Makita CRU03Z 36V Brushless String Trimmer with Connector Cable

Makita String Trimmer with Connector Cable Utilizes Full Power of Backpack Battery

Typically, you need an adapter to power any of the pre-existing line of Makita 36V tools with their backpack power supply (this is still an option). The Makita CRU03Z String Trimmer with Connector Cable, the first in Makita’s Connector Series, is tailor-made to take full advantage of the Backpack Power Supply. Rather than taking onboard power from Makita’s 18V batteries, it ties into the backpack via a Bespoke connector cable. This eliminates the need for an adapter and keeps extraneous weight off the tool.

Perhaps you remember the Makita PDC01 Backpack Power Supply that we covered a few months back. Using four of the Makita 18V batteries, it can supply extended runtime and better weight distribution for Makita 18V and 36V X2 battery-powered tools. This proves particularly helpful in the OPE realm or anywhere swapping batteries might prove disruptive to productivity.

Makita on the Connector Series

With the introduction of the Connector Series, Makita continues to grow its professional OPE portfolio. The Connector Series offers users a solution with the ideal balance of power and runtime. The cordless CRU03Z has the power equivalent to a 30cc gas-powered string trimmer. When combined with the PDC01 backpack battery supply, users benefit with continuous run time due to its interchangeable battery capability. The CRU03Z is the first of the Makita connector-only products that will allow professional landscapers to continue to replace gas-powered equipment.

Romique Talton, Senior Marketing Product Manager, Outdoor Power Equipment

String Trimming for the OPE Pro

At this point, it probably goes without saying that the Makita CRU03Z String Trimmer with Connector Cable really is geared toward the Pro lawn contractor. It forgoes the standard Makita 36V power connection: a 2-battery port that can add weight and potentially throw off the balance of the tool. For all-day string trimming work, weight and balance become important factors when using a trimmer.

Additionally, runtime plays a big role in how usable a tool is in a professional capacity. Products like the Makita XRU18 36V X2 trimmer run off of two 18V batteries, which do ok. Expecting two batteries to last for a full day’s work would be too big of an ask.

Instead, the Makita String Trimmer with Connector Cable solves the riddle of all-day runtime. With the PDC01 Power Supply providing the power, you get that extended runtime with a properly weighted trimmer that keeps the weight distributed across your back.

The other benefit that the Makita Connector Series provides: swappable batteries. Other backpack battery systems solve the runtime, balance, and weight issues. However, if you do run out of power, the whole backpack has to go on the charger. This usually takes 6-8 hours for a full recharge. Makita’s 18V batteries swap out of the power supply quickly to keep you up and running. Since the 18V batteries charge in about an hour, you’re guaranteed virtually no downtime.

Makita Backpack Battery Power Supply | PDC01

Enough About Batteries…

So, what else does the Makita CRU03Z bring to the table? It features a brushless motor that generates the power equivalent of a 30cc gas engine. Under no load, this string trimmer can manage up to 6,000 RPM with a 17″ cutting swath.

It provides 3 speed options: low (4,000 RPM), Medium (4,600 RPM), and High (6,000 RPM). A variable control speed trigger lets you finesse the throttle when you don’t need all of the available power that each setting provides.

The Makita String Trimmer with Connector Cable also features the Automatic Torque Drive mode. If you prefer the “set it and forget it” approach to power settings, you can engage this mode and the trimmer will automatically shift speeds to either extend runtime or add power.

A reverse function lets you back up the trimmer head for a few seconds to unwind any tangled weeds or grass.

The Makita CRU03Z also features a steel drive shaft. This adds to the tool’s durability while reducing vibration.

Because sometimes you just have to get the job done no matter if the weather is cooperating or not, the Makita String Trimmer with Connector Cable features the brand’s Extreme Protection Technology. This is a protective seal that channels water and dust away from vital internal components. The end result is a trimmer with an IPX4 weather-resistant rating.

Pricing

Right now, the CRU03Z Makita String Trimmer with Connector Cable is available as a bare tool for $389.99. It comes with the bump and feed trimmer head and some 0.080″ trimmer line, as well as a 3-year warranty.

To make it run, you’ll also need the PDC01 Backpack Battery, which can be had for $599.99.

For more information about Makita’s Pro-geared Connector Series, check out Makita by clicking here.

Makita Brushless String Trimmer Specs

• Model: Makita CRU03
• Motor: Brushless
• Voltage: 36V
• Cutting Swath: 17 in.
• No-Load Speed: 0-4,000/0-4,600/0-6,000 RPM
• Length: 70-1/4 in.
• Weight: 9.7 lbs.
• Includes: Tool, bump and feed trimmer head, 0.080″ line
• Warranty: 3 years
• Price: $389.99