ragmopp

I am looking at replacing my old string trimmer. I have been looking at the Stihl Kombi system, KM-55RC. In doing some research Consumers Reports did not have much to say about these type of systems, 'dubious value' was their quote. Now the article was in June of 2004 and they did not specifically mention the Stihl, so I am curious as to what users have to say about this unit.  The two things I would need right away would be the string trimmer head and the pruning saw head. I really like the idea of not having to purchase seperate engines for these two tasks (and any others I might need in the future).  I also notice that Stihl apparently has a vice like grip on their dealers as to price. As there is not any difference from one dealer to the next. Not a big deal, but I find it interesting.  Thanks for any feedback...

Mike Anderson

Thank you both.  I went out and adjusted the cable as suggested by Snowman. I think I have got it.  I drove it around the yard and it now seems to work each time I pull the trigger.  I wonder if I was doing something wrong before. As I was plowing the driveway and had to make a turn, I just kept going and also squeezed the lever and made my turn. I am thinking that maybe that was putting a bind on the axle. So today I just came to a stop then squeezed the lever, that worked each time.  The true test will come when we get some snow (maybe this weekend). 

I noticed that when I went to pull the cover off that one of the screws was stripped and another missing.  It wasn't that way when I took it in.  That definately cinches it for me, I will NOT be going back to that dealer.

Thanks again gentlemen,
Mike Anderson

Thanks, I'll give that a try.

Mike Anderson

Darn... I hit the enter key by accident. 

The model is 926102 (a Home Depot special).

Mike Anderson

Hi,

I have a continuing problem that maybe someone can help me with. The remote wheel lock works erratically. I squeeze and release the lever and nothing happens. I try it repeatedly and it sometimes works. This happens either with the left wheel is locked or not. Checking the manual it states not to put any load on the axle, and to turn the unit right or left to release the axle lock. I have tried this and still, at times, it refuses to either lock or unlock the left wheel.  I then went and tried adjusting the cable adjuster, as suggested by the manual, still no difference.
The last step was, according to the manual, to take it to a dealer. Which I did. When the dealer called me back he stated it was fixed. When I asked him what was wrong. He stated nothing. He just adjusted the cable again. When I picked it up I tried the unit and sure enough it still erratically would not free up the left wheel and then it would.  He stated he wasn't familiar with this arrangement for a wheel lock (was familiar with the remote differential though).  In fact he stated, ' Whenever Ariens has a product that works well, they change it'.  Not exactly what I wanted to hear and most likely not going back to him again.  Sooooo...anyone have any suggestions?