Flymo XL400

Once running, the XL400 zooms around any lawn with ease and cuts nicely. Once running. That is the inherent problem with this lawnmower; it is unreasonably difficult to get started, particularly if it has been running already.

From experience I can say 2 stroke engines are always a pain, but this particular engine from Tecumseh is the worst engine I have had the displeasure of owning.

Wear or damage to the engine is not a factor since it behaved like this from new. It seems to refuse to even fire sometimes, and if you prime it more it will just flood the engine. Furthermore, the design of the pull starter causes the rope to fray very quickly and in the time we had it the mower had needed no less than 3 new starter ropes.

The blades also have a very short lifespan and are no longer available from the shops, instead having to be sourced online which is expensive.

If you are considering buying this or the earlier L400 using the same engine, my advice would be to spend the extra cash on an XL500 with a 4 stroke honda engine or source a secondhand 4 stroke flymo such as a GT4 or CL4

The Flymo XL400 12inch Petrol Hover Mower is a good machine for a lady to use. It is very easy to start, and it is lightweight and easy to look after.

The only downside being the frequency of blade changes, but on the whole it is excellent value for money.