How to Put String in the Weed Eater? Full Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Weed eaters are one of the most versatile tools for keeping your yard neat, whether you’re trimming grass along walkways, clearing overgrown weeds, or edging your lawn. But like any power equipment, they require regular maintenance to work their best, and one of the most common tasks you’ll need to tackle is replacing the cutting string. If you’ve ever wondered how to put string in the weed eater, you’re not alone – this simple task can feel confusing if you’ve never done it before, especially with the variety of head types available on modern models.

This full, comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, no matter if you have a bump-feed, fixed-line, or dual-line weed eater head. We’ll cover the tools you’ll need, step-by-step instructions for each head type, how to wind string correctly to avoid jams, a comparison of common string types to help you choose the right one for your needs, tips to extend your string’s lifespan, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to replace your weed eater string quickly and safely, saving you money on professional maintenance and keeping your yard looking sharp all season long.

• Introduction
• Understanding Your Weed Eater’s String System
• Tools and Materials You’ll Need
• Step-by-Step Guide to Putting String in a Weed Eater
• How to Wind String Correctly to Avoid Jams
• Comparison of Common Weed Eater String Types
• Tips for Extending Your Weed Eater String’s Lifespan
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Weed Eater String
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Your Weed Eater’s String System

Before you learn how to put string in the weed eater, it’s helpful to understand the basic components of your tool’s string system, as the replacement process varies slightly depending on the type of head your model uses. All weed eaters use a rotating spool of nylon string to cut grass and weeds, but the way the string is fed out and replaced differs across head types.

Types of Weed Eater Heads

The three most common types of weed eater heads are bump-feed, fixed-line, and dual-line. Bump-feed heads are the most widely used for residential models: they release more string automatically when you tap the bottom of the head on the ground while the tool is running. Fixed-line heads, also called autofeed or push-button heads, have a pre-set length of string that you extend manually by pulling the loose end when it wears down, with no bumping required. Dual-line heads use two separate pieces of string for increased cutting power, making them ideal for thicker weeds and overgrown areas, and are available in both bump-feed and fixed-line variants.

What Size String Do You Need?

Weed eater string comes in diameters from 0.065 inches for light residential use up to 0.095 inches or thicker for commercial tools. The correct size is listed in your owner’s manual: using the wrong size can cause poor performance or damage. Thinner string works well for light grass, while thicker string cuts thicker vegetation but requires a more powerful tool to operate without straining the engine.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Replacing your weed eater string requires no special tools, and most of the items you’ll need are likely already in your garage or toolbox. Before you start, gather the following:

• Replacement weed eater string (cut to the diameter specified in your owner’s manual)
• Sharp scissors or a utility knife for cutting string to length
• Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp string edges
• Safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris and flying string
• A small flathead screwdriver (only if your spool cap is stuck and difficult to remove)
• A clean rag for wiping grass and debris off the head before you start

Having all these materials ready before you begin will make the process faster and more efficient, and help you avoid unnecessary delays mid-task.

Step-by-Step Guide to Putting String in a Weed Eater

Before you start any work on your weed eater, the most important safety step is to disconnect the spark plug wire (for gas models) or unplug the tool (for electric models) to prevent accidental starting. Wear your work gloves and safety glasses throughout the process to avoid cuts from sharp string edges. The exact steps vary slightly depending on your head type, so follow the instructions for your specific model below.

For Bump-Feed Heads

Bump-feed heads are the most common type for residential weed eaters, and replacing the string is a quick process: (See Also:How Do I Start A Stihl Weed Eater)

1. Locate the spool cap on the bottom of the weed eater head, and twist or pry it off (depending on your model) to access the internal spool.
2. Pull the old spool out of the head, and remove any remaining old string from the spool.
3. Cut a 10 to 15 foot length of new string, using the size recommended in your owner’s manual.
4. Insert one end of the string into the small anchor hole on the side of the spool, and pull it through until the end is secure.
5. Wind the string neatly around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrows printed on the spool (almost always clockwise for bump-feed models). Keep the string tight and avoid overlapping as you wind.
6. Leave 4 to 6 inches of string sticking out of the spool’s feed port, and tuck the remaining end into the notch on the spool to hold it in place. Reinsert the spool into the head, making sure the string feeds through the correct port at the bottom of the head.
7. Pull the loose end of the string to extend it to the correct cutting length (usually 4 to 6 inches from the head).
8. Trim any excess string with your scissors, reattach the spool cap, and test the tool.

For Fixed-Line Heads

Fixed-line heads don’t require bumping to release string, and replacement is just as simple:

1. Disconnect the spark plug or power source for safety, then remove the spool cap from the bottom of the head.
2. Pull out any remaining old string from the head and spool.
3. Cut a 10 to 12 foot length of new string to the size specified in your manual.
4. Thread one end of the string through the small eyelet at the bottom of the head, pulling it through until both ends of the string are roughly equal length.
5. Wind the string around the internal spool in the direction of the arrows printed on the spool (usually clockwise), keeping it tight and neat.
6. Leave 4 to 6 inches of string sticking out of the eyelet at the bottom of the head, and tuck the remaining end into the notch on the spool to secure it.
7. Reattach the spool cap, then pull the loose end of the string to extend it to the correct cutting length, trim any excess, and test the tool.

For Dual-Line Heads

Dual-line heads use two separate strings for more cutting power, and the replacement process is similar to bump-feed heads but requires a bit more care to avoid tangling:

1. Disconnect the spark plug or power source, then remove the spool cap and pull out the old spool.
2. Cut two equal lengths of string (10 to 15 feet each) to the size recommended for your model.
3. Insert one end of each string into the separate anchor holes on the spool, and pull the ends through to secure them.
4. Wind each string around the spool in opposite directions, following the arrows printed on the spool (one will wind clockwise, the other counter-clockwise). Keep the strings tight and avoid overlapping as you wind.
5. Leave 4 to 6 inches of each string sticking out of the spool’s feed ports, and tuck the remaining ends into the notches on the spool to hold them in place.
6. Reinsert the spool into the head, making sure the two strings do not cross or tangle as you seat the spool.
7. Pull both loose ends to extend them to the correct length, trim excess, reattach the cap, and test the tool to ensure both lines feed correctly.

How to Wind String Correctly to Avoid Jams

One of the most common issues homeowners face when learning how to put string in the weed eater is tangled or jammed string, which almost always happens because the string was wound incorrectly. To avoid this problem, always follow these guidelines when winding your string:

• Always wind the string in the direction indicated by the arrows on the spool. Winding the string backwards will cause it to tangle when you try to use the tool, and it will not feed properly when you bump the head or pull the trigger.
• Keep the string tight and neat as you wind, but don’t overtighten it. Overtightening can bind the spool and make it impossible to pull out more string when the cutting line wears down.
• Make sure the string is seated properly in the grooves on the spool as you wind, to prevent it from slipping out of place and tangling.
• Don’t overlap the string as you wind – overlapping creates bumps that can catch and cause jams.
• Always leave 4 to 6 inches of string sticking out of the feed port after winding, so the string can feed properly when you need more length.

If you do experience a jam, disconnect the power source, remove the spool, and untangle the string before rewinding it correctly. Taking a few extra seconds to wind the string properly the first time will save you time and frustration later.

Comparison of Common Weed Eater String Types

Not all weed eater string is created equal, and the type you choose will impact how well your tool performs and how long the string lasts. Below is a comparison of the most common string types to help you select the right one for your needs:

For most residential homeowners, round or square string is more than sufficient for regular yard maintenance. If you frequently tackle thick, overgrown areas or use your weed eater for commercial work, star-shaped or coated string will last longer and cut more effectively. Always match the string diameter to your tool’s specifications, even if you choose a more durable material.

Tips for Extending Your Weed Eater String’s Lifespan

Replacing weed eater string adds up over time, so these tips will help you get more use out of every spool:

• Always use the string size recommended by your manufacturer. Using a larger diameter than specified puts extra strain on the engine and wears the string down faster, while smaller string breaks easily and wears out quickly.
• Avoid cutting against hard surfaces like concrete, rocks, tree trunks, or fence posts, as these dull the string’s cutting edge almost instantly.
• Wipe the string and head clean after each use to remove grass, dirt, and debris that can build up and weaken the string over time.
• Store your weed eater in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. UV exposure and high temperatures can cause nylon string to become brittle and break more easily.
• Only extend the string to the length recommended in your manual (usually 4 to 6 inches). Longer string creates more drag on the head, causing it to wear out faster and reducing cutting efficiency.
• Apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the string occasionally to reduce friction, prevent tangling, and extend its lifespan.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your weed eater string by 20-50%, saving you money and reducing the time you spend on maintenance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Weed Eater String

Avoid these common errors to make re-stringing faster and ensure your tool works correctly: (See Also:How Many Horsepower Does A Weed Eater Have)

• Skipping the safety step of disconnecting the spark plug or power source: This is the most dangerous mistake you can make. A weed eater can start accidentally if the trigger is bumped while you’re working on the head, leading to serious cuts or injury. Always disconnect the power first.
• Using the wrong string size: As mentioned earlier, using string that’s too thick can damage the head or engine, while string that’s too thin will break constantly and cut poorly. Always check your manual for the recommended diameter.
• Winding the string in the wrong direction: Ignoring the arrows on the spool will cause the string to tangle, jam, or fail to feed properly. Take a second to check the direction before you start winding.
• Not leaving enough string sticking out: If you don’t leave 4 to 6 inches of string exposed after winding, the string won’t feed when you bump the head or pull the trigger, and you’ll have to redo the entire process.
• Overtightening the spool cap: Tightening the cap as much as possible will bind the spool and prevent the string from feeding. Tighten it just enough so it doesn’t fall off, but don’t force it.
• Using old, frayed, or brittle string: Even if there is still string left on the spool, if it’s frayed, worn down, or brittle from age or UV exposure, it will break frequently and cut poorly. Replace it with fresh string for best performance.

Avoiding these mistakes will make the re-stringing process much smoother, and ensure your weed eater runs reliably every time you use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to replace my weed eater string?

Replacement frequency depends on use. For light residential trimming (a few times per month), replace string every 3 to 6 months. For daily use cutting thick weeds or brush, replace it every 1 to 2 months. For bump-feed heads, you can often pull out more string instead of replacing the spool if the remaining string is in good condition.

Can I use any size string in my weed eater?

No, always use the size recommended in your owner’s manual. String that’s too thick can damage the head or engine, while string that’s too thin breaks easily and cuts poorly. Most residential models use 0.065 to 0.080 inch string; commercial models use 0.095 inch or thicker.

Why does my weed eater string keep breaking?

Frequent breakage is usually caused by 4 issues: wrong string size, cutting against hard surfaces, old/brittle string from UV exposure, or incorrect winding causing tangles. Fix this by using the correct size, avoiding hard surfaces, replacing old string, and following the spool’s winding direction arrows.

How do I know if my weed eater has a bump-feed or fixed-line head?

Look at the bottom of the head: bump-feed heads have a small bump knob you tap on the ground to release string, while fixed-line heads have no knob and use an eyelet to thread string. You can also check your owner’s manual for confirmation. (See Also:How To Change String In Weed Eater)

Can I use a metal blade instead of string?

Only if your model is explicitly rated for blades in the owner’s manual. Using an incompatible blade can cause injury, damage your tool, and void your warranty. For most residential use, string is safer and more effective.

Conclusion

Learning how to put string in the weed eater is a simple, valuable skill that every homeowner with a yard should know. This maintenance task takes just 5 to 10 minutes, costs a few dollars for replacement string, and saves you the hassle of paying for professional maintenance or replacing the entire head when the string runs out. The key steps to success are always disconnecting the power source first for safety, using the correct string size and type for your head, winding the string in the direction indicated on the spool, and avoiding common mistakes like overtightening the cap or using the wrong string size.

Whether you have a bump-feed, fixed-line, or dual-line head, following the step-by-step instructions in this guide will ensure your weed eater runs smoothly and cuts effectively every time you use it. By following the tips for extending your string’s lifespan, you can get even more use out of each spool and reduce how often you need to perform this maintenance. If you ever run into issues, refer back to the common mistakes section or the FAQ for quick solutions. With a little practice, re-stringing your weed eater will become a quick, routine task that keeps your yard looking its best all season long.