6/07/2011

Swisher T2066 66-Inch 20 HP Trailmower Review

Swisher T2066 66 inch 20 HP Trailmower
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I reviewed all of the available pull behind mowers, and I chose the swisher because it was the widest with the most HP that I could find.Also, I was close to buying the Agri, but those folks couldn't tell me where to buy one, as Sears was out of stock on them.

For the money, this unit is rugged.I did, however, break the drive belt the first day out on it.Probably user error, as I had the tension too tight on that belt.

I rate it a 4 out of 5 because it is a bit loud when it bounces around, if you dont have a real smooth lawn.But I am putting it to the extreme, cutting a large area (4 acres) with various slopes, using a Polaris 425cc ATV.

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Product Description:
The Swisher 66-inch 20 HP finishing Trailmower is designed to dramatically reduce mowing time. This mower attaches to your ATV, lawn tractor or other utility vehicle and is the ultimate time-saver for large lawns and meadows with grass up to 5 inches in height. The T-66 Trailmower offers 66 inches of mowing pleasure and a powerful 20 HP Briggs & Stratton engine. It features three blades, a true floating deck, a 12-volt electric starter (battery not included), and an exclusive bumper roller system that protects your trees and shrubs.

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6/05/2011

Troy-Bilt 25B-554E066 158cc Briggs & Stratton 500 Series Gas-Powered Lawn Edger with Curb Wheel Review

Troy-Bilt 25B-554E066 158cc Briggs & Stratton 500 Series Gas-Powered Lawn Edger with Curb Wheel
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I just purchased a Troy-Bilt 4HP triple blade Edger at Lowes yesterday.The unit edges well.We have a long driveway (500 ft.) with lots of curves, and I believe we can keep grass from growing into the driveway with this unit.On the downside, I've only tried to start it a couple times, with poor success both times.Right out of the box, it took about 15 pulls to start the first time.After running for several minutes, I released the safety bar, which kills the engine (there is no clutch to stop the blade... releasing the bar kills the engine).Then, with the engine already warm from just runing, it took another 10-15 pulls to re-start.The unit has no choke, only a primer bulb which I believe contributes to hard starting.Zapped by "big brother" again!

UPDATE: After using this edger for about 2 months, I believe my rating to be a little to hard.The problem is that the number of pump primes needed to start the machine cold is considerably more than stated in the instructions, at least on my edger.The instructions written on the edger say to pump it 3X.The instructions in the users manual say to pump the primer 6X.By experience, I've learned that if I pump it 12X, it usually starts on the first pull.As long as I know this, it is not really a problem.Our driveway is 450 feet long, so requires 900 feet of edging total (because there are two sides).The edger does a good job.However, it will only dig a maximum of 2 1/4".This is lower than other edgers I've used. Because the edge of our drive is higher than the ground, if I edgw with the wheels on the hard driveway surface per the instructions, I can only dig less than an inch deep.If I want to edge deeper (up to 2 1/4"), I have to have the wheels on the ground.This is contrary to the instructions, but works.Because I'm satisfied with the edger, and have overcome the initial starting problem, I would change my rating to a 4.0 if amazon allowed that.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Troy-Bilt 25B-554E066 158cc Briggs and Stratton 500 Series Gas-Powered Lawn Edger with Curb Wheel

Product Description:
TROY-BILT" EDGER/TRENCHER 4.0HP B&S 9" steel blade with plastic blade guard 6 position from 1/4" to 2" Trenching kit included 2 year limited warranty Boxed

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6/03/2011

Lisle 64250 Right Angle Ratcheting Screwdriver Review

Lisle 64250 Right Angle Ratcheting Screwdriver
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The acrylic head on the bits are too big--if you need this for PC or electronics repair, forget it.The acrylic heads don't help you much because they're so thick--in any spaces smaller than 3", you might as well have a full-size screwdriver, because this fat-headed thing won't fit.Tried drilling and breaking the acrylic, but it's much too strong, and as a result, 15 bucks was wasted on this thing.The finish and construction was decent, but the little rods inside mine that make the ratcheting action started falling out rather quickly in the other uses I had for the tool.Look elsewhere, there are better right-angle tools.

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Product Description:
Lisle right angle ratcheting screwdriver can be used where a screwdriver won't fit. It makes it easy to remove and install molding around fender wells and other tight places. Place handle over the bit ad turn, reverse the handle on bit to tighten. It can also be used with a 1/4" round shaft screwdriver.

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6/01/2011

Poulan ES350 16-Inch 3.5 HP Electric Chain Saw Review

Poulan ES350 16 inch 3.5 HP Electric Chain Saw
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This is a good chainsaw.I have only used it about 3 hours, so any reliability or wear issues are moot at this point.The best feature -- trivial, but you can see how much bar oil is remaining through the side of the saw.

My first chain saw was an antique McCullouch with a 24 in. bar that weighed about 20 lbs.I learned a lot from it, especially that light weight chainsaws are safer than heavy ones.

My second chain saw was a HomeLite E-Z 16" that was recommended by someone who once rented chain saws.It weighed about 10 lbs and cut fire wood for my stove for 15 years.I literally used this saw up, but it would still crank and cut wood when I got rid of it.

What I learned from these two saws is that the most dangerous thing to do is to try and cut a limb or log above your head.The saw will fall onto your thigh.The lighter the saw, the less likely it is that this will happen in an uncontrolled fashion.

My next saw was a saw that a professional tree cutter took up a 90 foot tree and topped it with the saw supported by his fully extended arm.I won't name the brand because it was a real mess on the ground, leaking bar oil all over the place in spite of repeated attempts to have it repaired.

Now I have this Poulan ES-350.I got it because I am too old to go deeper than an extension cord into the woods, and I am tired of the hazards and frustration associated with cranking the gas models. The electric is light weight, and I have been able to easily saw through 12 in. green maple logs.It isn't as fast at cutting as the above three saws, but it is light enough that one can safely cut at extended arm lengths (if one is careful).

A word about chains.The Poulan comes with a "low kick back" chain.I don't know why they make them, probably some regulatory-liability thing, because no chainsaw is kick-backproof, so Beware!.At any rate, I have read reviews of the replacement chain for this saw saying the the chains don't last.I have been unable to identify a chain that isn't "low kick back" for this saw, so I will use the Poulan replacement chain (after sharpening the original for a year or so).The main reason a chain goes dull is that it hits dirt, sand, rocks or wet wood.You can feel the sharp edge of a cutter blade just as you can feel the sharp edge of a knife. If it feel smooth, instead of "grabbing" your finger, it needs sharpening.

A word about extension cords.The hidden cost of this saw is a 100 ft. 14 gauge extension cord (most of the ones you have at home are probably 16 guage - not big enough).This brings the total cost of the saw to around $125, compared to $250 or even $350 for the gasoline saws I mentioned above.I don't recommend the following, but I have heard that this saw can run with 150 ft of 14 ga. extension cords.I REALLY don't recommend this, but I have heard that the saw can run with a 100 ft. 12 guage cord plugged into the wall, and 150 ft. of 14 guage exetension cords plugged into the 12 guage cord.(The longer the cord, the more likely you are to cut through it.)


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Product Description:
The Poulan 16-inch, 3.5 HP electric chain saw is perfect for light cutting jobs around the yard, with a cutting capacity of 32 inches diameter. It is powerful enough to fell trees but light enough to prune and trim.The auto-oiling system keeps the 16-inch steel bar and chain fully lubricated. For safety, the inertia-activated chain brake stops the rotation of the chain should kickback occur. The unit comes fully assembled and includes a 1-year warranty.

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5/30/2011

Milwaukee 0724-24 28-Volt V28 Lithium-Ion 1/2-Inch Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit Review

Milwaukee 0724-24 28-Volt V28 Lithium-Ion 1/2 inch Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit
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I've used Milwaukee's 18v drill for years (I own two of them) and they've never failed me. By far, the best cordless drill available... until now. When Milwaukee came out with their V28 line, I was intrigued, but I didn't need a new drill. Besides, the 18v drill I had worked fine, I didn't think it was necessary to upgrade (especially for the price). When it came time to buying a hammer drill, I looked again at the V28 hammer-drill and decided to buy one, figuring it would at least allow me to combine two tools into one and save the room in my car. I ended up getting a LOT more then I expected.

First, the belt clip is amazing. I didn't think twice about it when I read the drill's description, since I have a holster that works fine. The holster's now in the garbage as the belt clip is absolutely ingenious. Now I can easy attach the drill to my belt without looking and it's fully secure. With one hand I can push down on the latch and detach the drill for use... a marvelous idea. Best thing about it is I can also use it with my V28 flashlight when I need to.

Another thing I really like about this new drill is the bit holder... I always liked the idea of DeWalt's drill's holding the single bits, but Milwaukee provides a place for two. However, the only downside to this is if you use the drill in the hammer-drill setting, the bits tend to slide out after prolonged use.

Then there's the power... one of my first uses was drilling a 1" hole at an angle through two old 1x10 joists and a 2x4 in order to run a wire. I've done it several times with my old 18v, but I always end up having to reverse back a bit then start again to get a bit of momentum. If I can, I normally leave the job up to a corded drill to make things nice a quick. Not anymore... the V28 ripped right through the wood without the slightest problem. The power difference between the 18v and the V28 is shocking... you'd think you were using a corded drill.

The hammer-drill function was another big plus for me... I used this drill side by side with another corded Milwaukee hammer drill to drill numerous holes into a concrete foundation. The cordless worked just as well as the corded... no difference at all, except I wasn't lugging around a cord.

Lastly, there's the longevity of the charges... usually I'll go through at least one full battery and charge it on the site. Again, not anymore. I rarely need to use the second battery during a single day.

If I could, I'd give it six-stars. This thing is just incredible.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Milwaukee 0724-24 28-Volt V28 Lithium-Ion 1/2 Inch Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver Kit

Product Description:
Sporting the longest running 28-volt hammer drill on the market, Milwaukee's V28 lithium-ion cordless kit is always charged up for the beefiest drilling and driving applications. The tool switches easily between drill, drive, and hammer modes for less downtime and smoother transitions between tasks. This ½-inch hammer drill cranks out a whopping 600 inch-pounds of torque for drilling large holes and driving heavy bolts for deck support, playground equipment, and post-and-beam construction. The two variable speeds do it fast, too, spinning along at 0-600 or 0-1800 rpm's for more productivity.
Powering the V28 is Milwaukee's revolutionary 28-Volt Lithium-Ion battery pack. The 28-volt battery pack weighs less than an 18-volt NiCad pack yet delivers twice the runtime. And, a patented battery design lets you insert the battery in the reverse position for optimal balance when working overhead or in hard-to-reach areas.
The V28 hammer-drill comes standard with a ½-inch all-metal, single-sleeve, ratcheting chuck with carbide jaws that keep bits from falling out or slipping. A comfortable non-slip, soft-grip handle reduces vibration and fatigue. For easy transport and access, Milwaukee's patented Clip-Lok system attaches the tool securely to the operator's belt or tool bag and easily releases with one hand-a boon for ladder work where there's is nowhere safe to rest the tool. Milwaukee cover's this kit with a 5-year warranty. --Brian Olson
What's in the Box
28-volt hammer drill, two 28-volt batteries, 1-hour charger, carrying case, Clip-Lok System, side handle and No. 2 Phillips bit

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5/28/2011

Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20-Inch 55-1/2cc 2-Stroke Gas-Powered Chain Saw Review

Husqvarna 455 Rancher 20 inch 55-1/2cc 2-Stroke Gas-Powered Chain Saw
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I just picked up a 455 Rancher about a month ago (today is 4 May, 2006). This is a great saw. I had been using for more than 20 years, and still use to some degree a Stihl 028; another excellent saw.

There are some pros and cons to this saw as with all things.

Here's what I like. It's easy to operate and maintain. Accessibility of the under-cowel components such as the air filter, spark plug, and clutch housing is a no-brainer. It starts easy. In fact, you really don't need the pressure valve. It "pops" after a few short and fast pulls. Remember, once the saw "pops" with the choke, un-choke it and pull it again. You do not need to warm a two stroke with the choke on like you would a 4 stroke engine. Attempting to warm with the choke is the biggest cause of two stroke engine flooding.

Here's what I do not like. The low/hi mixture settings are limited by EPA regulations; a complete and total joke. If you remove the controls to optimize your settings, the warranty is void. But, I think it's better to do that than cook engine from lean settings. There aren't enough chainsaws running in any given period of the day to justify this regulation. So if you are a casual user, really pay attention to the break in procedures. Since the saws run lean, you need to make sure to break them in with extra care. If you use them much more frequently, remove the EPA limiters and richen out the hi/low mix, otherwise you will cook your engine.

Overall this is a great saw. The chisel chains do well for heavier applications. Be careful of kickback with these style chains. You can get low-kick back chains from any dealer. It's all a matter of personal preference.

I have outfitted my saw with an Oregon 20" Bar, chain, and rim sprocket.Once again this is a personal preference issue. The power head of the 455 is plenty and the applications many. If you are a causal user of this saw, talk with the folks at the saw shops for tips and ideas. They are a repository of knowledge and can help you make informed decisions about your saw.

-Washington State

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Product Description:
Husqvarna, 455 Rancher, 20" Gas-Powered Chainsaw, 3.4CUIN (56CC), 2 Cycle Engine, Dual Action Chain Brake & LowVib Features For Added Safety & Comfort, Air Injection System, SmartStart Provides Easy Starting, Lightweight At Only 12 LB, Pro/Commercial Grade Quality, 2 Year Warranty Consumer Use, 90 Day Warranty Pro/Commercial Use.

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5/26/2011

Troy-Bilt TB10CS 17-Inch 31cc 2-Cycle Gas-Powered Curved-Shaft String Trimmer Review

Troy-Bilt TB10CS 17 inch 31cc 2-Cycle Gas-Powered Curved-Shaft String Trimmer
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I purchased this trimmer to replace my electric trimmer that was falling apart.The directions are straight-forward, and assembly was simple.Starting the trimmer for the first time took several tries, but eventually fired right up.
Moving from an electric trimmer to a gas trimmer is quite a change.The Troy-Bilt has dual-trimmer ends, and rotates much faster.It weighs quite a bit more than the electric, naturally, which is really the only downfall, outside of the edge guide.The edge guide is a bit awkward, since it is a rotating wheel.It is a bit bulky and makes it hard to judge the true length of the strings.
Overall, especially for the price, you can't beat this trimmer.I would recommend it to anyone with a moderate sized yard.

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Product Description:
The Troy-Bilt 31 cc 2-cycle gas trimmer with 17-inch cutting swath and edge guide features convenient EZ-Start choke technology, which allows the user to simply flip the choke, prime the engine, and then give a slow, smooth, easy pull for a guaranteed start. The EZ-Start technology allows the trimmer's engine to engage with 55-percent less effort than most gas models. With its rugged 31 cc engine, the trimmer provides plenty of brawn to power through the most ragged, overgrown growth. The trimmer's professional-style curved-shaft design gives easy access underneath low-growing shrubs. The trimmer cuts in a 17-inch radius and features heavy-duty, 0.080-inch dual lines with convenient bump-head line release.
When it's time to replace the line, the line replacement system is exceptionally easy to load and rewind, all without removing the spool or taking it apart. The entire trimmer feels exceptionally balanced and comfortable in the hand, and the ergonomic soft-grip D-shaped handle easily adjusts for both right and left-handed users. The trimmer comes with all the necessary oil for immediate operation, and is covered by a 2-year limited warranty.

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