Mowing .. - Page 25

**Rallye Sport** · 25-09-2020, 09:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MITCHAY

Well I put down some weed and feed a couple of weeks ago. I also used the manual aerator too.

I have heaps of green shoots coming through strong now but I did not remove the thatch

So do I cut it low with the mower and rake the **** out of the thatch or not? Is it worth doing with couch grass?

If you're going to do it nows the time. You've gone about it the right way, feed it and get it growing first before doing anything drastic, it'll recover much quicker.

A long term solution to thatch is to keep going with the aeration to get the soil bacteria working and let them compost it and turn it into fertilizer as a bi-product.

**DFB FGXR6** · 28-09-2020, 05:05 PM

I tried out the mulching function of the Bushranger for the first time today.

The finish was very good with no clumps left behind. I like that you can mulch with the catcher attached so the customer is none the wiser.

And I LOVE this Honda GXV160 engine. Along with it being smoother and quieter than Kohler it replaces, hitting some thick grass today, the Honda just grunted through it. I reckon Honda under quotes the power of these engines as it seems to have more power than the higher rated engines I have used in the past.

**DFB FGXR6** · 28-09-2020, 09:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by danzvtil

I’ve put 4-5 hours of use on the HSA56, what a great piece of kit. It cuts twice as fast as my last hedge trimmer and twice as fine. Absolutely loves diosmas which my last one would chew up rather than cut.
Back at my clients house for the first time in 3 months, the entire family were glad to have me back as all the topiary had gone to hell. The lady of the house isn’t happy when the garden looks like crap, and if she isn’t happy, no one is

How has the Stihl battery gear been going for you?

danzvtil · 28-09-2020, 10:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

How has the Stihl battery gear been going for you?

No complaints, still powering thru it all, I’ve never run short of battery power with ak10 and ak30 batteries.
I’ve noticed the gearbox is a bit noisy on the handheld unit, I’m about to get some grease to see if it will hush, that’s what the internet tells me to do.
I am still yet to buy the pole extension, as this one won’t give the height of my old ozito telescopic.
As for the GXV, the bloke who sold it to me said it suffers from the Bunnings effect, they have some units that are 200cc, customers don’t get that the output gets the job done not the engine size.
And with how quiet it runs, every time I start it, I mistakenly reach for the throttle to increase revs even though it’s at max.

**DFB FGXR6** · 28-09-2020, 10:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by danzvtil

No complaints, still powering thru it all, I’ve never run short of battery power with ak10 and ak30 batteries.
I’ve noticed the gearbox is a bit noisy on the handheld unit, I’m about to get some grease to see if it will hush, that’s what the internet tells me to do.
I am still yet to buy the pole extension, as this one won’t give the height of my old ozito telescopic.
As for the GXV, the bloke who sold it to me said it suffers from the Bunnings effect, they have some units that are 200cc, customers don’t get that the output gets the job done not the engine size.

I have found my HSA 56 to get a bit noisy after an extended run, let me know how you go with the grease.

Did you end up putting a full set of high lift blades on the Honda?

danzvtil · 28-09-2020, 10:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Did you end up putting a full set of high lift blades on the Honda?

Not as yet, I may consider it when replacement time comes.

danzvtil · 01-10-2020, 08:38 PM

Opened the gear box on the HSA56 today, there wasn’t much grease in it. Pulled it apart, it had some grit on the bearings, so cleaned it out and reapplied stihl multi lube (been looking for it all week, but they’re waiting on new stock).
All smooth and quiet now.

**DFB FGXR6** · 01-10-2020, 08:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by danzvtil

Opened the gear box on the HSA56 today, there wasn’t much grease in it. Pulled it apart, it had some grit on the bearings, so cleaned it out and reapplied stihl multi lube (been looking for it all week, but they’re waiting on new stock).
All smooth and quiet now.

Interesting, will definitely be doing the same. Thanks for the feedback.

**DFB FGXR6** · 05-10-2020, 05:40 PM

Made a small modification to the Bushranger today, the result not as I expected though.

This mower doesn't have a raised pull starter on the handle, something that is a handy feature.

I picked up a used Masport attachment from my local mower shop.

Pulling the cord out to install, I instantly knew why this isn't a standard feature.

These Honda engines have quite a short pull cord meaning, when installed in the handle's allocated hole, it leaves only a limited amount of cranking ability. Enough to start the engine, but not enough for my liking. Looking at Honda mowers, this feature is fitted lower on the handle mitigating the problem I have encountered. I don't really want to be drilling holes in my brand new mower so I will see how it works on the job. At the end of the day, it didn't cost me anything so no big loss if I choose to punt it.

**DFB FGXR6** · 05-10-2020, 05:52 PM

I have had this for a while, and it's use is somewhat limited, but this little tool is helpful when finessing a hedge.

https://www.stihl.com.au/STIHL-Produ...en-Shears.aspx

I find this useful trimming along the bottom of a Buxus hedge, getting into corners or cutting where a larger tool would be cumbersome. The battery run time is more than sufficient for this type of work. I have also used it to shape topiary's and standard Lilly Pillies. The blade speed is pretty slow and it's use is limited to fine material but it's a handy addition to my arsenal.

**DFB FGXR6** · 05-10-2020, 06:03 PM

New addition today.

https://ecoorganicgarden.com.au/prod...4aAloKEALw_wcB

I have used this before but not in my own business. Made from plant oils, Slasher is a Registered Organic weed killer. Slasher is one of the few products that will kill Fleabane, a weed that takes off at this time of the year. It will also control moss and algae. I have seen this product take a weed out within hours.

Two drawbacks though. Slasher acts by burning the foliage, leaving the root system behind. On annual weeds this isn't a problem, other weeds are best treated with Glyphosate. And the smell of the products tends to linger for a couple of days in my experience.

Tassie f100 · 05-10-2020, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Made a small modification to the Bushranger today, the result not as I expected though.

This mower doesn't have a raised pull starter on the handle, something that is a handy feature.

image

I picked up a used Masport attachment from my local mower shop.

image

image

Pulling the cord out to install, I instantly knew why this isn't a standard feature.

image

These Honda engines have quite a short pull cord meaning, when installed in the handle's allocated hole, it leaves only a limited amount of cranking ability. Enough to start the engine, but not enough for my liking. Looking at Honda mowers, this feature is fitted lower on the handle mitigating the problem I have encountered. I don't really want to be drilling holes in my brand new mower so I will see how it works on the job. At the end of the day, it didn't cost me anything so no big loss if I choose to punt it.

Wouldn’t be too hard to add 1/2 mtr extra to the existing rope???

**DFB FGXR6** · 05-10-2020, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tassie f100

Wouldn’t be too hard to add 1/2 mtr extra to the existing rope???

Possibly, although replacing the entire rope would be better. I don't like the idea of an un-startable mower mid job because my patch job on the rope failed.

Citroënbender · 12-10-2020, 07:34 AM

Quote:

...the smell of the products tends to linger for a couple of days in my experience

That’s one which smells like vomit?

Got jagged by a few agave spines when shifting dozens of pots for a messy lawn Friday, the wounds festered nicely over the weekend. Wondering if that ramped up the hayfever that began again yesterday, as I barely sneezed Saturday.

**DFB FGXR6** · 12-10-2020, 05:30 PM

I spent a pretty solid day mowing with the Bushranger today.

I'm starting to get a gauge on fuel economy now, the 163cc Honda GXV is certainly using less fuel the 173cc Kohler.

On one of my jobs, I would normally refuel the Kohler about half way through to make sure I don't run the thing dry. Today I just kept going, at the end the Honda had plenty to spare. Combined with more power and quieter operation, I am now a Honda (engine) convert.

**FTE217** · 24-10-2020, 08:54 AM

Well it’s back to full on mowing down the quick growth times.
As usual I fed my grass early spring, I reall like shelleys no17, it work well and gives the grass a good boost and strength to suffocate weeds.
Yesterday decided to get it done before the rain appeared for the weekend.
First few cut view And the mighty briggsy.
Love 4strokers yes I won’t clean it DFB

Love seeing the first few cuts

And whallah - good work briggsy

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**FTE217** · 24-10-2020, 08:56 AM

Oh forgot due to a previous thread mention
The mighty comfortable crocs

Only work shoe I’ve used for years

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**DFB FGXR6** · 24-10-2020, 05:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FTE217

Well it’s back to full on mowing down the quick growth times.
As usual I fed my grass early spring, I reall like shelleys no17, it work well and gives the grass a good boost and strength to suffocate weeds.
Yesterday decided to get it done before the rain appeared for the weekend.
First few cut view And the mighty briggsy.
Love 4strokers yes I won’t clean it DFB

image
Love seeing the first few cuts
image
And whallah - good work briggsy
image

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ahh come on, that bottle of Collinite would work wonders on the mower too.

**FTE217** · 25-10-2020, 05:31 PM

Stop influencing me lol.....

roddy1960 · 25-10-2020, 07:59 PM

We have had nearly 200mm of rain this month...consequently grass is literally growing as you look at it . Today I was cutting my jungle but it bloody rained again ...will have to be tomorrow night after work I guess..Bugger..I had to force myself to re watch the Tigers win in the Grannie again..A tough chore but someone has to do it . !!!!!!!!

**DFB FGXR6** · 25-10-2020, 08:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roddy1960

We have had nearly 200mm of rain this month...consequently grass is literally growing as you look at it . Today I was cutting my jungle but it bloody rained again ...will have to be tomorrow night after work I guess..Bugger..I had to force myself to re watch the Tigers win in the Grannie again..A tough chore but someone has to do it . !!!!!!!!

I would rather mow the lawn than watch the football!

**DFB FGXR6** · 01-11-2020, 05:21 PM

Took on a new job today that needed a bit of help getting the edges back in order, a job for the little Atom, which has been running very well after a carby service.

Tassie f100 · 01-11-2020, 05:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roddy1960

We have had nearly 200mm of rain this month...consequently grass is literally growing as you look at it . Today I was cutting my jungle but it bloody rained again ...will have to be tomorrow night after work I guess..Bugger..I had to force myself to re watch the Tigers win in the Grannie again..A tough chore but someone has to do it . !!!!!!!!

Go and wash your black and yellow mouth out!!!!

**GasoLane** · 03-11-2020, 04:34 PM

At the risk of being ridiculed by the purists I'm think of getting a cordless mower.

Why? Well we have a thick (not long) spongy front lawn and a fair sized back lawn, it needs to be mowed weekly, summers coming and mowing in +35c is no fun.

Not to mention that I'm lazy and self propelled sounds like a good idea.

Does anyone use a battery mower and what are they like?

**DFB FGXR6** · 03-11-2020, 06:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GasoLane

At the risk of being ridiculed by the purists I'm think of getting a cordless mower.

Why? Well we have a thick (not long) spongy front lawn and a fair sized back lawn, it needs to be mowed weekly, summers coming and mowing in +35c is no fun.

Not to mention that I'm lazy and self propelled sounds like a good idea.

Does anyone use a battery mower and what are they like?

Choose wisely.

One of my work colleagues bought a Stihl RMA 510.
https://www.stihl.com.au/STIHL-Produ...Skin-Only.aspx
Being a mower aimed at the American market, it has a limited amount of cutting height adjustment, mainly on the lower end of the scale.

From a technical point of view, it is better to mower on a higher setting for turf health. Certain grass species, such as couch, look better cut on a lower setting. Even on the lowest setting, he was disappointed. In terms of power, battery life and the quiet operation, he was impressed.

So having said that, choose a mower with the appropriate power level to suit your lawn species (Kikuyu and couch need more power, fescue and rye less power) and make sure you are happy with the cutting heights offered (most mowers will state their cutting range in the spec sheet).

**GasoLane** · 03-11-2020, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Choose wisely.

One of my work colleagues bought a Stihl RMA 510.
https://www.stihl.com.au/STIHL-Produ...Skin-Only.aspx
Being a mower aimed at the American market, it has a limited amount of cutting height adjustment, mainly on the lower end of the scale.

From a technical point of view, it is better to mower on a higher setting for turf health. Certain grass species, such as couch, look better cut on a lower setting. Even on the lowest setting, he was disappointed. In terms of power, battery life and the quiet operation, he was impressed.

So having said that, choose a mower with the appropriate power level to suit your lawn species (Kikuyu and couch need more power, fescue and rye less power) and make sure you are happy with the cutting heights offered (most mowers will state their cutting range in the spec sheet).

Yeah we've got Kike front and back. So far I'm looking at Ryobi (good reviews in Choice mag) and our neighbour over the road just bought a Makita, so I might take his for a test drive

**DFB FGXR6** · 03-11-2020, 06:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GasoLane

Yeah we've got Kike front and back. So far I'm looking at Ryobi (good reviews in Choice mag) and our neighbour over the road just bought a Makita, so I might take his for a test drive

Something else to keep in mind is the battery system. The tools are often the cheapest element, while the batteries and charger add a large portion to the cost of the overall purchase.

Do you have existing battery powered tools that could be used with the mower. If not, choose something that you could potentially add to in the future. Ryobi is popular because of their extensive range of tools that run from the same battery system.

Tassie f100 · 03-11-2020, 06:32 PM

Son in law has a Dewalt which I think does a pretty good job,but I’m not sure the battery cutting time is all that good,but then he doesn’t cut as often as he should,so it works fairly hard when he does get around to it.His isn’t self propelled.Mate has an 18v Ryobi which he is happy with to trim his about 70-80 sq mtrs

**GasoLane** · 03-11-2020, 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Something else to keep in mind is the battery system. The tools are often the cheapest element, while the batteries and charger add a large portion to the cost of the overall purchase.

Do you have existing battery powered tools that could be used with the mower. If not, choose something that you could potentially add to in the future. Ryobi is popular because of their extensive range of tools that run from the same battery system.

That's one drawback. I've got a couple of Ryobi 1+ items but the mower I'm looking at is 36v lithium.

They make a (cheaper) 1+ mower but it's a narrower cut and the battery only lasts for 30min compared to 60min.

I checked out the price for the 36v lithium batteries and chargers, expensive little suckers aren't they?

whitelion65 · 04-11-2020, 08:59 AM

https://www.husqvarna.com/au/product...RoCRoAQAvD_BwE
??????
Expensive, but the prices are coming down rapidly.