If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile brushless string trimmer, the Ryobi RY40180 deserves your attention. This review will give you the full picture of this 40V cordless tool. The Ryobi RY40180 review that follows is based on real, hands-on use in a variety of garden conditions.
It’s part of Ryobi’s expanding 40V battery ecosystem, promising more power and longer runtime than their 18V line. But does it live up to the hype for the serious gardener? Let’s get into the details.
Ryobi RY40180 Review
This tool is a straight-shaft, brushless motor trimmer designed for medium to large yards. It comes as a “tool-only” product, meaning you need to supply the battery and charger separately, which is a common setup for cordless outdoor power equipment.
What’s in the Box?
* RY40180 Brushless String Trimmer (tool-only)
* 0.095-inch diameter pre-wound trimmer line spool
* Auxiliary handle
* Debris shield
* Manual and safety documents
You’ll notice the build quality feels solid. The shaft is metal, and the motor housing has a robust, no-nonsense design. It’s not overly heavy, but you can tell it’s meant for work.
Key Features and Specifications
Understanding the specs helps you compare it to other models. Here’s the breakdown:
* Power Source: 40V Lithium-Ion Battery (not included).
* Motor Type: Brushless. This is key for efficiency, longer tool life, and more power from the battery charge.
* Shaft Type: Straight shaft. This is better for reaching under bushes and for taller users compared to curved shafts.
* Cutting Swath: 15 inches. This is a nice, wide path that speeds up trimming work.
* Line Feed: Automatic Feed Spool (AFS). This system is designed to advance the line with a simple tap of the head on the ground, preventing you from having to stop and manually bump the head.
* Weight: Approximately 9.5 lbs without battery. Add about 2.5 lbs for a standard 4Ah battery.
Performance in the Garden
This is where the rubber meets the road. I’ve used this trimmer for several seasons on a mixed property with lawn, tall meadow grass, and woody weeds.
Power and Runtime:
The brushless motor provides plenty of torque. It handles standard lawn edges and overgrowth with ease. With a 4Ah battery, I consistently get about 30-40 minutes of continuous runtime in mixed use, which is enough for a half-acre lot. A 6Ah battery would obviously extend that significantly. It struggles a bit with the very toughest, thick-stemmed weeds, but for 99% of residential tasks, its more than sufficient.
The Automatic Feed System (AFS):
This is a major point of discussion. When it works, it’s fantastic—no stopping to bump the head. However, the system can be sensitive. It sometimes feeds line when you don’t need it, or occasionally jams if the line gets tangled inside the spool chamber. It’s a common issue with many automatic systems and not unique to Ryobi. Learning the right “tap” technique is crucial.
Ergonomics and Handling:
The balance is good, especially with the battery mounted in the rear. The adjustable auxiliary handle lets you find a comfortable position. The trigger is easy to use, and the lock-off switch is a necessary safety feature. It’s not the lightest trimmer, but after 20 minutes of use, fatigue is minimal for an average user.
Setup and Everyday Use
Getting started is straightforward. Here’s how to begin:
1. Insert the Battery. Slide a compatible 40V Ryobi battery into the slot at the base until it clicks.
2. Attach the Auxiliary Handle. Loosen the knob, slide it to your preferred position on the shaft, and tighten firmly.
3. Install the Debris Shield. It snaps onto the head easily; make sure it’s secure.
4. Load the Trimmer Line. The head uses a quick-load spool system. You remove the spool cap, insert the pre-wound spool, thread the ends through the eyelets, and snap the cap back on. The manual guides you through this clearly.
For daily operation, put on your safety glasses and gloves. Hold the trimmer at a slight angle, allowing the tip of the line to do the cutting. Swing it smoothly from side to side. Use the tap-and-go system to advance line as needed.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Taking care of your trimmer ensures it lasts for years. The maintenance is refreshingly simple.
* After Each Use: Clean off grass clippings and debris from the head and shaft. Check the line level.
* Spool Replacement: When line runs low, always use 0.095-inch diameter line for proper AFS function. Wind the new spool evenly and without overlapping to prevent jams.
* Shaft Connection: Occasionally check the connection point between the two shaft sections to ensure it’s tight.
* Storage: Store the tool and battery in a dry, cool place. Remove the battery if storing for an extended period.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Look
No tool is perfect. Here’s my honest assessment.
Pros:
* Strong brushless motor power for most tasks.
* Good battery runtime within the 40V system.
* Comfortable and well-balanced design.
* Automatic line feed is convenient when functioning properly.
* Durable metal shaft construction.
Cons:
* Automatic Feed System can be inconsistent and prone to jamming.
* Tool-only purchase requires a separate investment in batteries.
* Not the best choice for extremely heavy, woody growth.
* Some users report the head mechanism wearing out over time.
Who Is The Ryobi RY40180 Best For?
This trimmer isn’t for everyone, but it’s ideal for a specific set of users.
It’s a great fit for homeowners with a quarter-acre to one-acre property who are already invested in, or planning to invest in, the Ryobi 40V ecosystem. It’s perfect for weekly lawn edging, trimming around flower beds, and managing moderate overgrowth.
It’s not the best fit for someone with a very small patio garden (where a smaller 18V model would suffice) or for professionals clearing dense, wild brush daily. Also, if you prefer the absolute reliability of a manual bump-head, the AFS might frustrate you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What battery works with the Ryobi 40180?
It uses any of Ryobi’s 40V lithium-ion batteries. A 4Ah or 6Ah battery is recommended for best performance and runtime.
Can you attach other attachments to the RY40180?
No, this model is a dedicated string trimmer. It does not have the attachment capability of Ryobi’s “Expand-It” system. You would need a different power head for that.
How do you fix the line feed on a Ryobi trimmer?
If the AFS jams, first try removing the spool cap and pulling the lines gently to free them. Often, cutting away tangled line inside the spool chamber with scissors solves the problem. Always ensure the spool is wound neatly.
Is the Ryobi 40V trimmer powerful enough?
For the vast majority of residential users, yes. The brushless motor provides significant power that surpasses most 18V and many gas-powered homeowner models. It can handle thick grass and weeds without much trouble.
Where can you get replacement trimmer line?
You can find Ryobi’s pre-wound 0.095-inch AFS spools at most home improvement stores like Home Depot, as well as online retailers. Generic line of the correct diameter can also be spooled yourself.
In conclusion, the Ryobi RY40180 is a capable and powerful cordless string trimmer that shines for the dedicated homeowner. Its performance is robust, and the convenience of cordless operation is a game-changer. While the Automatic Feed Spool has its quirks and requires a bit of patience to master, the overall package offers excellent value, especially if you already own other 40V tools. For maintaining a typical suburban yard, it’s a reliable and effective partner that gets the job done without the fuss of gas or cords.