String trimmers are a great tool for trimming bushes, trees, and other vegetation. However, they can be difficult to load, and you might need tips on how to do it. In this article, we’ll show you how to load a string trimmer using the right techniques.
Locate the string trimmer
To load a string trimmer, locate the engine and pull the cord in the direction of the blade. Be sure to hold onto the fence when maneuvering the trimmer.
Open the gas cap
- Open the gas cap on the trimmer.
- Line up the threads of the string line on the spool and screw on the cap.
- Turn the trimmer on and wait for it to reach full power before cutting the string.
Turn on the power to the trimmer
Make sure the string is properly wound on the spool
Set the trimmer to its lowest possible speed
Start by standing in front of the machine, with the string straight out and away from your body
Pull the cord back slightly so that you have a long string extending from the trimmer
Aim the trimmer at the ground and pull the cord all the way back until you reach your desired height (be very careful not to go over board)
Release the trigger and watch as the string whips through the air
Be aware of any bystanders or pets who may be in range
Connect the battery to the trimmer
First, make sure the battery is properly connected to the trimmer. Loosen the screw that holds the battery in place and slide it towards the blade. Make sure the clip that holds the cord in place is also loose. Now, insert the cord into the opening on the bottom of the trimmer. Push down on the cord until it’s fully inserted into the machine. Tighten the screw to hold everything in place.
Next, line up one end of the string with one of the cutting guides on either side of the blade, and push down so that it’s fully engaged with the blade. Hold onto the other end of the string and pull up on it until it’s tight against both guides. Then, release your grip on both ends of the string and let them go back to their original position. Repeat this step for each guide.
Now, stand behind the machine and hold onto either side of its housing as you pull forward on the string to start trimming. Be careful not to pinch your fingers between the housing and blade! Once you have trimmed a length of string around all of your edges, release your grip on one side ofthe housing and carefully push it allthe way forward . Then, repeat the process on the other side.
Load the string onto the spool
To load a string trimmer onto the spool:
- Unscrew the blade cover.
- Lift up the blade guard and lift out the blade.
- Hold onto the string guard and replace the blade cover.
- Insert the spool into the opposite end of the trimmer and screw on the spool cover.
- Push down on the blade guard to secure it in place.
- Twist the handle to engage the blades and pull it back to start cutting grass or weeds.
Turn the spool to line up the teeth on the comb
Attach the line to the trimmer
Fold the string in half
Push down on the trigger to start cutting the string
Pull the trigger to stop cutting
There are generally two ways of loading a string trimmer: one with a string cartridge, and one without a cartridge.
With a cartridge:
- Open the side cover to the trimmer. This is located on the rear of the machine.
- Insert the string into the spool that is located inside the trimmer. If there is no spool, or if it needs to be changed, click here for more information.
- Close the side cover and push down on the trigger to start cutting the string. To stop cutting, pull the trigger.
Without a cartridge:
- Open the side cover to the trimmer. This is located on the rear of the machine.
- Feed one end of the string into one of the two cutters located at either end of the bar that runs across both sides of the cutting head (see image below). Push down gently with your hand to make sure it’s securely lodged inside (it should look like it’s “sticking out” by about 1cm). You can now tighten up both nuts that hold this cutter in place.