How to Replace Weed Eater Line on Any Trimmer
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Weed eater line replacement is the job of putting new trimmer line, or a new spool, on a string trimmer when the old line is worn or broken. The steps are short, but the line diameter and the spool type must match the trimmer. This guide explains how to choose the line, how the common bump-head method works, and what to look for in a replacement spool. It uses one manufacturer page for the loading steps and the product listings in our pack for line and spool facts.
Quick answer
- Check the line diameter in your trimmer manual before buying. The Cub Cadet guide we read says to check the operator’s manual for the correct line type, and the pack lists several 0.065, 0.080 and 0.095 inch options.
- A pre-wound spool is the fastest replacement when your trimmer accepts one. Several listings in the pack are replacement spools for named trimmer models.
- For a bump-head trimmer, the Cub Cadet guide describes cutting about 10 feet of line, two lengths of .095 inch line or a twin-strand line, and winding it onto the reel.
- Replace brittle or badly cracked line rather than reusing it. Manufacturer guidance is the best source for the exact line type.
What a weed eater line replacement involves
A string trimmer cuts with a length of nylon line that spins from a head. As the line wears, it gets shorter. On a bump-head or automatic-feed trimmer, the head releases more line when the user taps it on the ground. When the line runs out, or when the line breaks at the eyelets, the head needs new line or a new spool. A full spool replacement is usually faster than rewinding loose line by hand.
The job has three parts. First, choose the line or spool that fits the trimmer. Second, remove the old line or spool and load the new one. Third, test the feed. Each part depends on the trimmer model, so the manual is the reference for each step. The guide below covers the common method and the product facts from the pack.
Step 1: choose the right line or spool
Line diameter is the first check. The listings in the pack give diameters of 0.065 inch, 0.080 inch and 0.095 inch. A thicker line cuts heavier weeds and resists wear, but a line that is too thick can strain the trimmer’s motor and feed system. The Cub Cadet guide we read gives 0.095 inch as the line size in its example, and it says the correct line type depends on the model, so the manual should be the final reference.
Spool type is the second check. Some trimmers take a pre-wound spool that drops into the head. Others need line loaded by hand. The pack includes replacement spools for named trimmer families, such as the Black+Decker and Ryobi listings, and a spool listing for Worx trimmers. Check the model designation on the listing against your trimmer’s label before you buy.
Length is the third check. The Cub Cadet guide describes about 10 feet of line for a bump-head head. The pack’s listings give line lengths of 11 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet and 1,480 feet, depending on the product. A longer line is useful when the head uses a large spool. A short pre-cut line suits a trimmer that takes pre-cut lengths.
Comparison table
The table uses only values stated in each listing. “Not stated” means the listing gives no value.
| Product | Type | Line diameter | Length or count | Fit named in listing | Other listed point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GOSDENG weed wacker string, Ryobi One+ | Replacement line | 0.080 inch | 11 feet | Ryobi One+ AC80RL3 trimmer models | Auto feed spool |
| BLACK+DECKER genuine OEM 3-pack | Replacement spool | Not stated | 30 feet per spool, 3 pack | Named BLACK+DECKER trimmers | Factory wound line |
| BLACK+DECKER genuine OEM spool | Replacement spool | Not stated | Not stated | Named BLACK+DECKER trimmers | Auto feed system |
| Grass Gator 8020 pre-cut line | Pre-cut line, 20 pack | 0.130 inch | 20 pack | Grass Gator 8010 head | Pre-cut lengths |
| Eventronic Ryobi-compatible spool | Replacement spool, 6 pack | 0.065 inch | 6 pack | Ryobi One+ AC14RL3A and related models | Auto feed |
| KAKO 0.095 trimmer line | Bulk line | 0.095 inch | 1,480 feet | Gas and electric trimmers (listing) | Commercial grade |
Step 2: load a bump-head line
The Cub Cadet guide describes a bump-head trimmer. It starts by cutting about 10 feet of new line. The guide offers two options: a twin-strand split line, or two 10-foot lengths of 0.095 inch line. Use the line size your manual gives, because the guide says the correct line type depends on the model.
Next, unscrew the bump knob and remove the inner wheel and spring. Set the spring aside, because it must go back on the shaft later. The guide describes this as the way to reach the inner reel.
Push one end of each line length into one of the two holes on top of the inner reel. Pull them through until the ends match, leaving about 2 to 3 inches. Push the short ends into the other hole, then pull the long end to close the loop. The guide describes this as the method for locking the two lines onto the reel.
Wind the line tightly around the reel in the direction of the arrow printed on the wheel. When about 6 inches remain, push the ends into the holding slots on the reel. Keep the winding even, because loose winding can cause the line to tangle when the head spins.
Step 3: reassemble the head
Replace the spring on the shaft. Feed the free ends of the line through the eyelets on the cutting head. Set the wheel back on the shaft and align its slots with the eyelets. Press down on the wheel to compress the spring, then screw in the bump knob by hand until it is snug.
Gently pull both line ends to confirm they are free of the holding slots. If the line does not pull out, the end is still caught, and the head should be opened again. Do not run the trimmer until both ends can be pulled free.
Step 4: check the feed and the cut
Start the trimmer and tap the head on the ground to release a short length of line. The Cub Cadet guide in its wider text says bumping the head against the ground while it spins releases more line. Release only as much line as the cut needs. Too much line adds strain and can cause the motor to bog down.
Check the line length after each release. The line should be even on both sides of the head. If one side is much shorter, stop the trimmer and reload the line.
Auto-feed and spool models
Many spools in the pack are auto-feed spools. The listings describe an auto feed system that releases line as needed. A spool does not need hand winding, which the listings describe as the main time saving. Insert the spool following your manual. For a pre-cut line, the listing for the Grass Gator 8020 says the line is precision cut to fit the 8010 head, so the line must be matched to the head.
Keep spare spools or a length of line on hand for a long job. The listings give 20-pack and 6-pack counts for some pre-cut and spool products, which can cover a full season for a small lawn.
When to replace the line
Replace the line when it breaks often or wears down. Brittle or badly cracked line should be swapped rather than reused, because it breaks at the eyelets or under load. Check the line before each use, and replace it when it looks thin, dull or cracked.
A line that breaks under light work is a sign that the wrong diameter is in the head, or that the line has aged. Check the manual for the correct line type, and load a new line of that type before the next job.
Common mistakes
The first mistake is loading the wrong diameter. A thinner line breaks under heavy weeds, and a thicker line can strain the motor. Check the manual first.
The second mistake is winding the line in the wrong direction. The Cub Cadet guide tells the user to wind in the direction of the arrow on the wheel. Winding against the arrow can make the line feed poorly.
The third mistake is skipping the safety check. The Cub Cadet guide does not cover powering off the trimmer or removing the battery, so read your manual and disconnect power before you handle the head.
FAQ
What line diameter should I use?
Use the diameter in your trimmer manual. The pack lists 0.065, 0.080 and 0.095 inch lines, and the Cub Cadet guide uses 0.095 inch in its example. The manual is the final reference.
Can I use any replacement spool?
No. Choose a spool that names your trimmer model. Several listings in the pack name specific Ryobi, Black+Decker and Worx models. Check the model on the listing against your trimmer.
How long should the line be?
The Cub Cadet guide describes about 10 feet for a bump-head head. The pack lists line lengths of 11 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet and 1,480 feet. Match the length to the spool or head size in your manual.
Why does my line keep breaking?
Line that is too thin for the job, or line that has aged, will break often. Check the diameter in the manual and replace worn line. Brittle line should be swapped rather than reused.
Do I need to wind the line by hand?
Not with an auto-feed spool. The listings describe pre-wound spools that drop into the head. A bump-head trimmer uses loose line that you wind by hand, as the Cub Cadet guide describes.
Bottom line
For weed eater line replacement, match the line diameter and spool type to your trimmer first. Use a pre-wound spool when your model takes one, and load loose line only when the manual calls for it. Follow the wind direction and reassemble carefully, then check the feed before you cut. The Cub Cadet guide and your manual are the reference for each step.
For a Ryobi-compatible option, see our Ryobi One+ weed eater string guide, and for a wider look at trimmers, read battery powered weed eaters.
