Features
- Converts a brush cutter into a string trimmer
- Includes one string trimmer head and required conversion components
- Compatible with specified brush cutter models
Specifications
Manufacturer Part Number | DWZBC581 |
Sku | 1069520 |
Price | $69.99 USD |
Package Contents | 1 string trimmer head; conversion components (qty as supplied) |
Compatible Models | DCBC580, DCBC581 |
Stock Status | In stock |
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A conversion kit that adapts a brush cutter for use as a string trimmer. The kit is intended for specific brush cutter models and includes the trimmer head and the components needed for the conversion.
DeWalt Brush Cutter to String Trimmer Conversion Kit Review
I set out to see whether a brush-cutter owner can skip buying a separate string trimmer and get credible trimming performance from a conversion kit. After several weekends swapping parts and cutting everything from lawn edges to weedy fencelines, this DeWalt kit proved it can be a practical, tidy solution—provided you understand its limits and your brush cutter is one of the compatible models.
What it is and who it’s for
This is a conversion kit that turns a compatible DeWalt brush cutter into a string trimmer. It includes the trimmer head and the hardware needed to mount it to the gearbox on the brush-cutter shaft. If you already own the DCBC580 or DCBC581, the kit lets you use the same powerhead and shaft for two very different jobs: clearing heavy growth with a blade, and then tidying edges and lawns with string.
If you trim occasionally and don’t want to store and maintain a dedicated trimmer, the kit makes a lot of sense. If trimming is your primary task every week, a purpose-built trimmer will still be the more refined tool, but I was surprised how capable this setup felt once dialed in.
Installation and setup
Swapping from blade to string head is straightforward. I removed the brush blade assembly, fitted the included adapter/hardware, and torqued the head down as specified. Two bits of advice from my time with it:
- Disconnect the battery and secure the shaft before you wrench on the gearbox. It seems obvious, but it makes alignment and torque more consistent.
- Take a moment to verify rotation direction and ensure the head spins true before loading line and spooling up. A quick low-speed test reveals any wobble or misalignment immediately.
The included hardware fit my DCBC580 without fuss. Tolerances were good, and once snugged down there was no slop at the gearbox. My swap time settled around 6–8 minutes at a relaxed pace, so converting for a single quick trim isn’t worth it; I plan trimming and brush work in batches to minimize swaps.
Performance in the grass and weeds
Powered by the brush-cutter drive, the head has more torque than a lot of consumer string trimmers I’ve used. That torque matters in tall, wet grass and in thicker weedy stems where smaller motors bog. I could keep the head at a moderate throttle and let the line do the work rather than over-revving. The result is cleaner cuts and fewer line breaks.
- Lawn edges: No issues. The head tracked predictably along concrete and mulch borders.
- Tall grass and ditch edges: Plenty of authority; the extra torque helped keep the line speed consistent through denser clumps.
- Light brush: This isn’t a blade, and you shouldn’t treat it like one. Fibrous weeds and thin, green stalks were fine. Woody stalks quickly chew line and aren’t the right application.
Vibration was controlled on my unit. With properly cut line, I experienced a light, even hum rather than the buzzy, unbalanced feel some aftermarket heads produce. The head carried momentum smoothly on spin-up and coast-down, and there was no noticeable chatter through the gearbox.
Ergonomics and balance
This is where the conversion approach shows both strength and compromise.
- Balance: With the string head installed, the tool feels slightly lighter at the nose than it does with a blade. That makes it easier to guide for precise edging but also encourages you to lift the tip. A shoulder strap or harness helps keep the head level across longer runs.
- Reach and posture: Brush cutters are optimized for clearing arcs in front of you. Trimming along flat ground asks you to lower the head and adjust your wrist angle more than usual. I found sliding the secondary handle a bit closer to the powerhead and shortening my strap reduced wrist bend and let the head float at a comfortable height.
- Guard and sight line: The head’s profile and the gearbox position give a decent sight line to the cutting path. I could see the line ends and control cut depth easily, which helped on delicate beds.
If you’re on the taller side, be prepared for a small learning curve to find a stance that keeps your back straight while the head rides at lawn height. Once I tweaked handle position and strap length, the setup felt natural.
Line management and head behavior
The head accepted the common lines I keep on hand, and reloading was familiar. I didn’t encounter snarls or jams during use, and the spool paid out predictably. Cuts against rough concrete do shorten line life, as expected. In heavy growth, stepping up to a tougher profile line helped durability without overloading the drive.
One small note: because the powerhead has ample torque, it’s easy to overdo it on throttle. Running at full trigger all the time wastes line and increases vibration. Letting the head work at a smooth mid-range did better for cut quality and comfort.
Durability
Over several sessions, the head shrugged off the normal bumps—posts, chain-link, and the occasional rock tap—without loosening or scuffing badly. The hardware stayed tight after the first retorque check. I didn’t observe any play developing at the gearbox, and the head continued to spin true. As with any head, keep the threads clean and avoid dry-running against hard edges.
Compatibility realities
This kit is not universal. It’s designed for specific DeWalt brush cutter models and fit my DCBC580 as advertised. If your machine isn’t listed as compatible, I wouldn’t gamble on thread adapters or shims; the proper fit is what keeps the head concentric and safe at speed. Check the model number on the shaft before you buy.
Value and what you’re actually buying
At $69.99, the price is higher than generic trimmer heads but lower than buying a separate cordless trimmer. You’re paying for:
- A head that mates correctly to the DeWalt gearbox without improvisation.
- Hardware that aligns and seats properly at the factory tolerances.
- The convenience of a single powerhead you already own doing two jobs.
If you trim a couple times a month and already own a compatible brush cutter, the math checks out. If you trim weekly and rarely use a brush blade, a dedicated trimmer may still be the better ergonomic and financial choice over time.
What could be better
- Ergonomic refinement: The brush-cutter-centric handle and posture aren’t ideal for long trimming sessions. An accessory handle that’s shaped specifically for trimming would help.
- Kit completeness: The kit focuses on the head and mounting hardware, which is the core need. Still, a brief, illustrated quick-start guide tailored to the two compatible models would speed the first swap for new users.
- Storage: A small pouch or sleeve for the blade hardware you remove would make it easier to keep everything together when switching back and forth.
None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth noting if you expect a full “trimmer conversion bundle” experience. This is a clean, focused kit that does the essential job well.
Tips from use
- Plan your work. Do all your trimming after you’ve done any brush clearing so you only swap once.
- Adjust your handle and strap for trimming posture; don’t assume your brush-cutting setup will feel right with a string head.
- Run moderate throttle and let the line cut; it extends line life and keeps vibration down.
- Retorque after the first session. Hardware settles; check it once and you’ll likely be set.
Recommendation
I recommend this kit to owners of the DCBC580 or DCBC581 who want credible trimming performance without adding a second tool to the shed. It installs cleanly, runs smoothly, and taps into the brush cutter’s ample torque to handle lawn edges and heavy grass with confidence. You will make minor ergonomic adjustments, and a dedicated trimmer remains more comfortable for all-day trimming. But as a practical, space-saving way to turn a brush cutter into a capable string trimmer for regular property maintenance, this kit earns its keep.
Project Ideas
Business
Fence and Obstacle Precision Trimming
Offer a niche service focused on trimming around fences, posts, mailboxes, playsets, and stone borders. Start with the brush cutter head for heavy growth, then switch to the string trimmer for a clean finish near delicate structures. Price by linear foot or by obstacle count, and target HOAs and acreage properties.
Event Lawn Branding and Field Graphics
Create temporary grass logos, initials, and simple field markings for school spirit days, open houses, and community events. Use stencils and the string trimmer for clean edges that are safer near turf than a blade. Sell tiered packages (basic monogram, logo + border, full layout) with 24–72 hour visibility window.
Cemetery and Memorial Care Service
Provide respectful, careful trimming around headstones, markers, and delicate plantings where a blade is risky. The string trimmer head allows gentle, controlled cuts close to stone and metal. Offer monthly or quarterly subscriptions to families and cemeteries, with before/after photos for peace of mind.
Solar Array and Utility Edge Management
Specialize in vegetation control under and around solar panels, fences, and utility boxes. Use the brush head for initial knockdown and the string trimmer conversion to finish safely near sensitive equipment. Market to solar O&M firms; price per acre or per MW with scheduled maintenance cycles.
Rental Shop and Contractor Add-On
Partner with local tool rental stores or landscaping contractors to package the conversion kit with brush cutter rentals. Provide a one-page setup guide and upsell pre-wound spools compatible with DCBC580/DCBC581. Earn via revenue share or wholesale pricing while giving renters a flexible 2-in-1 tool setup.
Creative
Lawn Typography for Events
Convert your brush cutter to a string trimmer for precise control and cut monograms, short phrases, or simple logos into taller grass for birthdays, graduations, or neighborhood gatherings. Use cardboard stencils to trace outlines, then refine edges with the trimmer head for crisp, readable shapes that grow out naturally after the event.
Pollinator Meadow Path Art
If you’re nurturing a wildflower or meadow-style yard, create meandering walking paths and geometric shapes by trimming selective corridors through the growth. The string trimmer head gives a softer, less aggressive cut than a blade, preserving habitat while adding functional, beautiful routes and negative-space designs.
Backyard Mini-Fairway
Build a small golf-style practice zone by trimming a defined ‘fairway’ and fringe within your lawn. Use the string trimmer to create smooth transitions, curve-friendly edges, and subtle stripes, then leave surrounding rough for contrast. It’s a fun precision project that upgrades backyard play without needing a full mower deck.
Fence-Line Silhouette Murals
Cut simple silhouettes—trees, mountains, animals—along long fence lines by trimming around large paper or plywood stencils placed in grass or low groundcover. The flexible string head helps avoid damaging fences while achieving clean negative-space artwork that slowly fades as the grass regrows.
Campsite Pads and Trail Nooks
For property trails or woodland corners, use the converted trimmer to make small, low-impact clearings for picnic spots or tent pads. The string head reduces the risk of kicking debris compared to a blade and lets you shape soft, rounded perimeters that blend into the surrounding growth.