Maintaining your outdoor power equipment is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. One of the most important tasks is learning how to string a Stihl trimmer correctly. A properly strung trimmer will cut cleanly and efficiently, making your yard work easier and more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to string a Stihl trimmer like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or a beginner gardener, follow these instructions carefully to master this essential skill.
Before you start, gather the necessary materials: your Stihl trimmer, a new trimmer line, and a pair of safety glasses. It’s crucial to wear safety glasses whenever you’re working with power tools. Locate the trimmer head on your Stihl trimmer. Depending on your model, it may be located at the end of the shaft or on a sidewinder attachment. Once you’ve identified the trimmer head, remove the cap or cover that secures the trimmer line in place. Carefully remove any remaining trimmer line from the head.
Next, measure and cut a new piece of trimmer line to the desired length. The length of the line will vary depending on the size and model of your trimmer. Refer to your Stihl trimmer’s user manual for specific recommendations. Once you’ve cut the line, insert one end into the hole on the trimmer head. Pull the line through until it reaches the opposite side of the head. Now, insert the other end of the line into the remaining hole on the trimmer head. Pull both ends of the line until they are taut and secure. Ensure that the line is wound evenly around the spool inside the trimmer head.
Selecting the Appropriate String
Choosing the correct string for your Stihl trimmer is crucial for optimal performance and durability. Consider these factors when selecting your string:
Types of String
Round String: This standard string type offers a good balance of durability and cutting power. It’s suitable for general trimming tasks.
Square String: Square string cuts through grass and weeds more efficiently than round string. However, it tends to wear out faster.
Twisted String: This type of string is less likely to tangle or break. It’s a good choice for dense or tough vegetation.
String Thickness
The thickness of the string impacts its durability and cutting power. Choose a thicker string for heavier tasks. For average trimming, a 0.080-inch to 0.110-inch string is suitable. For heavy-duty tasks, a 0.130-inch or 0.150-inch string is recommended.
Material
String materials include nylon, copolymer, and metal. Nylon is a budget-friendly option with good cutting power but shorter durability. Copolymer provides a balance of strength and flexibility. Metal strings are the most durable but can damage obstacles and spark near flammable materials.
Specialty Strings
Certain string types are designed for specific applications:
| Type | Applications |
|---|---|
| Polymer String | Quiet operation, ideal for noise-sensitive areas |
| Bulldog Blade String | Clear dense vegetation and brush |
Identifying the Trimmer Head
The trimmer head is the business end of your string trimmer, and it’s responsible for cutting the grass and weeds.
There are two main types of trimmer heads: bump-feed heads and fixed-line heads. Bump-feed heads use a centrifugal clutch to advance the line as it wears down, while fixed-line heads require you to manually advance the line by winding it around the spool.
To identify the type of trimmer head you have, simply look at the end of the shaft. If you see a small, round cap with a hole in the center, you have a bump-feed head. If you see a larger, cylindrical cap with a slot in the side, you have a fixed-line head.
Bump-Feed Trimmer Heads
Bump-feed trimmer heads are the most common type of trimmer head. They are easy to use and require minimal maintenance. To load a bump-feed trimmer head, simply follow these steps:
1. Unplug the trimmer from the power source.
2. Hold the trimmer head upside down and insert the end of the string into the hole in the cap.
3. Pull the string through the hole until about 6 inches of string is left trailing behind the cap.
4. Wrap the string around the spool in a clockwise direction, making sure that the string is evenly spaced around the spool.
5. Tuck the end of the string under the last wrap of string.
6. Place the cap back on the trimmer head and tighten it securely.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unplug the trimmer from the power source. |
| 2 | Hold the trimmer head upside down and insert the end of the string into the hole in the cap. |
| 3 | Pull the string through the hole until about 6 inches of string is left trailing behind the cap. |
| 4 | Wrap the string around the spool in a clockwise direction, making sure that the string is evenly spaced around the spool. |
| 5 | Tuck the end of the string under the last wrap of string. |
| 6 | Place the cap back on the trimmer head and tighten it securely. |
Inserting the New String
To insert the new string, follow these detailed steps:
- Wind the Line Around the Spool: Unwind a length of string about twice the length of the trimmer and wrap it evenly around the spool in a clockwise direction.
- Insert the Ends into the Eyelets: Identify the two eyelets on the outer edge of the spool. Insert one end of the string into each eyelet and pull it through until about 2-3 inches remain outside.
- Tighten the Line: Gently pull on both ends of the string to tighten it around the spool. Make sure the string is secure and not loose.
- Trim the Excess: Once the line is tightened, trim any excess string that exceeds 2-3 inches outside the eyelets using a scissor or utility knife.
- Load the Line into the Feed Housing: Locate the line feed housing on the trimmer head and push the exposed ends of the string into the respective slots.
- Secure the String: Some trimmers may have retainers or loops to secure the line in place. Make sure the string is securely held within the feed housing before proceeding.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wind the line around the spool clockwise. |
| 2 | Insert line ends into eyelets and pull through. |
| 3 | Tighten the line by pulling on both ends. |
| 4 | Trim excess string to 2-3 inches. |
| 5 | Load line into feed housing and secure it. |
Tightening the String
With the trimmer head removed, loosen the locking tab and guide the string into the eyelet of the spool. Wrap the string around the spool in the direction of the arrow, making sure to fill both notches. Insert the spool back into the head and pull the string ends through the slots provided on the outside of the trimmer head.
Once the string is threaded through, pull both ends simultaneously and tighten them by winding the spool clockwise until the string is taut. This will secure the string in place and prevent it from coming loose during operation.
After tightening the string, adjust the cutting head to the desired length by holding the trimmer head and turning the adjustment knob. The knob can be loosened or tightened to extend or retract the cutting head. Ensure that the cutting head is adequately extended to reach the intended cutting area while maintaining a safe distance from obstacles.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Loosen locking tab and guide string into spool eyelet |
| 2 | Wrap string around spool following arrow direction |
| 3 | Insert spool into head and pull string ends through slots |
| 4 | Pull both ends simultaneously and tighten by winding spool clockwise |
| 5 | Adjust cutting head length using adjustment knob |
Cutting Excess String
Once the new string has been spooled onto the trimmer head, it’s time to cut the excess and prepare the trimmer for use. Follow these steps to ensure a clean and efficient trim:
Step 1:
Identify the cutting blade located on the trimmer head.
Step 2:
Grasp the string with one hand and pull it taut against the cutting blade.
Step 3:
Using a sharp pair of scissors or the built-in cutting tool on the trimmer head, cut the string approximately 1-2 inches beyond the blade.
Step 4:
Repeat the process on the other side of the trimmer head, ensuring both strings are cut to the same length.
Step 5:
Pull the strings through the trimmer head’s exit hole and ensure they extend evenly.
Step 6:
Start the trimmer and let it run for a few seconds. This will help the strings settle into the correct position.
Step 7:
If one string is longer than the other, adjust it by pulling or releasing the corresponding knob or lever on the trimmer head.
Step 8:
Once the strings are aligned and at the desired length, stop the trimmer and check the results.
Step 9:
For optimal trimming performance, consider the following additional tips:
| Tips for Cutting Excess String |
|---|
| Use sharp scissors or the built-in cutting tool to ensure a clean cut. |
| Cut the strings to the same length on both sides of the head. |
| If one string is longer, it can cause the trimmer head to vibrate, leading to uneven trimming. |
| Check the strings regularly and adjust as necessary to maintain optimal performance. |
How to String a Stihl Trimmer
A Stihl trimmer is a versatile tool ideal for lawn maintenance, landscaping, and other outdoor tasks. Stringing a Stihl trimmer effectively ensures optimal performance and extends its lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to string a Stihl trimmer:
1. Safety First: Always wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from potential debris or entanglement during the stringing process.
2. Prepare the trimmer: Unplug the trimmer, flip it upside down, and locate the spool cover, which is typically secured by screws or latches.
3. Remove the spool cover: Carefully remove the spool cover by unscrewing or unlatching it. Do not pull on the strings at this point.
4. Insert the string: Take a new spool of trimmer line and insert one end of the line into the hole on the spool. Ensure that the line is fully inserted and aligns with the guide slots.
5. Wind the string: Holding the loose end of the string, wind it around the spool in the direction indicated by the arrows on the spool cover. Continue winding until the spool is almost full, leaving an inch or two of slack at the end.
6. Align the holes: Once the string is wound, locate the holes on the trimmer head where the line exits. Guide the short end of the string through one of the holes.
7. Pull the string through: Using long-nose pliers or a loop puller, grasp the end of the string and pull it through the trimmer head, ensuring it exits the opposite hole.
8. Repeat the process: Repeat the string winding and pulling process for the second line on the spool.
9. Secure the spool cover: Replace the spool cover by aligning it over the spool and tightening the screws or latches securely.
10. Check the line length: Pull out the trimmer line to the desired length and use the trimmer head to cut off any excess line.
People Also Ask
How often should I string my Stihl trimmer?
The frequency of restringing a Stihl trimmer depends on usage and conditions. As a general rule, it’s recommended to replace the trimmer line when it becomes worn, broken, or less effective in cutting grass.
What type of trimmer line should I use for my Stihl trimmer?
Stihl trimmers are compatible with various trimmer lines. Choose a line that matches the diameter and shape specified in your trimmer’s manual. Round lines are suitable for general trimming, while square or twisted lines offer greater durability and cutting efficiency.
How do I know if my Stihl trimmer line is too long?
Excessive line length can affect the trimmer’s performance and safety. The recommended line length typically ranges from 12 to 18 inches. If the line is too long, it may wrap around obstacles or cause entanglement, increasing the risk of injury.
