Quck answer
Converting a string trimmer to a brush cutter is a simple process that can be done with a few modifications. First, remove the trimmer head and replace it with a brush cutter blade. Make sure the blade is securely attached. Next, adjust the trimmer’s engine speed and throttle to accommodate the heavier workload of the brush cutter. It may be necessary to install a harness or shoulder strap for added stability and comfort. Finally, always wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and sturdy footwear when using a brush cutter. With these changes, your string trimmer can effectively tackle thicker vegetation and brush.
A string trimmer is a great tool for general garden maintenance, but sometimes it can’t handle tougher jobs such as mowing through knee-high grass or clearing woody brush. In such cases, a brush cutter is a more effective tool as it has a steel blade, which makes it more like a long-handled saw. However, converting a string trimmer into a brush cutter isn’t always feasible. If it is, you can do it in two ways. You can either replace the trimmer head and section of the shaft with a brush-cutter attachment, or replace the trimmer head with a brush-cutter blade.
Using a Brush-Cutter Attachment
If your trimmer is a convertible one, you can separate the trimmer head and a section of the shaft and replace it with a brush-cutter attachment. Simply push the section of the shaft with the cutter head onto the section with the trimmer motor and either snap them together or tighten the locking nut.
Installing a Brush-Cutter Blade
If your trimmer shaft doesn’t separate, you have to remove the trimmer head. Before removing it, it’s important to disable the motor. Set the trimmer on a flat surface with the head facing you. Insert a nail into the small hole on the trimmer head to stop the spindle from turning, then unscrew the trimmer head. The spindle has reverse threads, so you have to turn it clockwise to loosen it. After removing it, you may have to unscrew and remove a shield plate. If you have to remove the shield plate, replace it with the one that comes with the brush-cutter blade, and install a new blade guard to accommodate the blade. Install the blade along with any parts that come with it to stabilize it and screw on the retaining nut. Remember to screw the nut counterclockwise to tighten it using a socket wrench.
Using a Brush Cutter Safely
Using a brush cutter is more dangerous than using a string trimmer. A brush-cutter blade can throw rocks and wood chips in all directions at high speeds. Therefore, it’s important to wear protective equipment, including goggles, steel-toed shoes, gloves and heavy pants. If you’re working with a high-powered trimmer, you should wear a hard hat with a face shield.
When using a brush-cutter blade, it is important to be aware of the potential for kickback, which can be similar to that of a chainsaw. To avoid injury, keep the shaft fully extended away from your body and ensure that no one is nearby while you work. Since the blade is made of metal, it can create sparks, so it is best to avoid working in dry brush in remote areas where there is no access to water.
FAQ
1. What is a string trimmer and a brush cutter?
A string trimmer is a gardening tool used to cut grass and weeds in areas that are difficult to reach with a lawnmower. It uses a spinning nylon string to trim the vegetation. On the other hand, a brush cutter is a more heavy-duty tool designed to cut through thick, dense vegetation like bushes, small trees, and tall weeds. It usually has a metal blade instead of a string.
2. Why would I want to convert a string trimmer to a brush cutter?
Converting a string trimmer to a brush cutter allows you to tackle tougher vegetation that cannot be efficiently cut with a string. It gives you the versatility to handle a wider range of gardening tasks without the need to invest in a separate brush cutter, saving you both money and storage space.
3. How can I convert a string trimmer to a brush cutter?
To convert a string trimmer to a brush cutter, you will need to replace the nylon string head with a metal blade attachment. Start by removing the string head according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, attach the metal blade securely using the provided hardware. Make sure to follow all safety precautions and refer to the user manual for detailed instructions specific to your trimmer model.
4. What type of metal blade should I use for my converted trimmer?
The type of metal blade you should use depends on the type of vegetation you intend to cut. Different blades are designed for different purposes. For dense brush and thick vegetation, a brush blade with multiple teeth or a saw blade works best. For lighter vegetation, a grass blade with fewer teeth is more suitable. Consult your trimmer’s manual or a gardening expert to determine the most appropriate blade for your needs.
5. Are there any safety considerations when using a converted trimmer as a brush cutter?
Yes, using a converted trimmer as a brush cutter requires extra caution due to the increased cutting power of the metal blade. Always wear appropriate protective gear, including safety glasses, gloves, long pants, and sturdy footwear. Keep bystanders at a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. Take extra care when cutting near objects like fences, rocks, and trees to avoid kickback or damage to the blade.
6. Can I switch back to using a string trimmer after converting it to a brush cutter?
Yes, in most cases, you can switch back to using a string trimmer after converting it to a brush cutter. Simply remove the metal blade attachment and reattach the string head according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to ensure that all parts are securely fastened and that the trimmer is in proper working condition before using it.
7. Are there any limitations to using a converted trimmer as a brush cutter?
While converting a string trimmer to a brush cutter expands its capabilities, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Converted trimmers may not have the same power and cutting capacity as dedicated brush cutters, so they may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks or extremely dense vegetation. Additionally, the weight distribution of a converted trimmer may be different, requiring some adjustment in handling and technique.