Changing the string on a Dewalt trimmer can seem a bit scary the first time. I remember the first time I tried it. I was nervous I’d break something or do it wrong. But after a few tries, I found it’s actually simple and fast.
If you have a Dewalt string trimmer and feel unsure about changing the string, you’re not alone. I’ll walk you through the process step by step, using my own experience. I’ll also share tips and small problems I faced, so you can avoid them.
Why Changing The String Matters
A trimmer with a fresh string works much better. When the string wears down, the trimmer cuts less grass and weeds. Sometimes, the string even breaks or gets stuck. I once tried to finish my yard with a half-worn string.
The result? My trimmer kept stopping, and the grass looked uneven. Fresh string makes yard work faster and easier. Plus, it keeps your trimmer in good shape.
Tools And Materials You’ll Need
You don’t need many tools for this job. Here’s what I always keep ready before I start:
- New trimmer line (make sure it’s the right size for your Dewalt model, usually 0.080” or 0.095”)
- Scissors or wire cutters
- Gloves (optional, but good for safety)
- Clean cloth (to wipe away grass or dirt)
I once tried using an old, wrong-sized string, and it kept jamming. Check your Dewalt manual or look at the spool for the right size.
Understanding The Dewalt Trimmer Head
Before changing the string, it helps to know how the trimmer head works. Dewalt uses an “easy feed” bump system. You tap the head on the ground, and more string comes out. Inside the head, there’s a spool that holds the string.
You wind the string around this spool.
Most Dewalt trimmers use one of two common head types:
- QuickLoad head: You feed the string straight through. No need to open the head.
- Standard spool head: You open the head and wind the string inside.
My current trimmer uses the QuickLoad, but I’ve used both types. I’ll explain both, since you might have either one.
Step-by-step: How To Change The String
1. Safety First
Before touching the trimmer, make sure it’s turned off. If it’s battery-powered, pull out the battery. For corded models, unplug it. I once forgot this step, and the trimmer spun as I was fixing it—a scary moment!
2. Remove The Spool Cap (if Needed)
If you have a standard spool head, press the tabs on the side and pull off the cap. The spool should come out easily. With QuickLoad heads, you don’t need to remove anything.
3. Clean Out The Head
Grass and dirt can build up inside. I always use a cloth to wipe it clean. Clean parts last longer and the string feeds better.
4. Prepare The New String
Cut a length of new trimmer line. Dewalt recommends about 10–15 feet. Don’t cut too long—a string that’s too long will jam. I’ve learned that 12 feet is a safe average.
5. Winding The String (standard Spool Head)
If you have a spool to wind:
- Find the starter hole on the spool. Push ½ inch of string into this hole.
- Wind the string in the direction shown on the spool (usually an arrow).
- Keep the string tight and even. If you overlap, it can jam.
- When you have about 6 inches left, hook the ends into the notches.
I used to rush this step and wind too loosely. That always caused jams. Take a minute here—neat winding makes a big difference.
6. Reinstall The Spool
Place the wound spool back into the head. Feed the ends of the string through the eyelets. Snap the cap back on.
7. Stringing The Quickload Head
For the QuickLoad head, the process is even easier:
- Align the arrows on the head.
- Push the string straight through both eyelets until half the string sticks out each side.
- Turn the head in the direction of the arrow to wind the string inside. Keep turning until only 6 inches of string sticks out on each side.
I love this design. It saves a lot of time and there’s no need to open anything.
8. Test It Out
Reconnect the battery or plug in the trimmer. Hold it away from your body and tap the head on the ground. The string should feed out easily. If not, check for jams or rewinding errors.
Common Problems And How To Fix Them
I’ve faced a few problems that slowed me down. Here’s what I learned:
- String keeps breaking: You may be using the wrong size or poor-quality string. I stick to Dewalt brand or a strong, round line.
- String won’t feed: The winding may be too loose or overlapped. Rewind it neatly.
- Head won’t snap back: Check for dirt or broken tabs.
- String jams inside: This happens if you wind too much or the string is old and brittle.
When I first started, I tried to use old string from last season. It was dry and broke every five minutes. Now I buy fresh line each year.
Choosing The Right String
All string is not the same. Dewalt trimmers work best with a certain size and shape. Here’s a quick comparison of the two most common string types for Dewalt trimmers:
| String Size | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.080” | Light grass, small yards | Easy to feed, less strain on motor | Wears out faster in thick weeds |
| 0.095” | Thick weeds, larger yards | Lasts longer, tougher cut | Slightly harder to wind |
I usually keep both sizes in my shed. If you’re not sure, check your Dewalt manual or look for a sticker on the trimmer.
How Often Should You Change The String?
This depends on how much you trim. If you have a small yard and trim once a week, you might only change the string every month or two. If you cut thick weeds or have a big yard, you’ll need to change it more often.
Here’s a rough guide from my own use:
| Yard Size | Grass Type | Change Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 1,000 sq ft) | Light grass | Once every 6–8 weeks |
| Medium (1,000–5,000 sq ft) | Mixed grass/weeds | Every 3–4 weeks |
| Large (over 5,000 sq ft) | Thick weeds | Every 1–2 weeks |
If you notice the trimmer cuts slower or the string keeps breaking, it’s time for a change.
Mistakes I Made (and How To Avoid Them)
I want to save you some headaches by sharing mistakes I made early on:
- Not checking the string size: I once used 0.065” string. It broke every two minutes. Use the right size!
- Forgetting safety: Don’t skip removing the battery. The trimmer can start by accident.
- Winding too loosely: This causes jams. Keep the winding tight and even.
- Cutting string too short: If you cut less than 10 feet, you’ll run out fast. Use 12–15 feet.
- Ignoring the arrows: Always follow the arrow on the spool or head. Winding the wrong way jams the line.
One non-obvious tip: If your hands are sweaty, wear gloves. The string can slip and make winding frustrating.
Advantages Of Doing It Yourself
When I first got my Dewalt trimmer, I paid a shop to change the string. It cost me $15 every time. Once I learned to do it myself, I saved money and time. It takes less than 10 minutes now.
Plus, I feel more confident using my tools.
Changing the string yourself also helps you notice other problems—like dirt build-up or worn parts—before they get worse.
Comparing Dewalt Trimmer Heads
Not all Dewalt heads are the same. Here’s a quick look at how the QuickLoad and Standard heads compare:
| Head Type | Ease of Use | Time Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| QuickLoad | Very easy | 2–3 minutes | Beginners, quick jobs |
| Standard Spool | Easy, but needs practice | 5–7 minutes | People who want to save on replacement heads |
I recommend the QuickLoad if you change string often. For less frequent use, standard heads are fine.
Non-obvious Tips For Better Results
Here are two tips I learned after a few seasons:
- Store string in a cool, dry place. Heat and sunlight make string brittle. I once left a pack in my shed window. The next season, it broke right away.
- Soak the string in water overnight before use. This sounds strange, but it keeps the string flexible and less likely to break. A friend gave me this tip, and it works!
Safety Reminders
Using a trimmer is safe if you follow basic rules:
- Always wear eye protection. Pieces of string or grass can fly up.
- Wear long pants and closed shoes.
- Keep kids and pets away when trimming.
I learned the hard way—one time a piece of string hit my leg and left a red mark for days.
Where To Find More Help
If you get stuck or want to see a video, Dewalt’s official website has great resources. Manuals, diagrams, and even videos show each step. For more, I recommend checking out the Dewalt Support site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know What Size String Fits My Dewalt Trimmer?
Check the sticker near the trimmer head or your manual. Most Dewalt models use 0.080” or 0.095” line.
What If The String Keeps Jamming Inside The Head?
You may have wound the string too loosely or overlapped it. Remove the spool and rewind it tight and even.
Can I Use Any Brand Of Trimmer Line?
Yes, but make sure it’s the right size. Dewalt brand string works best, but others are fine if they fit.
How Much String Should I Cut To Refill The Head?
Cut 10 to 15 feet. More than that can jam the head. Less means you’ll have to refill more often.
Why Does My Trimmer String Break So Fast?
It could be old or the wrong size. Store your string in a cool place, and don’t use string left in the sun for months.
Changing the string on your Dewalt trimmer is simple once you get the hang of it. With the right tips and a little practice, you’ll have your yard looking clean in no time. If I can do it, I know you can, too!
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