How to Correctly Load String into Your String Trimmer

One of the most common frustrations in lawn maintenance is a tangled or jammed string trimmer. Often referred to as "charging" the trimmer, the process of winding new line onto the spool seems simple but requires precision to ensure the "bump feed" mechanism works correctly. Follow this guide to achieve a professional, jam-free load every time.

Step 1: Choose the Right Line Diameter

Before you begin, check your trimmer's manual for the recommended line diameter (measured in inches). Using a line that is too thick will strain the motor and cause frequent jams, while line that is too thin will break instantly against tough weeds.

• Light Work (.065 - .080 inches): Best for residential grass and light trimming.
• Medium Work (.085 - .105 inches): Ideal for thicker weeds and larger backyards.
• Heavy Duty (.110+ inches): Used for woody stalks and industrial landscaping.

Step 2: Prepare the Spool

Turn off your trimmer (remove the battery or spark plug wire for safety). Unscrew the bump head cap—usually by turning it counter-clockwise or pressing side tabs—and remove the inner spool. Take this opportunity to wipe away dried grass and dirt from the housing, as debris is a leading cause of feed failure.

Step 3: Hooking and Winding the Line

Most modern trimmers use one of two methods: the "Manual Wind" or the "Speed Load."

For Manual Wind Spools:

1. Cut a length of line (usually about 10–15 feet, depending on your spool size).
2. Locate the anchor hole in the center of the spool and insert one end of the line.
3. The Direction Matters: Look for an arrow on the spool indicating the winding direction. Wind the line neatly in tight, parallel rows. If the line crosses over itself haphazardly, it will snag when you try to "bump" it out during use.
4. If your trimmer uses a dual-line system, keep the two strands separated in their respective channels.

For "Speed Load" or "Easy Load" Heads:

Many modern units (like those from Echo, Stihl, or Ryobi) don't require you to take the spool out. Instead, you align an arrow on the bump knob with an eyelet on the head, feed the line straight through until it's centered, and then simply twist the knob to "charge" the line into the head.

Step 4: Locking and Reassembling

Once wound, leave about 6 inches of line sticking out. Most spools have small notches (cleats) to hold the line in place while you reinsert the spool into the housing. Feed the ends of the line through the metal eyelets in the outer cap, snap the cap back into place, and give the lines a sharp tug to release them from the temporary notches.

Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Trimmer Line

1. Soak Your Line in Water

Professional landscapers often soak their spools of trimmer line in a bucket of water. Why? Trimmer line is made of nylon, which is hygroscopic. Over time, it can dry out and become brittle. Soaking it restores its flexibility, making it much harder to snap against fences or rocks.

2. Avoid "Crowding" the Spool

It is tempting to put as much string as possible onto the spool to save time later. However, overfilling the spool causes the line to get pinched against the outer housing, preventing it from feeding. Always leave a 1/8-inch gap between the wound line and the edge of the spool flange.

3. The "Tap" Technique

To advance the line, tap the head on the grass while the trimmer is at full throttle. Tapping on concrete or gravel will wear down the plastic bump head prematurely.

Conclusion

Loading a string trimmer correctly is the difference between an easy afternoon in the yard and a frustrating battle with your equipment. By selecting the right gauge, winding in the correct direction, and keeping the line hydrated, you ensure that your trimmer performs at its peak efficiency. Now that your trimmer is charged, you're ready to achieve those crisp, professional lawn edges.