Quick Answer: How to Load Trimmer Line
To put wire (nylon trimmer line) in a weed eater, disconnect the power and remove the spool from the trimmer head. Insert the new line into the anchor hole on the spool, wind it tightly in the direction indicated by the arrow (usually counterclockwise), leaving 4–6 inches extending from the spool. Thread the loose ends through the eyelets in the trimmer head, snap the spool back into place, and test the automatic feed or use the bump-feed method to adjust line length.
Understanding Trimmer Line vs. Metal Wire
When people refer to putting “wire” in a weed eater, they’re almost always talking about nylon trimmer line, not metal wire. Trimmer line is a flexible, durable plastic cord that spins at high speed to cut grass and weeds. Metal wire is never used in standard string trimmers because it would damage the trimmer head, create safety hazards, and require heavy-duty equipment.
Trimmer line comes in several diameters, most commonly 0.065 inches and 0.080 inches. The correct diameter for your trimmer is specified in the owner’s manual and on the spool housing. Using the wrong diameter can cause feeding problems, reduce cutting efficiency, or damage the trimmer head mechanism.
Three Types of Weed Eater Loading Mechanisms
Not all weed eaters load the same way. Identifying your trimmer type before you start will save time and prevent mistakes.
1. Bump-Feed (Most Common)
Bump-feed trimmers have a manually wound spool inside the trimmer head. You wind the line onto the spool yourself, thread it through the eyelets, and adjust the length by tapping (bumping) the trimmer head on the ground while running. This is the most common design on residential trimmers.
2. Automatic-Feed Trimmers
Automatic-feed models use a spring-loaded mechanism that advances fresh line as the old line wears. You still wind the line onto the spool, but the trimmer feeds new line automatically when you release the throttle. These are convenient but slightly more complex to load.
3. Manual-Feed Trimmers
Some commercial or heavy-duty trimmers use a manual-feed system where you pull down on a tab or button to advance the line. These are less common on consumer models but follow similar loading principles to bump-feed designs.
How to identify your trimmer: Check the trimmer head design. If there’s a prominent button or tab in the center of the spool, it’s likely bump-feed. If the trimmer advances line without you doing anything after the old line breaks, it’s automatic-feed. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
Step-by-Step: How to Load Trimmer Line (Bump-Feed Design)
Follow these steps for the most common weed eater design.
Step 1: Disconnect Power and Remove the Spool
- If you have a gas trimmer, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental startup.
- For electric trimmers, unplug the unit from the outlet.
- Locate the center bolt or button on the trimmer head (usually requires a wrench or Phillips screwdriver).
- Turn the bolt counterclockwise to loosen it, then remove the spool from the trimmer head.
- Clean any dried grass or debris from the spool and trimmer head.
Step 2: Measure and Prepare the New Line
- Consult your trimmer’s manual for the recommended line length. Most bump-feed spools hold 10–30 feet of line.
- Cut a length of trimmer line slightly longer than recommended (you can trim excess later).
- Most trimmer line comes wound on spools at hardware or home improvement stores. If using a bulk spool, measure and cut with sharp scissors or a utility knife for a clean edge.
Step 3: Locate the Anchor Hole
- Examine the spool carefully. You’ll find one or two small holes or slots near the center—these are the anchor holes.
- Some spools have a single anchor hole; others have two (for loading two line segments simultaneously).
- Insert one end of the trimmer line into the anchor hole and secure it by inserting it fully into the slot. It should fit snugly.
Step 4: Wind the Line Onto the Spool
- Look for an arrow molded into the spool indicating the winding direction. Always wind in the direction the arrow points. Most spools wind counterclockwise.
- Hold the spool in one hand and use the other hand to guide the line, keeping it tight and even across the spool.
- Wind the line in neat, parallel rows from one side of the spool to the other. Avoid overlapping or crisscrossing the line, as this causes feeding jams.
- Wind until you’ve used nearly all the line, leaving approximately 4–6 inches free (this becomes the cutting line).
- If your spool has two anchor holes, you’ll load two separate line segments, each wound in the same direction until you reach the center of the spool. Consult your manual for the exact procedure.
Step 5: Secure the Loose End and Thread Through Eyelets
- After winding, pull the 4–6 inches of loose line tight and tuck it into a notch or slot on the outer edge of the spool to hold it in place temporarily.
- Locate the eyelets (small openings) in the trimmer head where the line exits. Most trimmer heads have two eyelets positioned opposite each other.
- Thread one end of the loose line through one eyelet, pulling it out completely.
- If your trimmer uses two line segments, thread the second segment through the opposite eyelet.
Step 6: Reinstall the Spool
- Carefully align the spool with the bolt hole on the trimmer head.
- Insert the spool and hand-tighten the center bolt counterclockwise, then use a wrench or screwdriver to secure it firmly.
- Do not overtighten, as this can crack the spool or strip the threads.
Step 7: Adjust Line Length
- Hold the trimmer and bump the bottom of the spool head gently on the ground (with the engine off or the unit unplugged).
- This will advance the loose line segments and cut them to the proper length automatically.
- For precision, you can manually adjust the line using the trimmer’s edge as a guide. Some trimmers have a built-in cutting guide or blade on the spool cover.
Loading Line in Automatic-Feed Trimmers
Automatic-feed trimmers simplify the process because you don’t need to manually adjust line length.
- Follow steps 1–5 above to wind and load the line onto the spool.
- The spring-loaded mechanism inside the trimmer head automatically advances fresh line as the old line wears down.
- Some automatic-feed models require you to hold a button while running the trimmer to advance the line. Consult your manual for specific instructions.
- Test the automatic feed by running the trimmer briefly to ensure the line advances smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Winding in the Wrong Direction
If you wind the line opposite to the arrow, the line will not feed properly and may jam or tangle on the spool. Always double-check the arrow before winding.
Overlapping or Crossing Line
Line that overlaps or crisscrosses on the spool will cause feeding jams and break frequently during use. Wind in neat, parallel rows and keep the line tight and even.
Using the Wrong Diameter Line
Loading line that’s too thick or too thin for your trimmer will cause the feed mechanism to malfunction. Check your trimmer’s manual for the correct diameter and stick to it.
Overfilling or Underfilling the Spool
Packing too much line onto the spool causes feeding jams. Not enough line means frequent reloading. Follow your manual’s recommended line length and leave the specified gap.
Forgetting to Secure the Loose Ends
If you don’t properly thread the loose ends through the eyelets before reinstalling the spool, the line won’t feed and the trimmer won’t cut. Double-check that both line segments are fully threaded before tightening the center bolt.
Overtightening the Center Bolt
Excessive force can crack the spool or strip the threads, making it impossible to remove later. Tighten firmly but gently, and use the correct tool for your trimmer model.
Adjusting and Testing Your Trimmer Line
Bump-Feed Method
Once you’ve loaded the line and reinstalled the spool, start the trimmer and hold it at a slight angle. Gently tap the spool head on the ground while running. This will advance the loose line segments and cut them to the proper length automatically. Repeat as needed until the line is the correct length.
Manual Adjustment
If your trimmer has an adjustable line guide or blade on the spool cover, use it as a reference to manually trim the excess line to the correct length (usually 6–8 inches extending from each eyelet).
Testing for Proper Installation
- Start the trimmer in a safe, open area (away from people, pets, and obstacles).
- Run the trimmer at full throttle briefly to ensure the line feeds smoothly and spins freely without jamming.
- If the line doesn’t spin or makes an unusual noise, stop immediately, disconnect power, and recheck the installation.
- Cut a small patch of grass to verify the line is cutting properly. Dull or uneven cutting usually indicates incorrect line length or a winding error.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Replace the Trimmer Line?
Trimmer line wears naturally during use and breaks against rocks, pavement, or hard obstacles. Most homeowners replace the line every 2–4 weeks of regular use, or whenever the line is too short to cut effectively (usually less than 4 inches extending from each eyelet). Some people prefer to reload the spool completely at the start of each season, even if line remains.
Can I Use Any Brand or Diameter of Trimmer Line?
Trimmer line must match your trimmer’s specifications. Using the wrong diameter can cause the feed mechanism to jam or fail. Most residential trimmers use 0.065 or 0.080-inch line. Check your owner’s manual or the spool housing for the required diameter. While different brands are generally interchangeable if the diameter matches, some premium brands (such as those with reinforced cores or twisted designs) offer better durability and longevity.
Why Does My Trimmer Line Keep Breaking?
Line breaks for several reasons: incorrect winding (overlapping or crossing), using the wrong diameter, hitting hard objects repeatedly, or running the trimmer at excessively high throttle for extended periods. Ensure you’re winding correctly, using the right line type, and avoiding obstacles like rocks and pavement.
What Should I Do If the Line Won’t Feed After Loading?
First, disconnect power and remove the spool to inspect the installation. Verify that the line is wound in the correct direction (matching the arrow), that it’s threaded through both eyelets, and that the spool is fully installed and tightened. If the line still won’t feed, try manually advancing it by tapping the spool on the ground. If the problem persists, the feed mechanism may be damaged—consult your manual or contact the manufacturer for repair options.
Summary
Loading trimmer line into your weed eater is a straightforward task once you understand your trimmer type and follow the proper steps. The key is winding the line in the correct direction, securing it in the anchor hole, and threading the loose ends through the eyelets before reinstalling the spool. Avoid common mistakes like overlapping the line or using the wrong diameter, and test the trimmer after loading to ensure the line feeds and cuts properly. With practice, reloading becomes quick and easy, keeping your trimmer ready for seasonal yard work.
