How to Restring Dewalt 20v Weed Eater? Quick Load Method

Introduction

If you’ve ever been in the middle of a yard work session only to have your weed eater spool run out of string, you know how frustrating that delay can be. Many people assume they need to buy a replacement spool or even a new tool, but learning How to Restring Dewalt 20v Weed Eater? is a simple, cost-effective skill that will save you time and money in the long run. Dewalt’s 20V weed eaters are popular for their durability and battery-powered convenience, and their quick-load spool system makes restringing faster than traditional trimmers. This guide will walk you through every step of the quick load restring process, from preparation to troubleshooting, so you can get back to clearing your lawn in minutes. We’ll also cover string type recommendations, common mistakes to avoid, and maintenance tips to keep your tool running smoothly for years.

• Understanding Your Dewalt 20V Weed Eater
• Preparing to Restring Your Dewalt 20V Weed Eater
• Step-by-Step Quick Load Restring Guide
• Troubleshooting Common Restring Issues
• Tips for Longer String Life
• Comparing Different String Options
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Restringing
• Maintaining Your Dewalt Weed Eater for Optimal Performance
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Your Dewalt 20V Weed Eater

Dewalt’s 20V MAX string trimmer lineup includes lightweight models for small lawns, heavy-duty brush cutters for large properties, and edger attachments for precise curb and garden bed work. All models use the same quick-load spool system, so the restringing process is identical across the entire 20V weed eater line. Unlike traditional trimmers that require manual string winding and feeding through small holes in the trimmer head, the Dewalt quick load system uses a pre-notched spool that snaps into the housing, cutting restringing time from 10 minutes to just 2-3 minutes. The system is designed for user convenience, with no tools required to remove or install the spool, making it accessible even for first-time DIYers.

Preparing to Restring Your Dewalt 20V Weed Eater

Proper preparation will make the restringing process faster and safer, and reduce the risk of damaging your tool or injuring yourself. Start by gathering all the supplies you will need before you begin work, and follow basic safety precautions to avoid accidents.

Gathering Necessary Tools

You will only need a few basic supplies to restring your Dewalt 20V weed eater:

• Replacement string (correct gauge for your model, 10-12 feet per spool)
• Sharp scissors or utility knife
• Work gloves (to protect hands from sharp string edges)
• Safety glasses (to protect eyes from debris)
• Small flathead screwdriver (optional, for prying out stubborn spools)
• Your Dewalt 20V battery (to test the trimmer after restringing)

Safety Precautions

Follow these safety steps before you start working to avoid injury or tool damage:

1. Always disconnect the battery from the weed eater before starting work to prevent accidental startup.
2. Engage the trigger lock (if your model has one) to ensure the trimmer cannot turn on unexpectedly.
3. Work on a flat, stable surface to avoid dropping the trimmer head or spool.
4. Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect against sharp string ends and any debris stuck in the trimmer head.
5. Keep children and pets away from the work area to avoid accidents.

Step-by-Step Quick Load Restring Guide

This quick load method works for all standard Dewalt 20V MAX string trimmers, including the DCMHT773, DCMHT673, and DCMHT773P models. If you have a specialized edger or brush cutter attachment, check your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions. Below is the step-by-step guide to mastering How to Restring Dewalt 20v Weed Eater? in just a few minutes:

1. Disconnect the battery and lock the trigger. Remove the 20V battery from the weed eater, then press the trigger lock to prevent accidental startup. This critical safety step prevents serious lacerations from a spinning string if the trimmer turns on unexpectedly.
2. Locate the spool release mechanism. Turn the trimmer head upside down to access the bottom of the spool housing. Most Dewalt 20V models have a small plastic release tab on the side or bottom of the housing; some have a push-button release. Check your owner’s manual if you cannot locate the release.
3. Remove the old spool. Press the release tab or button while pulling the spool straight out of the housing. Do not twist or yank it, as this can damage the spool’s locking tabs or the housing slots. If the spool is stuck, gently pry it loose with a small flathead screwdriver, taking care not to crack the plastic housing.
4. Clean the spool and housing. Remove any remaining old string from the spool, and wipe both the spool and housing with a dry cloth to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris. Buildup in the housing can cause new string to jam, so this step ensures smooth operation.
5. Thread the new string onto the spool. Cut a 10 to 12 foot length of replacement string (most Dewalt 20V trimmers use 0.080” or 0.095” diameter; confirm the size for your model). Thread one end into the small anchor hole on the spool, pulling it tight so it does not slip out. The spool has side notches designed to hold the string ends during installation.
6. Wind the string evenly around the spool. Rotate the spool in the direction of the arrow printed on its side (almost always clockwise for Dewalt models) to wind the string. Keep it tight and evenly spaced, leaving approximately 6 inches of string hanging out of each side notch. Do not overfill the spool, as overlapping string will cause jams.
7. Install the spool into the trimmer head. Align the spool’s notches with the slots in the trimmer head housing, then push the spool straight in until it clicks, indicating the locking tabs are engaged. If it does not seat easily, double-check that the notches are aligned correctly; do not force it.
8. Release and trim the string. Pull both string ends outward to release them from the spool’s side notches. Trim both ends to 6 inches past the edge of the trimmer head’s cutting guard; this length allows full extension for cutting without creating excess drag.
9. Test the trimmer. Reattach the 20V battery, turn on the trimmer, and tap the string on the ground a few times to test the auto-feed function. The string should extend smoothly without jamming. If it does not feed correctly, refer to the troubleshooting section below.

Troubleshooting Common Restring Issues

Even with proper technique, you may run into minor issues when restringing your Dewalt 20V weed eater. Most of these problems are easy to fix with simple adjustments, and you won’t need to purchase any replacement parts to resolve them. Below are the most common issues and their step-by-step fixes: (See Also:How To Respool A Milwaukee Weed Eater)

1. String will not feed when tapping the trimmer. First, confirm the spool is fully seated in the housing (you should hear a click when it is locked in place). Next, check that you wound the string in the correct clockwise direction; winding it backward will prevent the feed mechanism from working. Finally, inspect the housing for grass or debris blocking the feed slot.
2. String breaks frequently during use. This is almost always caused by using the wrong string gauge or winding the string too tightly. Over-tightening creates excess tension that makes the string snap when hitting thick weeds. Use the correct gauge for your model, and wind the string snug but not overly tight.
3. String comes off the spool while trimming. This happens if you did not leave enough string in the spool’s side notches, or if the spool is damaged. Ensure at least 6 inches of string is in each notch before installing the spool, and inspect the spool for cracks or broken notches that require replacement.
4. String feeds too much or too little at once. If too much string extends at once, you likely wound too little string on the spool, or the string is overlapping. If too little feeds out, check for a blocked feed slot or tangled string inside the spool.

Tips for Longer String Life

Proper restringing technique and regular maintenance will extend your string’s life, reducing how often you need to restring your Dewalt 20V weed eater and saving you money on replacement supplies over time. Follow these tips to get the most out of every spool:

• Always use the exact string gauge recommended for your model. Thicker string strains the motor and breaks easily; thinner string wears out fast and cuts poorly.
• Avoid trimming near hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or rocks, as these will fray and break string much faster than grass alone.
• Wind the string evenly and snugly around the spool without overlapping. Overlapping creates weak spots that break, and loose winding causes the string to slip off during use.
• Store replacement string in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV light and extreme temperatures make plastic string brittle, leading to frequent breaks.
• Clean the trimmer head and spool housing after each use to remove grass and debris that can cause jams or premature wear.

Comparing Different String Options

Choosing the right string for your Dewalt 20V weed eater will improve cutting performance and extend string life. Below is a comparison of the three most common string types to help you select the best option for your yard work needs:

For most homeowners with standard lawns, round 0.080” string is the best all-around choice. If you regularly tackle thick weeds or small brush, square or serrated string will cut faster and last longer. Always confirm the correct diameter for your Dewalt 20V model before purchasing replacement string, as using the wrong size can damage the trimmer’s auto-feed mechanism.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Restringing

Even experienced DIYers make mistakes when restringing that lead to poor performance, frequent string breakage, or even damage to your weed eater’s motor. Avoid these common errors to make the process smoother and extend the life of your tool:

• Winding the string in the wrong direction. This prevents the auto-feed mechanism from working. Always check the arrow on the spool and wind clockwise unless your manual says otherwise.
• Using the wrong string gauge. Incorrect gauge causes feeding issues, frequent breaks, and motor strain. Confirm the required size in your owner’s manual before buying string.
• Overfilling the spool. Excess string overlaps and causes jams. Wind until the string is level with the spool edges, with no overlapping layers.
• Skipping the battery disconnect step. This is a major safety hazard. Always remove the battery before restringing to avoid accidental startup.
• Trimming string to the wrong length. String longer than 6 inches past the trimmer head creates drag and wears out faster; shorter string will not feed correctly. Trim to exactly 6 inches for optimal performance.

Maintaining Your Dewalt Weed Eater for Optimal Performance

Regular maintenance beyond restringing will keep your Dewalt 20V weed eater running efficiently for years, and reduce the frequency of restringing and costly repairs. Follow these simple steps after each use and every few months: (See Also:How To Start A Stihl Electric Weed Eater)

• Wipe down the trimmer head and spool housing with a dry cloth after each use to remove grass and debris. Use mild soap and water for stuck-on grime, but avoid getting water inside the motor housing.
• Inspect the string after each use for fraying or wear, and replace damaged sections to prevent mid-use breaks and jams.
• Every 3-4 restrings, check the spool for cracks, broken notches, or worn locking tabs. A damaged spool will not hold string correctly and needs replacement.
• Store the weed eater and battery in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight to prevent plastic warping and string brittleness.
• Sharpen the edging blade (if your model has one) regularly to reduce motor strain and ensure clean cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to restring my Dewalt 20V weed eater?

Restringing frequency depends on usage and the type of vegetation you cut. For light, occasional use on soft grass, restring every 2-3 months. For regular use on thick weeds or brush, you may need to restring every 2-4 weeks. Inspect the string regularly for fraying or reduced cutting performance, and restring as soon as you notice wear.

Can I use third-party string on my Dewalt 20V weed eater?

Yes, third-party string is compatible as long as it matches the correct diameter (0.080” or 0.095”) for your model. Many high-quality third-party options are more affordable than OEM Dewalt string. Avoid using string that is too thick or thin, as this will cause feeding issues and may damage the motor over time.

What size string does my Dewalt 20V weed eater use?

Most standard Dewalt 20V trimmers use 0.080” diameter string for general use, while heavy-duty brush-cutting models use 0.095” string. Check the label on your trimmer head or your owner’s manual to confirm the exact size for your model. Using the wrong size is a common cause of feeding issues and string breakage.

Why does my string keep jamming after restringing?

Jams are almost always caused by three issues: winding the string in the wrong direction, an unseated spool, or overlapping string on the spool. Confirm you wound the string clockwise (matching the spool’s arrow), that the spool clicked into place, and that the string is evenly spaced without overlapping. If jams persist, check the feed slot for grass or debris blocking the string. (See Also:How To Get Line Out Of Weed Eater)

Conclusion

Learning How to Restring Dewalt 20v Weed Eater? is a simple, valuable skill that will save you money on replacement spools and reduce downtime during yard work. The quick load system built into Dewalt 20V trimmers makes the process take just a few minutes, even for first-time users. By following the step-by-step guide in this article, using the correct string for your model, and avoiding common mistakes, you can restring your trimmer quickly and get back to clearing your lawn in no time. Regular maintenance and proper restringing technique will also extend the life of both your string and your weed eater, ensuring it performs reliably for years to come. The next time your string runs out, skip the trip to the hardware store for a new spool and restring it yourself in minutes with this quick load method.