Molly Ayala
Electric grass trimmers are an efficient way to keep your lawn neat and tidy. However, over time, the trimmer wire can become tangled, caught on thick overgrowth, or simply wear out. Restringing your electric grass trimmer is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few simple steps. In this article, we will guide you through the process of restringing your electric grass trimmer, ensuring it is ready for its next use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Remove the cap on the trimmer's head. |
| Step 2 | Take the battery out or unplug the trimmer. |
| Step 3 | Unscrew or pop the cap off. |
| Step 4 | Remove the old spool by hand. |
| Step 5 | Remove the previous lawn trimmer string. |
| Step 6 | Cut a new piece of string that's about 8-feet long. |
| Step 7 | Feed one end of the string through the holes in the spool. |
| Step 8 | Wind the string around the spool, following the arrow. |
| Step 9 | Secure the ends of the string into the notches on the spool. |
| Step 10 | Reinstall the spool and put the cap back on. |
| Storage | Store in a dry, cool, and covered location. |
| Cleaning | Regularly clean the unit to protect electrical components from moisture and reduce the build-up of rust/corrosion. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the spool from the trimmer's head
To remove the spool from the trimmer's head, start by flipping the trimmer upside down and removing the battery or unplugging the cord. Next, remove the cap on the trimmer's head. The cap is the container that houses the spool of wire inside the trimmer. Depending on the model of your trimmer, you may need to unscrew or pop the cap off. Some caps have two tabs that need to be pressed to remove them, while others have a small divot where you can pry the cap off with your finger.
Once the cap is removed, you will see the spool inside. Take out the old spool by reaching inside the cap's housing and gently pulling out the plastic disc. If the spool doesn't come out easily, lightly jostle it loose. If it's still stuck, you may need to cut the wire where it sticks out of the housing using nippers, tin snips, or shears. When removing the spool, pay attention to which side is facing out, as this will be important when installing the new spool.
With the old spool removed, you can now prepare to install the new spool. Inspect the connection between the old wire and the spool, paying close attention to how the final 5-6 inches (13-15 cm) of the thread are attached. You will attach the new string in the same way, either through a loop or opening in the spool or by using a tiny clip that pins the wire against the centre of the spool.
Before installing the new spool, take the opportunity to clean the trimmer head and inspect it for any damage. This will help ensure that your trimmer continues to operate effectively and safely. Once you have inspected and cleaned the trimmer head, you can proceed to install the new spool by following the steps outlined above in reverse.
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Cutting a new piece of string
To cut a new piece of string for your electric grass trimmer, you should start by removing the spool from the trimmer's head. Then, cut a new piece of string that is about 8 feet long. If you are using a pre-cut length of line, insert it into the mounting hole inside the eyelet. Push and pull the line from the other side until equal amounts of line appear on both sides of the spool.
If you are not using a pre-cut length of line, feed one end of the string through the holes in the spool. Tug to make sure the ends are even. Your spool should have an arrow printed on it to show you which direction to wind the string. Begin winding the string around the spool, following the arrow.
Secure the ends of the string into the notches on the spool and reattach the spool to the trimmer. Take care to feed the ends of the string through the holes in the spinning head and tug on each string to release it from the notches.
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Feeding the string through the spool
If your trimmer has a self-winding head, simply feed the length of string through the spool and rotate the head to wind the string. This is the case for the Ego Power+ grass trimmer, which has a self-winding motor. To use this feature, re-insert the battery pack and press and hold the line-loading button. Watch carefully, and release the button when there is around 14cm of line on either side.
If your spool doesn't move, look on the sides for two small buttons. Press them both in and try to lift the spool out. Make sure to pay close attention to how the final 5-6 inches of the thread are connected to the spool, as you will need to attach your new string in the same way. Usually, there is a loop or opening in the spool that the end of the string goes through to secure it in place. If the string isn't inserted into a loop or opening, there may be a tiny clip that pins the wire against the centre of the spool.
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Reattaching the spool to the trimmer
Now, you can replace the spool in the trimmer's head. This process will vary slightly depending on the make and model of your trimmer, so always refer to your instruction manual for any unique instructions. Generally, you will need to place the spool back inside the trimmer's cap, ensuring that it is secure and correctly positioned. The cap can then be screwed back into place, covering the spool.
If your trimmer has a self-winding mechanism, you may need to press and hold a button to activate it. This will wind the string onto the spool, and you should release the button when there is an equal amount of string on each side. Check your specific model's instructions for the correct length of string that should be visible on each side.
Finally, ensure that the spool and string are correctly reattached by tugging on each end of the string. This will release it from the notches and ensure it is secure. Check your trimmer for any damage and give it a quick clean. Your trimmer is now ready to use!
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Checking for damage and cleaning the trimmer
Before restringing your electric grass trimmer, it is important to check for any damage and to give the tool a good clean.
Start by inspecting the trimmer for any damage. Pay close attention to the connection between the string and the spool, as well as the mechanism that releases the line. If there is damage to the spool, look for two small buttons on the sides. Press them and try to lift the spool out. If the spool is stuck, you may need to use a tool to cut the wire where it sticks out of the housing.
Next, clean the trimmer. This is an important step to protect the electrical components from moisture damage and to prevent rust and corrosion on metal parts. Use a dry, clean cloth to wipe down the trimmer, removing any debris, grass clippings, and dirt. If there is built-up dirt or grease, you can use a mild detergent and a damp cloth to clean the affected areas. Ensure the trimmer is completely dry before proceeding.
Finally, check the guard. The guard is an important safety feature that helps to reduce debris and protects the string from breaking. Ensure the guard is in good condition and properly secured.
By taking the time to inspect, clean, and maintain your electric grass trimmer, you can help ensure it operates effectively and safely, and you can also help extend the lifespan of the tool.
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Frequently asked questions
If your trimmer keeps getting caught on thick overgrowth or the string keeps getting tangled, it may be time to restring.
First, remove the cap on the trimmer's head. The cap is covering the spool you need to access to change the wire. Take the battery out (or unplug the trimmer if it has a cord). Then, either unscrew or pop the cap off.
Take out the old spool by hand. Reach inside the cap’s housing and gently pull the plastic disc out. You may need to cut the wire where it sticks out of the housing if it’s stuck.
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.
Cut a new piece of string that's about 8 feet long. Feed one end of the string through the holes in the spool. Then tug to make sure the ends are even. Begin winding the string around the spool, following the arrow. Secure the ends of the string into the notches on the spool and reattach the spool to the trimmer.
