Weed Trimmer string issues

[GMBoy]

Hey guys -

I've ALWAYS had problems with weed trimmers and the strings not lasting long, not feeding, etc. It's happened with every weed trimmer I've had. My current weed trimmer is a 4 cycle Cub Cadet and I swear I've had enough! I can't go 10 feet without the string needing attention - usually it will all fly out too.

It must be me..so do you guys have the same issue or is their a certain type/size of string to use and a best way to install the string?

(note: I've used all sizes of string and even Husqvarna HD strings as well as the system which replaces the head with one you just stick in premeasured string in the holes from the outside - they all stink!)

 

[SEMI_287]

This solved my problems.

 

[sleddriver]

I reel out about 8' of the nylon thread & cut. Insert either end into the hole in the spool and pull through. Join the two loose ends and pull them tight so both threads are the same length. Then wind them both together around the spool in the right direction (mine has an arrow indicating this). Then I slide the spool back on, poke a thread out each hole and screw the cap back on. Works everytime. My 25yr old weed wacker is a Ryobi! Built like a tank.

 

[Pop_Rivit]

I dumped the little hand held weed wackers a few years ago and bought a DR wheeled string trimmer. I've never had an issue since.

 

[GMBoy]

Originally Posted By: SEMI_287
This solved my problems.


I've seen those. I think I will try it...will it hold up to a lot of trimming along fences and around the house?

 

[GMBoy]

Originally Posted By: sleddriver
I reel out about 8' of the nylon thread & cut. Insert either end into the hole in the spool and pull through. Join the two loose ends and pull them tight so both threads are the same length. Then wind them both together around the spool in the right direction (mine has an arrow indicating this). Then I slide the spool back on, poke a thread out each hole and screw the cap back on. Works everytime. My 25yr old weed wacker is a Ryobi! Built like a tank.


Maybe part of my problem is my technique in loading the head. I've tried doing it off the unit as well as doing it on the unit and winding it up. Seems like one side is always going in the wrong direction, lol.

I will try this way though - atleast I'll have even string instead of running around with 1 string for the last part of the job, lol.

 

[SEMI_287]

Originally Posted By: GMBoy
Originally Posted By: SEMI_287
This solved my problems.


I've seen those. I think I will try it...will it hold up to a lot of trimming along fences and around the house?


They hold up well. As long as your not jamming the head into posts or wire they last quite a while. I got mine in Home Depot.

 

[wally6934]

I use the head that you push 2 lengths of plastic 14 or 15 inches long in. The secret was to get the commercial string that is .125 / 1/8 thick. I could not buy the string cut to length so i cut it myself.

This string barely fits in the head you have to push a little, and sometimes work a little to get it out. But now i can usually do the whole lawn with 1 set of strings instead of 4 to 6 sets.

 

[GMBoy]

Originally Posted By: wally6934
I use the head that you push 2 lengths of plastic 14 or 15 inches long in. The secret was to get the commercial string that is .125 / 1/8 thick. I could not buy the string cut to length so i cut it myself.

This string barely fits in the head you have to push a little, and sometimes work a little to get it out. But now i can usually do the whole lawn with 1 set of strings instead of 4 to 6 sets.



I've got similiar setup now. It does do better than the original bump feed but I still have to change them frequently and carrying a bunch of spare string pieces is getting old, lol.

 

[Shannow]

Originally Posted By: SEMI_287
This solved my problems.


My Homelite wore the brass string guides to the point that the cord was fatigue breaking.

Boughtone of these http://www.amazon.com/Grass-Gator-3630-U...488&sr=1-12

and while it works as advertised, has way too big flywheel effect and was $60 at the hardware store.

In future, I'll put up with messy yard, and buy online.

 

[lt2000]

Using fresh line will be a big help for your problem.
gary