Abstract: A string trimmer having a knock-down construction which enables the trimmer to be shipped in a partially disassembled condition and quickly assembled by an end user without the need for special tools and without the need for a large plurality of assembly steps. The string trimmer has a handle assembly having a coupling neck protruding therefrom and a base portion having a coupling neck protruding therefrom. An intermediate assembly has a coupling recess at each of its outermost ends which are adapted to snappingly engage with the coupling necks of the handle assembly and base assembly. Once coupled together, conventional threaded screws and nuts can be used to more permanently fasten the handle and base assemblies to the intermediate assembly. The interlocking coupling arrangements provide a high degree of resistance to twisting and bending forces and yet provide for quick and easy assembly of a new string trimmer by an end user with limited mechanical experience.

Abstract: A motor mounting plate system enables a motor to be mounted within a string trimmer without the need for a plurality of precisely formed ribs to support the motor within the housing. The motor mounting plate apparatus includes a planar mounting plate member and a U-shaped bracket member which are secured together to form a rigid motor mounting assembly. The U-shaped bracket member is connected to the stator of the motor of the string trimmer. A lower portion of the housing includes two housing halves, each including a groove formed therein. The outer perimeter of the motor mounting plate is positioned in the groove of one of the housing halves during assembly to support the motor within the housing half without the need for the motor to rest on a rib or any other protruding portion of the interior of the housing.