http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/...atalogId=10053
Check this site for the Home Depot. They have a FAR greater range in selection of gardening products, as opposed to Lowes.

This link is for electronic ignition gas weed eaters. These start much easier.
Personally, I wouldn't choose an electric eater, though they are much lighter to use, the hassle of the extension cord makes it more work and they just don't seem as powerful.

You can buy a shoulder support strap for the gas eaters (if you don't have one, already), which really improves the ease of cutting.

Maybe call the guy who used it last, see if he has any helpful ideas how to get it running?

Hope this helps some......

Shangrala