How to Rewind Black and Decker Weed Eater? B&D Rewind Tutorial

Introduction

If you’ve ever been mid-yard work when your Black & Decker weed eater suddenly stops cutting, you know the frustration of a depleted trimmer line. Instead of making an unnecessary trip to the hardware store for a new pre-wound spool, you can rewind the line yourself in 5 to 10 minutes with basic household tools. Learning how to rewind Black and Decker weed eater is a simple, cost-effective skill that saves you time and money, while keeping your yard looking neat and well-maintained all season long. This comprehensive guide covers both automatic feed and manual bump feed Black & Decker models, with step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and best practices to make the process fast and hassle-free.

• How a Black & Decker Weed Eater Trimmer Line Works
• Tools and Materials You’ll Need
• Safety Precautions Before Rewinding
• Step-by-Step: Rewinding Automatic Feed Models
• Step-by-Step: Rewinding Manual Bump Feed Models
• Bump Feed vs Automatic Feed Rewind Comparison
• Common Rewinding Problems and Fixes
• Tips for Extending Trimmer Line Life
• When to Replace the Entire Spool
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

How a Black & Decker Weed Eater Trimmer Line Works

To successfully rewind your weed eater, it helps to first understand how the trimmer line and feed system function. All Black & Decker weed eaters use a round or serrated plastic spool housed inside the trimmer head, which holds the coiled trimmer line. As the weed eater’s motor spins the spool, centrifugal force extends the line out to cut grass, weeds, and small overgrowth.

Black & Decker produces two main types of consumer weed eaters, each with a different feed mechanism: bump feed and automatic feed. Bump feed models release a small length of line when you tap the bottom of the trimmer head against the ground, while automatic feed models release line continuously as you cut, or with a press of a side button, no bumping required. Over time, the line wears down from contact with rocks, concrete, fence posts, and tough, fibrous weeds, so it will eventually need to be rewound. Understanding which type of model you have will ensure you follow the correct rewinding process for your specific tool.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Rewinding your Black & Decker weed eater requires only a few basic tools and materials, most of which you likely already have at home. Gathering everything before you start will make the process faster and more efficient.

• Correct diameter replacement trimmer line: Most residential Black & Decker weed eaters use 0.065 inch (1.6 mm) round trimmer line, while heavy-duty models designed for thicker weeds and larger yards use 0.080 inch (2.0 mm) line. You can find the correct size printed on the old empty spool, listed in your owner’s manual, or by entering your model number on the Black & Decker support website. Using the wrong line size can cause jams, breakage, and strain on the motor.
• Scissors or sharp utility knife: Used to cut the new line to the correct length after winding it onto the spool.
• Flathead screwdriver: Most Black & Decker spool covers are held on by a small Phillips or flathead screw, or a twist-lock mechanism that requires a flathead to loosen.
• Work gloves: Sharp trimmer line edges can cause deep cuts, even when the weed eater is powered off, so gloves will protect your hands during the rewinding process.
• Small brush or old toothbrush: Used to clear out grass clippings, dirt, and tangled line fragments from the spool housing, which are a common cause of feed jams.
• Clean rag: Wipes away excess dirt or debris from the spool housing and spool after cleaning.

Safety Precautions Before Rewinding

While rewinding a weed eater is a low-risk task, taking a few basic safety steps will prevent injury and damage to your tool. Follow these precautions before you start working on your trimmer head.

Disconnect Power First

This is the most important safety step, and it cannot be skipped. For corded electric Black & Decker weed eaters, unplug the power cord from the wall outlet, and make sure it’s out of reach while you work. For cordless models, remove the battery pack completely from the base of the weed eater. Never attempt to remove or rewind the spool while the tool is connected to a power source, as accidental activation of the trigger could cause the line to spin at high speed, leading to serious cuts or eye injuries.

Wear Protective Gear

Even with the power disconnected, sharp trimmer line can snap unexpectedly if it’s under tension. Wear close-fitting work gloves to protect your hands from cuts, and safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying debris, especially if you’re cleaning out the spool housing which may have built-up dirt, small rock fragments, or tangled line. If you’re working with an older gas-powered Black & Decker model, work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fuel fumes.

Step-by-Step: How to Rewind Black and Decker Weed Eater (Automatic Feed Models)

Automatic feed Black & Decker weed eaters are designed to release line without requiring you to bump the head on the ground, making them ideal for long, continuous cutting sessions. Follow these steps to rewind your automatic feed model correctly:

1. Place your weed eater on a flat, stable work surface, and confirm that power is fully disconnected (unplugged or battery removed) per the safety precautions above.
2. Locate the spool cover on the bottom of the trimmer head. Most B&D automatic feed models use a twist-lock cover: turn it counterclockwise to loosen it, then pull it straight off. If your model uses a screw to secure the cover, use your flathead screwdriver to loosen the screw, then set the cover and screw aside in a safe spot where they won’t get lost.
3. Pull the old empty spool straight out of the housing. If it feels stuck, gently wiggle it side to side to loosen it—never use excessive force, as you could crack the plastic housing around the spool.
4. Use your small brush to clean out any grass clippings, dirt, or tangled line fragments from the inside of the spool housing. Buildup in the housing is one of the most common causes of feed jams, so taking 30 seconds to clean it now will save you frustration later.
5. Take your new replacement trimmer line, and wind it evenly around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrow printed on the spool itself. For nearly all Black & Decker automatic feed models, this direction is counterclockwise. Wind the line tightly, without overlapping layers, and leave approximately 6 inches of line sticking out from the feed slot on each side of the spool. Do not overfill the spool: leave a 1/4 inch gap between the top layer of wound line and the edge of the spool, as overfilling will cause the line to tangle and jam.
6. Insert the wound spool back into the housing, making sure the two loose line ends are aligned perfectly with the feed slots on the sides of the housing. If the line ends are not in the slots, the line will not feed when you turn the trimmer on.
7. Replace the spool cover, twisting it clockwise until it’s fully secure, or tightening the screw if your model uses one.
8. Reconnect power (plug in the cord or reinsert the battery) and test the feed. For models with a manual feed button, press it 2-3 times to confirm line extends properly. For fully automatic models, run the trimmer at low speed for a few seconds to check that line feeds out consistently as you cut.

Step-by-Step: How to Rewind Black and Decker Weed Eater (Manual Bump Feed Models)

Manual bump feed models require you to tap the bottom of the trimmer head on the ground to release line, making them a popular choice for users who want more control over line extension. The rewinding process is similar to automatic feed models, with a few small adjustments for the bump mechanism:

1. Start by placing your weed eater on a flat surface and disconnecting power completely, as outlined in the safety section.
2. Remove the spool cover by twisting it counterclockwise or loosening the retaining screw with your flathead screwdriver. Set the cover and screw aside safely.
3. Pull the old empty spool out of the housing, and use your small brush to clear out any grass clippings, dirt, or tangled line from the inside of the housing.
4. Wind the new trimmer line around the spool in the counterclockwise direction, the same as automatic feed models. Wind it evenly without overlapping, and leave 8 to 10 inches of line sticking out from the feed slot on each side—bump feed models require slightly longer line ends than automatic models, as the bump mechanism pulls more line out with each tap.
5. Thread each loose end of the line through the small eyelet on the side of the spool head, making sure it’s seated fully in the eyelet so it won’t slip out when you bump the head. This step is unique to bump feed models, and skipping it will cause the line to release unevenly or not at all.
6. Insert the wound spool back into the housing, aligning the line ends with the feed slots on the sides of the head.
7. Replace the spool cover and secure it tightly by twisting clockwise or tightening the screw.
8. Test the feed by running the trimmer at low speed and tapping the bottom of the head on the ground 2 to 3 times. You should see 2 to 3 inches of line extend with each tap. If line does not release, double-check that you threaded the line through the eyelets correctly and that the winding direction is counterclockwise.

Bump Feed vs Automatic Feed Rewind Comparison

While the core rewinding process is similar for both Black & Decker weed eater models, there are key differences between bump feed and automatic feed systems that will affect how you rewind and maintain your tool. The table below breaks down the key differences to help you follow the correct process for your model.

How to Fix Common Rewinding Problems

Even when you follow the rewinding steps correctly, you may run into occasional issues with line feeding or jamming. Most of these problems are easy to fix with basic troubleshooting, no special tools required.

Line won’t feed after rewinding: This is the most common issue, caused by incorrect winding direction, misaligned line ends, or debris in the feed slots. First, confirm you wound the line counterclockwise, as indicated by the arrow on the spool. Next, remove the spool and check that the loose line ends are fully seated in the feed slots on the housing. Finally, use a small toothpick or screwdriver to clear any grass or dirt from the feed slots, which can block line from extending. If the line still won’t feed, check that the spool is seated fully in the housing, with no gaps around the edge.

Line breaks frequently after rewinding: Frequent breakage is usually caused by overfilling the spool, using the wrong line size, or cutting near hard surfaces. Overfilled spools cause the line to be too tight, leading to snaps when it extends. Use only the correct line diameter for your model, as thicker line strains the motor and breaks more easily, while thinner line wears down too quickly. Avoid cutting near concrete, rocks, or fence posts, as these surfaces wear down line much faster than soft grass.

Line jams inside the spool housing: Jams occur when wound line overlaps or bunches up, or when debris builds up in the housing. To fix a jam, remove the spool and cut away any tangled line, then clean out the housing with a small brush. When rewinding, wind the line evenly without overlapping layers, and leave a 1/4 inch gap between the top of the wound line and the edge of the spool to prevent overfilling.

Spool won’t stay in place after reassembly: If the spool feels loose after replacing the cover, it’s usually not seated fully in the housing. Remove the spool, check for debris or damage to the housing edges, then reinsert the spool, pressing down firmly until it clicks into place. If the spool or housing is cracked or warped, you will need to replace the damaged part to get a secure fit.

Tips for Extending Trimmer Line Life

Proper maintenance and usage habits will extend the life of your trimmer line, reducing how often you need to rewind your Black & Decker weed eater and saving you money on replacement line over time. Follow these best practices to get the most out of your trimmer:

• Use the correct line size for your model: Using a line that’s too thick will strain the motor and cause frequent breakage, while line that’s too thin will wear down too quickly. Always check your owner’s manual or the old spool for the recommended diameter.
• Avoid cutting near hard surfaces: Concrete, brick, stone, and fence posts will wear down trimmer line much faster than soft grass and weeds. If you need to edge along a hard surface, switch to a manual edger or use a guard to protect the line.
• Clean the spool and housing after each use: Grass clippings and dirt buildup can cause corrosion, jams, and uneven line wear. Wipe down the spool and housing with a dry rag after each use, and brush out any debris from the feed slots.
• Store your weed eater properly: Keep your tool in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Extreme heat can make trimmer line brittle and prone to breaking, while moisture can cause the spool to warp.
• Don’t overfill the spool: Leaving a small gap between the top of the wound line and the edge of the spool prevents tangling and jams, and reduces strain on the line.
• Tap bump feed heads gently: If you have a bump feed model, tap the head lightly on the ground to release line. Tapping too hard can damage the feed mechanism and cause line to snap.

When to Replace the Entire Spool

While rewinding is a simple fix for depleted line, there are times when the spool itself is damaged and needs to be replaced entirely. Replacement spools for Black & Decker weed eaters are inexpensive, widely available, and easy to install, so don’t hesitate to replace the spool if you notice any of these signs:

• The plastic spool is cracked, warped, or broken, which will prevent it from seating properly in the housing and can cause line to jam or slip off.
• The line keeps slipping off the spool even when wound correctly, indicating the spool’s line retention clips are damaged.
• The feed mechanism on the spool is broken, so line won’t release even when you press the feed button or bump the head.
• You’ve rewound the spool dozens of times and it still won’t feed line properly, indicating internal damage to the spool’s feed mechanism.

To find a compatible replacement spool, check the model number printed on the bottom of your weed eater, then search for a Black & Decker replacement spool for that specific model. Most replacement spools cost between $5 and $15, and come pre-wound with line if you don’t want to wind it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to rewind my Black & Decker weed eater?

Rewind frequency depends on usage and cutting conditions. For light grass trimming, you’ll only need to rewind every 3 to 5 uses. If you’re cutting thick weeds or overgrowth, plan to rewind every 1 to 2 uses. Bump feed models typically require more frequent rewinding than automatic feed models, as they release more line per bump.

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

Winding the line clockwise instead of the required counterclockwise will prevent it from feeding properly. The line may not extend at all, or will extend unevenly, causing jams and uneven cutting. In severe cases, it can tangle inside the spool, requiring full disassembly to remove the tangled line. Always check the arrow on the spool to confirm the correct direction before winding.

What size trimmer line does my Black & Decker weed eater use?

Most residential models use 0.065 inch (1.6 mm) round line, while heavy-duty models use 0.080 inch (2.0 mm) line. You can find the correct size printed on the old spool, in your owner’s manual, or on the Black & Decker support site by entering your model number. Using the wrong size can cause jams, breakage, and motor strain.

Why won’t my line feed after rewinding?

The most common causes are incorrect winding direction, misaligned line ends, blocked feed slots, or an unseated spool. To fix it, remove the spool, confirm you wound it counterclockwise, align the line ends with the feed slots, clear any debris from the slots, and reinsert the spool firmly until it clicks into place. If the problem persists, check that you didn’t overfill the spool, as excess line can block the feed mechanism.

Can I use any brand of trimmer line for my Black & Decker weed eater?

Yes, you can use any third-party trimmer line as long as it matches the correct diameter for your model (0.065 or 0.080 inch) and is rated for trimmer use. Official Black & Decker branded line is not required, but avoid using regular rope, string, or non-trimmer line, as these break easily and can damage the feed mechanism and motor.

Conclusion

Learning how to rewind Black and Decker weed eater is a simple, practical skill that every weed eater owner should know. Instead of wasting time and money on pre-wound replacement spools, you can rewind your line in minutes with basic tools, following the step-by-step process outlined for your specific model type, whether you have a bump feed or automatic feed unit. By following the correct winding direction, aligning line ends with feed slots, and taking basic safety precautions, you can ensure your line feeds properly every time you use your weed eater. Combined with regular maintenance and the tips outlined in this guide, rewinding your line will extend the life of your tool and keep your yard looking neat all season long. The next time your line runs out mid-job, you’ll be able to fix it yourself in no time, no hardware store trip required.