Thanks for this I will find the model numbers and mention the decompressor issue
                             Regards Ratt

No problem.  Just remember the decompressor issue would only apply if it has a 4-mix engine.  Likewise regarding adjustment of the tappets .

Thanks. What are the differences, if any, between the Echo model and the Shindaiwa version apart from colour? Are they exactly the same, or is one a Toyota, and the other a Lexus? I am assuming that the handles may be different, but not much else will be different?

So many questions.....

I have a Shindaiwa chainsaw, and it has been faultless. I did not realise until today that Echo was part of the same group.

Thanks for your time, and responses.

The Shindaiwa come out of the same factory.  They are both equally as good as each other from what I've seen.  Think the Shindaiwa had better anti vibration levels, but looking at the later Echo's the rubber grips / controls etc look very much the same now.  I wouldn't think there's much in it to be honest.  Either would be good. 

Hi CageyH, and welcome to TGMF. 

Brushcutter wise I'd go for something from ECHO.  These are great value for money and come with a 2yr Pro warranty, and five year domestic.   

As for cutting in wooded areas I'm not sure a hover mower would be up to the job, especially if there's any woody bits lying on the ground I doubt it would last very long.  Plus 2acres is a fair sized area, you really need to go for something bigger and more robust than a hover mower or you'll be spending so much time getting the job done. 

I'm assuming your ride-on mower gets stuck only in the woodland area where it's boggy?  The rest of the grass is quite stable?

Hi Neil, and welcome to TGMF

I'm not up on John Deer stuff unfortunately, but if all blades run in the same direction, and are set in a slightly triangular formation in the deck then they shouldn't be able to touch each other regardless of the position.  That's the reason for the triangular layout, so they overlap but can't can't touch. 

A bit of a late reply, but it does appear that the gear is available as an item with the bendix. Part no 799420. But it is nearly half of the starter price at £27.45 plus vat!

Barrie, just as a matter of interest, where di you find the part number for that kit?

A bit of a late reply, but it does appear that the gear is available as an item with the bendix. Part no 799420. But it is nearly half of the starter price at £27.45 plus vat!

Thanks for that Barrie.    That's makes this even more ridiculous, as we spoke to Briggs directly and was told it wasn't available as a spare part and would have to have the whole starter motor, they even gave us the part number for even though we have it via the power portal etc.  What's even funnier about this they are paying for it under warranty for this particular job.  The reason I brought this to attention in the first place was for those who's warranty has expired and having to pay an extortionate price to replace the gear.  I'm really glad if that's not the case after all though.    While I do agree, thirty quid is still rather steep for that kit, but they have everyone by the short and curli's on this, because they can't start the mower without it. 

The wiring harnesses', don't get me started on those.  Now on a second type of harness to get around the issues, so I'm going to guess the ones we changed previously will be coming back with the same fault after a while, and we'll have to upgrade them again.  Like we haven't got other machines to service and repair.    

Is it just a case of pulling the boss straight off the spindle?

Yes exactly that.  Just be careful where you pull , or lever it from.  Behind and as close in to shaft as possible, otherwise you might break it.  Some plus gas or wd40 type spray might help.