How to Replace Craftsman Weed Eater String? Craftsman Restring

Introduction

There’s nothing more frustrating than starting a yard work session only to have your Craftsman weed eater sputter and stop cutting halfway through a patch of overgrown weeds. Worn, frayed, or broken string is one of the most common causes of poor trimmer performance, and replacing it is a simple, low-cost DIY task that takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Many homeowners assume they need to take their trimmer to a repair shop or buy a pre-strung replacement head, but learning how to replace Craftsman weed eater string? will save you time and money while keeping your equipment in top shape year after year. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from identifying your trimmer’s head type to step-by-step restring instructions, troubleshooting tips, and best practices for extending the life of your string.

• Understanding Your Craftsman Weed Eater’s String System
• Signs You Need to Replace Your Craftsman Weed Eater String
• Tools and Materials You’ll Need for a Craftsman Restring
• Safety Precautions Before Starting the Restring Process
• Step-by-Step Restring Guide
• Post-Restring Adjustments, Tips, and Troubleshooting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Your Craftsman Weed Eater’s String System

Craftsman manufactures a wide range of gas-powered, cordless, and corded weed eaters for both residential and commercial use, and most models use one of two primary string feed systems: bump feed and fixed line. The restring process varies slightly between these two head types, so identifying which one your trimmer uses is the first step to a successful Craftsman restring.

Bump feed heads are the most common on residential Craftsman weed eaters. They feature a spring-loaded spool that releases more string when you tap the bottom of the head on the ground while the trimmer is running. This design is convenient for quick adjustments on the fly, making it ideal for casual yard work. Fixed line heads, also called semi-automatic or manual feed heads, are more common on heavy-duty commercial Craftsman models. With these heads, you must manually pull out more string from the spool and cut it to length when the existing string wears down. While they require a bit more effort to adjust, fixed line heads are less prone to jamming and work better with thicker, more durable string for cutting tough brush.

Most residential Craftsman weed eaters use 0.080-inch or 0.095-inch diameter string, which is thin enough to feed smoothly through bump feed heads but durable enough for grass and light weeds. Commercial-grade Craftsman models typically use 0.105-inch or thicker string to handle dense brush and woody vegetation. In addition to diameter, string comes in a variety of cross-sectional shapes, each designed for different cutting tasks. To help you choose the right string for your needs, here’s a comparison of the most common types:

No matter which string type you choose, always confirm it matches the diameter specified for your Craftsman model to avoid jams and poor performance.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Craftsman Weed Eater String

Worn string doesn’t just reduce your trimmer’s cutting power—it can also cause permanent damage to the engine or motor if left unaddressed, leading to reduced fuel efficiency for gas models or shorter battery life for cordless units. Here are the most common signs that it’s time to replace your Craftsman weed eater string:

• String is frayed, split, or worn down to less than 3 inches in length
• Inconsistent cutting performance, with clumps of grass or weeds left behind after each pass
• String jams frequently, even after adjusting the feed mechanism
• You have to tap the bump feed head repeatedly to release more string while working
• Visible nicks, cuts, or worn edges on the string
• String is too short to extend past the edge of the head guard

If you notice any of these signs, restring your trimmer as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary strain on the equipment and ensure efficient, even cutting.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need for a Craftsman Restring

One of the best parts of restringing your Craftsman weed eater is that you don’t need any specialized tools or expensive equipment. All the supplies you need are inexpensive and easy to find at any hardware store or home improvement center. Here’s what to gather before you start:

• Replacement Craftsman-compatible string (correct diameter for your model)
• Scissors or dedicated string trimmer line cutter
• Work gloves (to protect your hands from sharp string edges)
• Flathead screwdriver (for prying open stuck spool covers on some models)
• Small brush (to clean grass clippings and debris from the spool)
• Clean rag (to wipe down the head and shaft)
• Owner’s manual (optional, but helpful for model-specific instructions)

If you don’t have the old string to reference for diameter, check your owner’s manual or the label on the trimmer shaft for the correct size. Using the wrong diameter string is one of the most common causes of post-restring jams, so double-check this detail before purchasing replacement string.

Safety Precautions Before Starting the Restring Process

While restringing a weed eater is a low-risk task, taking a few basic safety precautions will prevent injuries and damage to your equipment. Follow these steps before you start working on your trimmer:

• Disconnect power completely: For gas-powered Craftsman models, remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental startup. For cordless models, remove the battery pack, and for corded models, unplug the trimmer from the outlet. Never work on the head while the trimmer is connected to a power source.
• Wear safety glasses: Sharp string ends and flying debris can cause eye injuries, so wear ANSI-rated safety glasses throughout the restring process.
• Wear work gloves: New trimmer string has sharp edges that can cut your hands, especially when you’re pulling it tight or winding it around the spool.
• Work in a well-ventilated area: If you’re working on a gas-powered model, avoid enclosed spaces to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Clear your work area: Remove any tripping hazards, tools, or debris from around your workspace, and ensure the area is dry to avoid slipping while you work.

Taking these simple precautions will ensure you can complete the restring safely and without incident.

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

The restring process varies slightly depending on whether your Craftsman weed eater has a bump feed or fixed line head. Follow the instructions below for your specific head type to complete the restring quickly and correctly.

Bump Feed Head Instructions

Bump feed heads are the most common on residential Craftsman models, and the restring process takes less than 10 minutes for most users. Follow these steps:

1. Disconnect power to the weed eater by removing the spark plug wire from gas models, or taking out the battery from cordless units. This prevents accidental startup while you work.
2. Locate the line release button or tab on the bottom of the bump feed head. Press and hold it while rotating the head counterclockwise to remove it from the trimmer shaft. Set the head aside on a clean surface.
3. Empty any remaining old string from the head’s spool. Most bump feed heads have a small access port or removable spool cover; use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it open if it’s stuck. Pull out all leftover string and discard it.
4. Measure and cut a 10 to 15 foot length of your replacement string. For most residential Craftsman bump feed heads, this is the ideal length to fill the spool without overstuffing it.
5. Fold the cut string in half to find the center point. Insert the center fold into the notch on the center of the spool, then wind each half of the string around the spool in opposite directions, following the directional arrows printed on the spool. Wind tightly but not so tight that the string pinches or kinks. Leave 4 to 6 inches of string extending from each side of the spool.
6. Thread the two loose ends of the string through the eyelets on the head, pulling them through until they extend 2 to 3 inches past the head guard. Make sure the string is seated properly in the spool notch so it doesn’t slip out during winding.
7. Reassemble the head by snapping the spool cover back into place, then reattaching the head to the trimmer shaft. Align the head’s locking tab with the slot on the shaft, then rotate clockwise until it clicks into place.
8. Reconnect the spark plug or battery, then test the weed eater by tapping the head on the ground while it’s running. If string feeds out smoothly, the restring is complete. If not, double-check that the string is wound in the correct direction and seated properly in the spool.

Fixed Line Head Instructions

Fixed line heads are more common on heavy-duty commercial Craftsman models, and while the restring process is slightly more involved, it’s still a simple DIY task. Follow these steps:

1. Disconnect power to the weed eater by removing the spark plug wire or battery, just as you would for a bump feed head.
2. Remove the fixed line head from the trimmer shaft. Most Craftsman fixed line heads have a locking nut on the bottom; use a wrench to loosen it, then pull the head straight off the shaft. Set the head aside.
3. Remove the spool cover and take out the old spool with any remaining string. Discard the old string.
4. Cut a 10 to 12 foot length of replacement string. Fixed line heads typically require slightly less string than bump feed models, as you will cut the ends to length after installation.
5. Thread one end of the string through the hole in the center of the spool, pulling it through until 2 to 3 inches of string extends from the bottom of the spool. Tie a simple overhand knot in the short end to secure it to the spool, then pull the knot tight against the spool base.
6. Wind the string tightly around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrow on the spool, leaving 4 to 6 inches of string extending from the top of the spool when you’re done. Wind evenly to avoid overlapping or gaps in the string layers.
7. Thread the loose end of the string through the eyelet on the head, then pull it out until it extends 6 to 8 inches past the head guard. Do not cut the string yet.
8. Reassemble the head by snapping the spool cover back on, then reattaching the head to the trimmer shaft and tightening the locking nut.
9. Reconnect power, then turn on the weed eater. Extend the string fully by pressing the line release button (if equipped) or manually pulling the string out to its full length. Cut both ends of the string evenly with a string cutter so they are the same length as the head guard, usually 6 to 8 inches from the head.
10. Test the weed eater to make sure the string cuts evenly and does not jam. If the string is too long, trim it slightly; if it’s too short, pull out more and cut to length.

Post-Restring Adjustments, Tips, and Troubleshooting

After restringing your Craftsman weed eater, you may need to make minor adjustments to optimize performance, and following a few best practices will extend the life of your string and your trimmer. This section covers string length adjustment, tips for longevity, common mistakes to avoid, and troubleshooting for post-restring issues.

Adjusting String Length

The correct string length is usually 6 to 8 inches past the edge of the head guard, as this provides enough cutting surface without creating excess drag that reduces battery life or fuel efficiency. For bump feed heads, adjust the length by tapping the bottom of the head on the ground 2 to 3 times while the trimmer is running to release more string, then trim both ends evenly to the correct length with a string cutter. For fixed line heads, manually pull out the desired length of string, then cut both ends evenly. Many Craftsman models also feature an adjustable guard that lets you change the cutting width, which is useful for edging along fences or garden beds.

Tips for Extending String Life

• Use the correct string diameter for your model: thicker string is more durable but requires more power to operate, while thinner string is easier to feed but wears out faster. Match the size to your typical cutting tasks for the best balance of performance and longevity.
• Avoid cutting near rocks, concrete, or wooden surfaces, as these hard surfaces will quickly fray or break the string.
• Wipe the string and spool clean after each use to remove grass clippings and debris that cause corrosion or jams.
• Store your weed eater in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage that weakens string over time.
• Use coated or twisted string if you frequently cut in wet or muddy conditions, as these varieties resist water damage and wear far better than standard round string.
• Don’t let the string run against the ground while the trimmer is idling, as this wears down the string unnecessarily.
• Don’t overstuff the spool, as overfilling causes tangling and premature breakage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Winding the string in the wrong direction: Almost all spools have directional arrows printed on them to indicate the correct winding direction. Winding the string backwards will cause it to jam and not feed properly when you tap the head or pull the line. Always follow the arrow direction when winding.
• Using the wrong string diameter: String that is too thick will not fit through the head’s eyelets, while string that is too thin will slip and jam inside the spool. Check your owner’s manual or the old string for the correct size before purchasing replacement string.
• Overfilling the spool: Adding too much string to the spool will cause it to tangle and bind, preventing the string from feeding. Stick to the recommended 10 to 15 foot length for bump feed heads and 10 to 12 feet for fixed line heads, and never force extra string into the spool.
• Skipping power disconnection: Failing to remove the spark plug or battery can lead to accidental startup while you’re working on the head, which can cause serious lacerations or other injuries. Always disconnect power first, even for quick adjustments.
• Cutting uneven string ends: Uneven ends will cause the weed eater to vibrate excessively and cut unevenly, putting extra strain on the motor or engine. Always cut both ends of the string to the same length after restringing.

Troubleshooting Post-Restring Issues

• String won’t feed: First, check that the string is wound in the correct direction and seated properly in the spool notch. If it is, check that the string isn’t tangled inside the head. For bump feed heads, make sure the release mechanism isn’t jammed with grass clippings or debris; clean it out with a small brush if needed. If the string feeds too much when you tap the head, you may have overfilled the spool; remove the head and trim the string to the correct length.
• String breaks frequently: This is usually caused by using string that is too thin for the vegetation you’re cutting, or cutting near hard surfaces like rocks or concrete. Switch to a thicker, more durable string type (such as square or serrated), and avoid cutting near hard surfaces whenever possible.
• Weed eater vibrates excessively: Uneven string length is the most common cause. Cut both ends of the string to the same length, and make sure the string is wound evenly on the spool without gaps or overlapping layers. If the vibration persists, check that the head is securely attached to the shaft.
• String jams in the head: This is often caused by overstuffing the spool or using string that is too thick for your head. Remove the head, clear the jammed string, and restring with the correct amount and type of string. Inspect the head’s eyelets for debris that may be blocking the string feed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my Craftsman weed eater string?

The frequency depends on usage and cutting conditions. For light residential use (1–2 hours per week), replace the string every 1 to 3 months. For heavy commercial use or cutting tough brush, replace it every 2 to 4 weeks. Inspect the string before each use for fraying or wear to know when to replace it.

Can I use universal replacement string for my Craftsman weed eater?

Yes, as long as the universal string matches the diameter specified for your Craftsman model (typically 0.080, 0.095, or 0.105 inches). Generic string works, but Craftsman-branded string is formulated for their heads, so it may feed more smoothly and last longer.

Why does my Craftsman weed eater string keep jamming after restringing?

The most common causes are winding the string in the wrong direction, overstuffing the spool, or using string that is too thick. Double-check the spool’s directional arrows, avoid overfilling the spool, and confirm the string diameter matches your model’s specs. If the issue continues, inspect the head for debris or damaged parts blocking the feed.

Conclusion

Replacing your Craftsman weed eater string is a simple, low-cost DIY task that takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete, no special tools or professional help required. By following the step-by-step guides for your specific head type, using the correct string size, and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your weed eater running at peak performance all season long. Regular restringing as part of your routine maintenance will extend the life of your Craftsman weed eater and ensure consistent, efficient cutting for all your yard work needs. Pairing regular restringing with basic maintenance like cleaning the air filter and checking the spark plug on gas models will keep your equipment running reliably for years. Whether you’re tackling overgrown grass, thick weeds, or light brush, knowing how to replace Craftsman weed eater string? is a valuable skill that will save you time and money on professional repairs or replacement parts.