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Stihl RM 655 VS

Posted by David Murphy on March 12, 2023 at 11:06am

Hi, I'm looking for advice on the wet grass collection capabilities of the RM655VS. I have a Honda HRD and HRX, wet grass collection with them is fair but could be better. I'm wondering how much better the plastic box of the Stihl is compared to the fabric Honda ones. I'm not keen on the price of the Etesia 53cm mowers. 

Cheers 

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  • PGM March 12, 2023 at 11:44am

    We don't have one but two of my gardening pals do. Wet cut is fantastic, in fact it they leave a lovely finish whatever the weather. However, both of them have had expensive issues with them after not that long. One has just replaced the whole gear box and parts of the drive system after less than 2 seasons. Not great considering the initial cost.

    • David Murphy > PGM March 12, 2023 at 11:51am

      Thanks for that. I wouldn't be using it every day so maybe it would last a bit longer.

      Cheers 

      • Peter sellers > David Murphy March 12, 2023 at 12:22pm

        Yes we looked at them, but as we've put in previous posts our multi franchise dealer told us to stay away due to gearbox issues, after trading with them for many years and spending substantial amounts annually trust them to tell the truth . They wouldn't want to upset us!

  • PRO
    Busy Bee Garden Services Limited March 12, 2023 at 1:30pm

    We have run a 655 rs but although the wet collection is better than the Hondas we have had issues with the blades cutting out for no reason.

    the Hondas are more predictable and quicker and the Stihl mower will be sold....

  • Peter sellers March 12, 2023 at 2:17pm

    Oh and I don't believe there's any pro warranty, Stihl obviously haven't got the confidence! Caveat emptor!

  • Tim Bucknall March 15, 2023 at 3:27pm

    We've had 2 RM655RSs for 2 seasons now, and been fairly pleased with them.  The RS is listed as professional and has a 2-year professional warranty, the VS is not.  I suspect the variable speed unit is what breaks- they used to have them on Hayters but gave up years ago as they were always failing.  The only issues we've had are a belt jumping off once, and a handle breaking when it was almost new.  I think the handle design is ridicuous, but we've only had that one problem so I'll put up with it.  Does a decent cut, collects well, nice and quiet.  I wish the forward speed was faster, but everything seems slow after Hayters.  I need another mower, and I'm considering getting another RM655RS.

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