Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan edger, stihl fs 45, lawn edger

Question
I have a Poulan edger that I purchase refurbed at Lowes last season.  It is a Mod: PE550 711431.  Last season it seemed to run great.  This year I got it out to start lawn work and got 2/3 of lawn edged and it started making a noise as if something vibrated loose inside and shortly after that it stopped.  I figured it was just a screw so I took it apart and found the houseing cracked - like in 2 pieces, the muffler held on by 2 springs and completely destroyed on the contact side from heat, the starter switch has one wire broken off, hmmm, I think that is it.  I don't know if it is worth trying to replace these parts to keep this thing running.  I fear I have already wasted enough money on it seeing it only lasted 1 season.  What do you recommend?  If you say trash it and get a new one, what would you recommend in about the $250 range down?  I have a corner lot and do the edges of the curb as well.  I really want something I can count on as I do like my lawn to look nice.  I was thinking of the Troy-Bilt 158cc Briggs & Stratton 500 Series Gas Powered Lawn Edger With Curb Wheel #25B-554E066.  Currently for sale in my range, but I belong to Direct Buy so I might even get it cheaper (not always the case with shipping).  Your thoughts????? Thanks, AJ

Answer
One word...Stihl.  Several models in your price range.  Optional models with an array of accessories.  DO NOT buy a department store, Lowe's, Wal-Mart or Sears brand multiple attachment system.  Manufactures of the "bargin" units frequently change their mounting system making your accessories useless.  They want you to buy a new trimmer and all new attachments.  That is how they make their money.

Stihl Combi- systems cost a little more initially but they keep their mounting system the same.  In 4-5 years if the power unit needs replacing all your old attachments will fit...i.e., you get more years of service from your investment.

The Stihl FS 45 is a good trimmer.  If you do a lot of edging I would opt for an FS55 or combi system.  A good tool makes doing yard work much more enjoyable and less like a chore.  Do your research, save a little more money to purchase a Stihl and you will be much happier and get more return for you investment down the road.

Just can't say enough about Stihl's quality.  Tanaka, Shindaiwa, Red Max, basically any product you buy from a small engine dealer will be far superior to Lowe's, Sears or Direct Buy models.  I've been in this business a long time, grew up in the mid-west using many brands for long periods of time.  Echo used to be a great trimmer but when they started selling in Lowe's they dropped their quality to sell a less expensive product.  The lower quality product shows throughout the industry as very few dealers sell these lower quality products, cheaper but you get what you pay for these days when it comes to lawn equipment.

Go to you local Stihl dealer and they should be very helpful in helping you select a product for your needs and budget.  If the dealer is unpleasant or trys to force you to buy a very expensive model that you may not need let me know or call the Stihl customer service number.  Then go to another dealer.  You should receive a Stihl product brochure from you dealer to help with your decision.  If the dealer tries to charge you for the brochure let me know and find another dealer.  Stihl has strict customer rules for dealers...the dealer should be knowledgable, helpful and curtious to your needs.

Let me know if this helps.
Eric