Stihl FS 85 or Shindaiwa T 260

[ECLC]

I have both trimmers. I have had alot more FS 85's over the years. I bought one t260 last year to try it out. One of the guys who works with me left it on the wheel well of the trailer and somebody has a nice shindaiwa t260 for free. So I would like to know what everybody else thinks about these two trimmers. I am sort of torn between the both. I like each one for different reasons. Seems like my new FS85's have given me more trouble with a little time on them. Did not really get to have the T260 all that long to really see how long it would last compared to the Stihl.
Any thoughts would be appreaciated.

 

[dvmcmrhp52]

I'm looking at the fs85's or the honda 4 strokes right now.
I'm leaning towards the honda's but do like the stihl's.
Don't have a good shindy dealer around.
What kind of trouble with the fs85's?

 

[CNE]

I have an FS 85 and have not had any trouble with it. Only had it a year though. I do wish it turned clockwise though.

 

[ECLC]

The FS85's are mainly carb. problems, I had to take one to the shop this afternoon for carb problems. Over all some have lasted as much as 4 seasons. One right now is in its 4th season with no problems. The newer models have a slightly different carb. on them.

 

[ElephantNest]

My 260 is a workhorse, never breaks, plenty of power, light.

 

[metro-hp_48]

Originally posted by ElephantNest
My 260 is a workhorse, never breaks, plenty of power, light.

Have always had the same experience with Shind.

 

[Leisure Lawn]

If you have an Echo dealer in your area try the new SRM-260S.

It is an awesome, powerful trimmer that can handle anything.. The new barrel valve carb they are using makes them very easy to start as well.

The FS-85 is going away soon due to the fact that it will not meet EPA regs. We call it the "dinner bell" trimmer because of the freakin' tinging noise from the all metal clutch clanging around especially at idle. The new carbs on the FS-85 make them almost impossible to start.

 

[ECLC]

Leaisure Lawn you know what I am talking about.
The newer trimmers have given me the most trouble (carb. problems)

 

[The Hokie Okie]

I guess I've pretty good luck out of my fs-85 the way you guys talk. Mine hasn't given me any trouble and has plenty of power for me. (put a small rock through the skin on my
arm just enough where it would stick.)

 

[lonnie]

Look at the FS110's. Quiet, super strong, well balanced. I was trying to make the same choice a couple of weeks ago. I chose the fs110 and do not regret it.