How Do You Restring a Stihl Weedeater? Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Your Stihl Trimmer Head

Before you start restringing, it helps to understand the components you’re working with. Stihl makes several trimmer head designs, but most residential and semi-professional models use one of two systems: AutoCut or EasyCut heads. Both work similarly, though the access method may vary slightly.

The trimmer head houses the spool, which holds the trimmer line. The line feeds through small eyelets (holes) at the base of the head and spins at high speed to cut grass and weeds. When the line wears down or breaks, you’ll need to remove the spool and wind new line onto it.

Key components to identify:

• Spool: The rotating chamber that holds trimmer line
• Eyelets: Small holes where line exits the head (typically two)
• Access tabs or buttons: Used to open the trimmer head and remove the spool
• Directional arrows: Marked on the spool to show proper winding direction
• Line diameter markings: Usually stamped on the head or spool (2.0mm, 2.4mm, 3.0mm)

What You’ll Need Before Starting

Restringing is a tool-free job for most Stihl models. Here’s what to gather:

• Replacement trimmer line: The correct diameter for your model (check your manual or the trimmer head itself)
• Your Stihl weedeater manual: Confirms line diameter and any model-specific steps
• A clean, flat work surface: To organize parts and prevent losing small components
• Optional: small scissors or wire cutters: To cut the line to length if needed

You can purchase replacement line in bulk spools or buy pre-wound spools. Pre-wound spools are more convenient if you’re uncomfortable winding line yourself, though they cost slightly more. Aftermarket line works fine as long as it matches your trimmer’s diameter specification.

Step-by-Step: Restringing Your Stihl Weedeater

Step 1: Access the Trimmer Head

Most Stihl trimmers have a quick-access design. Look for small tabs or buttons on the side of the trimmer head. Press these tabs firmly—you should hear a slight click. This releases the head cover, allowing the spool to slide out. Some models require a gentle twist counterclockwise to loosen the cover.

If you’re unsure where the tabs are, consult your manual or look for a small arrow symbol pointing to the release point.

Step 2: Remove the Old Spool

Once the head is open, the spool should slide out easily. If line remnants are tangled around the spool or head, gently unwind and pull them free. Inspect the spool for cracks or damage. If the spool is cracked or the eyelets are broken, you’ll need to replace the entire head or spool assembly rather than just rewinding line.

Step 3: Measure and Prepare New Line

Most Stihl spools hold between 6 and 12 meters of trimmer line, depending on the model and line diameter. If you’re winding your own line, a common approach is to cut a length of about 7-8 meters. Your manual will specify the exact length for your model.

Look for directional arrows molded into the spool. These arrows show which way the line should wind. This direction is critical—winding backward prevents the line from feeding properly.

Step 4: Wind the Line onto the Spool

This is the most important step and where most errors occur. Follow these guidelines:

• Find the starting point: Most spools have a small notch or slot where you insert the line end to anchor it before winding.
• Follow the arrows: Wind the line in the exact direction the arrows indicate on the spool (usually counterclockwise when viewed from above).
• Wind tightly and evenly: Keep tension on the line as you wind it around the spool. Loose, uneven winding causes feeding problems.
• Wind in layers: Build up the line in neat, overlapping loops rather than random coils.
• Leave 15-20cm loose: As you near the end of the line, leave a tail of 15-20 centimeters unwound. This tail will feed through the eyelets.

Take your time here. Improper winding is the #1 cause of feeding issues. If you make a mistake, simply unwind and start again.

Step 5: Insert Line Through Eyelets

Once wound, you’ll see two eyelets (line exit holes) in the head base. Insert one end of the loose line tail into each eyelet. The eyelets are typically positioned about 180 degrees apart. Push the line firmly into each eyelet so it seats fully—you should feel slight resistance.

Some Stihl heads have a single slot rather than two eyelets. In that case, feed both line ends into the single slot.

Step 6: Reinstall the Spool

Slide the loaded spool back into the trimmer head. Align any tabs or guide pins to ensure it seats fully. You should feel it click into place. Then press the head cover back on or twist it clockwise until snug. Do not overtighten—just secure it firmly.

Step 7: Feed the Line

Hold the trimmer at a safe angle (upside down is easiest) and press the feed button on the bottom of the head. This advances the line out of the spool. You should hear the line click or feel a slight jolt as it extends. Repeat 2-3 times until you have a usable length of line protruding (roughly 10 centimeters on each side).

If the line doesn’t feed, see the troubleshooting section below.

Common Variations by Stihl Model

While the general process is the same, some popular Stihl models have minor differences:

Always check your specific model’s manual for exact line diameter and winding instructions. Using the wrong line diameter can affect cutting performance and may void your warranty.

Troubleshooting & Tips

Line Won’t Feed After Reinstalling

This is the most common issue. Causes include:

• Wound in the wrong direction: Check the directional arrows and unwind completely. Rewind in the correct direction.
• Line not seated in eyelets: Remove the spool and ensure both line ends are fully inserted into the eyelets. They should click in place.
• Spool not installed correctly: Remove and reinstall the spool, ensuring all tabs and guides align properly.
• Kinked or damaged line: If the line is twisted or pinched, remove it and wind fresh line.

Line Keeps Breaking or Wearing Quickly

This suggests you may be using the wrong line diameter. Check your manual—if you’re using line that’s too thin, it will break more easily. Conversely, line that’s too thick may not feed properly.

Should I Use Pre-Wound Spools?

Yes, if you find winding line frustrating. Pre-wound spools are widely available from Stihl dealers, hardware stores, and online retailers. They cost $8-15 compared to $2-5 for bulk line, but eliminate the winding step entirely. Simply remove the old spool and drop in the new one.

How Often Should I Restring?

This depends on usage. Light residential use may require restringing 2-3 times per season. Heavy or professional use might require weekly or even daily changes during peak season. Replace the line when you notice reduced cutting performance or when it’s visibly worn or broken.

When to Seek Professional Help

For most users, restringing is a quick DIY task. However, consider taking your trimmer to a Stihl dealer if:

• The trimmer head is cracked or the eyelets are damaged
• The line still won’t feed after following all troubleshooting steps
• The spool feels loose or rattles inside the head
• Your trimmer is under warranty and you prefer professional service

Stihl dealers charge $10-25 for professional restringing and inspection, which is reasonable if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I wind the line in the wrong direction?

The line won’t feed properly. The spool rotates in one direction, and the line must be wound to match that rotation. If you wind backward, the line won’t advance out of the head when you press the feed button. Simply unwind and rewind in the correct direction as indicated by the arrows on the spool.

Can I use any trimmer line, or must it be Stihl brand?

You must use the correct diameter, but the brand doesn’t matter. Stihl-branded line is convenient and guaranteed compatible, but quality aftermarket line (2.0mm, 2.4mm, or 3.0mm) from any manufacturer works fine as long as it matches your trimmer’s specification. Avoid buying line without a clear diameter marking.

How long does restringing typically take?

Once you’re familiar with the process, restringing takes 10-15 minutes. Your first time may take 20-30 minutes as you get comfortable with the winding direction and line placement. After that, it becomes quick and routine.

Why is my trimmer line always tangled or knotted after winding?

This usually means the line is being wound loosely or unevenly. Maintain steady tension as you wind, and build the line in neat, overlapping layers. Loose coils will tangle and prevent smooth feeding. Practice makes this easier—your first few attempts may be imperfect, but you’ll improve quickly.