How to Change Weed Eater String Craftsman? Quick Steps

Introduction

Craftsman weed eaters are a staple for homeowners and landscaping professionals alike, known for their durability and reliable performance for maintaining neat, tidy yards. Over time, the cutting string on your Craftsman model will wear down, fray, or break from regular contact with grass, weeds, rocks, and other debris. Knowing How to Change Weed Eater String Craftsman? is a simple, cost-effective DIY skill that eliminates the need to pay for professional maintenance, keeps your equipment running at peak performance, and ensures your yard looks its best. This guide walks you through every step of the process, from gathering the right tools to testing your newly strung weed eater, along with tips to extend the life of your string and avoid common mistakes that lead to jams or poor cutting performance. Even if you’ve never performed maintenance on outdoor power equipment before, this step-by-step tutorial will have you changing your Craftsman weed eater string in 10 to 15 minutes with no special skills required.

• Understanding Your Craftsman Weed Eater
• Tools and Materials You’ll Need
• Safety Precautions Before Starting
• Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Craftsman Weed Eater String
• Preparing the Weed Eater
• Removing the Old String
• Measuring and Cutting New String
• Installing the New String
• Reassembling and Testing
• Comparison of Craftsman Weed Eater String Types
• Tips for Longer String Life
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Your Craftsman Weed Eater

Craftsman offers a wide range of weed eater models designed for different use cases, from small residential yards to larger, overgrown lots. Most models fall into three power categories: gas-powered 2-cycle or 4-cycle units, cordless battery-powered models, and corded electric models. Almost all residential Craftsman weed eaters use a bump-feed string system, where tapping the bottom of the cutting head on the ground releases more string as it wears down during use. A smaller number of heavy-duty commercial models use a fixed-line system, which requires manual adjustment of the string length as it wears. Knowing which system your model uses is the first step to successfully completing the string replacement process.

Common Craftsman Weed Eater Models

Some of the most popular Craftsman weed eater models on the market include the 25cc 17-inch Gas String Trimmer, the 40V Max Cordless String Trimmer, and the 14-inch Electric String Trimmer. The 25cc gas model is a top choice for homeowners with medium to large yards, uses a .095 inch diameter string, and features a bump-feed system. The 40V cordless model is lightweight and easy to maneuver, ideal for small to medium yards, and uses .080 inch diameter string with a bump-feed mechanism. The 14-inch electric model is perfect for small, flat yards, and uses .080 inch string with either a bump-feed or fixed-line system depending on the submodel. You can find the exact string size and feed system type for your specific model in the user manual, or on a sticker printed on the cutting head housing.

Types of Weed Eater String

Weed eater string comes in several cross-sectional shapes, each optimized for different cutting tasks. Round string is the most common, affordable option, best for light grass, weeds, and edging along sidewalks. Square string has sharp, flat edges that cut through thicker vegetation more effectively, making it ideal for overgrown areas. Star-shaped string offers a balance between durability and cutting power, working well for mixed vegetation. Serrated string has small teeth along the edges for aggressive cutting of thick brush and woody stems, but wears down much faster when used on hard surfaces like concrete or rock. All Craftsman weed eaters are designed to use flexible nylon string, which is durable, safe for use around plants, and unlikely to cause damage if it breaks during use. Never use metal, plastic, or other non-nylon string in your Craftsman weed eater, as these can damage the spool, motor, or cause serious injury if they break off while spinning.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start the string replacement process, gather all the necessary tools and materials to avoid interruptions. Having everything on hand will make the task faster and easier. You will need:

• Replacement Craftsman-compatible weed eater string: Choose the correct diameter for your model (most Craftsman models use .080 or .095 inch nylon string) and enough length for 1-2 replacements.
• String trimmer line cutter or heavy-duty scissors: To cut the string to the correct length cleanly, without fraying.
• Work gloves: To protect your hands from sharp string edges and any debris in the cutting head.
• Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris or snapped string.
• Flathead screwdriver: For prying off snap-on spool covers on some older Craftsman models (use a plastic screwdriver if possible to avoid damaging the cover clips).
• Soft cloth: To wipe away grass clippings and debris from the spool housing.
• Optional: Spool shaft lubricant: To reduce friction and extend the life of the spool mechanism.

Most of these items are available at any local hardware store, home improvement center, or online retailer. If you don’t have a dedicated string cutter, heavy-duty scissors will work just fine for cutting nylon trimmer line cleanly.

Safety Precautions Before Starting

While changing weed eater string is a low-risk task, taking a few basic safety steps will prevent injury and avoid damage to your equipment. Follow these precautions before you begin work:

1. Disconnect the power source completely: For gas-powered Craftsman models, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. For cordless models, remove the battery pack from the weed eater. For corded electric models, unplug the power cord from the outlet. Never skip this step, as an accidental start can cause serious lacerations from the spinning string.
2. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): Put on safety glasses to protect your eyes from snapped string or flying debris, and wear work gloves to avoid cuts from sharp string edges.
3. Work on a stable, flat surface: Lay the weed eater on a workbench, garage floor, or other stable surface to avoid it tipping over while you work.
4. Ensure the weed eater is cool: If you just used the weed eater, wait at least 15 minutes for the engine and cutting head to cool down before touching them to avoid burns from hot metal parts.
5. Keep children and pets away: Work in an area free of bystanders to avoid accidents.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Craftsman Weed Eater String

The process for replacing string is nearly identical for all Craftsman bump-feed models, with minor adjustments for fixed-line systems. We’ll cover the standard bump-feed process first, with notes for fixed-line models where applicable.

Preparing the Weed Eater

Start by getting your weed eater ready for maintenance to make the rest of the process smoother:

1. Lay the weed eater flat on your work surface, with the cutting head facing upward. If your model has an adjustable shaft, make sure it’s locked in the extended position for easy access to the spool cover.
2. Locate the spool cover on the bottom of the cutting head. Most Craftsman models have a round, twist-lock cover, while older models may have a snap-on cover held in place by small plastic clips.
3. If your model has a twist-lock cover, turn it counterclockwise 1/4 to 1/2 turn to release it. If it has a snap-on cover, use the edge of your flathead screwdriver to gently pry the cover off, starting at one of the notches on the edge. Be careful not to break the plastic clips on the cover, as these can be expensive to replace.

Removing the Old String

Once the spool cover is removed, you can take out the old spool and clean out any accumulated debris:

1. Pull the old spool straight up out of the cutting head housing. Some spools may have a small tab that you need to press down to release it from the housing.
2. Pull the old string off the spool, and discard it. If any small pieces of string are left in the feed holes of the spool or the housing, use a small tool like a paperclip to poke them out.
3. Wipe the inside of the cutting head housing with your soft cloth to remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated. Buildup in the housing can cause the new string to jam or feed improperly.
4. Inspect the spool for cracks, warping, or worn feed holes. If the spool is damaged, replace it with a new OEM Craftsman spool for your model, as a damaged spool will cause the string to jam or break frequently. Most replacement spools cost between $5 and $15, depending on the model.

Measuring and Cutting New String

Cutting the string to the correct length is critical to ensure it feeds properly and doesn’t jam during use:

1. Take your new string roll and cut a length that is 2 to 3 times the length of the old string you removed. Most Craftsman spools have a small notch or line on the side that indicates the correct length of string to use for that model, so you can measure against that if you’re unsure.
2. For standard bump-feed models, cut the string into two equal lengths. For fixed-line models, you will only need one long length of string, typically 10 to 15 feet, depending on your model’s requirements (check your user manual for exact specifications).
3. Cut the ends of the string cleanly with your string cutter or scissors. Frayed ends can catch on the spool or feed holes, causing jams and poor feeding performance.

Installing the New String

Properly winding and installing the string is the most important step to avoid feeding issues later:

1. Take one piece of the cut string and insert one end into the small hole in the center of the spool. Pull the string through until about 4 inches of string is sticking out of the hole on one side.
2. Repeat this step with the second piece of string, inserting one end into the center hole and pulling 4 inches through the opposite side. Both ends of the string should be sticking out of the feed holes on opposite sides of the spool.
3. Wind the string around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrow printed on the top of the spool (almost all Craftsman spools use a clockwise winding direction). Wind the string tightly and evenly, making sure the layers don’t overlap or cross over each other. Do not overwind the spool, as this can cause the string to bind and not feed properly when you bump the head.
4. Leave 4 to 6 inches of string sticking out of each feed hole once you’ve finished winding. This is the amount of string that will feed out when you bump the cutting head on the ground.
5. For fixed-line models: Thread the long piece of string through the center hole of the spool, then through the eyelet on the side of the cutting head housing. Pull the string tight, and tie a small knot at the end to secure it in place, or follow the specific instructions for your model to lock the string in place.

Reassembling and Testing

Once the string is installed correctly, reassemble the weed eater and test it to make sure everything works as expected:

1. Place the loaded spool back into the cutting head housing, aligning the tabs on the bottom of the spool with the slots in the housing. Make sure the spool sits flat and is fully seated in the housing.
2. Snap or twist the spool cover back on until it is secure. For twist-lock covers, turn it clockwise until it stops moving. For snap-on covers, press firmly around the edges until all the clips snap into place.
3. Reconnect the power source to your weed eater: reattach the spark plug wire for gas models, insert the battery for cordless models, or plug in the power cord for electric models.
4. Test the weed eater in a safe, open area free of people and pets. Turn it on and let it run for a few seconds, then bump the bottom of the cutting head on the ground a few times to release more string. Check that the string feeds out evenly from both sides, and that there is no unusual vibration, noise, or jamming. If the string does not feed, turn off the weed eater, disconnect the power source, and check that the string is wound in the correct direction, not overwound, and that the feed holes are clear of debris.

Comparison of Craftsman Weed Eater String Types

Choosing the right string type for your yard and usage habits will improve cutting performance and extend the life of your string. The table below compares the most common types of Craftsman-compatible weed eater string to help you select the best option for your needs:

For most residential Craftsman users, round or star-shaped .080 inch string is sufficient for regular grass and weed trimming. If you frequently tackle overgrown areas or thick brush, square or serrated .095 inch string will deliver better cutting performance.

Tips for Longer String Life

With proper care and maintenance, you can extend the life of your Craftsman weed eater string by 2 to 3 times, saving you money on replacements and reducing waste. Follow these best practices to get the most out of your string:

• Use the correct string diameter for your model: Using string that is too thick will put extra strain on the motor and cause the string to break more frequently, while string that is too thin will wear down quickly and not cut effectively.
• Avoid cutting against hard surfaces: Try to avoid letting the string hit rocks, concrete, curbs, or tree trunks while trimming, as these surfaces will fray and wear down the string much faster. If you need to edge along a hard surface, use the edge of the weed eater head instead of the string.
• Clean the spool housing regularly: After every 2-3 string replacements, wipe out the cutting head housing to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris that can build up and cause the string to jam or feed improperly.
• Store replacement string properly: Keep unused string in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, as UV exposure and extreme temperatures can make nylon string brittle and prone to breaking.
• Lubricate the spool shaft periodically: Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the spool shaft every 4-5 string changes to reduce friction and make the spool turn more smoothly, which improves string feeding.
• Don’t let the string wear down too far: Replace the string when it is worn down to 3 inches or less, as very short string is more likely to break and can damage the spool mechanism if you try to bump-feed more when there’s almost no string left.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When changing your Craftsman weed eater string, avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, frustration, and money on repairs:

1. Using the wrong string size: This is the most common mistake homeowners make. Using string that is too thick can overload the motor, cause the spool to jam, or even damage the transmission. Using string that is too thin will wear down quickly, break often, and not cut through thick vegetation effectively. Always check your model’s manual for the recommended string diameter.
2. Overwinding the string on the spool: Winding the string too tightly or adding too many layers will cause the spool to bind, preventing the string from feeding out when you bump the head. Wind the string tightly but leave a small gap between the layers to allow for smooth movement.
3. Forgetting to disconnect the power source: Accidentally starting the weed eater while working on the string can cause serious lacerations from the spinning string. Always disconnect the spark plug, battery, or power cord before starting any maintenance.
4. Installing the spool backwards: Many spools have an arrow indicating the correct winding direction, and some have a specific top and bottom orientation. Installing the spool upside down or backwards will prevent the string from feeding correctly.
5. Cutting the string too short: If you leave less than 3 inches of string sticking out of the feed holes, the string may not feed out when you bump the head, or it may break off completely. Always leave 4 to 6 inches of string exposed after installation.
6. Ignoring a damaged spool: If your spool has cracked edges, worn feed holes, or warping, replacing the string will not fix feeding issues. A damaged spool will cause the string to jam, break, or feed unevenly, so replace it with a new OEM spool if it shows any signs of wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my Craftsman weed eater string?

For light residential use (trimming grass and weeds once a week), change the string every 2 to 3 months. For heavier use on thick brush or overgrown areas, replace it every 4 to 6 weeks. Also replace it immediately if it is frayed, broken, or worn down to less than 3 inches in length.

Can I use third-party string in my Craftsman weed eater?

Yes, you can use third-party nylon trimmer string as long as it matches the recommended diameter for your model (usually .080 or .095 inch) and is made of high-quality nylon. Many third-party brands offer durable string at a lower cost than OEM options. That said, OEM Craftsman string is specifically designed to work with the spool feed mechanism, so it may reduce the risk of jams and improve feeding performance for some models.

Why is my new string not feeding properly?

Common causes are overwound string, string installed backwards, string cut too short, or debris in the feed holes. Disconnect power, remove the spool cover, and check each of these issues first. If the spool is damaged, replace it with a new one.

Do I need to replace the spool when changing string?

No, the spool is reusable unless it is cracked, warped, or has damaged feed holes. Only replace it if it shows physical damage, as most Craftsman spools last for dozens of string changes. Replacement spools for most models cost between $5 and $15.

What string diameter is best for my Craftsman weed eater?

Check your model’s manual, but most residential Craftsman models use .080 inch string for light grass and weeds, and .095 inch for thicker brush. Never use a larger diameter than recommended, as it can damage the motor.

Can I sharpen worn weed eater string instead of replacing it?

No, sharpening string creates uneven edges that cause vibration, poor cutting, and can break off as a dangerous projectile. Always replace worn string with fresh, properly cut nylon line, which is inexpensive and designed for single use.

Conclusion

Learning How to Change Weed Eater String Craftsman? is a simple, valuable DIY skill that every Craftsman weed eater owner should know. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can replace your weed eater string in 10 to 15 minutes with basic tools, no professional help required. Regular string replacements and proper maintenance will keep your Craftsman weed eater running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and ensure your yard stays neat and well-maintained all season long. Remember to always use the correct string diameter for your model, follow safety precautions, and avoid common mistakes like overwinding the string or using the wrong size. With these tips, you’ll get the most out of your Craftsman weed eater for years to come.