Using a Ryobi Expand-it Pole Saw with my Ryobi 52cc Easy Start Brush Cutter-possible

[GrassCutter25]

Hi all,
Got a Ryobi 52cc Easy Start Brush Cutter model RBC52FSBHO and am wondering if I can use put the Ryobi Epand-It Pole Saw Attachment model APR04G on it as they both have a split-shaft spline drive. The Bunnings Warehouse page for the pole saw say's it compatible with all past and present Ryobi and Homelite attachment capable units as well as a variety of other power heads.

 

[Diggin It]

One way to find out. Those shafts can be universal across brands also. I mix and match quite a bit.

That pole saw takes a bit of getting used to though. It can bounce around on the branch trying to get the first bite.

 

[GrassCutter25]

Yeah I know they take a bit of getting used to because I have a Black and Decker 18 Volt Pole Saw. But I want an upgrade because a battery-powered one just isn't cutting it and it's a pain in the butt having to apply lubricating oil from the little squeeze bottle that came with the B&D Pole Saw.

The one thing I hate about the Bunnings Warehouse website is the product entries for trimmer attachments because some attachment entries list what power heads are compatible with the attachments and other entries don't and say "call the manufacturer". Whoever runs the website seriously needs to take it offline and do some major information updating.

 

[Gem99ultra]

I think you'll have to just hook it up and try it. My Ryobi with the Expand-It pole saw does NOT work with my Husqvarna trimmer with the split shaft. They "look" the same but the cable in the Husqvarna is a little short to engage properly.

My old Ryobi power head is well over 30 years old and has evolved into something that looks like a Ryobi but is actually a ball of duc tape and baling wire Still runs but is finicky and smokes a lot. I'll continue to patch it up until it totally dies.

Since you're dealing with all Ryobi products I suspect you'll be in luck.

 

[GrassCutter25]

Correct me if I'm wrong but I thought all split-shaft trimmers/brush cutters had solid driveshafts and on the end was a gear that meshed with the gears in the gearbox and only curved shaft trimmers had the flexible cable drive?

 

[GrassCutter25]

Is this a reasonably decent machine? I have no regrets getting it but want you thoughts and opinion on it.

 

[Gem99ultra]

Correct me if I'm wrong but I thought all split-shaft trimmers/brush cutters had solid driveshafts and on the end was a gear that meshed with the gears in the gearbox and only curved shaft trimmers had the flexible cable drive?

Maybe all new ones do, but mine (very old) has cable drives. The Expand-It half shaft for the Ryobi and the Husqvarna are a little different.