How to String a Weed Eater

To string a weed eater, first disconnect the spark plug or battery for safety. Remove the spool from the trimmer head, take out any old line, and cut a fresh piece of trimmer line to the length specified in your owner’s manual. Insert one end of the line into the anchor hole on the spool, then wind it tightly in the direction indicated by the arrows, leaving the last few inches unwound. Thread the loose ends through the eyelets on the head, snap the spool back into place, and pull the line ends firmly so they lock into the notches. Finally, trim the line to the recommended length (usually 5–7 inches on each side) and test the trimmer before use.

Understanding Your Weed Eater and Trimmer Head

A weed eater, also known as a string trimmer, uses a rapidly spinning spool of flexible line to cut grass and weeds. The trimmer head is the component that houses this spool. Before you begin restringing, it’s crucial to identify the type of head your model uses, as the process varies significantly.

  • Bump-Feed Head: The most common type. The line advances when you tap or “bump” the head on the ground while it’s spinning.
  • Fixed-Line or Manual-Feed Head: Uses pre-cut lengths of line that are manually inserted into the head. No spool winding is required.
  • Automatic-Feed Head: Advances line automatically without bumping, often using a spring-loaded mechanism.

Consult your owner’s manual to confirm your head type and the correct line specifications. Using the wrong line diameter can damage the head or reduce cutting efficiency.

Key Factors to Consider Before Stringing

Proper preparation prevents tangles and ensures safe operation.

  • Safety First: Always disconnect the spark plug wire (gas models) or remove the battery (electric models) before performing maintenance.
  • Line Diameter: Match the line gauge to your trimmer’s specifications, typically found in the manual or on the trimmer head itself. Common diameters range from 0.065″ to 0.155″.
  • Line Type: Round line is durable and good for general use. Twisted or serrated line cuts more efficiently but may wear faster.
  • Line Length: Do not overfill the spool. Excess line can cause tangling and jamming. A general rule is 15–25 feet per spool, but always verify with your manual.

Step-by-Step: How to String a Bump-Feed Trimmer Head

This is the most common restringing procedure. Follow these steps carefully.

  1. Remove the Spool: Press the tabs or release buttons on the side of the trimmer head to unlock and remove the spool cap and inner spool.
  2. Remove Old Line: Unwind and discard any remaining old line from the spool. Clean out any debris.
  3. Measure and Cut New Line: Cut a new piece of trimmer line to the length specified in your manual (often 15–25 feet).
  4. Anchor the Line: Locate the anchor hole or notch on the inner spool. Insert one end of the new line into this anchor point.
  5. Wind the Line: Wind the line tightly and evenly around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrows molded into the plastic. Maintain tension to prevent loose loops.
  6. Secure the Line Ends: Leave about 6–8 inches of line unwound. Secure the ends into the temporary holding notches on the spool’s edge.
  7. Reassemble the Head: Place the wound spool back into the trimmer head housing. Thread the loose line ends through the metal or plastic eyelets on the outer head.
  8. Lock and Test: Snap the spool cap back into place until it clicks. Pull firmly on each line end to release them from the holding notches. Trim the lines to an equal length of about 5–7 inches on each side.

Variations for Different Trimmer Head Types

How to String a Fixed-Line or Manual-Feed Head

These heads are simpler. They typically have holes or slots where you insert pre-cut lengths of line. Measure and cut two pieces of line to the length specified by the manufacturer. Insert each piece through the head until it’s centered, then lock it in place according to the head’s design.

How to String a Single-Line Head

Some trimmers, often lighter-duty models, have a head with only one line. The process is similar to the bump-feed method, but you only wind and thread a single line.

Pre-Wound Spools vs. Hand-Winding

Some trimmer heads use disposable, pre-wound spools. These are easy to install but can be more expensive. Hand-winding your own spool with bulk line is more cost-effective and allows you to choose your preferred line type.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips

  • Line Jamming or Tangling: This is often caused by overfilling the spool, using the wrong line diameter, or winding the line in the wrong direction. Ensure the line is wound tightly and evenly.
  • Line Not Advancing: For bump-feed heads, check that the line ends are properly seated in the eyelets and that the internal spring mechanism is not broken. Ensure you are bumping the head firmly on a hard surface while it’s spinning.
  • Premature Line Breakage: Using line that is too thin for heavy weeds, or line that has become brittle from sun exposure, will cause frequent breaks. Store spare line in a cool, dark place.
  • Regular Maintenance: Clean grass and debris from the trimmer head after each use. Inspect the head for cracks and the eyelets for wear. Replace the spool or head if it is damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of trimmer line to use?

The best line depends on your task. Round line is the most common and durable for general grass trimming. Twisted or serrated line provides a cleaner cut on thicker weeds but may wear faster. Always use the diameter recommended for your specific trimmer model.

How much line should I put on my weed eater spool?

Do not exceed the maximum line capacity specified in your owner’s manual. Overfilling the spool is a primary cause of tangling and jamming. A typical capacity is 15 to 25 feet of line, but this varies by head size.

Why does my trimmer line keep breaking immediately?

Immediate line breakage often indicates using the wrong line diameter (too thin), hitting hard objects like rocks or fences, or using old, brittle line. Ensure you are using the correct gauge and inspect the line for cracks before installation.

Can I use any brand of trimmer line?

Yes, trimmer line is generally universal as long as it matches the diameter specification for your trimmer head. However, quality can vary. Using a line that is too thick for the head will prevent it from feeding properly.