How To Repair An Electric Trimmer

Repair and lubrication of the trimmer gear
Trimmer reducer device and its possible malfunctions. How to disassemble the gearbox for lubrication? Diy lubrication and replacement algorithm.

Trimmer reducer device

A trimmer gear is a unit that transmits the rotational motion of the motor shaft to a knife or line. It is located at the lower end of the brushcutter bar. The transfer assembly is also designed to reduce the trimmer engine speed.

The mechanism consists, depending on the model of the brushcutter, of several gears rotating at high speed. As a result, they heat up due to strong friction. If there is not enough lubrication, or there is none at all, then the process leads to severe overheating and failure of parts, and, accordingly, the need to carry out complex repairs. To prevent this from happening, the transmission unit should be lubricated in time. The disassembled gearbox is shown in the graph below.

How To Repair An Electric Trimmer

Gearboxes of modern trimmers of different models from different manufacturers differ from each other in design and size of the seat. It happens:

  • Round;
  • In the form of an asterisk;
  • Square.

Brush cutters are equipped with gearboxes with different types of gears:

  • Conical;
  • Worm;
  • Spiroid;
  • Cylindrical;
  • Planetary;
  • Wave;
  • Combined.

The drive shaft and gearbox are heavily loaded trimmer assemblies that are subject to significant wear. Between them, the movement is transmitted due to the engagement of the teeth of the gears located at different angles to each other. The gear train works effectively only if there is no mechanical damage. In this case, the mechanism should not overheat, otherwise it may jam.

Basic gearbox malfunctions and ways to eliminate them

Various breakdowns occur with the gearbox of an electric or gasoline trimmer. The most common of them are presented in the table below. There you can also find the causes of their occurrence and methods of elimination.

Gearbox malfunction Possible causes of failure Remedy
the transfer unit is very hot use of an unsuitable (low-quality) lubricant or its absence you need to replace or add lubricant
the gears are new and not worn for running-in, run for a short time without heavy loads with regular stops so that the mechanism has time to cool down
jamming of the shaft during rotation, the appearance of backlash and knocking destruction or significant wear of any of the bearings replace the failed bearing with a new one
the transmission mechanism flies off the brushcutter bar or staggers damage to its body it is necessary to replace the part
in some cases, with minor damage with a clamp made of metal, the place is pulled together with a break
not fixed to the pipe docking point wear you can make a winding from an insulating tape at the attachment point or change the bar
the output shaft with a knife does not rotate or stops in case of an increase in load wear of teeth on gears or one of them replacement of the interacting pair of worn parts is required

Bearings are destroyed due to the use of inappropriate lubricant or due to lack of it. Also, their damage is caused by the harsh operating conditions of the brushcutter and the ingress of foreign particles of material (for example, broken metal teeth of mechanical transmissions) due to the fact that the integrity of the anthers is broken.

To remove the bearing, you need to disassemble the gearbox and use a special puller. If not, then you can try to do it with a hammer with a guide. In this case, work should be done carefully so as not to damage the seat. It is not recommended to use the preheating method to shoot the bearing. This is due to the fact that the metal may lose the required performance.

Most gearbox problems can be easily fixed by hand. It is recommended to purchase replacement parts “native” designed for the used brushcutter model.

Gearbox self-lubrication algorithm

No preliminary disassembly is required to lubricate the transmission. A special hole for these purposes is already embedded in the device (it is shown below). In addition to gears, when lubricating, attention should be paid to the following elements of the mechanism:

  • Bearing unit;
  • Flywheel and starter coil pawl.

Lubricant injection hole

Fill in oil or add solid lubricant through a grease nipple closed with a screw. In this case, actions are performed in the following sequence:

  • Clean the gear case from dirt and adhered grass, especially carefully the area around the plug so that debris does not get inside the mechanism;
  • Using the appropriate tool (often it comes with a trimmer), unscrew the plug;
  • Into the open technological hole, the selected lubricant is introduced from a tube, or using a syringe, as shown in the graph below;
  • Screw the plug into place.

Gear lubrication

If for any reason the gearbox needs to be disassembled, then the old lubricant must be completely removed from the entire surface of the gears and the housing, the shaft, and only then use a new one. It is convenient to lubricate the disassembled mechanism with solid compounds.

The entire gear lubrication process is demonstrated in the video:

It is required to lubricate the transmission unit at least once a year, but it is recommended to do this every 20 hours of intensive use of the brushcutter. If the first signs of malfunctioning with the mechanism appear, then the lubricant must be applied as soon as possible.

Repair and lubrication of the trimmer gear

With frequent, intensive use of brushcutters, the gearbox may start to warm up or make sounds that are unusual for its normal operation, for example, grinding. This indicates that the mechanism needs to be lubricated. If this is not done in time, then more serious problems will arise (for example, gears will quickly wear out and need to be replaced), up to jamming. Other breakdowns also occur with the transmission. Repair and lubrication of the gearbox can be done independently. For this you just need to familiarize yourself with the features of these works and stock up on some of the available tools.

Used types of grease

When choosing a lubricant, you must consider the following factors:

  • The degree of adhesion of the composition to the metal of the assembly;
  • Product brand;
  • Consumption of lubricant by the transmission mechanism.

Well-known manufacturers, for example, Stihl, Husqvarna and others, apart from trimmers, also produce lubricants for them. These products not only reduce wear, but also protect the gear metal from corrosion. Therefore, for brushcutters from these brands it is better to use their own lubricants.

Different models have different grease consumption. This is largely determined by the intensity of use of the brushcutter and the heating of the transmission mechanism. The lubricant is considered to be sufficient if the temperature of the gear unit during operation does not exceed 40 ° C.

By consistency, trimmer lubricants can be:

  • Liquid;
  • Semi-liquid;
  • Solid;
  • Plastic.

In terms of composition, the following types of lubricants are in demand:

  • Graphite, significantly reducing friction, as a result of which the rotation of the gears improves;
  • Lithium, which is also an excellent anti-corrosion composition, saturated with additives that increase the wear resistance of the metal without harmful substances;
  • Universal components containing highly refined mineral oils and improving performance characteristics.

Examples of suitable lubricants are: Champion EP-0, Gear Grease OREGON, Oleo-Mas, Azmol 158, Litol. 24. You should also pay attention to the advice of manufacturers on this issue and use the materials they offer. You can buy them at specialized retail outlets.

Champion EP-0 universal grease 120 gr

Trimmer Gear Lubrication

Gears must be lubricated regularly in accordance with the recommendations set out in the operating instructions for the model used. This should also be done if:

  • New gears were installed;
  • Atypical sounds emanate from the gearbox during trimmer operation;
  • Knives rotate hard.

With continuous use of the trimmer, the transmission is subject to stress from grass adhering to the blades, dirt or torque changes. The lubricant must be selected of high quality in order to extend the life of the gearbox.

Checking with an indicator screwdriver

To check the electrical connections, we need a simple tool. An indicator screwdriver.

Photo # 6 shows the detachable pin connection from the control handle. To check the electrical circuit of connections from the contacts of the plug \ No. 7 \ to the detachable contacts \ No. 6 \. For this, you can short-circuit the plug with the fingers of your left hand and alternately connect the plug with the tip of an indicator screwdriver to the detachable contacts.

If there is integrity, there is no break in the electrical connections, the signal lamp of the indicator screwdriver will glow, that is, the electrical circuit is closed at the LED lamp of the indicator screwdriver.

Performing this diagnostics, it is also necessary to close the contact of the potentiometer \ push contact \ as shown in picture 8.

We checked one half of the electric trimmer \ control handle \. The handle of the manual trimmer is in good condition and then we need to check the second half of the trimmer, which consists of an electric motor and a capacitor.

Disassembling the trimmer

We start to disassemble the electric trimmer:

At the beginning, we disconnect the two connected trimmer halves, the control handle from the contact connection with the electric motor itself.

Two pictures \ # 2, # 3 \ show the sequence of disconnecting the electric motor from the control handle.

Next, we need to check, perform diagnostics. Control knobs \ # 4 \. We disassemble this part and carry out diagnostics for individual electrical connections \ No. 5 \.

DIY electric trimmer repair. Description of repair. Trimmer with line

We all have to deal with the improvement of personal land plots. In the summer season and, of course, to make the plot look beautiful:

  • In the country;
  • In a private house,

Before us is a snapshot with the technical data of the electric trimmer. Trimmer repair will be accompanied by personal photographs with detailed descriptions of the repair.

Electric trimmer diagram

Line trimmer wiring diagram, simple, consisting of:

  • Potentiometer, motor control speed;
  • Capacitor

And directly the electric motor itself.

The cause of the malfunction at the beginning during a visual inspection was incomprehensible, the trimmer had to be completely disassembled to determine the true cause of the breakdown.

Diagnostics with a multimeter

For such a check, we need a digital multimeter. You can also use a pointer multimeter or a device such as an ohmmeter. There is no difference at all.

We set the digital multimeter to the measurement range of the least resistance, connect the probes of the device to the socket of the detachable connection \ output contacts of the electric motor \. The device in this example \ # 10 \ shows one for us. The display reading of the device means a break in the electric motor circuit.

It is necessary to further look at what may be the cause of the malfunction, and of course we will need to disassemble the two connected parts of the case, where the electric motor circuit is directly located.

Checking the collector motor

First, let’s check the collector motor. We connect the probes of the device to the contacts of the graphite brushes \ No. 11 \, the display of the device shows the resistance as shown in the picture. 29 Ohm. The reading of the device means the integrity of the stator windings of the collector motor.

We look further, what could be the cause of the malfunction. We carry out diagnostics of wires, output contacts of a detachable connection from an electric motor with contacts of graphite brushes.

We wrap the two output contacts from the electric motor with the fingers of one hand and touch the contacts of the graphite brushes \ No.12, No.13 \ with the tip of an indicator screwdriver.

And when checking these electrical sections, the cause of the trimmer malfunction is found.

In the contact connection of the wire \ # 13 \ with a graphite brush, the contact is broken. Elimination of such a malfunction is not difficult at all. To do this, it is necessary to etch the contact connection with the wire and the contact connection with the graphite brush with soldering acid \ # 14 \. Next, apply a small layer of tin with a soldering iron \ # 15 \ and solder the wire with the contact of the graphite brush \ # 16 \.

So, the cause of the “electric line trimmer” malfunction has been identified and fixed. As you have seen for yourself, such reasons may be minor breakdowns that can be determined without any difficulty.

It remains for all of you friends to wish successful repairs in the elimination of malfunctions of various electrical equipment.

Electric trimmer advantage

When choosing an electric trimmer for grass, you should consider a number of its qualities. Many users purchase this equipment due to its lower weight in comparison with gasoline units. The work will be done faster and easier.

Due to the lack of a fuel tank, the electric scythe is more compact. It doesn’t make as much noise as analog devices. This allows you to use the device in the evening or early morning.

The absence of fumes is an added benefit of technology such as electric grass trimmers. How to choose it, experts and users advise. However, you should be aware that it does not require additional parts such as a filter for gasoline, air. No fuel and grease, candles, etc. Are needed. This also simplifies the operation process.

When choosing an electric trimmer, you should know that it does not need frequent maintenance. It is these reasons that contribute to the popularity of the presented equipment.

Cutting head

The cutting element is also important for techniques such as the electric trimmer. How to choose a suitable cutting head is studied before making a purchase.

There is a fishing line and a knife (plastic, metal). They are supplied individually or together.

If there is thick, tough grass growing on the site, an electric knife trimmer will be the best purchase. Experts know how to choose this element. They advise purchasing models with a metal knife. However, this technique has a narrower grasp width than the previous version.

It will be more correct if, when choosing an electric trimmer, you stop at a copy with a combined cutting head. In this case, the same equipment can be used in different areas.

Conventionally, electric trimmers, when choosing for hard or soft grass, can be divided into models with a straight or curved shaft.

A bent shaft is typical for low-power types of equipment. In this case, the cutting head is driven by a steel cable. This is a more vulnerable type of shaft. Most often found in models with fishing line, as these are weak varieties of technique.

The straight shaft has a gearbox. This design involves the movement of the knife using a straight metal rod.

High performance models are equipped with a straight shaft. To understand how to choose an electric trimmer for a summer residence, you should initially determine its functions. If the area has tough grass, it is better to use a device with a steel knife and a high power straight shaft. This will also allow you to perform work for a long time. Low-powered species suggest their use continuously for 15 minutes.

Positive opinions

The owners of such electric scooters as “Viking”.500, TE-310, Makita UR-3000 and 4030, Gardenlux GT1300D, SunGarden, Bosch ART30 are satisfied with their equipment.

The unit, selected in accordance with the required functionality, and used for its intended purpose, will serve for a sufficiently long time as fruitfully as possible. You also need to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions in order to protect yourself and others.

Handle type

Depending on the functions, manufacturers produce an electric trimmer with different types of handles. There are T, J, D-shaped varieties.

T-shaped handles are comfortable in the process of work of high complexity or for a long time. They are used for powerful specimens. The movement of such equipment will resemble the use of a hand scythe.

D-holders are most often used in low-power models designed for small volumes of work. It will provide good maneuverability during operation. Therefore, when deciding how to choose the right electric trimmer, you should start by assessing the vegetation on the site.

For tall, dense grass, J-shaped handles are used. This increases the safety of the work. It will prevent the operator from approaching the bevel gear. It is attached to a good, powerful electric trimmer when choosing a model with a metal knife.

Negative responses

Iskra-ero has a coil that is difficult to replace in the event of a breakdown, since it is quite difficult to find a similar one.

Some examples (eg Makita 4030) do not have a shoulder strap. It is difficult to work with such a unit.

Defective coils are found in some models (for example, “Forester”). They are difficult to remove, and it is almost impossible to manually extract the line.

There are also complaints from users about the rapid overheating and failure of the engine with a lower motor. However, similar comments are observed among users who incorrectly exploited the presented type of equipment.

Moisture trapped in the engine will cause damage. Also, the use of the device not in accordance with the instructions leads to a rapid failure of the electric trimmer.

Why do you need a trimmer

When choosing electric trimmers, you should note that different manufacturers may call the technique differently. For example, it can be a brushcutter, an electric cutter, and also a lawn mower.

The electric trimmer will become indispensable in places where the approach for wheeled equipment is difficult.

For mowing grass around bushes, trees, fences, walls and other objects, electric trimmers are most often used. How to choose a specimen suitable for certain purposes? You need to know a number of its characteristics.

For grass of a certain hardness that grows on various terrain, a similar technique is used.

Main functions and characteristics

The design contains a motor. The petrol engine allows you to move freely. There is no need to connect to the mains, so you can mow in remote areas. The tool is quite powerful and is able to cut vines, stalks of tough grass and bushes. The disadvantage of such a unit is its considerable price, a heavier design, the need for regular refueling, noise during use and harmful exhaust gases emitted by it.

An electric brushcutter is devoid of all of the above disadvantages. It is compact and small, practically silent and there is no need to refuel it with expensive fuel.

It is inferior to the opponent in power, which is 200-1400 watts. Only the more powerful can cut tree branches and cope with all kinds of weeds, undergrowth and shrubs. In addition, the scope of application is limited to the electrical cable that must be connected to the network.

If there is a need for mowing in rather remote areas from the outlet, then the use of electrical extension cords will be required.

Use is rational in the courtyard of the house and nearby. It is also possible to put in order the territory that does not have access to the electrical network with the help of electric scythes. But for this, the design must have a rechargeable battery, with which you can usually work for about 20-30 minutes.

They are rarely used as a regular bevelling tool; they are more often used for trimming edges after mowing. The use of any tool should not become hard work, everything should be thought out for increased convenience.

An important design element is the shape of the handle, which is usually in the form of a T or D. The D-shaped handle is great for small areas where maneuvering needs to be done.

If you need to work a large area, it is better to choose with a T-handle, since it is comfortable to grip with both hands, and this increases control and control power. A design feature with such a handle is to absorb vibration from the part that the operator touches. Increased ergonomics are possible when equipped with an adjustable telescopic boom. It is very convenient to lower or raise the handle just for your height.

Electric grass trimmers What is a trimmer?

The word is of English origin (trim) and literally means “trim” or “tidy up”. The first device was invented in 1972 by a businessman who carefully and carefully looked after the area near the house and the trees. His goal was to create a tool that briskly trims greens without damaging tree trunks. He invented a spool with a line wound around it. Its tips are exposed outward. When the spool rotates, they cut, and, walking along the tree trunk, do not leave damage on it. But it took years of development and experimentation to use strong nylon line as a cutting element. Soon, the garden trimmer began to be used in production. Modern electric scythes have a long bar, at one end there is a cutting part, and at the other a motor. Sometimes it is placed at the bottom. There is a handle for ease of operation. Due to its light weight, it will not be difficult to work with it for a long time. Plus, it’s not bulky and doesn’t need a lot of storage space. They are divided into two types: electric and gasoline.

Related categories

Maneuverable and compact, it can mow the lawn with ease and neatly remove the growth near trees in the garden area. The Ukrainian market is filled with various models, and everyone who has done a haircut at least once will say that there is no easier and more convenient tool.

How to choose the right electric box and not be mistaken

Mowing the grass is the main function, and therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the detail that performs this function. The cutting equipment. In all devices, this is a reel with a line, and powerful models, mainly gasoline, can work with a blade knife. The knife is made of durable metal. You can change the fishing line for a knife only in devices that have it in the kit. They have higher power, and the transmission of revolutions to the knife is carried out using a rigid forged shaft, and not a flexible cable.

If you have mixed vegetation, be sure to opt for a model with the possible use of a knife. Although they are more expensive, they even cut off weeds and unnecessary shrubs. There are plastic knives, they are used for dry stems, and metal knives do an excellent job with shrubs and tree branches. The most powerful scythes from renowned manufacturers are equipped with cutting discs that have increased wear resistance. Such discs cut even thin tree trunks.

The cheapest ones have manual line feed. To do this, turn off the engine, open the coil and set the desired length outward. Advanced electric scythes produce it semi-automatically or automatically. In semi-automatic feeding, you need to lightly hit the ground with the trimmer head and then the required amount is delivered. In the case of automatic feeding, it is fed independently each time it is turned on.

If you are wondering which electric trimmer to choose, you should also know that there are tools with a motor on top of the boom, but there are. With bottom location. Even despite the fact that the bottom location makes the structure cheaper, it is more dangerous, because when working on a lawn, water can get into the mechanism in dew. The safer choice is that with a top-mounted position, it can continue to work in wet conditions. In addition, it is perfectly balanced and feels more power when working.