For those who own a weed eater, we know how useful these machines can be in terms of maintaining a tidy garden.
It’s a tool that we’ll use frequently, but many of us will forget that it takes some maintenance, just like our other garden aids.
If you’ve had your weed eater for a while, chances are that you’ve noticed the string might need some replacing. Over time, they can wear out from extended use.
This makes it incredibly important that you’re always checking whether or not this is a task that needs doing.
It’s no wonder that the string isn’t as efficient as it used to be. Its main function is to trim down any pesky weeds or grass in your garden, and often endures some harsh materials inadvertently striking the string, such as rocks.
This makes the string less hardy, and more likely to flat out break whilst you’re using it.
So, if you think that it’s time to replace your weed eater string, you probably have a few questions, one of the most prominent being how long should a weed eater string be?
To find out everything you need to know about replacing your weed eater string, simply keep reading below, as we take a closer look.
How Long Should My Weed Eater String Be?
So, let’s just jump straight in and answer the titular question. Just how long should your weed eater string really be?
If you’ve found yourself asking this question, then don’t worry you’re not alone. The first time replacing your string can be tricky if it’s something that you’re unfamiliar with.
Typically, when you’re replacing a weed eater string, you’ll need to leave approximately six inches hanging from the spool of the weed eater after you’ve replaced it.
Make sure that you’re measuring this beforehand to make sure you get it just right.
If it looks like your weed eater has around 6 inches of extra string hanging off, then you’ve done the job right.
Step By Step Guide For Replacing Your Weed Eater String
Now, we can move on to discuss our handy step by step guide, which will tell you everything you need to know about replacing your weed eater string.
Don’t worry if this is something that you’ve never done before, just follow the steps below and you’ll be done in no time.
Step 1
The first thing that you’ll want to do is actually check out your old string to see if it needs replacing. You can do this simply by removing the head of your lawn trimmer and taking a look.
You’ll be able to gauge how much string you have left visually. If it looks like you’re running low, then it’s time to replace.
In addition, you might still want to replace the string even if there’s a decent amount left, because it’s looking tatty and worn.
Step 2
The next step that you’re going to need to take is to pick your string. The type of string that you choose will dictate what you’re using it for.
For example, if you’re doing smaller jobs, such as cutting some pesky weeds, a thinner string will do the job.
If however, you’re using it to cut heaps and heaps of grass, then perhaps you should opt for a thicker string instead. Visit your local garden supply store for some help and advice when it comes to choosing.
Step 3
Before you get started with replacing your weed eater string, you’re going to want to make sure that the machine is safely unplugged. After you’ve done this, you can go ahead and begin the process.
Firstly, you’re going to want to remove any dirt or debris that has collected in the machine. Chances are that if you’ve been using it for a long time, there will be lots of grass clogged up in there.
So that you have better access whilst replacing your string, make sure that you’re removing this beforehand to ensure an overall smoother process.
Step 4
After you’re done unclogging your machine, you can then move on to take out any of the old string that’s left.
After you’ve done this, take your new string, and push it through the hole in the machine, turning it around so it feeds around the spool.
Keep adding more and more spring, until you find that you can’t fit anymore in.
After you’ve done this, you can go ahead and cut the string. Remember however that you’re leaving those all important six inches hanging as we mentioned at the beginning of the article.
You can cut your string using some gardening scissors, or just about anything that’s strong enough to cut through.
Finally, replace the cap on your weed eater, and make sure that it’s super secure. That’s it! You’re done. You can now plug your machine back, and enjoy using it again.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, replacing a weed eater string is actually very straightforward. You just need to choose a suitable string for the task, pop the cap off, remove the old string, and feed the new one through the hole.
Make sure that you leave an additional six inches of string before cutting it off. After you’ve completed these tasks, you can go ahead and replace the cap.
