How to Restring a Stihl Weed Trimmer

Restringing your Stihl weed trimmer can seem tricky, but once you know the process, it’s quick and simple. Whether you’re dealing with a bump-feed or an auto-feed head, this guide will walk you through the steps to properly restring your Stihl weed trimmer and get it back in action.

What You’ll Need:

• Replacement trimmer line (check your Stihl model for the correct line diameter, usually between 0.080″ to 0.095″)
• Scissors or a utility knife (for cutting the trimmer line)
• Work gloves (optional, for comfort and protection)

Step-by-Step Guide to Restringing a Stihl Weed Trimmer

1. Turn Off and Prepare the Trimmer

• Turn off the trimmer and disconnect the spark plug (for gas models) or remove the battery (for electric models) to ensure safety.
• Set the trimmer on a flat surface where you can easily work on the head.

2. Remove the Trimmer Head Cover

• Depending on the model, you’ll either need to:
  • Press in the tabs on the side of the trimmer head to release the cover, or
  • Unscrew the bump knob at the bottom of the head (this applies to bump-feed models).
• Once the tabs or knob are disengaged, pull off the cover to expose the spool inside.

3. Remove the Spool

• Carefully pull the spool out of the trimmer head. Some Stihl models have a split spool for dual-line trimmers, so make sure you take note of how the spool is positioned inside the head.

4. Prepare the Replacement Line

• Cut two lengths of trimmer line (about 10-15 feet each) depending on whether you have a single- or dual-line trimmer head.
  • For single-line models, you’ll only need one piece of line.
  • For dual-line models, cut two equal lengths of line.

5. Insert the Line into the Spool

For single-line models:

• Insert one end of the line into the anchor hole or slot inside the spool.
• Wind the line around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrows on the spool (usually counterclockwise), keeping the line neat and tight. Leave about 6 inches of line unwound for feeding through the eyelet.

For dual-line models:

• Insert the ends of both lines into the anchor holes or slots.
• Wind each line onto its respective side of the spool in the direction indicated (both lines should wind in the same direction). Keep the line tight and even to avoid tangling.
• Leave about 6 inches of each line unwound.

6. Secure the Line

• Once the lines are wound tightly on the spool, secure the loose ends of the line in the holding notches located on the spool’s edges. This keeps the line in place while you reassemble the head.

7. Thread the Line Through the Eyelets

• Align the spool with the trimmer head housing.
• Thread the loose ends of the trimmer line through the eyelets or holes on the sides of the trimmer head.
• Make sure the lines are pulled through smoothly and that they don’t tangle or overlap.

8. Reinstall the Spool and Cover

• Place the spool back into the trimmer head, ensuring it sits securely inside the housing.
• For bump-feed models, screw the bump knob back onto the head.
• For other models, snap the cover back into place by pressing the tabs until they lock.

9. Adjust the Line Length

• Pull on the loose ends of the line to ensure they extend evenly through the eyelets. The lines should stick out about 6 inches on each side.
• If your model has a bump-feed system, gently bump the head on the ground to release more line if necessary.

10. Test the Trimmer

• Reconnect the spark plug or reinsert the battery.
• Turn on the trimmer and test the line feed by running the trimmer at low speed. If the line feeds properly and the head spins without issues, you’re ready to go.

Tips for Restringing:

• Use the correct line size: Always check your Stihl model’s manual for the recommended line diameter.
• Keep the line tight: Ensure that the line is wound tightly to prevent tangles or jamming inside the head.
• Replace both lines (for dual-line models) at the same time to ensure even wear and balanced operation.

Conclusion

Restringing your Stihl weed trimmer is a straightforward task once you know the process. By following these steps—removing the head, winding the line, and securing the spool—you’ll have your trimmer working like new in no time. Regularly replacing your trimmer line ensures clean, efficient cutting and helps extend the life of your trimmer.