How to Respool a Weed Eater
To respool a weed eater, disconnect the spark plug or battery, remove the trimmer head and spool, clear out old line, measure and cut new line (typically 15–25 feet), wind it in the direction shown by the arrows on the spool while maintaining even tension, then feed the ends through the eyelets and reassemble. Alternatively, you can replace the entire pre-wound spool assembly for a quicker fix.
Understanding Your Trimmer Head: Bump Feed vs. Fixed Line
Before respooling, identify your trimmer head type, as the process differs.
- Bump Feed Head: This is the most common type. It has a spool that holds the line. When you tap the head against the ground while the trimmer runs, a mechanism releases more line. Respooling involves winding new line onto this removable spool.
- Fixed Line Head: This head does not use a spool. Instead, you cut individual lengths of line (usually 2-4 pieces) and thread them through holes in the head. There is no winding involved; you simply replace the cut pieces.
- Pre-Wound Spool: Some models use a disposable, factory-wound spool. “Respooling” in this case means replacing the entire empty spool with a new pre-wound one. Check your owner’s manual to see if this is an option.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Gather these tools and materials for a smooth process:
- Trimmer Line: Use the correct diameter (gauge) specified in your trimmer’s manual. Common sizes are .065″, .080″, .095″, and .105″. Using the wrong gauge can cause poor performance or damage.
- Scissors or Line Cutters: For cutting the new line cleanly.
- Screwdriver (if needed): Some heads require a screwdriver to remove the spool cap.
- Safety Gear: Wear work gloves and eye protection.
Step-by-Step: Removing the Old Line and Disassembling the Spool
- Safety First: Disconnect the spark plug wire or remove the battery to prevent accidental starting.
- Remove the Trimmer Head: Most bump feed heads have release tabs or a button. Press these tabs and pull the head off the trimmer shaft. Some models may unscrew.
- Remove the Spool: Inside the head, you’ll see the spool. Lift it out. There may be a spring underneath; set it aside safely.
- Clear Old Line: Remove any remaining old or tangled line from the spool. Clean out any debris or grass wrapped around the spool or inside the head.
How to Measure and Cut the New Trimmer Line
The amount of line you need depends on your spool’s capacity. A general rule is 15–25 feet for most residential trimmers. Check your manual for the exact length. Cut the line cleanly at a 45-degree angle to make threading easier.
How to Wind the Line Onto the Spool Correctly
This is the critical step for bump feed heads. Follow these instructions carefully:
- Find the Starting Point: Look for a notch or anchor point on the spool where the line should start.
- Wind in the Correct Direction: The spool will have arrows indicating the winding direction. Wind the line tightly and evenly in this direction. Do not let the line overlap or become loose.
- Maintain Tension: Keep consistent, firm tension on the line as you wind. This prevents tangles later.
- Leave a Tail: Leave about 6–8 inches of line unwound at the end.
Reassembly: Threading the Line Through the Eyelets and Testing
- Place the Spool Back: Insert the wound spool back into the trimmer head, ensuring it seats properly over the spring.
- Thread the Line: Feed the loose ends of the line through the exit holes (eyelets) in the trimmer head.
- Reattach the Head: Snap or screw the trimmer head back onto the shaft until it clicks into place.
- Test the Feed: Reconnect the spark plug or battery. Start the trimmer and gently tap the head on the ground to test if the bump feed releases new line correctly.
The Alternative: Replacing the Entire Pre-Wound Spool
If your trimmer uses a pre-wound spool assembly, you can skip the winding process. Simply purchase the correct pre-wound spool for your model, remove the old empty spool, and snap the new one in. This is faster and ensures the line is wound perfectly from the factory.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Respooling
- Using the Wrong Line Diameter: Always use the gauge specified in your manual.
- Overfilling the Spool: Do not wind more line than the spool can hold, as this causes jamming.
- Loose or Uneven Winding: This leads to tangles and poor feeding.
- Ignoring Winding Direction: Winding backwards will prevent the bump feed from working.
Safety Tips and Maintenance Best Practices
- Always Disconnect Power: Remove the spark plug wire or battery before working on the head.
- Wear Protection: Use gloves and safety glasses.
- Store Line Properly: Keep spare trimmer line in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent brittleness.
- Regular Cleaning: Remove grass and debris from the head after each use to prevent jams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size trimmer line to buy for my weed eater?
Check your owner’s manual or look for a label on the trimmer head itself. The line diameter (e.g., .065″, .080″, .095″) must match the manufacturer’s specification. Using a line that is too thick can damage the head, while line that is too thin will break easily.
Why does my line keep tangling after I respool it?
Tangling is usually caused by loose or uneven winding on the spool. Ensure you wind the line tightly and evenly in the correct direction indicated by the arrows. Also, make sure the line is not overlapping as you wind.
Can I use any brand of trimmer line for my weed eater?
Yes, you can use any brand as long as the line diameter matches your trimmer’s specification. However, higher-quality lines made from materials like co-polymer may last longer and cut more efficiently.
How often should I replace the trimmer line?
Replace the line whenever it becomes too short to cut effectively or if it becomes worn, brittle, or damaged. For heavy users, this might be weekly; for occasional users, it could be monthly or less often.
