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Honda Versatool Power Head UMC425
Brewer
- 22 reviews
- 19 likes
Good, but a couple of flaws
I went with the loop-handled Honda simply because it was the best one my local shop had in stock, I would have considered the comparable Husqvarna / Stihl models if they had had them. Mixing 2-stroke fuel is easy and I have other 2-stroke machines so I don't rate fuel as a particular advantage.
The 4-stroke engine is a bit heavy, but it starts and runs well. It has an odd sound, fairly subdued and inoffensive compared to a regular 2-stroke machine. I have used it a few times now with the 'brushcutter' and I am happy, save for two complaints....
Read more Firstly, I am about 6' tall, and I find that I have to bend a lot. The loop handle is tiny, and to have the strap set high enough to reach it with my left hand, my right arm is all scrunched up and the cutter head is at a steep angle uncomfortably close to my feet. If I set the strap low enough to free my right arm and get the cutter head out at a sensible distance, I can't reach the handle without stooping. This is just poor design. A larger loop handle would make all the difference, but I will now have to bodge together some kind of extension bar. Perhaps the bike bar version would have been more comfortable, but the dealer didn't stock it. Secondly, the 'brushcutter' isn't really a brushcutter, it's a grass timmer/line trimmer/strimmer/weedwhacker. It's a nylon line and it's for grass, not 'brush'. The adaptor kit and metal brushcutter blade is an extra $50 and involves swapping the guard as well as the head. If you plan to use both cutter types, then there'll be lots of fiddling around swapping heads and guards until you get a second trimmer attachment and convert one to a full-time brushcutter. I think that Honda should offer separate trimmer and brushcutter tools off the shelf (and possibly even a twin pack containing one of each) so you aren't spending extra time and money replacing heads and guards you don't need. The quality of the engineering is lovely, everything seems very well put together and it's clear this is a professional grade machine. Once I add a dedicated brushcutter attachment and a bigger handle it'll be a very good thing, but I do regret not investigating the Husqvarna or Stihl options more fully, especially when I consider the full cost of getting the Honda to where I want it.1 comment
Questions & Answers
Rob C.asked
What is the criteria/reason to upgrade to the UMC 435 over the UMC 425. I'm not so worried about cost and will ONLY use a line trimmer and possibly a blower?
Rackyasked
Does anyone know if the drive shaft is solid steel or a nylon type as used in bent shaft types? I wonder if they are a full commercial spec?
2 answers
Hi Racky,
Unsure on the exact answer but I seem to recall the sales guy saying a solid shaft. I did the comparison between these and the equivalent Stihl model, and I had to go to the "Middle" spec/size motor to get a contractor tool, whereas he said the honda umc 425 is a contractor level tool. Apologies but thats as good as I remember and hope this helps. Cheers, Paul
James H.Honda
Hi Racky, The drive shaft is solid steel. If you need more information, would like to discuss this further or have any questions or queries please contact customer.relations@honda.com.au. Many thanks, Sarah
Kellyann wallasked
Where can I buy a air filter for a Honda 4stroke whipper snipper?
2 answers
Hi Kelly, there are lots of places but pretty much where you previously purchased your machine from.
Not sure kelly, I havent replace mine yet. I would suggest a reputable specialist mower repair place, including where you bought it (I assume you bought it new?). Bunnings or Masters dont sell Honda Whipper snippers
Details
| Category | Petrol Whipper Snippers |
|---|---|
| Price (RRP) | $499.00 |
| Handle Type | Loop Handle |
| Shaft Type | Split and Straight |
| Power Source | Petrol |
| Engine Type | 4-Stroke and OHC (Overhead Cam) |
| Engine Displacement | 25 cc |
| Power | 720 W |
| Weight | 2.78 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 550 mL |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 4 year(s) |
| Release date | July 2013 |
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James H.Honda
Hi Brewer, thank you for your honest feedback.
If you would like further information on the UMC425, and tips on how to make it suit your build please email customer.relations@honda.com.au.
-Paula