Two-stroke or four-stroke trimmer - which is better?

A neat lawn looks beautiful and is pleasing to the eye. To care for it, gardeners use special tools - manual and electric mowers. Hand trimmers are indispensable for processing lawn edges, berry bushes, areas around flower beds and along garden paths.

Are you planning to buy a manual mower? From this review you will learn about which trimmer is better - gasoline or electric, about the principles of operation and the cost of these installations.

Top best two-stroke and four-stroke trimmers

Review of popular models

STIHL FSE 7

550 W motor, runs on 220V mains. The trimmer has a curved shaft (a rigid shaft cannot be used in such types). The set includes a bobbin for fishing line up to 2 mm. Cutting width – 35 cm. Handle – D-shaped. The price is 8.5 thousand rubles, but the manufacturer’s warranty is 24 months. There are no complaints about the reliability of the tool on thematic forums.

GREENWORKS G24LT30

Cordless trimmer in a budget price category. The kit does not include a battery and a charger - they are purchased separately (the total cost of additional accessories is from 1,500 rubles, batteries are of different capacities). Power – up to 100 W. Bobbin for fishing line (from 0.8 to 1.6 mm). This trimmer only handles short weeds and is ideal for mowing the lawn. Price – 4.6 thousand rubles (without battery and charger).

Daewoo DABC 1400E

Entry level trimmer. For those who have not used them before, this is a good option. Power - 1400 W, D-shaped holder, there is a cable in the rod. But for its parameters the braid weighs a little. It is possible to use fishing line with a diameter of up to 1.6 mm, but 2 mm can easily be used even without boring the bobbin. The kit also comes with a knife. The rod is collapsible, the only drawback is the very short power cord. Price - 5.5 thousand rubles.

Hyundai Z 1000

Trimmer with 1 kW motor. A special feature of the model is its curved rod, which makes it much more convenient to mow the lawn. But the scythe also copes well with ordinary weeds. The diameter of the fishing line is up to 2 mm, the force is transmitted through a cable. Price - 6 thousand rubles.

Bosch ART 23 SL

With its low power of 280 W, it is enough for quick mowing of small areas and flower beds. And due to its very light weight, you can even hold it with one hand (there is no belt included, it is simply not needed). But you cannot place knives; there is no fastening for this either. Price - 2.5 thousand rubles.

Stark GT 1300

The 1.3 kW motor is suitable for both the knife and fishing line up to 2.4 mm. The bar is rigid and collapsible. The price is quite low, but assembly and production are carried out in Germany, so the quality is high. Price - 5 thousand rubles.

Iron Angel ETR1400

The engine is 1 kW, but the number of revolutions when using fishing line reaches 6.2 thousand per minute. Copes well with tall weeds and thickets. The only caveat: it often overheats, but the temperature sensor always works accurately, cooling takes up to 5 minutes. The kit includes a bobbin (not the best quality) with fishing line, and a knife. Power transmission through a rigid shaft, D-shaped handle. The price is only 4.5 thousand rubles. Probably, it is precisely due to its low cost that the model is popular.

Operating principle of a two-stroke gasoline engine

The operation of a two-stroke engine is based on 2 cycles: compression and expansion . If in a 4-stroke engine fuel and exhaust gases pass through 4 strokes, here everything happens in two.

In compression mode, the piston moves from bottom dead center to top dead center. Then the purge window, where the fuel enters, is closed. Next, the exhaust hole for exhaust gases is closed. The mixture of gasoline and air is .

At this time, a vacuum is created in the chamber and rarefied air sucks the next portion of fuel from the carburetor. As the piston approaches top dead center, a spark from the spark plug ignites the fuel mixture. Under the pressure of the formed gases, the piston goes down, while rotating the crankshaft .

When the piston reaches the exhaust port, it opens to release the exhaust gases into the muffler. Then the purge window opens and the fuel mixture enters the cylinder under pressure. When the piston passes bottom dead center, the operating mode is repeated .

Two stroke engine

Features of a four-stroke engine

The operation process of a 4-stroke engine is as follows. The piston goes down from the top point. Through the open inlet valve, air sucks fuel into the chamber. On the reverse stroke, the piston compresses the fuel, and its temperature rises. When compression ends, a spark between the electrodes on the spark plug ignites the fuel .

The resulting flammable gases push the piston down. The work cycle is in progress. When the trimmer motor piston is at bottom dead center, it opens the intake valve. Due to this, the piston moving upward pushes the exhaust gases out of the cylinder. Then the piston reaches the top point, the valve closes and the process repeats again.

Two-stroke and four-stroke engines differ in gas exchange mechanisms. A 4-stroke engine has a gas distribution mechanism that is responsible for closing and opening the valves. The 2-stroke does not have such a system. There are only two holes in the cylinders through which the fuel mixture is introduced and exhaust gases exit.

What are the recommendations for caring for a trimmer or lawn mower?

It is advisable to regularly clean the working surfaces of the tool and mechanical parts exposed to contamination. As a precaution, it is permissible to cover the open parts of the device when using it in humid conditions with morning dew or in dry weather in case of heavy dust.

Parts can only be covered for a short time and should be opened to cool to prevent the engine from heating beyond the normal limit due to lack of ventilation.

You should also remember about timely replacement of filter elements in the engine. Modern models are equipped with filters to protect the fuel system from contamination; some users only learn about their existence when a problem arises with the piston system. Timely replacement of filters will save money that can be spent on system repairs.

Alisievich Yuri, Trade portal Shop.by

Comparison of 2T and 4T by main parameters

To compare a 2-stroke or 4-stroke trimmer, you need to pay attention to the following features of the units.

A 4-stroke engine is twice as powerful as a 2-stroke engine

Maintenance and durability

When caring for the engine, do not forget about the air filter . The presence of sawdust, dust and dirt is not allowed. The filter should always be moistened with oil. Before starting work, you need to make sure that all bolts and nuts are tightly tightened. Spark plugs and muffler are cleaned when dirty.

If the trimmer comes with cutting discs , then you need to ensure that they are sharpened. Improperly sharpened discs can cause excessive stress on the engine. When sharpening, the disc must be turned over periodically so that the cutting edges wear evenly.

Accumulation of soil and dirt on the bevel gear is not allowed . When dirty, this mechanism heats up and can fail without regular cleaning. Once a year the gear mechanism should be lubricated.

Particular attention should be paid to protective covers It is absolutely impossible to work without them, and damaged protection must be changed promptly. Do not use homemade casings. This kind of saving can be costly.

In order for the trimmer to last as long as possible, it is better not to bring the matter to a grandiose repair, but to try to prevent malfunctions :

1. To pull out the fishing line, do not hit the reel on the ground while working. It's better to pull it out manually.
2. It is not advisable to use a household trimmer for a long time. It is recommended to install the cutting disc only after the initial cycle of work.
3. Timely cleaning will avoid clogging of the filter, spark plugs and other engine components. It makes no difference whether you use a two- or four-stroke trimmer.

Engine power

In a 4-stroke engine, the working cycle takes place in 2 revolutions of the crankshaft, and in a 2-stroke engine - in 1 revolution. It turns out that the 4T engine is twice as powerful as the 2T.

Lubrication

Four-stroke engines are refueled separately - there is its own container for gasoline and a separate one for oil. The two-stroke version is filled with a mixture of gasoline and oil. During operation, gasoline and oil are burned and removed along with the exhaust gases. If you compare a two-stroke or four-stroke trimmer in terms of lubrication, then in the first case you get a more profitable option.

Equipment weight

Trimmers with a four-stroke engine are heavier than two-stroke ones due to the presence of a gas distribution mechanism. And if we take the weight of all models, then battery-powered devices have the least weight.

Four-stroke engines are heavier than two-stroke engines

Price

The cost of trimmers directly depends on engine power . There are 2-stroke units with high power and corresponding prices. And some four-stroke tools can be purchased at an affordable price.

How to choose?

When purchasing a trimmer, you need to consider the following nuances:

1. Engine's type. A gasoline tool does not depend on the presence of an outlet, has great power and considerable weight, and requires maintenance and refueling. The electric model operates almost silently, weighs little and does not require special maintenance. Such devices depend on an outlet (if not equipped with a battery) and are characterized by low power.
2. Engine location. The most convenient position is from above (the operation of the trimmer is facilitated, cooling is optimized, and protection from the ingress of grass and soil). The location of the engine at the bottom indicates the low power of the device.
3. Power. To work with massive plants you need a powerful device. Otherwise, it loses momentum, overheats and shuts down. This is a perennial problem with electric trimmers. Gasoline models boast high power. For regular maintenance of the area, 300-400 W is sufficient, optimally 400 – 800 W, in harsh conditions – from 800 W.
4. Type of cutting element. A metal knife works well with tough plants, but it is sloppy when cutting down soft grass. There is a risk of damaging it on stones. The second option - fishing line - is soft, durable, but constantly wears out. You will need to unscrew the bobbin and pull out a new piece. The thicker the diameter of the line, the better it copes with hard plants.
5. Convenience. Models may be different, the main thing is that it suits the owner. Before purchasing, it is best to “try on” the trimmer so that it fits comfortably in your hand. The straight rod is suitable for flat surfaces. For an area with difficult terrain, it is better to choose a curved option.
6. Functional. Trimmers do not offer a wide variety of additional options. Models with a collapsible rod are suitable for transportation in a car. The presence of a belt will help relieve the strain on your hand when working with the device for a long time.

The first thing to decide before purchasing is whether a gas or electric tool is more suitable.

The best trimmers with a two-stroke engine

Which trimmer is better, two-stroke or four-stroke? Below is a rating of popular models.

STIHL FS 55

Easy start, light weight, high quality assembly. Low noise engine , low fuel consumption, minimal vibration. Possibility of installing a brush cutter, top-mounted engine. Straight bar, bicycle handle. Fishing line, knife, shoulder strap.

mowing width – 55 cm;

engine – petrol, two-stroke;

power – 1 hp;

weight – 5 kg.

Prices in online stores

ECHO SRM-22GES

Easy start, clear instructions, convenient line supply . Forged crankshaft and connecting rod, plastic deck and body. Top engine, bicycle handle. Includes fishing line, three-bladed knife, bobbin.

mowing width – 50 cm;

engine – petrol, two-stroke;

power – 0.91 hp;

weight – 5.3 kg.

Prices in online stores

Oleo-Mac Sparta 25

Reliable and high-quality assembly, ease of use . Economical fuel consumption, height adjustable handle, EMAK engine. Safety clutch, anti-vibration system, tank volume 0.75 l.

mowing width – 40 cm;

engine – petrol, two-stroke;

power – 1 hp;

weight – 6.2 kg.

Prices in online stores

Huter GGT-1500S

Powerful, compact petrol trimmer. Optimal price-quality ratio, low fuel consumption . Possibility of installing a lopper, straight, collapsible rod, T-shaped handle. Top engine, fishing line, knife.

mowing width – 26 cm;

engine – petrol, two-stroke;

power – 2 hp;

weight – 7 kg.

Prices in online stores

CHAMPION T433-2

Folding, powerful, easy to start , convenient to use. Possibility of disk installation, high performance. The cutting width with a knife is 25.5 cm, you can install a lopper. Fuel tank 0.95 l, overhead engine.

mowing width – 40 cm;

engine – petrol two-stroke;

power – 1.70 hp;

weight – 8.3 kg.

Prices in online stores

Management principles

You can write for a long time about the various types of handles on trimmers, since in recent years a large number of modifications have appeared on the market, but in fact there are two main types of control.

D-shaped p

handle - for brevity, let's designate it as D-shaped, although the shape does not play a special role here, the handle itself can have any shape (O-shaped, J-shaped, C-shaped).
The basic idea is that the controls are located next to the engine, the rear handle is also located there, and the front handle is on the bar. A mount with a handle typically moves up and down the bar. With such a design, it is not always convenient to make sweeping movements to mow a larger area, but for spot work in cramped conditions, this configuration is best suited. "Bicycle"

handle - also has a large number of names, but the essence is that both handles are located symmetrically to each other and are attached to the bar.
In this case, there is no handle near the engine. With a trimmer with a “bicycle” handle, you can literally mow, making movements like when working with a hand scythe. In this case, the processing area increases significantly. The D-shaped handle with the curved shaft is an excellent combination for spot mowing. “Bicycle handle” is the most convenient way to control,

when it comes to long-term operation in difficult conditions.

TOP 5 four-stroke trimmers

We have compiled a rating of 4-stroke trimmers that have many positive reviews.

Makita EBH341U

Powerful, low noise, high quality materials. It starts up smoothly and idles smoothly . It mows tall grass and weeds well, and it is possible to install a brush cutter. Overhead engine, straight rod, shoulder belt. The set includes an unloading vest, a knife with 4 teeth, a knife guard, and a mounting key.

engine – gasoline, four-stroke;

power – 1.40 hp;

weight – 7.1 kg.

Prices in online stores

CHAMPION LMH5640 wheeled

An excellent trimmer for uneven areas, assembled out of the box in 10 minutes . Maneuverable, easy to operate, high-quality plastic, powder-coated. Large working width, quick line change.

type – wheel trimmer;

mowing width – 60 cm;

engine – gasoline, four-stroke;

power – 5 hp;

weight – 32.1 kg.

Prices in online stores

Makita EM4351UH

Powerful, low noise, robust trimmer. Anti-vibration system , unloading vest, carabiner for fastening. Full set of adjustments, protective cover, 4-tooth knife. Straight rod, fishing line, installation tool.

mowing width – 43 cm;

engine – gasoline four-stroke;

power – 2 hp;

weight – 8.6 kg.

Prices in online stores

STIHL FS 131

Productive semi-professional trimmer . Lightweight, excellent balance, ergonomic belt with comfortable adjustments. Convenient adjustment of the two-handed handle without tools, installation of a lopper. Stihl engine, plastic deck and body. Fishing line, knife, shoulder strap, anti-vibration system.

mowing width – 50 cm;

engine – gasoline, four-stroke;

power – 1.90 hp;

weight – 5.8 kg.

Prices in online stores

Honda UMK 435 T UERT

Quiet operation without vibrations, fuel tank volume 0.63 l. Thick twisted line allows you to mow even light bushes. Properly designed working part, Honda engine. Top motor position , adjustable handle.

mowing width – 44 cm;

engine – gasoline, four-stroke;

power – 1.35 hp;

weight – 7.51 kg.

Prices in online stores

Mow, scythe!

Well, we were happy to share our knowledge about gas trimmers with you! We will also be very glad if you look at our range and, perhaps, choose a trimmer for yourself.

Happy shopping and see you again!

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