How to String a Weed Eater with Two Holes: Step-by-Step Guide
To string a weed eater with two holes, first remove the trimmer head and spool from the unit. Cut a length of trimmer line (typically 15–25 feet, depending on spool capacity) and insert one end through the first hole in the spool and out the second hole, pulling the line through until both ends are equal in length. With the line centered, wind both ends onto the spool in the direction indicated by the arrow on the spool, keeping the wraps tight and even to prevent tangles. Leave about 4–6 inches of line exposed at each hole, then lock the ends into the notches or slots on the spool rim. Reassemble the head, thread the two exposed line ends through the two exit eyelets on the trimmer head, and give the line a firm pull to release it from the locking slots. Tap the head on the ground to advance more line on bump-feed models. Always check your user manual for model-specific winding direction and line diameter, because directions and hole designs vary by brand.
What Does a Two-Hole Weed Eater Head Mean?
A two-hole weed eater head refers to a trimmer spool design that features two distinct holes for threading the trimmer line. This design is common on many bump-feed string trimmers and differs from single-hole spools where the line is folded in half before insertion. Understanding this distinction is crucial because the stringing procedure changes significantly.
- Two Holes on the Spool vs. Head: The “two holes” typically refer to two holes on the removable spool itself, not the exit eyelets on the outer trimmer head. You thread the line through these two spool holes to anchor it before winding.
- Why It Matters: The two-hole design requires you to center the line perfectly so both ends wind onto the spool evenly. If the line is off-center, one end will run out much faster than the other, requiring frequent stops to restring.
- Winding Direction is Critical: Most two-hole spools have a specific winding direction indicated by an arrow or text on the spool. Winding the wrong way can prevent the line from feeding properly during use.
What You Need Before You Start
Before you begin restringing, gather the correct materials and take basic safety precautions.
- Trimmer Line Gauge/Diameter: Use the line diameter specified in your owner’s manual (commonly 0.065″, 0.080″, or 0.095″). Using the wrong gauge can cause jams or poor cutting performance.
- Line Length: Most two-hole spools require 15 to 25 feet of line. Check your manual or the spool itself for the maximum capacity.
- Tools: You may need a pair of scissors or line cutters and possibly a flathead screwdriver to help pry off the trimmer head cap, depending on the model.
- Safety: Always disconnect the spark plug wire (on gas models) or remove the battery (on electric models) before working on the trimmer head to prevent accidental startup.
Step-by-Step: How to String a Weed Eater with Two Holes
Follow these steps carefully for a successful restringing.
- Remove the Trimmer Head: Depending on your model, you may need to press buttons on the side of the head or use a tool to unlock and remove the outer cap and spool.
- Prepare the Line: Cut a fresh piece of trimmer line to the recommended length for your spool.
- Insert and Center the Line: Find the two holes on the spool. Insert one end of the line into the first hole and push it through until it emerges from the second hole. Pull the line through until both ends are perfectly equal in length. This centering step is vital for even wear.
- Wind the Line: Look for the directional arrow on the spool. Wind both ends of the line onto the spool in the direction of the arrow. Keep the wraps tight and neat, laying each new wrap directly beside the previous one without overlapping.
- Lock the Line Ends: Once you have about 4–6 inches of line remaining on each end, secure them into the small notches or locking slots on the rim of the spool. This holds the line in place during reassembly.
- Reassemble the Head: Place the wound spool back into the trimmer head. Thread the two locked line ends through the corresponding exit eyelets on the outer head.
- Release the Line: Give each line end a firm, quick pull to release it from the locking slots on the spool. The line should now be free to spin.
- Test and Adjust: Reattach the trimmer head, reconnect power, and give the trimmer a short test run. Tap the head on the ground (for bump-feed models) to ensure the line advances properly.
Reassembling the Head and Feeding the Line
Proper reassembly ensures the line feeds smoothly during operation.
- Threading the Exit Eyelets: Make sure each line end goes through its own exit eyelet on the trimmer head. Do not cross the lines inside the head.
- Releasing from Locks: The firm pull on the line ends after reassembly is what disengages them from the temporary locking slots. If you forget this step, the line will not feed.
- Bump-Feed Mechanism: On bump-feed heads, tapping the bottom of the spinning head against the ground releases a spring mechanism that allows more line to feed from the spool. The two-hole design feeds both lines simultaneously.
Troubleshooting Common Two-Hole Stringing Problems
If you encounter issues after restringing, these tips can help.
- Line Tangling: This is often caused by winding the line in the wrong direction or not keeping the wraps tight and even. Remove the spool and rewind carefully, following the directional arrow.
- Line Not Advancing: Ensure you pulled the line ends firmly to release them from the locking slots after reassembly. Also, check that the spool is seated correctly and the bump knob moves freely.
- Line Snapping or Jamming: This frequently results from using a line diameter that is too thick for the spool or exit eyelets. Verify the correct gauge in your manual. Also, check for debris inside the head.
- Uneven Line Length: If one side runs out quickly, the line was not centered properly during insertion. Restring, making sure both ends are exactly equal before winding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any trimmer line in a two-hole spool?
No. You must use the line diameter specified for your particular trimmer model. Using a line that is too thick will cause it to jam in the spool or exit eyelets. Using a line that is too thin may result in poor cutting performance and excessive line breakage.
How do I know which direction to wind the line?
The correct winding direction is always indicated on the spool itself, usually by a molded arrow or text that says “WIND THIS DIRECTION.” If you cannot find it, consult your owner’s manual. Winding backwards is a common cause of line feed problems.
Why does my line keep bunching up inside the head?
Bunching or nesting typically happens when the line is not wound tightly and evenly onto the spool. It can also occur if the line is wound in the wrong direction. Carefully unwind the spool and rewind it, ensuring each wrap lies flat against the previous one without crossing over.
How much line should I leave sticking out when I finish?
After locking the line ends into the spool’s notches and threading them through the exit eyelets, you should have approximately 4 to 6 inches of line extending from each side of the trimmer head. This is the standard length for most two-hole bump-feed models.
