Stihl FS 45 String Trimmer

Overpriced, underperforming

By Philip  Apr 6, 2008 | 27 out of 29 found this Stihl FS 45 String Trimmer review helpful

Pros: Quiet, easy to use

Cons: Extreme reliability issues

I purchased this trimmer expecting to find a high quality piece of equipment that would last me for years. Instead, I ended up with something that had less reliability than I expect from a discount store no name unit. When it worked, it started easi...ly and cut well. Power was quite good for a low end model, and it was light and easy to haul around. The problem is that it requires constant tinkering and adjustment to keep it running well, and those adjustments are harder to do due to the plastic sheath covering the engine. The cutting head was easy to reload, but the manual that came with the trimmer was incorrect as to the process for reloading (the online manual was correct). It leaks fuel and now, one year after purchase (and out of warranty), it won't run at all. Stihl asks far too much for this trimmer; it should be priced much closer to $100, since this thing doesn't work any better than a garden variety Sears model. At $150, do yourself a favor and pay a bit more for a better quality unit. This FS 45 claims to be high quality for a reasonable price for the homeowner, but it just doesn't deliver. Read more Less