Bolens Bl160

As I stand back and admire my freshly trimmed yard, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride wash over me. The clean edges along my walkway, the perfectly manicured spaces around my garden beds, and the neatly trimmed patches under my deck that no lawnmower could ever reach—all accomplished with my trusty Bolens BL160 string trimmer. Three years ago, I wouldn’t have known a string trimmer from a hedge clipper, but now this tool has become an essential part of my weekend lawn care arsenal.

Let me take you back to where it all began. Picture this: a first-time homeowner (yours truly) with an overgrown yard that looked like it hadn’t seen proper maintenance since the Bush administration. The lawnmower could handle the open spaces, but those hard-to-reach areas? They were a jungle of their own. That’s when a friendly neighbor suggested I look into getting a string trimmer, specifically mentioning the Bolens BL160 as a great entry-level option.

“It’s affordable, reliable, and gets the job done,” he said with the confidence of someone who’d been maintaining a perfect yard for decades.

Little did I know how right he would be, or how much this modest tool would change my approach to yard work. So pull up a chair, grab your favorite beverage, and let me share everything I’ve learned about the Bolens BL160—from buying considerations to maintenance tricks that will save you headaches down the road. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to upgrade your current trimmer, this guide will help you decide if the Bolens BL160 is the right fit for your yard care needs.

The Basics: What Exactly Is the Bolens BL160?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s establish what we’re talking about here. The Bolens BL160 is a gas-powered string trimmer (also called a weed eater, weed whacker, or line trimmer depending on where you’re from). It’s designed to cut grass and weeds in places your lawnmower can’t easily reach—around trees, along fences, between landscaping rocks, or on steep inclines.

The Bolens BL160 is a homeowner-grade trimmer that strikes an impressive balance between affordability and performance. It’s not the fanciest model on the market, nor is it a professional-grade tool that landscaping companies use, but it sits comfortably in that sweet spot for regular homeowners like me who need something reliable without breaking the bank.

At its core, this is a 2-cycle gas trimmer with a 25cc engine, sporting a 16-inch cutting width. It weighs around 11 pounds, which I’ve found to be manageable for most yard tasks lasting under an hour. The straight shaft design gives it good reach under bushes and in tight spots, while the bump-feed head makes releasing new line relatively straightforward (though I’ll share some tricks about that later).

When I first unboxed mine, I remember thinking it looked surprisingly simple—almost too simple for something that promised to tame my wild yard edges. But that simplicity, as I would later discover, is actually one of its greatest strengths.

What Can You Actually Do With the Bolens BL160?

In my three years of ownership, I’ve pushed this trimmer through various challenges, and it’s handled most of them admirably. Here’s what you can realistically expect to accomplish:

1. Edge Maintenance: Creating clean lines along driveways, walkways, and garden beds is where this trimmer truly shines. I can get a professional-looking edge in a fraction of the time it would take with manual tools.
2. Weed Control: Those stubborn weeds that grow in the cracks of your driveway or between landscaping stones? The BL160 makes quick work of them. I used to spend hours on my hands and knees pulling weeds; now it’s a 10-minute job.
3. Trimming Hard-to-Reach Areas: The space under my deck used to be an overgrown mess because my mower couldn’t fit. The BL160’s straight shaft design lets me reach under there without having to crawl on my stomach.
4. Light Brush Clearing: While not its primary purpose, I’ve successfully used my Bolens to clear light brush and tall weeds on the perimeter of my property. Just don’t expect it to cut through thick brambles or woody stems—that’s asking too much of this class of trimmer.
5. Lawn Detailing: After mowing, I use it for those finishing touches that make a yard look professionally maintained. The difference between a merely mowed lawn and a truly well-kept one often comes down to these details.

That said, there are limitations. This is not a commercial-grade tool, and it wasn’t designed for acres of heavy-duty clearing. I learned this the hard way when I tried to clear an overgrown section of my backyard that hadn’t been touched in years. The trimmer worked but struggled with the thicker vegetation, and I could tell I was pushing it beyond its comfort zone.

For standard suburban yards like mine (about a third of an acre), it’s more than adequate. For larger properties or areas with dense undergrowth, you might want to consider something with more power—though that will certainly come with a higher price tag.

Buying Considerations: Is the BL160 Right for You?

When I was in the market for a string trimmer, I spent weeks researching different models, comparing features, and reading reviews until my eyes glazed over. To save you some of that trouble, here are the key factors to consider when deciding if the Bolens BL160 is the right choice for your needs:

Yard Size and Complexity

The BL160 is ideal for small to medium-sized yards (up to about half an acre in my experience). If you have extensive grounds to maintain, you might find yourself refilling the gas tank too frequently or dealing with an overheated engine.

Consider also the complexity of your yard. Do you have lots of obstacles like trees, flower beds, or decorative elements that require careful trimming? The maneuverability of the BL160 works well for intricate layouts, but very large open spaces might be better served by a trimmer with a wider cutting width.

Your Physical Capabilities

At around 11 pounds, the BL160 isn’t the lightest trimmer on the market, but it’s far from the heaviest. I’m of average build and can use it comfortably for about 45 minutes before my arms start to feel the strain. If you have back problems or limited upper body strength, this weight might be a concern for extended use.

The vibration level is moderate—you’ll definitely feel it, but it’s not excessive like some cheaper models I’ve tried. After a long trimming session, my hands used to tingle a bit, but wearing gloves has largely solved that issue.

Budget Constraints

Let’s talk money. When I bought my BL160, it cost me about $130, which positioned it as an entry-level gas trimmer. Prices fluctuate, but you can typically find it between $120-$160 depending on sales and where you shop.

Could you find cheaper trimmers? Absolutely. But in my experience, going below this price point often means sacrificing reliability. Could you find better trimmers? Without question—but you’ll likely pay two to three times as much for professional-grade equipment.

For the average homeowner, the BL160 represents a reasonable investment that won’t have you eating ramen for a month to recover financially.

Gas vs. Electric Considerations

This is a gas-powered trimmer, which comes with both advantages and drawbacks. On the plus side, you get consistent power without being tethered to an outlet or limited by battery life. On the downside, you’ll need to mix gas and oil, deal with more maintenance, and tolerate more noise and emissions.

I chose gas because parts of my yard are far from any power outlet, and I wanted the freedom to move without restrictions. If your yard is small or you have conveniently placed outlets, an electric model might be more practical for you.

Experience Level

As a complete novice when I started, I found the BL160 to be relatively user-friendly, though not without a learning curve. Starting the engine took some practice (more on that later), and I had to learn the proper techniques to avoid scalping my lawn or creating uneven edges.

If you’ve never used a string trimmer before, expect to spend your first few sessions getting the feel for it. The good news is that the BL160 is forgiving enough for beginners but capable enough that you won’t outgrow it quickly as your skills improve.

The Nitty-Gritty: Technical Specifications and Features

Now let’s dig into the specific features of the Bolens BL160 that make it tick. Understanding these details helped me get the most out of my trimmer and might help you decide if it meets your requirements:

Engine and Power

The BL160 comes equipped with a 25cc 2-cycle engine. In practical terms, this means it’s powerful enough for regular residential use but not as robust as commercial trimmers that typically sport 30cc engines or larger.

The 2-cycle designation means the engine requires a mixture of gas and oil to run properly—a common design for handheld power equipment. This gives it a good power-to-weight ratio but does mean you’ll need to mix fuel correctly (more on that in the maintenance section).

Cutting System

With a 16-inch cutting width, the BL160 strikes a balance between coverage area and precision. Wider cutting paths clear more ground faster but can make detailed work around delicate plants more challenging. Narrower paths offer more control but take longer to cover open areas.

The trimmer uses 0.095-inch diameter line, which is durable enough for regular grass and weeds. The bump-feed system lets you release more line by tapping the trimmer head against the ground while it’s running—a feature I’ve found to be both convenient and occasionally frustrating when it doesn’t feed properly.

Design and Ergonomics

The straight shaft design gives the BL160 excellent reach under obstacles and maintains a comfortable working position for taller users like myself (I’m 6’1″). If you’re significantly shorter, you might find the fixed-length shaft less comfortable for extended use.

The handle configuration includes an adjustable auxiliary handle that you can position to your preference. It took me some experimentation to find the most comfortable grip position, but once I did, it significantly reduced arm fatigue during longer sessions.

The BL160 doesn’t come with a shoulder strap, which I consider a minor drawback. After my first summer of use, I purchased an aftermarket strap that made a noticeable difference in comfort during extended trimming sessions.

Fuel System

The fuel tank holds approximately 13.5 ounces of the gas/oil mixture. In my experience, this provides about 45 minutes to an hour of continuous use, depending on how aggressively you’re trimming and at what throttle setting.

The primer bulb is easy to access and works reliably to help with cold starts. I typically press it 6-7 times before the first start of the day, though the manual recommends 8 presses.

Starting Mechanism

The BL160 uses a standard pull-cord starting system. The recoil starter has generally been reliable for me, though it occasionally takes several pulls to get going, especially in colder weather or after the trimmer has been sitting unused for a while.

There’s no on/off switch—instead, the engine is controlled by a stop switch that you press to turn off the engine. This took some getting used to, as it’s different from many other power tools I own.

The Real-World Experience: Living with the Bolens BL160

Technical specifications only tell part of the story. Let me share what it’s actually like to use this trimmer regularly, based on my three years of ownership:

Getting Started: The First Run

I’ll never forget unboxing my BL160 and feeling a mix of excitement and intimidation. The assembly was straightforward—attach the guard, connect the shaft to the engine, install the auxiliary handle, and it was physically ready to go.

The mental preparation took longer. I read the manual cover to cover twice (something I rarely do with any product) because I was nervous about mixing fuel incorrectly or damaging the engine somehow.

When it came time for the first start, I followed the instructions meticulously:

1. Mixed the gas and oil at a 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz of oil per gallon of gas)
2. Filled the tank
3. Pressed the primer bulb 8 times
4. Set the choke to the starting position
5. Pulled the starter cord

And… nothing happened. I pulled again. And again. On the fifth or sixth pull, the engine sputtered briefly then died. After a few more attempts and some mild frustration, I realized I needed to adjust the choke after the initial sputter—a detail mentioned in the manual that I’d overlooked in my nervousness.

Once I got that sequence right, the engine roared to life, and I felt an embarrassing surge of pride, as if I’d just accomplished something far more significant than starting a lawn tool.

The Learning Curve

My first attempts at trimming were less than graceful. I swung the trimmer too high and scalped patches of my lawn. I held it at inconsistent angles and created wavy, uneven edges along my walkway. I accidentally took down a small ornamental plant that I’d meant to trim around.

But with each weekend of use, I got better. I learned to maintain a consistent height and angle. I discovered that a slight tilt of the trimmer head creates cleaner edges along hard surfaces. I figured out how to approach different types of vegetation and obstacles.

The BL160 proved to be an excellent learning tool because it’s responsive enough to execute techniques properly but forgiving enough that my early mistakes didn’t result in disaster.

Day-to-Day Performance

Once I got past the initial learning phase, using the BL160 became almost second nature. On a typical weekend, my routine looks something like this:

1. Pull the trimmer from the garage (where I store it with an empty fuel tank)
2. Fill it with the premixed fuel I keep in a dedicated gas can
3. Prime the engine and pull the starter cord (usually starts within 2-3 pulls now that I’m familiar with it)
4. Work my way around the yard, starting with the edges along hard surfaces, then moving to areas around obstacles, and finishing with any spot trimming needed

A full tank usually lasts me through my entire yard with a bit to spare. The engine runs consistently, with good power that only occasionally bogs down in thicker grass or weeds.

The bump-feed head has been mostly reliable, though I’ve learned it works better with a firm tap on hard surfaces rather than soft ground. When it occasionally jams, a simple disassembly and rewind of the line solves the problem.

Maintenance: Keeping Your BL160 Running Smoothly

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that a little regular maintenance goes a long way toward extending the life of a gas-powered tool. Here’s my maintenance routine for the BL160, which has kept it running strong for three years:

Fuel Management

Proper fuel mixture is absolutely critical to the long-term health of your Bolens BL160. The manual calls for a 40:1 ratio of gas to oil, which translates to 3.2 ounces of two-cycle engine oil per gallon of gasoline.

When I first started, I measured this meticulously using a small measuring cup. Now I use premixed fuel from the hardware store when I can find it on sale, which eliminates the mixing step and ensures the ratio is correct.

I always use fresh gas—never more than 30 days old—and add a fuel stabilizer if I think the mixture might sit longer than that. This prevents the fuel from deteriorating and gumming up the carburetor.

Air Filter Cleaning

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. I check mine every 5-6 uses and clean it when it starts to look dirty. The process is simple:

1. Remove the air filter cover (no tools required—it has a thumb screw)
2. Take out the foam filter element
3. Wash it in warm, soapy water
4. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely
5. Apply a small amount of clean engine oil to the filter, distributing it evenly
6. Reinstall the filter and cover

This five-minute maintenance task has prevented numerous potential issues and keeps the engine running at peak efficiency.

Spark Plug Maintenance

The spark plug should be checked and replaced periodically. I check mine at the beginning of each season and replace it every other year.

To access the spark plug:

1. Remove the spark plug boot
2. Use a spark plug socket to unscrew the plug
3. Check for carbon buildup or damage
4. Clean with a wire brush or replace if necessary
5. Check and adjust the gap if needed (the manual specifies 0.025 inches)
6. Reinstall and tighten carefully to avoid stripping the threads

A fresh spark plug makes starting easier and improves engine performance—I noticed a significant difference after my first replacement.

Trimmer Head and Line Management

The trimmer head requires regular attention, especially if you use it frequently. Here’s how I maintain mine:

1. Clean out grass clippings and debris after each use
2. Check for cracks or damage to the bump knob and housing
3. Periodically disassemble the head completely to clean inside and check the spring mechanism
4. Replace the trimmer line before it gets too short

Speaking of line replacement, rewinding the spool correctly is crucial for proper feeding. After much trial and error, I’ve found this method works best:

1. Remove the spool from the trimmer head
2. Clean out any old line and debris
3. Cut a 20-foot length of 0.095-inch line
4. Find the arrow on the spool that indicates the winding direction
5. Wind the line in that direction, keeping it tight and even
6. Leave about 6 inches of line extending from the spool
7. Thread the line through the eyelets in the trimmer head
8. Reinstall the spool and bump knob

Doing this correctly prevents the frustrating line tangles that plagued my early days with the trimmer.

Seasonal Storage

Proper storage during the off-season is crucial for ensuring your trimmer starts right up when spring arrives. My end-of-season routine includes:

1. Running the engine until it’s out of fuel, or draining the fuel tank
2. Removing and cleaning the spark plug, then adding a small amount of oil to the cylinder
3. Pulling the starter cord slowly a few times to distribute the oil
4. Reinstalling the spark plug (but not tightening it fully)
5. Cleaning the entire unit thoroughly, especially the cooling fins and air vents
6. Storing it in a dry place away from direct sunlight

This process takes about 30 minutes but saves hours of troubleshooting and potential repairs when the next mowing season begins.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with regular maintenance, you’ll likely encounter some issues with your BL160. Here are the most common problems I’ve experienced and how I’ve resolved them:

Starting Problems

If your trimmer won’t start or starts and dies immediately:

1. Check the fuel mixture: Incorrect ratios can prevent starting or cause rough running.
2. Examine the spark plug: A fouled or damaged plug won’t create the spark needed for ignition.
3. Clean the air filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow and can prevent starting.
4. Verify the fuel lines: Cracked or disconnected lines can introduce air into the system.
5. Check the carburetor: Gummed-up carburetors from old fuel are a common culprit.

Last summer, my trimmer suddenly refused to start after running perfectly all season. After checking the usual suspects, I discovered that a small spider had built a nest inside the fuel line. Once cleared, the trimmer started right up.

Line Feeding Issues

If the trimmer line isn’t feeding properly when you bump the head:

1. Check for tangled line: Disassemble the head and rewind if necessary.
2. Ensure the bump knob moves freely: Clean any debris that might be restricting movement.
3. Verify you’re using the correct line diameter: Too thick or too thin can cause feeding problems.
4. Inspect the eyelets for damage: Worn or broken eyelets can prevent line from feeding properly.

I once spent an entire afternoon fighting with my trimmer because the line wouldn’t feed, only to discover I’d installed the spool upside down during my last restring. A simple flip solved the problem instantly.

Engine Performance Issues

If the engine runs rough, lacks power, or stalls frequently:

1. Clean the exhaust port and muffler: Carbon buildup restricts exhaust flow.
2. Check the spark arrestor screen: A clogged screen reduces performance.
3. Adjust the carburetor if needed: Though I’d recommend leaving this to a professional unless you’re comfortable with small engine mechanics.
4. Inspect the cooling fins: Overheating can cause numerous performance issues.

After two years of use, I noticed my trimmer losing power during extended runs. A thorough cleaning of the cooling fins and exhaust port restored it to like-new performance.

Cost of Ownership: Beyond the Purchase Price

When considering the BL160 or any gas trimmer, it’s important to factor in the ongoing costs of ownership, not just the initial purchase price. Here’s what my experience has taught me about the true cost of owning this trimmer:

Fuel and Oil

I typically go through about 2-3 gallons of premixed fuel per season, which costs me approximately $20-30. If you mix your own, you’ll need to purchase two-cycle engine oil, which runs about $8-10 per bottle (enough for several gallons of mix).

Trimmer Line

Depending on how often you use the trimmer and the type of vegetation you’re cutting, you might go through 2-4 spools of line per season. Quality 0.095-inch line costs about $5-10 per spool, so budget $10-40 annually for this consumable.

Replacement Parts

Over three years, I’ve replaced:

• The spark plug once ($3-5)
• The air filter once ($5-8)
• The trimmer head once after a particularly nasty encounter with a hidden metal stake ($15-20)

So that’s roughly $25-35 in parts over three years, or about $8-12 per year on average.

Maintenance Supplies

Don’t forget the minor supplies needed for maintenance:

• Fuel stabilizer ($5-8 per bottle, lasts multiple seasons)
• Carburetor cleaner ($5-7 per can, as needed)
• Engine oil for the air filter ($5-6 per bottle, lasts years)

All told, I estimate my annual cost of ownership at about $50-70 beyond the initial purchase price. When spread across an entire season of yard maintenance, that seems reasonable for the value received.

How the BL160 Compares to Alternatives

To provide some context, let me share how the Bolens BL160 stacks up against some alternatives I considered and have had the chance to try:

Vs. Electric Trimmers

My neighbor has a corded electric trimmer that cost about $70. The advantages? It starts with the press of a button, requires almost no maintenance, and runs more quietly. The disadvantages? He’s limited by cord length, and it noticeably lacks power when tackling thicker vegetation.

Another friend went with a battery-powered model for around $200. It’s convenient and starts instantly, but the battery lasts only about 30 minutes, and the power diminishes as the battery depletes. For his small, manicured yard, it’s perfect—for my larger, more varied landscape, it wouldn’t be sufficient.

Vs. Other Gas Trimmers

I’ve had the opportunity to use a friend’s Echo SRM-225, which is a professional-grade trimmer costing about twice what the Bolens does. The difference is noticeable—it starts more consistently, runs more smoothly, and powers through dense vegetation that would make the Bolens struggle. But for my typical use case, I’m not convinced the performance difference justifies doubling the price.

On the lower end, I briefly owned a no-name trimmer from a discount store that cost about $30 less than the Bolens. It vibrated excessively, went through trimmer line at an alarming rate, and died completely after just one season. That experience confirmed that the BL160 occupies a sweet spot in terms of value.

Vs. Professional Services

Before purchasing my trimmer, I paid a lawn service $45 per visit to mow and edge my yard. Over a typical 7-month season in my area, that added up to over $800 annually.

Even factoring in the cost of the trimmer plus my mower and their associated expenses, I’m saving at least $500 per year by handling my own yard maintenance. Beyond the financial benefit, I’ve discovered that I actually enjoy the work—there’s something satisfying about transforming an unruly yard into a well-kept outdoor space with your own two hands.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Bolens BL160?

After three years of ownership and countless hours of trimming, edging, and detailing, I can confidently say that the Bolens BL160 is an excellent choice for:

• Homeowners with small to medium yards who want a reliable tool without breaking the bank
• First-time trimmer owners who need something user-friendly but capable
• Budget-conscious consumers looking for the best value in a gas-powered trimmer
• Weekend warriors who maintain their yards regularly but not professionally

It might not be the best fit for:

• Professional landscapers who need commercial-grade durability
• Owners of very large properties who would benefit from more power or wider cutting widths
• Those with physical limitations who might struggle with the weight or starting mechanism
• People seeking the absolute lowest maintenance option (electric would be better)

I started this journey as a complete novice—someone who could barely identify the choke on a small engine and who had never trimmed a lawn edge in his life. The Bolens BL160 proved to be a patient teacher, forgiving my early mistakes while providing the capability I needed to develop my skills.

Today, my neighbors actually compliment my yard, sometimes even asking for advice. Me, giving lawn care advice! If that’s not a testament to how the right tool can transform both your yard and your capabilities, I don’t know what is.

If you’re standing at the crossroads I once stood at, wondering which trimmer to choose and whether you’re up to the task of maintaining your own yard, let me offer this encouragement: with the right tool like the Bolens BL160 and a willingness to learn, you might be surprised by what you can accomplish—and how satisfying it can be.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I see some grass encroaching on my flower beds that needs attention. My trusty Bolens is fueled up and ready to go.