Restringing a Kobalt weed trimmer is a relatively simple task that you can do on your own with minimal tools. The trimmer uses a spool that holds the cutting line, and over time, the line wears down and needs to be replaced. Follow these step-by-step instructions to restring your Kobalt weed trimmer properly.
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement trimmer line (check your model’s manual for the recommended diameter, typically 0.065″, 0.080″, or 0.095″)
- Scissors (for cutting the line)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Turn Off and Disconnect the Trimmer
Before you begin, ensure that the Kobalt trimmer is turned off. If it’s an electric model, unplug it or remove the battery. For gas-powered trimmers, make sure the engine is off and the spark plug is disconnected to prevent accidental starting.
Step 2: Access the Spool
Locate the trimmer head where the spool is housed. Most Kobalt trimmers have a bump-feed head, which means you’ll need to remove the spool cover.
- Remove the cap: Look for two tabs or notches on either side of the trimmer head. Press these tabs inward to release the spool cover.
- Pull off the cap: After pressing the tabs, gently pull the cap off to expose the spool.
Step 3: Remove the Spool
Once the cover is off, carefully remove the spool from the trimmer head. Take note of how the spool is oriented inside the head, as you’ll need to reinstall it in the same position.
Step 4: Cut the New Trimmer Line
Measure and cut the appropriate length of trimmer line according to your trimmer’s specifications (usually between 10 to 25 feet of line). If your Kobalt weed trimmer uses dual-line spools (two lines), you’ll need to cut two equal lengths of line.
Step 5: Insert the Line Into the Spool
Now that you have the new line ready, it’s time to load it into the spool:
- Find the anchor hole: On the spool, locate the small hole where you can anchor the line. This helps secure it while winding.
- Insert the line: Push one end of the line into the anchor hole and pull it tight to hold it in place.
Step 6: Wind the Line
Wind the trimmer line onto the spool in the direction indicated by the arrow on the spool (usually clockwise).
- Evenly wind the line: Wrap the line neatly and evenly to avoid tangling. Make sure not to overlap the lines too much.
- Dual-line trimmer: If your Kobalt trimmer uses two lines, repeat this process for the second line on the other side of the spool. Make sure both lines are wound in the same direction.
Step 7: Secure the Line
Once the line is fully wound, secure the ends of the line into the notches or retainers on the spool. This will hold the line in place and prevent it from unwinding while you reinstall the spool.
Step 8: Reinstall the Spool
Now that the spool is loaded with new trimmer line, carefully place it back into the trimmer head.
- Align the spool: Insert the spool in the same orientation as it was when you removed it.
- Feed the line through the eyelets: Gently pull the ends of the trimmer line out of the notches and thread them through the eyelets or holes in the trimmer head cover.
Step 9: Replace the Cap
With the spool properly installed, press the cap back onto the trimmer head. Ensure the tabs click into place to lock the cap securely.
Step 10: Test the Trimmer
Once everything is reassembled, reconnect the power (insert the battery or plug it in, or reconnect the spark plug if it’s gas-powered). Turn on the trimmer to ensure the new line feeds properly and that the trimmer is functioning correctly.
Tips:
- Use the correct line size: Make sure you’re using the correct diameter of trimmer line as specified in your Kobalt trimmer’s manual. Using the wrong size could cause issues with feeding or performance.
- Replace both lines at once: For dual-line trimmers, it’s best to replace both lines at the same time to ensure balanced cutting performance.
Conclusion
Restringing your Kobalt weed trimmer is a simple and straightforward process that can be done in a matter of minutes. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your trimmer is always ready to tackle the toughest weeds and grass. Regular maintenance, such as replacing the line, will keep your trimmer running efficiently for years to come.