Brushcutter/trimmer - Stihl vs Tanaka vs Kawasaki

[aesmith]

Hi,

 

Not sure if this is the right place to post. We're looking to replace our trimmer, currently a MacCulloch curved shaft model which is probably around 15 years old and basically trouble. That's 32cc, and is around the right power for what we do, and we only need a string head not a blade. I want a straight shaft though, that flexible drive fails too often.

 

I was all set to go for a Stihl FS56R, this was partly recommendation from a friend but also because I've been impressed by the backup and parts availability for our Stihl chainsaw which is over 12 years old.

 

However our local Stihl dealer is steering us to either go cheaper with Tanaka, or up in price with Kawasaki. In fact almost a rave review on the Kawasaki 27cc model.

 

Just wondered about general experience and opinions of these two brands. We want something that will last for years of relatively light use, not something that will become unfixable because either parts or support become unavailable.

 

Thanks, Tony S

[Richard 1234]

Buy a Honda 4 stroke will last you years.

[Stubby]

Can only say from what I have . Husqvarna 545 RX . ( 45cc ) Maybe more machiene than you need but sure would be quicker .

[TimberCutterDartmoor]

The Kawasaki or an Echo - best Jap 2-strokes money can buy, end of.

 

Honda 4-strokes can get problems with the crankcase breather; both mine did.

 

Robin engines alright too.

Edited April 24, 2015 by TimberCutterDartmoor

[woody paul]

Tanaka are good and if dealer is pushing he must think the same.

[GardenKit]

You won't buy better than Tanaka. But like for like in that size the Tanaka will actually be more be more expensive than the Stihl, but far superior.

 

Kawasaki is no longer marketed in the UK as Kawasaki. It is now branded as the top of the range Mitox, but uses all original Kawasaki bits. This machine will also be a bit cheaper than the equivalent Tanaka.

 

The Tanaka TBC270 will be the machine to go for.

[codlasher]

I've had no problems with both my Honda's except someone taking the first late at night!

codlasher

[jrose]

I've always sworn by kawasaki brushcutters, far superior to Stihl or Husky IMO. Mine just refuses to die, after 5 years commercial use in the summer!

 

If Kawasaki ever make a chainsaw I would buy one straight away 😉

[TimberCutterDartmoor]

Tanackered! Mate of mine uses them; no way as durable as Echo gear. IMO -

[jrose]

GardenKit, is that all top of the range mitox kit that uses kawasaki parts or just s trimmers?

 

Just had a look on their website and they seem to do a "premium" range of chainsaws, any ideas what these are like to use professionally?