Archive for the ‘Strimmer Maintenance’ Category
Petrol Strimmer Maintenance – Replacing The String
Posted on Nov 4, 2009 06:47:05 PM
If you own a strimmer, you’ll eventually have to change its string. The string can break for many reasons; but commonly, the very end of the string (usually a couple of inches from the end) will wrap itself around something (a heavy twig or similar) when rotating at high speed. When this happens, the combination of the bending in the string with the high speed force of the rotation can cause a small tear. After this has occurred, with continued use, the tear will extend into a full break, necessitating the replacement of the string. If you’re careful when using the trimmer, and observe what’s on the ground where it’s being used, you can minimise this type of breakage.
However, once it has occurred, follow these instructions to replace the string. (Note that these are general instructions, but should work with most types of petrol strimmer; for more detailed information about your particular model of strimmer, see the manufacturer’s user manual.)
- I know this is obvious (or should be!), but firstly, and very importantly, make sure the strimmer is switched off before turning it over and completing this process.
- Clean off the underside of the strimmer – this includes dirt, loose grass, etc. It’s not completely necessary, but it is always good practise to properly care for your tools.
- Remove the cap that keeps the string in place.
- Remove the spool of string and take the damaged string off the spool.
- Cut a new piece of string – the length should be 5 to 6 feet.
- Thread one end of the string though the hole in the spool and wrap the string around the spool anti-clockwise.
- Leave 6 inches of string loose at the end; hook this on one of the slots on the spool to keep it secure whilst you’re putting the spool back in.
- Put the spool back into the strimmer.
- Feed the loose end of the tread through the appropriate hole on the head of the strimmer.
- Pull the attached part of the string out of the slot.
- Put the cap back on.
As mentioned, all models of electric & petrol strimmer will be slightly different, but these instructions are usually all you’ll need.