Featured Image: [Image of a Stihl weed eater with the string guard removed]
Maintaining your Stihl weed eater is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Restringing the weed eater is a crucial maintenance task that should be performed regularly. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a first-time user, knowing how to restring a Stihl weed eater is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and safety precautions to ensure a successful restringing experience.
Before you embark on restringing your Stihl weed eater, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and materials. These include a new trimmer line, a pair of safety glasses, work gloves, and a pair of needle-nose pliers. Additionally, ensure your weed eater is unplugged and cooled down before starting any maintenance tasks. It’s also a good idea to refer to the user manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines pertaining to your particular Stihl weed eater model.
Once you have the necessary tools and the weed eater is prepared, you can begin the restringing process. The first step is to remove the trimmer head from the weed eater shaft. Different models may have different methods of attachment, so consult the user manual for specific instructions. Once the trimmer head is removed, you can proceed with removing the old trimmer line and winding the new line onto the spool.
Tool Selection: Choosing the Right String
Selecting the appropriate string for your Stihl weed eater is crucial. Different types of strings are designed for specific applications, so choosing the correct one will enhance performance and extend the life of your tool.
Types of String for Stihl Weed Eaters
| String Type | Description | Recommended Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Standard, all-purpose string | General trimming and edging |
| Square | Enhanced cutting performance, less fraying | Thicker vegetation, tougher weeds |
| Twisted | Reduced vibration, quieter operation | Sensitive areas, noise-sensitive zones |
| Line Pro | Patented Stihl string, high cutting power | Extreme cutting conditions, dense vegetation |
| Nylon | Flexible, resistant to breakage | General-purpose trimming, edges around obstacles |
| Co-Polymer | Softer, cuts through lighter weeds | Delicate plants, low-impact trimming |
String Diameter:
The diameter of the string impacts cutting performance and durability. Thicker strings provide more power, but they may increase vibration and reduce runtime. Stihl weed eaters typically use strings ranging from 2mm to 2.4mm in diameter.
Choose String Based on Your Application:
Consider the nature of your vegetation and the type of cutting you’ll be performing. For general trimming, a round or twisted string is suitable. For thicker vegetation or tougher weeds, opt for a square or Line Pro string. For sensitive areas or noise reduction, choose twisted string.
Tensioning: Adjusting the String Tightness
Properly tensioning the string is crucial for efficient cutting and long string life. To adjust the string, follow these steps:
- Release the string retainer: Locate the string retainer on the trimmer head and press it down to release the tension.
- Pull out string: Gently pull out around 6-8 inches of string from each side of the trimmer head.
- Position string in retainer: Hook the ends of the string into the slots on the string retainer.
- Tension the string: While holding the string taut, release the string retainer to apply tension to the string.
- Test the tension: Hold the trimmer off the ground and run it. The string should extend outward and create a clean cutting circle.
- Adjust as needed: If the string is too loose or too tight, press the string retainer down again and make minor adjustments to the string length or tension until the desired cutting efficiency is achieved.
Table: String Tension Guide
| String Length | Tension | Cutting Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 inches | Moderate to tight | Best for general cutting |
| 3-5 inches | Tight | More aggressive cutting, but shorter string life |
| 9-12 inches | Loose | Less aggressive cutting, but longer string life |
Spool Reassembly: Reattaching the Trimmer Head
With the inner spool in place, it’s time to reassemble the spool housing and reattach it to the trimmer head.
- Insert the Outer Spool: Take the empty outer spool and insert it into the housing, making sure it fits snugly into the grooves.
- Load Line: Carefully insert one end of the trimmer line (approximately 20 feet) into the hole on the outer spool. Pull it through until it comes out the other side.
- Secure Line: To prevent the line from unwinding, tie a small knot at the opposite end of the line. Pull the knot into the hole on the outer spool and tighten it.
- Wind Line: Begin winding the trimmer line onto the outer spool in a clockwise direction. Keep the line taut as you wind it, ensuring there are no overlaps or tangles.
- Fill Spool: Continue winding the line until the outer spool is nearly full. Leave a small amount of space at the top for the line to expand during use.
- Trim Line: Use scissors to trim the end of the line to a length of about 6-8 inches.
- Attach Spool Housing: Hold the trimmer head upside down and align the spool housing with the mounting points. Secure it tightly using the bolts or screws provided.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Inner Spool | Houses the trimmer line and guides its feed |
| Outer Spool | Contains the wound line and rotates to dispense it |
| Trimmer Line | The cutting element that extends from the head |
Cutting the String
Once the new line is installed, you need to cut it to the desired length. Most trimmers have a built-in cutting guide that you can use. Simply hold the end of the line against the guide and pull the trimmer toward you. This will cut the line to the perfect length.
Trimming the Excess
After you have cut the line, you need to trim the excess. This will help to prevent the line from getting tangled or caught on anything. To trim the excess, simply hold the end of the line in one hand and the trimmer in the other hand.
Pull the trimmer toward you until the excess line is trimmed. You can also use a pair of scissors to trim the excess line. Be careful not to cut the line too short, as this could cause the trimmer to malfunction.
Here are some additional tips for trimming the excess line:
- Use a sharp pair of scissors.
- Cut the line at a 45-degree angle.
- Make sure the line is not too short.
- Trim the excess line regularly.
Trimming the Excess: Step-by-Step Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hold the end of the line in one hand and the trimmer in the other hand. |
| 2 | Pull the trimmer toward you until the excess line is trimmed. |
| 3 | You can also use a pair of scissors to trim the excess line. |
Safety First
Before attempting any restringing, ensure that the weed eater is unplugged or has no fuel. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
Gather Your Tools
You’ll need a new trimmer line, a spool or trimmer head, and a pair of snippers.
Remove the Trimmer Head
Locate the release button or lever on the trimmer head. Press it and pull the head off.
Unload the Old Line
Remove the old trimmer line from the spool or trimmer head. If it’s still wound around the spool, carefully unwind it.
Wind the New Line
Insert the new trimmer line into the spool or trimmer head. Follow the arrows or instructions on the head to ensure the line is wound in the correct direction.
Load the Spool
Place the filled spool back into the trimmer head. Ensure it fits securely and the trimmer line is properly fed through the eyelet.
Reattach the Trimmer Head
Align the trimmer head with the base and push it back on until it clicks into place.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The trimmer line is not feeding
The trimmer line may be tangled or jammed. Pull the line gently to release it. If it’s still not feeding, check for any debris or obstructions.
The line breaks easily
The trimmer line may be too thin or old. Use a thicker line or replace the old one. Also, check for any sharp objects in the cutting area that could damage the line.
The weed eater vibrates excessively
The trimmer line may be unevenly wound or the trimmer head may be loose. Rewind the line and ensure the trimmer head is securely attached. If the vibration persists, there may be an underlying mechanical issue that requires professional repair.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trimmer line not feeding | Line is tangled or jammed | Pull the line gently to release it |
| Line breaks easily | Line is too thin or old | Use a thicker line or replace the old one |
| Excessives vibration | Unevenly wound line or loose trimmer head | Rewind the line and ensure the trimmer head is securely attached |
Regular Maintenance: Preserving String Life
Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your Stihl weed eater string. Here are some simple steps to follow:
1. Clean the Trimmer Head
Dirt, grass clippings, and other debris can accumulate in the trimmer head, causing premature string wear. Clean the head regularly using a wire brush or compressed air.
2. Inspect the Spool
Inspect the spool for any damage or cracks. If the spool is damaged, it can cause the string to break or tangle easily. Replace the spool if necessary.
3. Adjust the String Length
The optimal string length varies depending on the model of your Stihl weed eater. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended length and adjust accordingly.
4. Use the Correct String Type
Different types of string are designed for specific applications. Use the string type recommended by Stihl for your model to ensure optimal performance and durability.
5. Wind the String Properly
Wind the string onto the spool in the direction indicated by the arrows on the spool. Proper winding prevents the string from tangling or breaking.
6. Avoid Hitting Hard Objects
Striking hard objects with the trimmer head can damage the string and reduce its lifespan. Always trim around obstacles carefully.
7. Store the Trimmer Properly
When not in use, store the trimmer in a dry and temperature-controlled environment. Moisture and extreme temperatures can damage the string.
8. Avoid Over-Trimming
Over-trimming can put excessive stress on the string, causing it to break or wear out faster. Trim only as much as necessary.
9. Use a Sharp Blade
A dull blade can require more force to trim, putting strain on the string. Sharpen the blade regularly to maintain optimal cutting performance.
10. Troubleshooting String Wear:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| String breaks easily | Damaged spool, incorrect string type, over-trimming | Replace spool, use recommended string, trim carefully |
| String tangles frequently | Improper winding, debris accumulation | Wind string correctly, clean trimmer head regularly |
| String wears out quickly | Dull blade, hitting hard objects | Sharpen blade, avoid striking obstacles |
