To trim edges around your 2007 Honda CR-V with a Weed Eater RT115iL, hold the trimmer vertically with the string perpendicular to the ground. Walk slowly along the edge, keeping the trimmer head level and letting the string do the cutting. Overlap passes slightly for an even cut. When trimming near the CR-V, be careful not to hit the vehicle’s trim or body panels to avoid damage. Wear protective gear and clear the area of debris before trimming.
What is the best way to trim edges around my 2007 Honda CR-V?
The best way to trim edges around your 2007 Honda CR-V is to use a string trimmer like the Weed Eater RT115iL. Hold the trimmer vertically with the string perpendicular to the ground. Walk slowly along the edge, keeping the trimmer head level and letting the string do the cutting. Overlap your passes slightly to ensure an even cut.
Tips for optimal edging:
- Extend the trimmer string to its full length for best cutting performance
- Edge regularly to avoid overgrowth and maintain crisp lines
- Trim when the grass is dry to prevent clumping
- Use the guard on the trimmer to help guide along straight edges
- For curved edges, roll the trimmer head along the curve while keeping it vertical
What are the safety precautions I should take when using a weed eater?
Always take proper safety precautions when operating a string trimmer:
- Wear protective gear
- Safety glasses or face shield to protect eyes from flying debris
- Closed-toe shoes to protect feet
- Long pants and sleeves to shield skin from thrown objects and contact with trimmer string
- Hearing protection if using a gas-powered trimmer
- Work gloves to improve grip and absorb vibration
- Clear the area of rocks, sticks, and debris before trimming to avoid projectiles
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
- Maintain firm footing and do not overreach while operating the trimmer
- Stop the trimmer if approached by a person or animal
- Never operate electric trimmers in wet conditions
- Allow gas-powered trimmers to cool before refueling
What are the specific features of the Weed Eater RT115iL that make it suitable for trimming edges?
The Weed Eater RT115iL has several features that make it well-suited for edging:
- 4.2 amp motor provides ample power for clean cuts
- 15-inch cutting width covers ground quickly
- 0.065 inch dual exit trimmer line for efficient cutting and longer wear
- Adjustable assist handle for comfort and control
- Telescoping shaft adjusts to user height
- Cord retention system prevents accidental unplugging
- Lightweight at only 6.3 lbs for reduced fatigue
- 3-position trimmer head for edging, trimming and mowing
How do I adjust the Weed Eater RT115iL for optimal edge trimming performance?
To set up your Weed Eater RT115iL for edging:
- Adjust the telescoping shaft to a comfortable working height. The end of the trimmer should hang just below your waist when held in operating position.
- Position the assist handle about 8-12 inches below the trigger handle. Angle it for best wrist posture.
- Rotate the trimmer head to the edging position, with the string exiting vertically toward the ground.
- Extend the trimmer line to its full length, about 5-1/2 inches on each side. Trimmer line wears down quickly when edging, so check it often.
- If edging along a hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk, you can rest the edge guard lightly on the surface to stabilize the trimmer. For edging along a lawn or garden bed, hold the trimmer head just above ground level.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when trimming edges with a weed eater?
Avoid these common mistakes to achieve the best edging results:
- Don’t use old, worn out trimmer string. Change it when it gets short or ragged.
- Avoid taking too wide a cut, which can scalp the grass or gouge the soil. Instead, overlap passes by about 1 inch.
- Don’t edge too low. Rest the edge guard on hard surfaces or keep the trimmer head slightly above the soil to avoid trenching.
- Never force the trimmer through heavy overgrowth. Go slowly and let the string do the cutting. Tilt the trimmer head slightly into dense growth.
- Avoid trimming wet grass, which can clump and clog the trimmer head. Wait for grass to dry.
- Don’t trim with dull blades on mower or edger attachments. Sharpen or replace blades regularly.
- Never operate a trimmer without the safety guard in place.
How do I maintain my Weed Eater RT115iL to ensure it continues to perform well?
Proper maintenance will keep your Weed Eater RT115iL performing its best:
- Check the trimmer line before each use and replace when worn down to about 3 inches
- Clean the trimmer after each use, wiping away dirt and debris
- Inspect the power cord for damage and replace if needed
- Remove and clean the spool periodically to ensure smooth line feeding
- Store the trimmer indoors to protect it from the elements
- Have the trimmer serviced annually to check parts and performance
Are there any specific techniques or tips for trimming edges around tight spaces or corners?
Trimming in tight spaces requires some special handling:
- Take a narrower cut, overlapping more to compensate
- Slow down and carefully guide the trimmer into corners and crevices
- Use the leading edge of the trimmer guard to help guide the string into position
- Tilt the trimmer head slightly into the corner to direct the string
- Pull straight back, don’t twist the trimmer when cutting in tight spots
- Use a smaller diameter trimmer line, 0.065 inch instead of 0.080, for more precise trimming
- Consider a smaller, shorter trimmer for tight space work
How do I edge around obstacles such as trees, gardens, or sidewalks?
Obstacles in the yard require attention to avoid damage:
- When edging along sidewalks or driveways, rest the edge guard on the hard surface to guide the trimmer
- Keep the trimmer string parallel to the hard edge for a clean line
- To edge around trees, work slowly and carefully to avoid hitting the trunk or surface roots
- Keep the trimmer head vertical and the string perpendicular to the ground
- Use the leading edge of the guard to maintain distance from the tree
- Edge gardens in multiple shallow passes to avoid cutting into the bed
- Consider using plant borders or edging materials to separate lawn from gardens
Can I use my Weed Eater RT115iL for other yard work tasks besides edge trimming?
Yes, the Weed Eater RT115iL is a versatile landscaping tool:
- With the trimmer head in the horizontal position, it can be used to trim under fences, around posts, and in other hard to mow places
- The mowing position, with the trimmer head tilted slightly toward the ground, allows it to cut down tall grass and weeds
- Some models allow different attachments, such as a blower, brush cutter, or cultivator, for additional functionality
- Always refer to the operator’s manual for instructions on using the trimmer for different tasks
How do I store my Weed Eater RT115iL properly when not in use?
Storing your trimmer properly will maximize its life:
- Unplug the trimmer and wrap the cord loosely around the shaft
- Remove any grass clippings or dirt from the trimmer head and guard
- Store the trimmer indoors in a dry location
- Hang it by the loop on the end of the shaft or lean it against a wall
- Avoid stacking other tools or items on top of the trimmer
- Coil the cord loosely to avoid kinks or pinches
- Consider a trimmer rack or stand for convenient, safe storage
With proper technique and maintenance, your Weed Eater RT115iL will give you crisp, clean edges around your 2007 Honda CR-V for years to come. Take time to practice your edging skills and always put safety first. Your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood!