Originally Posted by
Chris B
The 130 is a great machine. I haven't used the husky but assuming the fsa90 is comparable in power. The 130 is far more powerful and responsive. Also much more balanced and light without battery on board.
For me the cord is annoying but only in the way of putting it on... Exactly like when using a backpack blower.
I minimise the hassle of putting it on by having the machine stored connected to the battery so I just walk up to truck, pick up machine and slide arms into backpack... if that makes sense? (Rather than fumbling around getting out cables and plugs etc) once machine is in use I find it more comfortable than any other machine
And yes I do use it as my main trimmer although my 'main' trimmer for regular cut lawns lately has been the fsa90r because of the fact it's easy to pick up and go. I also changed trimmer line to 2.4mm trailblazer on that machine which makes it seem like it has much more power compared to 2.7 diamond edge (which I use on the fsa130r)
I've got a bigger fs460 and use 3.3 diamond edge on that but hardly ever have to get that out unless it's a seriously thick matted kikuyu job or similar
If you do get one, the best way to power it is with the backpack battery. I've also got the AP adaptor pouch but that can get annoying swapping batteries etc. I mainly use that (rarely) when I've depleted the backpack battery or if I've got a big hedging job using the hsa94t
I think you previously mentioned the idea of getting the AR1000 and fsa130r combo to use on regular lawns? I personally went the AR3000 as I do a lot of larger jobs as well as a heaps of overgrowns etc. But if your business is all regulars then the smaller backpack would make a lot of sense. Plus you could always get one of each if you were happy with it . The 3000 isn't too much heavier than the 1000 but would def be wise to try them both on if weight is a concern. I haven't tried the 1000 but the 3000 is slightly lighter than my backpack blower
I just checked the backpack specs and the 3000 is double the battery capacity though.... and the 1000 isn't a whole lot cheaper either. So I guess what I'm saying is try the AR3000 on and if the weight is okay then that's the best option. If you use AP batteries on heavy grass you'll only get full power for about 10 -15 mins before it cuts power down for the remaining charge.
... the machine is kind to your body with vibration, weight, balance wise etc
If you were in Melb feel free to check out mine, one of your posts put me onto the the hla65!