Trimmer Plus Power Head Tips (5 Pro Hacks For Wood Processing)

Innovation has always been the lifeblood of wood processing. From the earliest stone axes to today’s sophisticated machinery, the quest for efficiency and effectiveness has driven constant evolution. Now, the Trimmer Plus power head system is the latest innovation, offering versatility for the home user and even in some cases the professional. With the right attachments and a bit of know-how, this tool can be a surprising workhorse.

The State of Wood Processing: A Global View

Before diving into the specifics of the Trimmer Plus, let’s take a moment to appreciate the global landscape of wood processing. The industry is vast, encompassing everything from massive logging operations to small-scale firewood production. Globally, the firewood market is still significant, particularly in developing nations, while in developed countries, it’s experiencing a resurgence as people seek sustainable heating alternatives.

Market Size and Trends: The global logging market was valued at around $750 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow, driven by demand for wood products in construction, furniture, and paper industries. The firewood market, although less formally tracked, represents a substantial portion, especially in regions with cold climates and reliance on biomass energy.
Sustainability Concerns: Sustainable forestry practices are gaining traction, with certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) becoming increasingly important. Consumers are more aware of the environmental impact of wood harvesting, driving demand for responsibly sourced timber.
Technological Advancements: Beyond the Trimmer Plus, we see significant advancements in forestry equipment, including automated harvesting machines, drone-based forest monitoring, and advanced wood processing techniques.

I’ve seen firsthand how these trends play out. Years ago, while volunteering with a community forestry project in the Himalayas, I witnessed the struggle of local villagers relying on manual labor for firewood collection. It was back-breaking work, and the lack of efficient tools took a heavy toll. This experience instilled in me a deep respect for the power of appropriate technology to improve lives and protect forests.

Trimmer Plus Power Head: A Versatile Tool

The Trimmer Plus system is essentially a universal power head that accepts a variety of attachments, transforming a simple string trimmer into a multi-functional tool. This can include:

String Trimmer: For lawn edging and grass trimming.
Brush Cutter: For clearing thick brush and weeds.
Edger: For creating clean edges along sidewalks and driveways.
Cultivator: For tilling small gardens.
Pole Saw: For pruning high branches.
Hedge Trimmer: For shaping hedges and shrubs.
Leaf Blower: For clearing leaves and debris.

While its primary purpose is not for logging or heavy wood processing, some attachments can be surprisingly useful for specific tasks, especially for homeowners or those with small properties.

5 Pro Hacks for Wood Processing with Trimmer Plus Attachments

Now, let’s get into the meat of the matter. Here are five pro hacks for leveraging Trimmer Plus attachments for wood processing, along with practical tips and considerations:

Hack #1: Precision Pruning with the Pole Saw Attachment

The Challenge: Removing high branches from trees, especially in confined spaces, can be dangerous and difficult. Traditional chainsaws can be unwieldy for this task.
The Solution: The pole saw attachment provides extended reach and maneuverability, allowing for precise pruning without the need for ladders or climbing.
- Step 1: Safety First: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, ear protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Ensure a clear drop zone free of obstacles and people.
- Step 2: Inspection: Before starting, inspect the pole saw attachment for any damage or loose parts. Ensure the chain is properly tensioned and lubricated.
- Step 3: Positioning: Position yourself on stable ground, maintaining a safe distance from the tree. Avoid working directly underneath the branch being cut.
- Step 4: Cutting Technique: Use a smooth, controlled motion to cut through the branch. Avoid forcing the saw, allowing the chain to do the work. Start with an undercut to prevent bark tearing.
- Step 5: Branch Management: Be prepared for the branch to fall. Have a plan for managing the cut branch to prevent damage to property or injury.
- Pro Tip: For thicker branches, make multiple passes, gradually increasing the depth of the cut. This reduces the risk of the saw binding or kicking back.
- Data Point: According to a study by the National Arbor Day Foundation, proper pruning techniques can increase tree longevity by up to 20%.

I recall a time when I had to prune a large oak tree in my backyard. The branches were overhanging my neighbor’s property, and I was concerned about potential damage during storms. Using the pole saw attachment, I was able to carefully remove the offending branches without any issues, much to my neighbor’s relief.

Hack #2: Efficient Brush Clearing with the Brush Cutter Attachment

The Challenge: Clearing overgrown brush, weeds, and small saplings can be a tedious and time-consuming task with hand tools.
The Solution: The brush cutter attachment, equipped with a metal blade, can quickly and efficiently clear large areas of vegetation.
- Step 1: Blade Selection: Choose the appropriate blade for the type of vegetation you’re dealing with. A multi-tooth blade is suitable for general brush, while a brush knife blade is better for thicker saplings.
- Step 2: Safety Precautions: Wear the same safety gear as with the pole saw, but also consider leg protection, such as chaps or sturdy pants.
- Step 3: Clearing Technique: Use a sweeping motion to cut through the brush, keeping the blade parallel to the ground. Avoid hitting rocks or other hard objects.
- Step 4: Debris Management: Clear away cut vegetation as you go to prevent it from accumulating and hindering your progress.
- Step 5: Maintenance: Regularly inspect the blade for damage and sharpen it as needed.
- Pro Tip: For dense brush, start by clearing a perimeter to create a working space. This will make it easier to maneuver and avoid getting tangled in the vegetation.
- Data Point: A study by the University of California Cooperative Extension found that using a brush cutter can reduce brush clearing time by up to 50% compared to manual methods.

I’ve used the brush cutter attachment extensively to clear overgrown areas on my property. It’s particularly effective for tackling thorny bushes and invasive species that would be difficult to remove by hand.

Hack #3: Log Debarking with Modified Trimmer Head

The Challenge: Removing bark from logs can be a necessary step for certain wood projects, such as building rustic furniture or preparing logs for milling. Traditional debarking tools can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
The Solution: While not its intended purpose, I’ve had limited success with a modified trimmer head for light debarking on smaller logs. Disclaimer: This is not a standard use and should be approached with extreme caution and at your own risk.
- Step 1: Modification (Use at your own risk): Replace the standard trimmer line with heavy-duty, square-shaped line. Experiment to find the right balance of aggressiveness and control.
- Step 2: Safety: Wear full face protection, heavy gloves, and durable clothing. The risk of debris being thrown is significantly higher.
- Step 3: Technique: Hold the trimmer head at a slight angle to the log and use short, controlled bursts to remove the bark. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the wood underneath.
- Step 4: Limitations: This method is best suited for removing loose or partially detached bark. It’s not effective for removing tightly adhered bark or for debarking large logs.
- Pro Tip: Before attempting this, practice on scrap wood to get a feel for the technique and to minimize the risk of damaging your project wood.
- Caution: This is an unconventional use of the trimmer and can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Exercise extreme caution and wear appropriate safety gear.

I experimented with this technique on a small batch of birch logs that I was using to build a rustic bench. While it wasn’t as efficient as a dedicated debarking tool, it did help to remove the loose bark and prepare the logs for further processing.

Hack #4: Light Wood Splitting with a Makeshift Wedge (Use with Extreme Caution)

The Challenge: Splitting small pieces of wood for kindling or small firewood can be a chore, especially if you don’t have a dedicated splitting axe.
The Solution: With extreme caution and understanding of the risks, you can use the brush cutter blade in conjunction with a small steel wedge.
- Step 1: Improvised Wedge: Find a small, blunt steel wedge (like a cold chisel). Do not use anything that could shatter or splinter.
- Step 2: Positioning: Place the piece of wood you want to split on a stable surface. Position the wedge on the wood where you want the split to occur.
- Step 3: Brush Cutter as Hammer (Use at your own risk): This is where extreme caution is required. Using the flat, blunt side of the brush cutter blade (NOT the cutting edge), carefully tap the wedge into the wood. Do not swing the brush cutter with force. Gentle taps only.
- Step 4: Safety: Maintain a firm grip on both the wedge and the brush cutter. Wear eye protection and gloves. Be aware of the potential for the wood to split suddenly.
- Limitations: This method is only suitable for splitting small, easily split pieces of wood. It’s not a substitute for a proper splitting axe or maul.
- Pro Tip: Ensure the wood is dry and free of knots, as this will make it easier to split.
- Extreme Caution: This is a highly unconventional and potentially dangerous use of the brush cutter. The risk of injury is significant. Only attempt this if you are experienced with wood splitting and understand the risks involved.

I once found myself in a situation where I needed to split some small pieces of wood for kindling, but I didn’t have my axe with me. I carefully used this makeshift method to split the wood, but I was constantly aware of the potential for injury. I strongly recommend using a proper splitting axe whenever possible.

Hack #5: Light Duty Wood Shaping with the Edger Attachment

The Challenge: Smoothing edges and creating decorative profiles on smaller pieces of wood can be difficult to achieve with larger power tools.
The Solution: The edger attachment, typically used for lawn edging, can be repurposed for light-duty wood shaping.
- Step 1: Setup: Secure the piece of wood you want to shape in a vise or clamp.
- Step 2: Technique: Use the edger attachment to carefully remove small amounts of wood, creating the desired shape. Move the edger along the wood in a controlled manner, avoiding sudden movements.
- Step 3: Sanding: After shaping, use sandpaper to smooth the edges and remove any imperfections.
- Pro Tip: Practice on scrap wood to get a feel for the edger’s cutting action and to avoid damaging your project wood.
- Limitations: This method is only suitable for shaping small pieces of soft wood. It’s not effective for shaping hardwoods or for removing large amounts of material.

I’ve used the edger attachment to create decorative edges on small wooden signs and picture frames. It’s a surprisingly effective tool for this purpose, allowing for precise and controlled shaping.

Understanding Wood Properties for Firewood

Regardless of how you process the wood, understanding its properties is crucial for firewood preparation.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood has a high moisture content (often above 50%), making it difficult to burn and producing excessive smoke. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has a moisture content of 20% or less, burns efficiently, and produces less smoke.
Wood Species and BTU Content: Different wood species have different BTU (British Thermal Unit) content, which is a measure of the amount of heat they produce when burned. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and beech have higher BTU content than softwoods like pine and fir.
- Oak: ~27 million BTU per cord
- Maple: ~24 million BTU per cord
- Beech: ~23 million BTU per cord
- Pine: ~17 million BTU per cord
Drying Time: The drying time for firewood varies depending on the wood species, climate, and stacking method. Generally, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods.

Firewood Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Felling the Tree (if applicable): This is best left to professionals unless you are experienced. If felling a tree, always assess the situation, plan your escape route, and use proper felling techniques.
De-limbing: Remove the branches from the felled tree using a chainsaw or axe.
Bucking: Cut the tree trunk into manageable lengths (typically 16-24 inches) using a chainsaw.
Splitting: Split the logs into smaller pieces using a splitting axe or maul.
Stacking: Stack the firewood in a well-ventilated area, allowing for air circulation.
Seasoning: Allow the firewood to season for at least 6-12 months, or longer for hardwoods.

Costs and Budgeting

The cost of wood processing and firewood preparation can vary depending on the tools and equipment you use, the amount of wood you process, and whether you purchase wood or harvest it yourself.

Tool Costs: Trimmer Plus power head: $100-$200. Attachments: $50-$150 each. Chainsaw: $200-$500. Splitting axe: $50-$100.
Material Costs: Firewood (purchased): $150-$300 per cord. Gasoline and oil: $20-$50 per month.
Labor Costs: If hiring labor, expect to pay $20-$50 per hour.

Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls

Chainsaw Kickback: Be aware of the risk of chainsaw kickback and use proper cutting techniques to avoid it.
Dull Blades: Keep your chainsaw and brush cutter blades sharp to ensure efficient cutting and reduce the risk of accidents.
Wet Firewood: Avoid burning wet or unseasoned firewood, as it produces excessive smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Local Firewood Suppliers: Contact local firewood suppliers for purchasing seasoned firewood.
Forestry Equipment Rental Services: Rent forestry equipment, such as chainsaws and wood splitters, from rental services.
Forestry Associations: Join a local forestry association for networking and educational opportunities.

Conclusion

While the Trimmer Plus system isn’t a replacement for dedicated logging equipment, it can be a surprisingly useful tool for homeowners and small property owners looking to tackle light wood processing tasks. By leveraging the attachments and following the pro hacks outlined in this guide, you can maximize the versatility of this system and get the job done safely and efficiently. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the right tools for the job, and understand the properties of the wood you’re working with. With a little ingenuity and elbow grease, you can transform your Trimmer Plus into a valuable asset for wood processing and firewood preparation. And remember, a cord of well-seasoned wood is worth its weight in gold on a cold winter night!