Ryobi 2 Cycle Full Crank Attachment Capable Curved Shaft String Trimmer

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi 2 Cycle Full Crank Attachment Capable Curved Shaft String Trimmer (RY252CSVNM), I was eager to put it through its paces. This gas trimmer boasts a full crank engine, promising extended life and durability, and is compatible with a variety of attachments, adding to its versatility. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time maintaining a large yard, I was particularly interested in seeing how this tool would perform over a range of tasks.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

Right out of the box, the assembly was straightforward. The instructions were clear, and I had the trimmer ready to go in just a few minutes. The curved shaft design immediately caught my attention as it promised an ergonomic advantage, making it easier to handle for extended periods. The REEL-Easy String Head was another feature I was eager to test, as reloading trimmer line has often been a cumbersome task with other models I've used.

Starting the Trimmer

Starting the Ryobi trimmer was relatively smooth, thanks to the Zip Start carburetor. It took a couple of pulls to get it going, but once it fired up, it ran smoothly. I appreciated the inclusion of the Ethanol Shield 2 Cycle Oil, as it assured me that the engine would be protected from ethanol-related issues, which are common with gas-powered tools.

Performance

The trimmer's performance in light to moderate grass was impressive. It handled well, and the engine provided consistent power. The curved shaft made maneuvering around tight spaces and obstacles like trees and garden beds a breeze. However, when I pushed it through denser, taller grass, it did bog down a bit, but not to the point of stalling.

Attachment Capability

One of the standout features of this trimmer is its compatibility with the RYOBI Expand-It Universal Brand Fit attachments. I tested it with a hedge trimmer and an edger attachment. Switching between attachments was simple and quick, making the tool incredibly versatile. This feature alone could potentially save you from having to buy multiple single-purpose tools, which is a significant advantage.

Durability Concerns

Despite its many positive attributes, the Ryobi trimmer does have some durability issues. After several uses, I noticed the trimmer head started showing signs of wear. The bump head, which is essential for feeding new line, began to fail, making it difficult to continue trimming without stopping frequently to fix the line. Additionally, the plastic components, particularly around the bump head, seemed to degrade faster than I had anticipated.

Ease of Use

The trimmer is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for extended use. The controls are intuitive and within easy reach, making operation straightforward even for those who might not be mechanically inclined. However, the string head's design could use some improvement. The string tends to break off inside the spool, requiring frequent disassembly to fix, which can be quite frustrating.

Noise and Vibration

On the plus side, the trimmer is quieter than many other gas-powered models I've used. The vibration is also manageable, thanks to the design of the full crank engine, which reduces the overall stress on your hands and arms during use.

Maintenance

Maintenance is a mixed bag with this trimmer. While the engine itself seems robust and capable of lasting a long time with proper care, the trimmer head's frequent need for repairs or replacement parts is a downside. The lack of easily accessible replacement parts for the head is another issue, as it means you might have to replace the entire unit sooner than you would like.

Conclusion

After several weeks of using the Ryobi 2 Cycle Full Crank Attachment Capable Curved Shaft String Trimmer, I have mixed feelings. On one hand, it offers excellent versatility with its attachment capability and is relatively easy to start and use. The power is adequate for most residential tasks, and the curved shaft adds an ergonomic advantage that makes it comfortable for extended use.

However, the durability issues, particularly with the trimmer head, and the frequent need for maintenance can be significant drawbacks. If you're looking for a trimmer for light to moderate use and value the versatility of attachments, this Ryobi model is a solid choice. But for those who need a more robust tool for heavy-duty tasks, or who prefer a maintenance-free experience, you might want to consider other options.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi 2 Cycle Full Crank Attachment Capable Curved Shaft String Trimmer with some reservations. It's a good tool for those who appreciate versatility and are willing to perform occasional maintenance. However, if durability and hassle-free operation are your top priorities, you might be better served by exploring other models or brands.