How Do You String a Craftsman Weed Eater? Rewind Guide

Introduction

If you own a Craftsman weed eater, you already know how reliable and durable these tools are for tackling overgrown grass, weeds, and edging around your property. But like any outdoor power equipment, the cutting string will eventually wear down, fray, or break, leaving you wondering How Do You String a Craftsman Weed Eater? Many homeowners assume restringing is a complicated task that requires a trip to the repair shop, but the process is actually simple, inexpensive, and can be done at home in 10 minutes or less with basic tools. Whether you have a gas-powered, electric, or battery-operated Craftsman model, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of restringing your weed eater, including how to choose the right string, avoid common mistakes, and troubleshoot issues that may arise. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to keep your Craftsman weed eater running smoothly all season long, without paying for costly professional repairs.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Craftsman Weed Eater String Types
• Tools and Materials You’ll Need
• Safety Precautions Before Starting
• Step-by-Step Guide to Stringing a Craftsman Weed Eater
• Stringing Tips for Different Craftsman Models
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Maintenance Tips to Extend String Life
• Troubleshooting Common Stringing Issues
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Craftsman Weed Eater String Types

Before you purchase replacement string for your Craftsman weed eater, it is important to understand the different types and gauges available, as using the wrong string can lead to poor performance, frequent breakage, or even damage to your tool. Craftsman weed eaters are designed to work with three main types of cutting string, each suited for different tasks and models.

Round vs. Square Edge String

Round edge string is the most common type used for residential lawn care. It is smooth, cylindrical, and relatively quiet during operation, making it ideal for light trimming tasks like cutting grass, weeds around flower beds, and maintaining neat edges along walkways. Round string is also the most affordable option, and works well with all standard Craftsman gas, electric, and battery models.

Square edge string, also called square-cut or quad-cut string, has four flat sides that act like small blades, cutting through thicker, tougher vegetation more cleanly and efficiently than round string. It is best suited for overgrown weeds, thick brush, and edging along driveways or sidewalks where you need a crisp, clean cut. The downside to square string is that it is louder during operation and wears down faster when cutting against hard surfaces like concrete.

Serrated edge string has small teeth along its length, designed to saw through dense, woody vegetation like thick brush, small saplings, and overgrown brambles. It is the most heavy-duty option, but it is also the loudest and wears down the fastest. Serrated string is only compatible with professional-grade Craftsman gas models with high-powered motors, as it places more strain on the cutting mechanism than standard residential models can handle.

String Thickness (Gauges) Explained

In addition to edge type, cutting string is categorized by its thickness, measured in inches and referred to as gauge. The most common gauges for Craftsman weed eaters are 0.065″, 0.080″, and 0.095″, with thicker gauges being more durable but requiring more power to operate.

0.065″ string is the thinnest option, best for light-duty residential use on gas, electric, and battery models. It is easy to feed, quiet, and works well for trimming regular grass and small weeds. 0.080″ string is a mid-weight option, suitable for thicker weeds, light brush, and edging, and works with most mid to high-powered Craftsman models. 0.095″ is the thickest standard gauge, designed for heavy-duty commercial use on high-power gas models, and can cut through dense brush and overgrown vegetation with ease.

Always check your model’s user manual for the maximum recommended gauge, as using string that is too thick can overload the motor, reduce runtime on battery models, and cause the spool to jam. Using string that is too thin will break easily and wear out quickly, leading to more frequent restringing.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Restringing your Craftsman weed eater requires only a few basic tools and materials, most of which you may already have in your garage or toolbox. Having everything ready before you start will make the process faster and more efficient.

• Replacement cutting string: Choose the correct gauge and type for your Craftsman model, as outlined in the previous section. You can purchase official Craftsman replacement string, or high-quality third-party string that matches the required specifications.
• Work gloves: Cutting string has extremely sharp edges that can cut your hands easily, especially when handling new, unused string. A pair of sturdy work gloves will protect your skin from nicks and cuts.
• Safety glasses: When removing the spool or testing the weed eater, small debris or broken string can fly toward your face. Safety glasses will protect your eyes from injury.
• Flathead screwdriver: Most Craftsman spools are easy to remove by hand, but if the spool is stuck due to built-up grime or overtightening, a flathead screwdriver will help you pry it loose without damaging the spool or housing.
• Needle-nose pliers: These are helpful for pulling out tangled old string, adjusting the spool if it is stuck, and holding small parts in place while you work.
• Wire cutters: You will need these to cut the replacement string to the correct length, and to trim off any excess after winding. Sharp wire cutters will give you a clean, even cut to prevent fraying.
• String winding tool (optional): Many Craftsman models come with a small plastic winding tool that attaches to the end of the string to make winding faster and tighter. If you do not have one, you can wind the string by hand with no issues.

Once you have all these materials gathered, you will be ready to start the restringing process.

Safety Precautions Before Starting

Before you remove the spool from your Craftsman weed eater, it is critical to follow these safety steps to avoid accidental injury. Weed eaters have sharp cutting strings that can cause serious cuts, and accidental startup while working on the cutting head is a common cause of preventable injuries.

• Disconnect the power source: For gas-powered Craftsman models, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent the engine from starting accidentally. For corded electric models, unplug the unit from the wall outlet. For battery-operated models, remove the battery pack entirely from the tool’s housing. Even if you think the tool is off, disconnecting the power source eliminates the risk of accidental startup.
• Wear protective gear: In addition to safety glasses and work gloves, wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect your legs and feet from sharp string edges. Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the cutting head.
• Work on a flat, stable surface: Lay the weed eater on a workbench or the ground in a well-lit area so you can see the spool and housing clearly. This will prevent the tool from tipping over while you work.
• Keep children and pets away: Make sure no one else is in the area while you are working on the weed eater, especially if you have a gas model that could be accidentally started.

Taking these simple precautions will keep you safe while you work, and ensure the restringing process goes smoothly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Stringing a Craftsman Weed Eater

Now that you have the right string, tools, and safety gear, follow these simple steps to restring your Craftsman weed eater. These steps work for nearly all Craftsman gas, electric, and battery models, but always refer to your model’s user manual for any model-specific instructions.

Step 1: Prepare the Weed Eater

Start by laying your Craftsman weed eater on a flat, stable surface, with the cutting head facing up. Confirm that you have disconnected the power source (spark plug, power cord, or battery) and are wearing your safety glasses and gloves. If your model has a guard over the cutting head, remove it now to access the spool. Some Craftsman models have a small release tab on the side of the cutting head housing that you will need to press to release the spool later, so take a moment to locate it before moving on.

Step 2: Remove Old String and Spool

Locate the spool release knob or button on the bottom of the cutting head. Turn the knob counterclockwise (left) to loosen it, then pull the spool straight out of the housing. If the spool does not come out easily, use your flathead screwdriver to gently pry it loose, being careful not to damage the spool or the plastic housing. Once the spool is removed, pull off any remaining old string, and use a dry cloth to wipe down the spool and the inside of the housing to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris. Built-up grime can cause the new string to jam or feed incorrectly, so cleaning this area is an important step many people skip.

Step 3: Measure and Cut New String

Take your replacement string and measure a length that is 2 to 3 times the length of the old string you removed. For most standard Craftsman models, this will be between 10 and 15 feet of string for a single-line spool, or 20 to 30 feet total (two equal 10-15 foot lengths) for a dual-line spool. If you are unsure of the exact length for your model, check the user manual, as some larger gas models require up to 20 feet of string per line. Cut the string with sharp wire cutters to ensure a clean, even edge—jagged cuts will cause the string to fray and break quickly during use. If you are using a dual-line model, make sure both lengths of string are exactly the same to avoid an unbalanced spool that will cause the weed eater to vibrate excessively.

Step 4: Wind the String Onto the Spool

This is the most critical step in the restringing process, and doing it correctly will prevent most common feeding and jamming issues. First, locate the small arrow printed on the side of the spool—this arrow indicates the correct direction to wind the string. Winding the string in the opposite direction will cause it to feed incorrectly when you operate the weed eater, so always follow the arrow.

For single-line spools: Take one end of the cut string and insert it into the small notch or hole on the spool, then begin winding the string tightly and evenly around the spool, following the direction of the arrow. Wind the string as tightly as possible to prevent it from slipping or tangling in the spool. Leave 6 to 8 inches of string hanging out of the notch or hole to secure it in place when you reinstall the spool.

For dual-line spools: Insert one end of each cut string into the separate notches on opposite sides of the spool. Wind each length of string tightly and evenly around its respective side of the spool, following the arrow direction. Leave 6 to 8 inches of string hanging out of each notch, making sure the two ends are equal in length to keep the spool balanced.

If you have a string winding tool, attach it to the end of the string before winding to make the process faster and ensure the string is wound as tightly as possible. If you are winding by hand, use your fingers to press the string down firmly as you wind to avoid gaps or overlapping.

Step 5: Reinstall the Spool and Test

Once the string is wound onto the spool, align the spool with the housing, making sure the notches with the string ends fit into the corresponding slots on the housing. Push the spool in firmly until you hear a click, indicating it is seated correctly. Turn the release knob clockwise (right) to lock the spool in place, making sure it is tight enough that the spool does not spin freely when you try to turn it by hand.

Reconnect the power source: attach the spark plug wire for gas models, plug in the cord for electric models, or reinsert the battery for cordless models. Turn on the weed eater on low speed first to test the string. If the string feeds correctly and does not tangle, you can test it on a patch of grass at full speed. If the string does not feed, turn off the weed eater immediately, remove the spool, and check that the string is seated correctly in the slots and wound in the right direction. Once the string feeds properly, your Craftsman weed eater is ready to use.

Stringing Tips for Different Craftsman Models

While the basic restringing process is the same for all Craftsman weed eaters, there are a few model-specific tips to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance.

Gas-Powered Models

Craftsman gas-powered weed eaters, such as the CMXGZAM120450 and CMXGZAM290, are designed for heavy-duty use and can handle thicker string gauges up to 0.095″. These models usually have larger spools that hold more string, reducing how often you need to restring. When stringing a gas model, make sure the string is wound as tightly as possible, as loose string can slip in the spool and cause feeding issues. Most gas Craftsman models use a bump-feed system, which means you need to tap the bottom of the cutting head on the ground to release more string as you work. Make sure the string ends are 6 to 8 inches long, as this is the minimum length needed to trigger the bump-feed mechanism. If you have an older gas model, you may need to manually adjust the string length by pulling it out by hand if the bump-feed mechanism is worn out.

Electric and Battery Models

Craftsman electric and battery-powered weed eaters, like the CMXETC420 and CMXGTAG420, are lighter and quieter than gas models, but have smaller motors that require thinner string (0.065″ to 0.080″) to avoid overloading. When restringing these models, be careful not to overfill the spool, as this can cause the string to jam or the motor to overheat. Corded electric models should always be unplugged from the outlet before removing the spool, and battery models should have the battery removed entirely to avoid accidental startup. Many newer battery Craftsman models have an automatic feed system that releases string as needed without tapping the head, so you only need to make sure the string ends are 4 to 6 inches long for these models.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced DIYers can make mistakes when restringing a Craftsman weed eater, leading to poor performance, frequent breakage, or even damage to the tool. Avoid these common errors to make the process as smooth as possible:

1. Winding the string in the wrong direction: This is the most frequent mistake homeowners make. If you wind the string backwards, it will not feed correctly when you operate the weed eater, and may even tangle and jam the spool. Always check the arrow on the spool before you start winding, and follow it exactly.
2. Using string that is too thick for your model: It can be tempting to use the thickest, most durable string available to reduce how often you restring, but string that exceeds your model’s maximum recommended gauge will strain the motor, cause the spool to jam, and reduce performance for electric and battery models. Always check your user manual for the maximum gauge before purchasing replacement string.
3. Overfilling the spool: Adding extra string to the spool may seem like a way to extend the time between restringing, but overfilling causes the string to overlap and tangle, leading to jams, broken string, and poor cutting performance. Wind the string tightly, but stop when the spool is full, leaving a small gap between the string and the edge of the spool.
4. Not tightening the spool release knob enough: If the spool is not locked in place firmly, it can spin or fall out while you are operating the weed eater, leading to lost string, jammed spools, or even injury. After reinstalling the spool, turn the release knob clockwise as tight as possible, and test that the spool does not spin freely by hand.
5. Skipping the cleaning step: Failing to wipe down the spool and housing before installing the new spool can leave behind grass clippings, dirt, and debris that cause the string to jam or feed incorrectly. Take an extra 30 seconds to clean the area before installing the new spool to avoid issues later.

Maintenance Tips to Extend String Life

Proper maintenance of your Craftsman weed eater will not only extend the life of your cutting string, but also keep the tool running smoothly for years. Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your string and your weed eater:

• Clean the cutting head after each use: Wipe off grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the spool and housing after every use. Built-up grime can cause the string to wear down faster and jam in the spool, leading to more frequent breakage.
• Store replacement string properly: Keep spare cutting string in a dry, sealed container away from direct sunlight and moisture. Exposure to humidity can weaken the string, making it more likely to break during use.
• Avoid cutting near hard surfaces: Cutting string wears down much faster when it comes into contact with rocks, concrete, fence posts, or other hard surfaces. If you need to edge along a hard surface, take extra care to avoid contact, or use a dedicated edger for the task.
• Inspect the string before each use: Check the string for fraying, wear, or uneven edges before you start trimming. Replace it as soon as you notice damage to avoid breakage while operating the weed eater, which can be dangerous if the broken string flies toward you or bystanders.
• Match the string to the job: Don’t use heavy-duty square or serrated string for light trimming tasks, as it will wear down faster than needed and be louder than round string. Using the correct string type for the vegetation you are cutting will extend its life and improve performance.
• Lubricate the spool axle annually: If you have a gas-powered Craftsman model, apply a small amount of light machine oil to the spool axle once a year to keep it spinning smoothly. This will reduce friction and prevent the spool from sticking, which can cause feeding issues.

Troubleshooting Common Stringing Issues

Even if you follow all the steps correctly, you may encounter issues with your Craftsman weed eater after restringing. Here are solutions to the most common problems:

1. String will not feed when operating: First, confirm that the string is wound in the correct direction, matching the arrow on the spool. Next, check that the string ends are long enough (6-8 inches for most models, 4-6 inches for automatic feed models) and are seated correctly in the spool slots. If the string is too short, it will not trigger the feed mechanism. If you have a bump-feed model, make sure you are tapping the bottom of the cutting head firmly on the ground to release more string. If the feed mechanism is still not working, remove the spool and clean out any debris from the housing that may be clogging the feed channel.
2. String keeps breaking during use: First, confirm that you are using the correct gauge string for your model and the type of vegetation you are cutting. Thin string will break easily when cutting thick weeds. Next, check that the string is wound tightly and evenly on the spool, with no tangles or overlapping. A tangled spool will cause the string to catch and break. Finally, inspect the cutting head—if it is dull, it will put excess friction on the string, causing it to break. Sharpen or replace the cutting head if needed.
3. Weed eater vibrates excessively after restringing: This is almost always caused by an unbalanced spool, either from uneven winding or the spool not being seated correctly in the housing. Remove the spool, rewind the string tightly and evenly, making sure both sides of a dual-line spool have equal tension. Reinstall the spool firmly until it clicks into place, and make sure the release knob is tightened completely. If the vibration persists, check that the cutting head is not damaged or loose.
4. String feeds too much or too little: If the string feeds too much, it is likely wound too loosely on the spool, or the spool is overfilled. Rewind the string tightly, and do not exceed the maximum fill line on the spool. If the string feeds too little, the ends may be too short, or the spool may be installed incorrectly. Trim the string ends to the correct length, and make sure the spool is locked in place properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to the most common questions homeowners have about stringing their Craftsman weed eaters.

How Often Should I Replace the String on My Craftsman Weed Eater?

The frequency depends on usage and cutting conditions. For light residential use (trimming grass once a week), replace the string every 1 to 2 months. For heavy use cutting thick weeds or overgrown brush, replace it every 2 to 3 weeks. Always inspect the string before each use, and replace it immediately if you notice fraying, wear, or uneven edges to avoid breakage during operation.

Can I Use Any Replacement String for My Craftsman Weed Eater?

No, always use string that matches the gauge and type recommended in your model’s user manual. String that is too thick can overload the motor, cause jams, and reduce performance, while string that is too thin breaks easily. Official Craftsman string is reliable, but high-quality third-party string of the correct gauge works just as well for most models.

Why Does My String Keep Breaking After I String It?

Repeated breakage is usually caused by one of four issues: 1) Using string that is too thin for the vegetation you are cutting. 2) Uneven or tangled winding in the spool. 3) A dull cutting head that creates excess friction. 4) Cutting near hard surfaces like rocks or concrete. Fix this by using the correct gauge string for your model and job, winding the string tightly and evenly, sharpening the cutting head if it is dull, and avoiding contact with hard surfaces whenever possible.

How Much String Do I Need for a Spool?

Most single-line Craftsman spools need 10 to 15 feet of string, while dual-line spools need 20 to 30 feet total (two equal lengths). Exact requirements vary by model, so check your user manual. Cut slightly more than you think you need, as excess can be trimmed, but too little will leave the string too short to feed correctly.

Is It Better to Wind String by Hand or With a Tool?

Both methods work well. A winding tool makes the process faster and ensures tight, even winding to prevent tangles, but hand winding is perfectly fine if you take care to wind tightly and follow the spool’s direction arrow. Many Craftsman models include a winding tool in the original packaging for this purpose.

Conclusion

Restringing a Craftsman weed eater is a simple, cost-effective task that every homeowner can master with the right guidance. As this guide has shown, the answer to How Do You String a Craftsman Weed Eater? comes down to choosing the correct string type and gauge for your model, following the step-by-step restringing process, and avoiding common mistakes like winding the string in the wrong direction or overfilling the spool. By taking the time to restring your weed eater yourself, you can save money on repair shop visits, extend the life of your tool, and ensure it performs at its best for every trimming and edging job. With regular maintenance and proper restringing techniques, your Craftsman weed eater will remain a reliable part of your lawn care routine for years to come. The next time your cutting string wears out, skip the trip to the repair shop and restring it yourself in minutes—you’ll be surprised how easy it is once you know the steps.