Life & Style : Fall 2011 87 www .LifeandStyleSI.com in our backyard. STiHl KM
130 r KombiMotor. Description: this multi-tool is the toughest of StihL's.
in our backyard
On the
STIHL KM 130 R KombiMotor
cutting edge
Description: This multi-tool is the toughest of STIHL’s KombiSystem family and comes equipped with a low-emission engine offering longer running times. With quick-change attachments that don’t require tools, this professional machine combines functionality with efficiency to deliver a custom grounds-care system. A variety of attachments, including blowers, hedgers and trimmers, among others, are sold separately.
Latest lawn equipment works hard so you have more time to play
Cost: $370 for base; attachments vary; shown with BF-KM Mini-Cultivator attachment; $190 at Coleman’s
As summer temperatures lower to an autumn lull, Southern Illinoisans prepare to get out of the house and into the yard. There’s always a project waiting outside, whether it is cultivating the flower beds, trimming the hedges, taking down the old dead tree in the backyard or construction ventures. For those looking to undertake these lofty ambitions, here are some local experts’ suggestions for tools and equipment. These devices represent some of the best high-quality, high-efficiency products available right here in Southern Illinois.
Shindaiwa Hybrid 4-powered equipment Description: This new engine technology combines the best of two-stroke engines — lightweight, high power-to-weight ratios, minimal maintenance and all-position operation — with the best elements of fourstroke engines — precise ignition/exhaustion timing and reduced emissions — to create a greener alternative. This technology can be found in a number of products, including blowers, hedge trimmers and brush cutters, among others. Cost: $280 for blower (shown), $370 for brush cutter, $500 for hedge trimmer at Mark Williams
— Adam Testa
where to buy Coleman’s Lawn Equipment 210 E. Walnut St. Carbondale 618-529-0181 www.colemanlawnequip.com Mark Williams Outdoor Equipment 10636 Illinois 127 Murphysboro 618-684-2328 www.markwilliams outdoor.com
ECHO Bear Cat log splitter Description: Powered by a Honda engine and a two-stage hydraulic pump, it delivers 27 tons of splitting power. The complete cycle time is only 14 seconds and with a wideangle wedge it makes quick work of any log up to 2 feet long. The machine operates in either a horizontal or vertical position and is road-towable, equipped with a 2-inch ball coupler and large Carlisle Sure Trail tires. The optional Quick Split sets the cylinder stroke length, saving time and fuel. www.LifeandStyleSI.com
Cost: Starting at $2,000 at Mark Williams
Kohler electronic fuel injection engines Description: These specialty engines deliver the precise fuel-air mixture to optimize power, performance and efficiency, and result in reliabil-ity, reduction in downtime and fuel savings of up to 25 percent. They can be found on various brands of walking, riding and zero-turn lawnmowers such as the Exmark Lazer Z (shown). The engines come with a three-year, unlimited-hour warranty. Cost: Mowers starting at $10,400 at Coleman’s and Mark Williams
Life & Style : Fall 2011 87
