David, if you are still looking for an answer to you question..... I had a similar problem. Basically, the motor runs but the mechanism which connects the running of the blades to the motor had a problem. I opened my hedge trimmer and found that one of the cogs in the mechanism was wasted after many years of service. I managed to fix it, and got it going again, but it died within 5 mins of use! I then tried to find a spare part so I could get it going. No luck. Perhaps a service centre would have helped but after phoning, the cost of repairs was pretty close to the purchase price of a new one. So..... if this problem is similar to yours.... I guess its no use. If you need help in opening it up, I can guide you.
Ibrahim Meru
Toronto, Canada
Ibrahim Meru, June 2007
