Product Review: NorthStar Stump Grinder — 390cc Honda GX390 Engine
Introduction
The NorthStar stump grinder has long been a favorite among landscapers and tree service professionals. This review covers the NorthStar Stump Grinder — 390cc Honda GX390 Engine, focusing on performance, usability, and value. If you’re searching to buy NorthStar stump grinder online or want a reliable commercial stump grinder for heavy jobs, this review will help you decide.
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What is this product?
The NorthStar Stump Grinder is a towable, gas-powered stump grinder built around a 390cc Honda GX390 engine. It’s designed to be a fast, safe, and portable stump grinder for contractors, landscapers, and homeowners who need a heavy-duty yet compact solution. Whether you need a Honda GX390 stump grinder for high torque performance or a portable gas stump grinder for landscapers, this unit aims to bridge the gap between commercial power and jobsite portability.
Key Features (from “About This Item”)
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- Engine: 390cc Honda GX390 — reliable commercial power.
- Frame: Side-discharge frame removes cuttings away from the machine.
- Drive: Heavy-duty Gates banded belt and idler bearings for smoother running and reduced vibration.
- Mobility: Towable on 15 x 4.80 x 8 tires (included); optional towing package available.
- Design: Portable, walk behind stump grinder options for residential and commercial jobs.
Additional Highlights
- Low vibration stump grinder for prolonged use thanks to balanced belts and idlers.
- High torque stump grinder for large tree roots powered by the Honda GX390.
- Designed as a heavy duty stump grinder for tree service companies and landscapers who need durability.
Detailed Description (from Product Description)
The NorthStar stump grinder is engineered to be one of the fastest and safest portable stump grinders available. Its unique side-discharge frame removes cuttings out and away from the machine, allowing smoother forward advancement with less downtime to clear debris. The heavy-duty Gates banded belt and idler bearings ensure superior performance and increased engine and bearing life, delivering smoother running belts with less vibration and reduced downtime and maintenance.
Tow it to the jobsite on the included 15 x 4.80 x 8 tires, and add the optional towing package for easier transport. The Honda GX390 powered model provides commercial-grade torque for stubborn roots while offering the convenience of a compact, towable design suitable as a compact walk behind stump grinder for residential yards or a full-fledged commercial stump grinder for service companies.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Reliable engine: Honda GX390 is a proven commercial engine known for durability and torque — ideal for a stump grinder 390cc.
- Efficient debris management: Side-discharge frame keeps the work area clear, reducing downtime.
- Lower vibration: Gates banded belt and idler bearings reduce vibration for prolonged use.
- Portable: Towable design makes it a good fit as a portable gas stump grinder for landscapers.
Cons
- Heavier and pricier than small consumer grinders — it’s a true professional stump grinder.
- Optional towing package sold separately — adds to the total cost if you need a full transport solution.
- Requires basic maintenance knowledge to keep belts and bearings in top shape.
Who Should Buy This Product
This NorthStar unit is best for:
- Tree service companies looking for a heavy duty stump grinder for tree service companies.
- Landscapers who want a portable gas stump grinder for landscapers with commercial power.
- Homeowners with large yards who want a compact walk behind stump grinder for residential yards and are willing to invest in quality.
- Buyers searching to buy stump grinder with Honda engine for proven reliability.
If you want to buy NorthStar stump grinder online or are looking for a stump grinder price quote, check availability and current offers below.
Comparison with Similar Products
Compared to smaller consumer models, the NorthStar Stump Grinder stands out in engine power (390cc Honda GX390) and industrial components (Gates banded belts). Versus some large, self-propelled commercial grinders, it offers a more compact, towable option that’s easier to transport and store.
- Vs. consumer walk-behind grinders: More torque and durability; better for large roots and frequent use.
- Vs. full-size commercial grinders: Less horsepower than some truck-mounted units, but far more portable and cost-effective for many contractors.
- Vs. other Honda GX390 stump grinders: NorthStar emphasizes side-discharge and low-vibration belt systems for smoother operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a true commercial stump grinder?
Yes. The combination of the 390cc Honda GX390 engine and heavy-duty belts/ bearings positions this as a commercial-grade option suitable for professional use.
Can I tow it with a small truck or ATV?
Yes — it’s towable on included tires. If you tow frequently, consider purchasing the optional towing package for added convenience.
Are financing options available?
If you want to purchase commercial stump grinder equipment but prefer financing, check with dealers and online retailers offering stump grinder financing options or contact a stump grinder dealer near me for local programs.
Final Verdict
For contractors and serious landscapers seeking a dependable, high-torque, and portable option, the NorthStar stump grinder with the 390cc Honda GX390 engine is a compelling choice. It delivers commercial performance, smoother operation thanks to its belt and bearing design, and practical portablity for jobsite movement. If you’re ready to buy NorthStar stump grinder online or want to explore a NorthStar stump grinder for sale, this model is a solid investment for professional and demanding residential work.