VA - they're an Echo dealer and Echo authorized repair shop). 20 minutes after giving it to them I got it back no charge. Given it was my mistake I fully expected to pay at least 30 minutes labor. Keep the Mom and Pop shops in business.

[@jeffpiatt3879]

Many years ago, when I owned a commercial lawn business, we took the shields off, since it made it easier to see when edging. That said, I only recall one trimmer having the motor "wear out". Never had one wear out the gear head. All of the other trimmers ended up getting stolen or we sold them used to get the newer model. I have a 15 year old straight shaft Echo 230 with original carb that I still use at the house and has the guard as well as a an Echo 3020T that I use on my ranch. Both have guards. Getting older and dislike getting pelted with stuff and not doing a whole lot of edging, anymore.

[@benpalmer625]

I enjoy listening and watching your videos. They are very informative and easy to understand...

[@justincase2281]

My OPINION is, after having run lots of trimmers both ways both professionally and at home, I'm can say I feel a bit safer with the guard ON, and the trimmer line being cut to it's proper length by the guard's blade. With the guard OFF, your legs and ankles tend to get pelted with all kinds of debris, especially if you're cutting in an area with alot of dirt, gravel, broken glass, etc. The guard prevents alot of this. Also, with the guard OFF, the trimmer line can get a bit long if you bump the trimmer head too much and you can get line that is too long, doesn't cut well, can wrap around things and creates slot of drag on the engine which forces you to rev the engine higher to keep the line stiffer for cutting. Puts alot of strain on the engine. For me, there's no "great debate". Guard ON. 😁👍

[@scottsachs2547]

Well Said!!

[@JenkinsMowing86]

You're gonna get pegged whether the gaurd is on or off....

[@KF1]

@@JenkinsMowing86 but getting pegged less is actually kinda nice.

[@k.d.8924]

I concur

[@JenkinsMowing86]

@@KF1 to be honest I don't notice much of a difference. One plus I've noticed of running with no gaurd is I go thru much less string for some reason

[@workbenchz]

Interesting and informative that some models use the friction grip of the guard to absorb some of the torque between the gearhead and the shaft. And very useful info about how to save a few bucks on the gearhead. Thank you. If I may, however, I think you missed the core of the issue. If you remove the string cutter to run a longer string and cut a larger 'swath', you are pushing the trimmer's loading. Longer string takes more force to spin, which means more throttle to spin at the same speed (more wear?), more force to spin up suggesting a longer time in the 'slip' phase of the clutch (more wear?) and more torque across the gearhead to keep the longer string spinning while cutting (more wear?). Think of it as like trying to play baseball with a 5 foot long bat. If you do a part 2 on this I'd love to see you address the longer string issues.

[@manleyhall5368]

I appreciate your sharing your experience and knowledge. Thank you!

[@Wootangtw]

I have a green machine 2800 I bought it in 1990 .. I’ve used it commercially when I had a lawn service.. I have a blade on it now… and I still use it at least once a week…. It’s a awesome machine… I wish they still made them… thanks for your videos girl…

[@Billhatestheinternet]

I guess if someone is hellbent on running it without the guard, but realises there could be some maintenance issues for doing so, they could just leave the bracket in place and take an angle grinder to the plastic guard.

[@salvadortejeda2502]

We take them off as soon as we buy them. Once you've ran them for awhile you can judge how much string you can run without bogging it down. We had a contract that required them so we drilled a couple hole further back on the shield and put cutting blade there to increase the cutting diameter

[@super20dan]

this also what i do

[@empiresrikesfat]

Yep easy to carry a very small pair of cutters in your pocket to, i cut my ends frequently anyways so there's a fresh cutting edge

[@stejcar]

Thank You For Your Videos.I saved a stihl weeder by cleaning the spark arrestor like you said on your video. And your a good looking woman.

[@rock2blues59]

Great tip on the split shaft hack. I know all our Stihl customers we sold on that tip, always appreciated it, after considering the new trim head and guard bonus. All I can say " High Speed and Poor Lubrication." A tube of grease for $ 7.95 is a thought. lol

[@miketuch]

Since 91, I've had my own lawn service in Florida, Orton golf courses in Florida, and North Carolina, plus maintain my own 3 Acre property. That's my experience. The most durable weed eater I've ever used was still fs80. The best weed eater that I love to use was Robin down at the golf course. I used to be able to weed eat with eitherhand you know in my sixties and I'd Amaze these young guys. I've always run my trimmers with the guard off so I can see what I was weed eating, and put a nice Edge on the lawn. My bosses liked it at the golf courses. I am surprised you didn't tell the people to take those that bolt right up top and kiss some grease in there that's exactly what you do you kiss it in there once a year that's all you have to do are you won't have any gearbox problems. When the golf courses bought husqvarna's, they broke they're junk. Echo and shindawa were back up weed eaters then and back and back up weed eaters now. If you're on the business you should be running a steel fs55 or fs80. stihl 4 cycle eqipment dont have the Rs to do what im doing. In your video, you need to be knocking off a couple of inches off your string, its too long. Look at the plastic around your exhaust port to see if you're working the weedeater too hard. And while I'm thinking about it I use the diamond string or a square , it does a a better job. I can always tell a lawn where the uninformed gardener has been using round string.

[@EMTevjorgensen]

As usual I learned a lot from you today. I've had the clutch issue before with several line trimmers. I usually just get a new one when my line trimmer goes out, got an 18v Ryobi 7 years ago, it's still going strong and has outlasted every gas powered line trimmer I've had. I have many batteries and have enough to finish every job I do. I serviced, sharpened and cleaned my 8 chain saws yesterday because of your inspiring videos. Thank You! By the way, don't mean it inappropriately, but you got really nice legs, had to give credit where credit is due. 😉 But you're probably the sexiest chainsaw repair artist in the country, so you have cred!

[@DavidSmith-fs4nt]

I've learned a lot from your videos just learning which brands are the same and what to look out for in each.

[@charlesachurch7265]

You are a solution to all my problems . Thanks xxx

[@raymondrobinson5251]

Only thing I will say is this. I have used with guard on and off. It's been a noticeable change in the cutting capacity. I experienced it being worse cut without guard to maintain the correct radius and speed of string. Whereas with the current length it cuts faster and more reliable.

[@rickthelian2215]

Bree as a repairer, what instructions are you given by manufacturers about those items broken due to removal or other abuse by the user? You’ve answered my question. You may see some clean shields put back on before they bring it in for repairs 😀

[@davidlaney8254]

Thanks for laying out the options. I'm well into those years when you switch your thinking that nothing will happen to anything is possible.

[@thaddeus_whiting]

Once again your knowledge is above & beyond!

[@spresc2180]

Very well done video. Someone mentioned removing the screw on the side of the head and adding a few drops of gear oil and stated your gears and bearings will last longer. Is there PM maintenance that we can perform on our heads that can extend their life? Perhaps you can do a PM video(s) on this matter. Thanks.

[@randycrass2097]

Very well requested Sam P. Was wondering that myself. I know Husqvarna and Stihl sell a special bevel gear grease for the heads but it is super expensive. I ran across an OEM recommendation from a different manufacturer stating that an EP 00 grease will suffice. That is what I run in the gear box of my snow thrower. So I went down the road of research on EP 00 grease. Apparently it is a mineral oil base with lithium soap added to give it the extreme pressure designation. Additionally, the mineral oil base does not destroy self-lubricating brass-graphite bushings where as the petroleum based gear lubes will have a deleterious effect on said bushings. Would love to hear the master Chickanic weigh in on this given her years of judgement and experience. Cheers

[@mannypuerta5086]

I’ve had a Shindaiwa T230 Professional for 24 years. The only thing I’ve done is lube the head, replace the string and change to a Speed Feed a week ago. Still works great. I left the shield on it because it gets too “hungry” and scalps the lawn without it.

[@waltflansburg5608]

I have a stihl FS250 trimmer that I have had 15+ years. I haven’t replaced a clutch yet. It’s had a lot of use and never a problem. Only thing I’ve had to do is replace the carburetor and hook loop for the harness.

[@ericskeptic8245]

Have a used Redmax trimmer at least 10 years old and have never used a guard and have had no trouble. Hundreds of feet of driveway and yard edging so it gets run hard. Only replaced a couple of heads. We use full face shield and two pair of pants.

[@timw6281]

the primary function for the shield isnt to protect the operator from flying rocks but more to do with the thermodynamics of the cooling efficency for the engine. the line is cut to optimize the heat generated to the cooling airflow generated by the flywheel...its at harmoney when the line is cut to length by the shield...when you operate the line longer the engine runs slower with the same or more heat generated and cooling airflow is lower and cant keep the heat from afftecting the engine...a good comparison is a car engine running at peak rpm...with cooling compacituy at 100% is ok but now the same engine is generating the same or more heat at an 80% cooling capacity....problems will happen over time...

[@sierragrey7910]

Thanks for explaining that. I’ve used Stihl’s largest trimmers for years to keep my rural property safe from wildfires. I’ve always used the shields. I have to buy a new shield after a a few years due to wear from thrown debris-they help. I also like to frequently advance my line to maintain max efficiency-a sharp cutter is way better than having to manually cut the line.

[@independentthinker8930]

Long story short, string to long overloads the engine

[@georgedavall9449]

They call me Mr Engineer Tim! Excellent comment dude! 👍

[@sierragrey7910]

@@georgedavall9449 Tim, it would be great to have someone like you in my part of the woods. Thanks, Ted

[@jamesbyrne2004]

Exactly, I was surprised she did not make any mention of that in the video. The main reason besides protection is to make sure the line is not longer then the mfg intended so as to not put strain on the engine.

[@arngreencare8955]

If you use high torque trimmers with the "T" designation in the model number, you should be able to run without the guard. Main thing is listen to what your engine is telling you. I have units that destroyed the clutch from people not listening to the engine, ( all standard models,) but yet to have any high torque models wear a clutch out. I haven't watched the video yet, so I don't know what is being said. But we go through several gallons of two stroke mix per week, trimming around tombstones, large commercial buildings, etc. We do lots, I mean more than average amounts of trimming even for a lawn care company.

[@landscapingspecialist]

But all this is a great deeper dive into removing the guards and what this can mean for operations of the equipment. Nice work 👌🏻

[@jamesbasile9586]

I found leaving the machine set out in the rain will rust the clutch and make the head spin all the time. I always put my trimmers in a carport out of the weather and avoid clutch problems. Good video. Thanks.

[@jenniferkauffman7877]

After 40 years of experience at 100 acres a week for 30 of those years my guy tells me that it’s stupid for many reasons to take it off. The most being that you will injure trees and bushes when trimming around them if you don’t use the guard to protect the plant.

[@Seldomheardabout]

Beyond that, it is a device that flings debris at over 100 mph. It is a guard for your safety. Then it is a guard for plants and objects you are trimming around. Then it is a guard for gyroscopic balance (ish) and maintaining a precise rpm.

[@edgarforsythe8539]

When you take off the guard it also removes the cutting blade. When your strings are not the same length,you get a wobble that destroys bearings and clutches.

[@nathanr.8556]

Maybe true with the new junk but my guard has been off my T230 since 1997. And never have I replaced those parts!

[@matthewheffernan3877]

Yeah not really, the line gets trimmed to the same length by whatever you are cutting. The only real negatives are more broken windows and sometimes you bump the head too much in rough terrain and the string ends up too long. Then you have to stop and wind it back in a few clicks.

[@chrisg6091]

Yes, exactly! Thank you for speaking up what I was thinking as I read these far fetched comments.

[@domfer2540]

Good video. My straight shift I bought in 1993. Runs great. Came with a metal blade and string trimmer. I have replace plastic primer and that is all. But my John Deere tractor is a 185 with the 54 inch deck. My trimmer is a John Deere 30g. Equipment does not have to wear out if you maintain them.

[@davidkraft3690]

All good information . Thanks for helping keep us informed.

[@lloydweems6237]

I have a large wet area that I keep mowed with an Echo commercial trimmer that takes me at least an hour to cut. I upgraded to the larger shield rather than the narrow one that came with the machine, so I don't know how someone stands to run one with all of the junk hitting you. I will continue to run mine with the shield on. By the way I use a face shield until it gets too hot to stand it then, I just use safety glasses.

[@georgedavall9449]

Excellent common sense comment Lloyd! 👍

[@jasonknowles3465]

I used to use mine with them on, but once I took them off I never went back. The increased productivity was why I decided to run them off, and the common complaint about worn out clutch or gear head, that’s only when you let the line get way too long for an extended period of time. I am careful to not let it get too long, and I haven’t had any probs with them; Stihl FS-94R is the one I typically run.

[@Draega007]

Same here, I use echoes and have been running all my weedeaters without the guards and haven't had any mechanical issues and I can see no difference in debris being thrown back at you with or without the guard. But I've been doing this so long commercially that I can feel the motor start to bog down immediately from the string being too long. I rarely even get the string too long anymore because it's almost like a sixth sense at this point to keep the string at the right length.

[@hunterbrown5906]

I've always ran my trimmers without guards I like it better

[@rossrossier935]

Thanx Girl! Always learn something from your video's, your top's!

[@douglasmilks812]

I just discovered you and i have an Echo SRM 225 and your insight is amazing...

[@nathanr.8556]

I took the guard off my T230 in 1997 and it's been off ever since. Long string is cut with wire cutters. Not one accident from flying debris, and it's still running strong to this day

[@projectseventyone]

You hold wire cutters while you trim?

[@nathanr.8556]

@@projectseventyone The string never gets too long when I trim because I am no amateur

[@tjclarke4604]

THANK YOU! I've been a certified outdoor power equipment technician for 30 years, I have worked in many dealerships and also have owned my own company since 1997. Everything you said here in this video is spot on! One more thing I might add, is that there are liability issues as well. We do not let a trimmer out of the shop without the guard on it, because if the user gets hurt, or hurts someone else, we are at fault and could be sued. What the user does with it after it leaves the shop is up to them, but it does not go out that door without a guard on it, and we let the customer know before even taking it in to the shop that this is the case, and if they argue, we don't work on them, period. Same goes for people who tape or tie the engine brake bars on their mowers, or remove the spark arrest screens from saws and trimmers, they do not leave the shop without that being remedied.

[@DB-zp9un]

I am about to either stop taking in units without shields, or tell people they WILL be buying one before it leaves..

[@thepitpatrol]

@@DB-zp9un that should help your business.

[@DB-zp9un]

@@thepitpatrol /shrug wont make much difference one way or the other in the grand scheme of things.. I just know without shields they ARE more dangerous, it DOES put more stress on the whole unit and are a bigger pain to work one and hang / store without shields on them also..

[@thepitpatrol]

@@DB-zp9un how is it a bigger pain to work and store? I agree it will put an additional load. I just don't understand how it makes it harder to store and use.

[@DB-zp9un]

@@thepitpatrol Well unless you have tons of storage area that you can lay trimmers on the ground, I know lots of dealers hang trimmers by the string head area.. Without a shield, you're just asking for a headache literally... As far as working on them, unless you have one of those trimmer holders when working on, which I've had very limited luck with, if adjusting carb and stuff it's nice to be able to have it sitting on the bench and run it.. With no shield on it, that ain't happening.

[@keithpowell2786]

Thanks For this awesome video , you have answered my question once in for all, I had seen several videos the recommended taking off the tremor guard, the 1st part I didn't like his half Filthy you got Wow trimming , Even glasses would get where you cannot see all of them Plus without the guard I Scapped The whole yard . Thanks again4Answering this question

[@603storm]

Having been stationed in Okinawa multiple times and see the local using trimmers they are all outfitted with circular saw blades. That is boss and I want one.