There are a few techniques to use Cub Cadet string trimmers like a professional. These three steps will help users attain a desirable yard with minimum scarring, shredding, or scalping.
First Step: Review Trimmer Shaft Types
String trimmers have two different types of shafts to accommodate every lawn project. Curved shaft string trimmers are designed for smaller yards with few shrubs. As a relatively light-weight tool, curved trimmers are great for intricate work such as trimming closely around ornamentals. Straight shaft trimmers are better suited for outdoor projects in large yards. These tools work best when trimming under decks and around trees, large shrubs, and patios.
Second Step: Understand Spinning Direction
Understanding the spinning direction of string trimmers will enable users to cut grass more effectively. When a string trimmer spins counter clockwise, the tool removes material from the left side so the product will cut best on the right side. In order to obtain the most precise cut along low fences, curbs, or sidewalks, users should position the right side of their body closer to the work to encourage the tool to cut and eject material to the left. If users move the string trimmer in the opposite direction, the grass will appear in the previously cut path, which will ultimately slow down the process. This inefficient approach may result in scalping. Scalping is when the tool cuts too much of the blades of grass.
Third Step: Master A Few Cutting Techniques
- Tapering: Tapering can be mastered by positioning the tool so that the string contacts the grass at a slight angle. However, users may need more practice if they notice that the trimmed grass is clearly shorter than the mowed grass following the completion of the outdoor task. The unevenness is the result of holding the tool parallel to the ground in which the entire diameter of the string is forced to remove a full swath of grass. The result of tapering is a tight and clean edge that is blended with the height of the mowed grass. This technique works best along fences, trees, and curbs.
- Edging: This is another useful technique that can be performed with a string trimmer and eliminates the need for a separate edger. Edging is when the user turns the tool so that the string is vertical. When the string trimmer is in a vertical position, the debris can easily be ejected as the user walks into the previously cut path. Because edging is most effective when trimming driveways or walkways, some debris such as dirt and rocks will be forcibly removed from these surfaces.
- Scything: This approach is best used when there is tall grass or an obstruction. Scything is a technique that consists of moving a string trimmer in a shallow “U” motion while performing the work.
- Screeding: This technique is most effective when trimming weeds and grass in sidewalk cracks, paths, and driveways. After slightly tilting the tool so that the string tip is just gliding over the pavement, gradually move the string trimmer into the base of the weed. Users should make sure that the tool is not angled too sharply so that the weed can be properly removed.
Cubparts.com is a convenient online store that carries replacement parts for many string trimmers including models such as SS 470, BC 490, and ST 428. Whether you’re looking for new strings or trying to locate an OEM part for your trimmer, their parts lookup tool can help you find what you need. Best of all, they ship quickly and directly to your door across the U.S. and Canada.