3 Ways To Change The String On A Lawn Trimmer - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Replace Your Weed Eater String PDF download Download Article Straightforward steps on restringing your weed wacker Co-authored by Eric McClure Reviewed by Ben Barkan

Last Updated: September 8, 2025 Fact Checked

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  • Changing Your Weed Wacker String
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  • Which string trimmer line do I buy?
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This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,234,379 times.

If your weed wacker keeps getting caught on thick overgrowth or the string on your trimmer keeps getting tangled up, it may be time to replace the wire. This is typically very easy to do since all weed eaters are basically designed the same way—even if you have a trimmer with 2 or 3 separate strings sticking out. In this article, we’ll show you how to restring your lawn trimmer in simple, straightforward steps.

How to Restring a Trimmer Line

  • Remove the cap covering up the spool of wire by pressing the tabs on the side, prying it off, or unscrewing it counterclockwise.
  • Pull the spool out and unravel the old wire, but note how the wire was attached to the spool.
  • Cut off 20–25 feet (6.1–7.6 m) of replacement string and attach it to the spool the same way the old string was attached.
  • Reinstall the spool and put the cap back on to finish restringing your weed whacker.

Steps

Section 1 of 2:

How to Change Your Weed Wacker String

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  1. Step 1 Remove the cap on the trimmer’s head. 1 Remove the cap on the trimmer’s head. The cap is covering the spool you need to access to change the wire. With the trimmer off, flip the trimmer upside down so you’re looking at the part that’s normally facing the ground. The cap is the container housing the spool of wire inside of the lawn trimmer. Take the battery out (or unplug the trimmer if it has a cord). Then, either unscrew or pop the cap off. On a lot of caps, you press on the 2 tabs locking the cap in place to remove it.[1]
    • On some trimmers, there is a little divot where you just pry the cap off with your finger.
    • If this is an older whipper snipper or it has been a while since the thread has been changed, the cap will probably stick a bit—you may need to use a bit of pressure.
    • On some newer trimmers, you don’t even take the cap off. You just pull out the old line and feed a new one into it (Ryobi in particular seems fond of this design).
    • There are some minor variations between brands, but the vast majority of lawn trimmer strings are changed the way we’ll outline here. Always refer to your instruction manual for unique instructions.
  2. Step 2 Take out the old spool by hand. 2 Take out the old spool by hand. Reach inside the cap’s housing and gently pull the plastic disc out. The spool is the only thing inside of the lawn trimmer’s cap, so lightly jostle it loose if it won’t come free on its own. Remove the entire spool with the wire attached and set the trimmer aside.[2]
    • You may need to cut the wire where it sticks out of the housing if it’s stuck. Use nippers, tin snips, or shears if you need to.
    • Take a mental note of which side of the spool is facing out when you remove it. You can only install it one way normally, but it may make things easier if you remember the orientation now.
    • What if the spool doesn’t move? Look on the sides of the spool for two little buttons. Press them both in and try to lift the spool out then.
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  3. Step 3 Remove the previous lawn trimmer string. 3 Remove the previous lawn trimmer string. Undo the old wire from the spool and inspect the connection to the spool. Pay close attention to how the final 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) of the thread are connected to the spool. You’re going to attach your new string in the exact same way. Usually, there is a loop or opening in the spool that the end of the string goes through to pin the string in place.[3]
    • If the string isn’t inserted into a loop or opening, there may be a tiny clip that pins that wire against the center of the spool.
    • If there are 2 or 3 different lengths of string, you may need to insert 2 or 3 lengths of string into the openings.
    • What if there’s plenty of good string left? Then congrats! You don’t need to replace the string, you can just pull a new length out through the hole on the spool and then close the case. You only need to replace the string if you’re about to run out or the string has been damaged somehow.
  4. Step 4 Feed the new wire into the hole on the spool. 4 Feed the new wire into the hole on the spool. Attach the new string the same way the old string was installed. Unpack your replacement wire and clip off roughly 10–25 feet (3.0–7.6 m) using shears, nippers, or tin snips. Take any end of the string and thread it through the spool the same way your old string was attached.[4]
    • The round wire tends to hold up better than the flat plastic stuff, but whipper snippers aren’t universally compatible with any kind of string. Refer to your manual to determine what kind of wire you can use.
    • Alternative: Some newer trimmer models sell pre-wound spools you can simply swap out instead of replacing the string (Black and Decker models are the most popular brand that does this).
    • If you have a 2-string trimmer but there’s only one opening for it on the spool, pull the string through the opening until you’ve reached the middle so you have 2 equal haves hanging off the spool.
  5. Step 5 Wind the new string up tightly around the spool. 5 Wind the new string up tightly around the spool. Evenly wrap your fresh line around the spool in even rows. You don’t need to be super precise here, but aim to keep the wire evenly distributed. There’s usually an arrow that tells you which direction the string goes, but when in doubt, roll it clockwise. Keep it taut and firm all the way around and build the spool up to just below the rim.
    • Do not add so much string that it extends past the rim of the spool.
    • If you have a 2- or 3-line trimmer, roll the wire evenly around each of the individual sections (a 2-line trimmer will have 2 slots, and a 3-line trimmer will have 3 slots).
  6. Step 6 Clip the excess wire off with tin snips or shears. 6 Clip the excess wire off with tin snips or shears. Leave 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) of wire at the end so the trimmer works. You need a little bit of extra wire to hang out and rip the foliage when your trimmer runs. Use your tin snips, nippers, or shears to cut the wire. Hold the rolled-up spool tight by hand and grab your trimmer to reinstall the cap and spool together.[5]
    • On some trimmers, you can lock the spool in place by pressing on tabs or squeezing the spool together until you hear a click.
  7. Step 7 Reinstall the spool in its housing on the trimmer. 7 Reinstall the spool in its housing on the trimmer. Flip the end of the trimmer over and carefully slide the spool into place. Set the opening in the middle of the spool over the axle in the lawn trimmer and thread the wire through the opening on the trimmer where the string sticks out and rotates.
    • Remember to orient the spool the same way it was oriented when you removed it! There will typically be a logo or note on the side that’s supposed to face away from the trimmer.
  8. Step 8 Set the cap on top of the spool to lock the assembly. 8 Set the cap on top of the spool to lock the assembly. Put the cap back on the spool the same way you took it off. Take the cap that you removed from the trimmer and set it in place. Push it down gently until you hear a click, screw the cap on, or align the tabs and lock them together. However you removed the cap, reverse the steps to put the cap back on.[6]
    • Once the cap is locked, you’re good to go! Your whipper snapper cord will cut and trim like new.
    • Why is my new trimmer making a funny noise? Your weed wacker string is too long and it’s banging against the protective cover. Just clip the end of the wire off.
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Section 2 of 2:

Which string trimmer line do I buy?

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  1. Choose your string based on the work you’re doing. Choose your string based on the work you’re doing. There are a few different types of line trimmer string and they’re designed for different jobs. Read your lawn trimmer’s instruction manual to see what kind of string it can use, but you generally have 5 different options:[7]
    • Round trimmer line: This is the most common type of stringer line. It’s good for all-purpose yard work and it generally doesn’t break very easily. If you’re doing basic yard work, this is probably the way to go.
    • Twisted trimmer line: Twisted trimmer cuts much harder than the all-purpose stuff. If you’re cutting thicker weeds or dense plants, this is your best bet.
    • Multi-sided trimmer line: Multi-sided trimmer line cuts through softer materials better than twisted line, but it breaks much more easily than other varieties if you hit something hard.
    • Serrated trimmer line: Serrated trimmer line is for the toughest weeds. The cutting power is serious stuff though, and it’s usually overkill for amateur yard work.
    • Square trimmer line: Square lines are like serrated lines, just without the miniature blades. It’s super powerful stuff that cuts through almost anything but it’s probably too much power for simple yard work.

Community Q&A

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  • Question Are the eyelets on a string trimmer head absolutely essential, or can I do without them? They've been lost is why I'm asking wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Frankly, you're probably okay so long as the spool is tight. Just take it slow the first time you run the trimmer to ensure the spool doesn't fly out of the casing. It should probably be alright, though. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 8
  • Question I have a Mounrfields trimmer. On the line spool it has arrows. Do I wind the line in the direction of the arrows? wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer You always wind the spool in the direction of the arrow. That's pretty universal regardless of the trimmer model and brand. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 8
  • Question Why does my line retreat into the spool after just a few swipes of my freshly rewound spool? wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Unfortunately, it's too short. You need to redo it with a longer length of string. Your line should always be flush with the spool plus an additional 6 inches or so of length. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 18 Helpful 10
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

  • Change your weed eater’s string at least once a year to ensure it cuts cleanly and efficiently. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Video

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References

  1. ↑ https://egopowerplus.com/media/productattach/1/6/16-0816_ego_st1500f_and_st1500sf_stringtrimmer_manual_na_v1.pdf
  2. ↑ https://egopowerplus.com/media/productattach/1/6/16-0816_ego_st1500f_and_st1500sf_stringtrimmer_manual_na_v1.pdf
  3. ↑ https://cdn.powerequipment.honda.com/pe/pdf/manuals/31VJ4001.pdf
  4. ↑ https://egopowerplus.com/media/productattach/1/6/16-0816_ego_st1500f_and_st1500sf_stringtrimmer_manual_na_v1.pdf
  5. ↑ https://cdn.powerequipment.honda.com/pe/pdf/manuals/31VJ4001.pdf
  6. ↑ https://cdn.powerequipment.honda.com/pe/pdf/manuals/31VJ4001.pdf
  7. ↑ https://fixandfeed.com/types-of-string-trimmer-lines-you-must-know/

About This Article

Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer This article was reviewed by Ben Barkan and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure. Ben Barkan is a Garden and Landscape Designer and the Owner and Founder of HomeHarvest LLC, an edible landscapes and construction business based in Boston, Massachusetts. Ben has over 12 years of experience working with organic gardening and specializes in designing and building beautiful landscapes with custom construction and creative plant integration. He is a Certified Permaculture Designer, Licensed Construction Supervisor in Massachusetts, and a Licensed Home Improvement Contractor. He holds an associates degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This article has been viewed 1,234,379 times. How helpful is this? Co-authors: 13 Updated: September 8, 2025 Views: 1,234,379 Categories: Landscaping Article SummaryX

Before you change the string on a lawn trimmer, make sure your trimmer is turned off and that the engine is cool to the touch to avoid any injuries. Check on the manufacturer's website to see what kind of line you need and cut it to the correct length. Then, remove the retaining cap from the trimmer head and locate the start of the trimmer line spool. Start inserting your new line by wrapping it in neat, straight rows to avoid jams. Finally, line up the retainer with the slot on the outside of the head and reattach your retaining cap. To learn how to change the line on a double-line trimmer, scroll down. Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Leo Merton

    Leo Merton

    Oct 23, 2016

    "Have had nothing but trouble with my Qualcast trimmer; the wire keeps breaking. I hope that I can put a sturdier..." more
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Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ben Barkan Reviewed by: Ben Barkan Garden & Landscape Designer Click a star to vote Co-authors: 13 Updated: September 8, 2025 Views: 1,234,379 Leo Merton

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Oct 23, 2016

"Have had nothing but trouble with my Qualcast trimmer; the wire keeps breaking. I hope that I can put a sturdier..." more Gary Southwell

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Mar 29, 2019

"Always had trouble trying to feed lines (one line feeding into two outlets) on double-opening head. Found out I..." more Angus Campbell

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