7 Steps to Install and Replace a String Trimmer Line the Right Way

String trimmers can work wonders in removing tall weeds and trimming areas a lawn mower can’t reach. But they require constant replacement of the trimmer line to remain useful. Thankfully, replacing a trimmer line is an easy task that anyone can do at home. Find out how with the 7 steps below.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Although replacing a string trimmer line is a simple job, it has to be performed carefully to ensure the string is wound and fed properly. It’s much easier to perform the task carefully if you have all the right tools, laid out ahead of time. You’ll need:

• Replacement trimmer line
• Pliers
• Scissors

You’ll also need whatever tools are required to remove the trimmer head. This may be a simple twist of the head, or it may require a screwdriver or some other tool to remove. An inspection of the head should make it clear what tools are needed to remove it.

2. Prepare the Trimmer 

Before you start any work, safety concerns must be taken care of. Make sure the trimmer motor is off. If it’s an electric trimmer, unplug it from the outlet or disconnect the battery so there’s no way it can accidentally start.

Once you’re sure it’s safe to work with, place the trimmer on a workbench or other stable surface that’s easy to access. Pay close attention to how the head and its components fit together so you’ll know what to do in the next steps.

3. Remove the Old Trimmer Line 

You can remove the old trimmer line by unscrewing or otherwise unlocking the trimmer head to gain access to it. Trimmer lines can sometimes become tangled or obstructed, making them hard to remove. As you remove the line, look for any such obstacles and resolve them until the line is free. Use your pliers if needed.

4. Measure and Cut the New Trimmer Line

Your trimmer head can only hold a certain amount of line. Too much and you won’t be able to reassemble the head. Too little and you’ll be replacing it again too soon. Check your trimmer’s user manual to determine the appropriate length of line to use. Measure your new line to that length and make a cut. The cut should be clean, with no fraying at the ends.

5. Install the New Trimmer Line 

Your trimmer will have an eyelet to feed the line through in order to wind it. If you don’t see it, the instructions will tell you where it is. Feed the line through and begin winding it around the spool. Arrows on the spool will show you which direction to wind. As you’re winding, keep the line taut and be careful not to allow any overlapping or crossing of the line. A line that isn’t wound evenly won’t feed correctly.

6. Secure the Trimmer Line 

At the top of the spool, there will be another notch or eyelet, for the line to exit the spool from. Feed the final stretch of line through that and reattach the trimmer head. Make sure the trimmer head is on tightly so it doesn’t fly off during the operation of the machine.

7. Test the Trimmer 

Now the line is installed. The final step is to test the trimmer and make sure everything is working correctly. Take it outside and attach the power source. Start the trimmer, keeping the head away from you, and make sure everything is working properly. Test it further by cutting some weeds to ensure there are no issues with its performance. If there aren’t, you can now use it as you normally would.

Get Your Power Tools at Clarks Ace Hardware

Whether you need supplies to replace the string in your trimmer, or a whole new trimmer, Clarks Ace Hardware has what you need. Our large collection of name-brand power tools and supplies will keep you productive for all your home improvement tasks.