Whether you’re an avid landscape artist, or just a dad trying to figure out how to maintain his lawn, changing your weed wacker head is an essential component of lawn care. In the past few decades, weed wackers have become the go-to tool for any gardener looking to maintain their green space.
Weed wackers, often referred to as weed eaters, are innovative gadgets that have shaped landscaping. The device uses a string trimmer line, that spins around at a high speed and effectively trims your weeds. Some models are plug-in, battery-powered, or use gasoline.
When changing your weed wacker head, the first step is to unplug your weed wacker. Next, you need to have a few tools handy to make the process efficient.
Tools You'll Need to Change Your Weed Eater
There are a few tools you should have on-hand to make the process of changing your weed trimmer head much easier. Firstly, the replacement head will need to be nearby. You may also need a flathead screwdriver, a wrench, and a weed trimmer line. A shop towel is also useful to clean your spools.
The Weed Wacker Head
A weed trimmer head may need replacements from time to time as the string trimmer line in weed wackers can wear down, thus making them less powerful and efficient. Replacing a weed eater head is super easy once you get familiar with your weed eater unit and the various parts involved.
Trimmer Head Replacement Process
Firstly make sure that any power cord attached to your weed eater unit is unplugged. Always take proper safety measures when replacing any part of your weed wacker to protect yourself and others. Always follow your model’s menu and instruction guide when performing maintenance.
Step 1: Remove The Head
The first step in removing the trimmer head is to remove the line spool of the trimmer line. Simply push in, twist and pull out the line spool. Then, locate the retaining center nut and unscrew it to remove it from your model. Your model may be threaded backwards and the tried and true “righty tighty, lefty loosey” way may not work.
Step 2: Loosen it Up
You’ll need to pull the line spool out of your weed eater. Locate the two holes on the head, and use your screwdriver to hold the head in a good position to get your wrench in and remove the center nut. Removing the center head allows you to actually pull your trimmer head off.
Step 3: Attach The Replacement To The Shaft
Attach your replacement trimmer head to the shaft while using your screwdriver to keep your string trimmer in place, and spin the replacement head in a counter-clockwise motion to tighten and fully attach the new trimmer head. Ensure the trimmer head is properly secured to the shaft to prevent any damage to you or your machine.
Trimmer Line Replacement
Replacing your trimmer lines can be tricky. Always follow the manufacturer’s menu for your specific model. Unplug the spark plug boot and Remove the spool and bump knob by pushing the sides of the bump head. Use a shop towel to wipe off any excess debris. Gently separate the bump head from the shaft. Cut a 10 to 20-foot long piece of trimmer line.
Thread half of the trimmer line through the hole side of the spool, and the hole on the opposite side. Then thread the ends of the string trimmer line through the eyelet slots while you connect the spool and bump knob. Turn the bump knob in the way the arrows show on the reel of the spring head. Apply pressure to the bump knob to wind your trimmer line replacement evenly. Leave about a foot of trimmer line around the head to ensure your weed wacker gets good coverage when dealing with grass clippings.
Other Reasons Your Weed Eater May Not Be Working
You may have to do more than just replace the head of your weed wacker. You might have to replace the spark plug boot or throttle trigger spring. It could be a variety of parts that are affected and you may just need to purchase a different adapter piece or trimmer head for your weed trimmer. Your power chord may also be affected by a short in the wire or you may need to replace a nut. The pieces of a weed eater are complex and it’s important to consider fixing it before buying a whole new weed wacker.
Always Be Safe When Replacing Your Weed Trimmer Head
Always follow your weed eater’s manufacturer directions when replacing your string trimmer line or head. If you’re ever unsure on how to change your string trimmer, consult with someone you know and trust who does. You don’t need a bachelor’s degree to change your weed eater head. A quick browser search can pull up a plethora of articles that’ll offer advice on how to maintain your weed eater – but whenever in doubt of safety protocols and proper care when working with mechanical devices that use gasoline, consult with a friend or professional who can assist you safely!
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