Earthquake Walk Behind String Mower With 160cc Viper 4-Cycle Engine, 22" Cutting Diameter, 14" Never-Go-Flat Wheels, Easy Assembly, Adjustable Handlebar, 40314 Review

Overview

The Earthquake 40314 Walk Behind String Mower is a specialized machine designed for homeowners and property owners who need to tame overgrown grass, thick weeds, and brush that would stall a standard lawn mower. Powered by a 160cc Viper 4-cycle engine with a 22-inch cutting diameter, this mower is built for rough terrain and neglected areas, not for manicured lawns. It’s the tool you grab when your regular mower gives up and the weeds are winning.

Who Should Buy This

1. Homeowners with large, rough lots (1/2 acre+) – If you have a property with uneven ground, tall grass, or patches of weeds that a standard push mower can’t handle, this string mower will save you hours of frustration. It’s ideal for cutting down fields, ditches, or overgrown edges.

2. Owners of rural or semi-rural properties – If you deal with fence lines, drainage ditches, or areas around outbuildings where brush and saplings pop up, the Earthquake’s heavy-duty string head and 14-inch wheels let you mow where a tractor or zero-turn can’t reach.

3. People who want to avoid gas cans and ethanol issues – The Viper engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel without the ethanol problems that plague many small engines. This is a real plus for anyone tired of gummed-up carburetors from stale gas.

4. DIY property managers and rental owners – If you maintain multiple properties or a large rental lot, this mower’s durability and easy assembly (no complicated deck or blade adjustments) make it a practical, low-hassle tool for seasonal overgrowth.

Key Features Breakdown

160cc Viper 4-Cycle Engine – This is a commercial-grade, overhead valve engine that delivers strong torque for cutting through thick weeds and brush. Unlike many string trimmers that use 2-stroke engines requiring oil mixing, the Viper runs on straight gas, and its cast-iron sleeve extends engine life. It starts reliably even after sitting for weeks.

22-Inch Cutting Diameter – That’s a wide swath for a string mower. You’ll cover ground faster than with a typical weed whacker, and the cutting diameter is ideal for clearing large areas without missing spots. The string head uses heavy-duty .155-inch line, which holds up better than standard trimmer line against tough stalks.

14-Inch Never-Go-Flat Wheels – These are puncture-proof, foam-filled tires that won’t go flat even if you run over thorns, rocks, or debris. That’s critical for rough terrain where a flat tire would end your day. The large diameter also helps the mower roll over bumps and ruts without bogging down.

Adjustable Handlebar – The handlebar can be adjusted for height, which is a welcome feature for taller users or for storage. It folds for compact storage, too, though the folding mechanism is basic (more on that in Cons).

Easy Assembly – The mower arrives mostly assembled. You attach the handlebar, install the string head, add oil and gas, and you’re ready to go. Most users report 15–20 minutes of assembly time with basic tools.

Pros

1. Destroys overgrowth that kills other mowers – This machine chews through 4-foot weeds, blackberry vines, and cattails without bogging down. If your property is a jungle, this is your weapon.

2. No blades to sharpen or replace – The string head eliminates the need for blade sharpening or balancing. When the string wears down, you just bump-feed more line. That’s a huge time saver compared to standard mowers.

3. Excellent engine reliability – The Viper 160cc is known for easy starting and long life. Owners report years of use with minimal maintenance, and the cast-iron sleeve means it can handle heavy loads without overheating.

4. Great for slopes and uneven ground – The large wheels and low center of gravity let you mow hills, ditches, and bumpy terrain that would tip or stall a conventional mower. The string head floats over rocks and roots without damage.

5. Easy to maneuver – At about 60 pounds, it’s lighter than a self-propelled mower, and the walk-behind design lets you pivot and turn in tight spots. It’s far more nimble than a tractor or ZTR for fence lines.

6. No gas mixing – Straight gas, no oil mixing, no 2-stroke smoke. That’s a real convenience for anyone who hates the mess of pre-mix.

Cons

1. Not for finished lawns – This is a rough-cut machine. The string will leave a ragged, uneven cut. If you want a manicured look, stick with a blade mower. The Earthquake is for areas where “good enough” is the goal.

2. String feeds aggressively – Some users report that the bump-feed mechanism can be inconsistent, occasionally feeding too much line or jamming. It’s not a dealbreaker, but you may need to adjust your technique.

3. Handlebar could be sturdier – The adjustable handlebar is functional, but it can feel a bit wobbly under heavy use, especially when pushing through dense brush. A welded or reinforced design would be better.

4. No self-propulsion – This is a push-only mower. On flat ground that’s fine, but if you’re tackling thick weeds on a steep hill, you’ll be working hard. A self-propelled option would be a welcome upgrade.

Bottom Line

The Earthquake 40314 Walk Behind String Mower is a specialized tool that excels at one thing: clearing overgrown areas that would choke a standard mower. It’s not for lawn perfectionists, but for anyone with a weedy lot, fence line, or ditch, it’s a reliable workhorse that starts easily and keeps going. The Viper engine is a standout for durability, and the never-go-flat wheels are a practical bonus for rough terrain. If you need to reclaim a property from brush and brambles, this mower will pay for itself in saved time and frustration. Just don’t expect a golf-course finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this mower on a regular lawn for a trim cut?
No. The string head leaves a rough, uneven finish. It’s designed for tall grass, weeds, and brush—not for manicured turf. Use a blade mower for your main lawn and save this for the rough stuff.

How often do I need to replace the string?
The .155-inch line lasts longer than standard trimmer line, but it depends on what you’re cutting. In heavy brush, you may need to bump-feed every few minutes. For typical weeds, a full spool can last a couple of hours. Buy replacement spools ahead of time.

Does the Viper engine require premium gas?
No. Regular unleaded (