Ryobi Expand-It 18" String Trimmer Attachment

The Ryobi Expand-It 18" String Trimmer Attachment has been a noteworthy addition to my yard maintenance toolkit. Designed to convert attachment-capable string trimmers into versatile landscaping tools, this trimmer attachment has both impressed and frustrated me in equal measure. Here’s a detailed look into my experience with this tool.

Design and Build Quality

The Expand-It trimmer attachment is robustly built, featuring an 18-inch cutting width which is quite generous. The straight shaft design offers extended reach, making it perfect for those hard-to-get spots under fences and around garden beds. However, the build quality is somewhat of a mixed bag. Although the aluminum shaft feels sturdy and durable, the plastic components, particularly the bump feed head, seem less reliable. In my use, the plastic parts have shown a tendency to wear out quicker than expected, which is disappointing for a tool meant to endure regular, heavy-duty use.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Ryobi trimmer attachment is a powerhouse. It slices through grass and weeds with ease, powered by a 40V system. The cutting efficiency is impressive, especially when dealing with thicker vegetation. I appreciated the trimmer's ability to maintain power without bogging down, even when tackling dense patches of weeds. The straight shaft also makes it easier to maneuver and reach awkward areas, a significant improvement over curved shaft models I’ve used in the past.

However, the bump feed mechanism, which is supposed to make line reloading quick and easy, has been a bit of a letdown. While it works smoothly most of the time, there have been instances where the bump feed failed to release more line, requiring manual intervention. This inconsistency can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of a task and have to stop to fix the line.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Expand-It trimmer is its compatibility with a range of gas and cordless attachment-capable systems. This flexibility is a big plus for anyone who already owns other Ryobi tools. The attachment process is straightforward; it’s as simple as aligning the shaft and tightening the clamp. This ease of use extends to the line reloading process as well, thanks to the REEL EASY+ Bump Feed Head. Despite some hiccups with the bump feed mechanism, the overall process of reloading the line is relatively hassle-free.

Durability

Durability is where the Ryobi trimmer attachment shows both its strengths and weaknesses. The shaft and motor unit have held up well over extended use, but the plastic components, particularly the bump feed head, have not fared as well. I’ve had to replace the bump feed head a couple of times due to breakages, which is inconvenient and adds to the overall cost of maintaining the tool. The trimmer also tends to throw debris back towards the user, which suggests that the guard could be better designed. Wearing protective gear is a must when using this trimmer to avoid any injuries from flying debris.

Customer Support

Ryobi’s customer support deserves a mention here. On occasions where I encountered issues with the trimmer, their customer service team was responsive and helpful. They even sent a replacement trimmer head when the original one malfunctioned. This level of support is reassuring and adds value to the overall purchase, knowing that the company stands behind its products.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Powerful Performance: The trimmer handles thick grass and weeds with ease, maintaining consistent power.
- Extended Reach: The straight shaft design provides better reach, making it easier to trim under fences and around garden beds.
- Ease of Use: Compatible with a range of attachment-capable systems and features a relatively straightforward line reloading process.
- Responsive Customer Support: Ryobi’s customer service is quick to address issues, providing replacements when necessary.

Cons:
- Inconsistent Bump Feed Mechanism: The bump feed head can be unreliable, requiring manual intervention to release more line.
- Plastic Component Durability: The plastic parts, particularly the bump feed head, are prone to breaking, which can be frustrating and costly.
- Debris Management: The trimmer tends to throw debris back towards the user, suggesting a need for a better-designed guard.

Final Thoughts

After using the Ryobi Expand-It 18" String Trimmer Attachment extensively, I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, its powerful performance and extended reach make it a valuable tool for maintaining a well-manicured yard. On the other hand, the inconsistency of the bump feed mechanism and the durability of the plastic components leave room for improvement.

Would I recommend this tool? If you’re already invested in the Ryobi Expand-It system and need a versatile trimmer attachment, this could be a worthwhile addition to your toolkit. Its performance and ease of use, coupled with responsive customer support, make it a strong contender. However, if you’re looking for a trimmer that promises long-term durability without the need for frequent part replacements, you might want to explore other options.

In conclusion, the Ryobi Expand-It 18" String Trimmer Attachment offers powerful performance and versatility but falls short in terms of durability and reliability. With some improvements to the design and build quality, it could easily become a top choice for homeowners and garden enthusiasts.