How to Restring a Weed Whacker in 4 Simple Steps

Whether your garden is clean and tidy or a little wild, weed trimmers can be very useful tools when vegetation is overgrown or appears where you don’t want it. Most models will require cord replacement from time to time, so knowing how to properly and efficiently re-string your weed killer is crucial. A new weed trimmer will likely come pre-strung with string and ready to use. However, if it comes without a line, you can buy pre-tensioned spools for it. (It’s also a good idea to have an extra pre-tensioned spool on hand in case you run out of line in the middle of a landscaping project.)

So what do you do if your trimmer comes without a line or you run out of line during a job? How exactly are you stringing it? Just follow these simple steps to get your garden back in shape.

Step 1: Remove Existing Spool

Whether you are starting with a pre-tensioned spool or re-stringing your existing spool, you must first remove it from the motor housing. There are several ways your trimmer model can attach the trimmer head or spool, but most have two tabs that can be depressed at the same time. However, some commercial models have screws that must be removed with a screwdriver.

Step 2: Cut the thread

Before threading new line onto the spool, you must determine the correct length of line and the number of pieces to be cut. The amount needed will vary depending on the model of weed puller you have. Smaller units require less, while larger units often require more. The amount of cord can range from 2.50m to 25m, so it is best to know beforehand how much cord to pre-cut. Some weed trimmers have one line while others have two.

Step 3: Wrap the line around the spool

With the spool removed and the line cut to size, the next step is to begin winding the line onto the spool. The spool has a hole or two into which the end of the line or lines can be inserted and held in place. The spool indicates which way the line should be wound – usually an arrow. Start winding the line tightly around the spool in the direction shown. If your trimmer has two strings, wrap both at the same time, making sure each stays in its individual valley without crossing over. Winding the line neatly into the spool will ensure that it is easily fed through the correct mechanism. Some spools have extra notches to hold the line in place until it is attached to the weed trimmer.

Step 4: Attach the spool to the trimmer

Finally, secure the spool back onto the trimmer head and thread the line through the guide holes in the unit. You can initially run about 5 inches of line, but the initial length isn’t particularly important as it adjusts as the trimmer is turned on and tapped on the bottom. Any excess line will be cut off.

Inevitably, there will be some differences between brands and models of weed trimmers. For this reason, it is very important to read the user manual before you start using a new device. Since there are many types of weed trimmers, there are also many types of thread to choose from. Choosing the correct diameter allows the trimmer to function properly and prolongs not only the life of the line but also the trimmer. As with any garden tool or machine, always follow safety precautions and double check your work.