dated Sun, 23 Nov 2003 17:38:47 -0600:
The 2-cycle engines are better when working on any angle. My mower is two-cycle because of the steep slopes. A 4-cycle engine may not get the required oil. Yes, they pollute more, more noisy, need a fuel-oil mix, but I wear hearing protection. Getting back to the blowers, the Stihl is more quiet than the Poulman (Weedeater), but the cost is 2X. I'm willing to pay 30% for a quiet machine, but not 100% more. My Weedeater gas trimmer is 14 years old and still going strong. Electric tools are not at all practical for my large 1.5-acre lot, but for small properties they are a good choice.