I have a Cub Cadet BC5090 string trimmer. It is a four cycle gas mower that I have had for seven seasons. I do normal maintenance on the trimmer. It is a four cycle so there is no gas/oil mixtures or oil in the gas to plug up the carburetor. I do not use stabilizers, or any preservative in the gas.

Yet when ever I pick it up and after priming with the primer bulb, one or two pulls at half choke will start the engine and then move the choke to full open when it is running. This is the same whether it was last week when I used the trimmer or 5 month earlier in the fall.

I have a 3/4 of an acre but have a ditch with about 120 feet of rock for erosion control that has to be trimmed. With the rocks, around the trees, trim out the stepping stones, edge the drive, trim around the flower beds, and the house takes me about 45 minutes.

Depending on your budget, get a Stihl or Echo from a local dealer. I have a Stihl, two cycle that I bought 17 years ago, have changed the plug a couple times, air filter every couple of years. Very tough machines, but not cheap compared to the big box stores. While at the dealer, play with them and see which ones feels good to you with respect to length.

Where will you shop for a trimmer?

1. I would suggest a bowed shaft related to your height but a straight shaft with a rod vs cable is stronger (for the tough/thick weeds).
2. Possibly you can get straight shafts in different lengths if stocked are too long.
3. My 200.00 Echo has started on the 2nd pull as advertised) since 2000.

I own an Echo SRM-225 straight shaft trimmer and it's given me excellent service for over 4 years. That model is probably too long for your height. I'd suggest you look at the curved shaft GT-225 series and see if it will "fit". Has the same 21.2 cc engine on both trimmers. Here's a link to the Echo Products page and there's a store locator link at the top of the page: Echo string trimmers

Yes on this curved shaft Echo 225 , much lighter than similar 4 cycles that are way over rated . Valve wear and adjustments etc . If your just looking for a pro grade trimmer with lasting features the Echo is your unit . Have serviced numerous models quality product . 2nd choice would be as Exmar advised Stihl has Prograde trimmers also , a little more pricy . Premium Synthetic oil usage last trimmers you will need .