The fastest way to reload your Ryobi trimmer
Most Ryobi weed wackers use a bump-feed head or an automatic feed head, and both reload the same way: you wind new string into the spool, snap the spool back into the head, and you are done. The whole job takes about five minutes. You do not need tools, and the string costs between $3 and $8 per spool depending on the model.
The exact steps depend on whether your trimmer has a fixed spool or a removable one. Most homeowner models have removable spools, which is the easier route. If your head does not come apart, you wind string directly into the fixed spool without removing it.
Key Takeaways
- Ryobi trimmers use either a bump-feed or automatic feed head, and both reload by winding string onto a removable or fixed spool.
- Removable spools are easier: twist the cap counterclockwise, lift out the spool, wind new string into the grooves, and snap it back in.
- Fixed spools require you to thread string through the eyelets while the spool stays in the head, which takes longer but works the same way.
- Use the correct string diameter for your model — Ryobi trimmers typically take 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string, printed on the spool or in your manual.
- Wind string tightly and evenly, leaving 4 to 6 inches free to thread through the eyelets so the trimmer can feed it out.
How to reload a removable spool
Look at the top of your trimmer head. If you see a cap with a center button or a twist-lock design, your spool is removable. Grip the cap and turn it counterclockwise until it comes free. The spool will either lift straight out or stay attached to the cap — either way, set it on a flat surface.
Check the spool for two small eyelets or notches on the rim. These are where the string exits. Look for a groove or channel running around the spool — this is where the string winds. Some Ryobi spools have a small peg or post in the center; others do not. If there is a peg, you will anchor the string there before winding.
Cut a length of new string about 20 to 25 feet long. If you are unsure of the diameter, check the old spool or your manual — Ryobi trimmers usually take 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string. Insert one end of the string into the anchor peg (if your spool has one) or into the groove at the starting point. Wind the string tightly and evenly around the spool in the direction marked by an arrow on the spool itself. Most Ryobi spools are marked; if yours is not, wind clockwise.
Keep the string tight as you wind so it sits flat in the groove and does not bunch. Wind until you have about 4 to 6 inches of string left free. Thread one end through the left eyelet and the other through the right eyelet. Snap the spool back into the head, align the cap, and turn it clockwise until it clicks or seats firmly. Tug the free ends to pull string out of the eyelets, then trim them to the length marked on your trimmer head or to about 8 inches.
How to reload a fixed spool
If your trimmer head does not come apart, you have a fixed spool. You will wind string directly into the head without removing anything. Locate the eyelets — usually two small holes or slots on opposite sides of the head. You will thread string through these as you wind.
Cut a length of string about 20 to 25 feet long in the correct diameter for your model. Find the starting point on the spool — usually marked by a small notch or groove. Insert the string into that notch and begin winding around the spool in the direction of the arrow (or clockwise if unmarked). Wind tightly and evenly, keeping tension so the string does not overlap itself.
Wind until about 4 to 6 inches of string remains free. Thread one end through the left eyelet and the other through the right eyelet. Some fixed spools have a small button or lever you press to lock the string in place once it is threaded; if yours does, press it now. Pull the free ends to feed string out of the eyelets, then trim both sides to the correct length — usually 8 inches or the length marked on the head.
What string diameter and length you need
Ryobi weed wackers come in two common string sizes: 0.065 inch and 0.080 inch. The correct size is printed on the spool itself, on the trimmer head, or in your manual. Using the wrong diameter can cause the trimmer to feed poorly or not at all, so check before you buy.
A single spool usually holds 20 to 30 feet of string, which is enough for one or two full reloads depending on how much you trim. Pre-wound spools are sold at hardware stores, home centers, and online retailers. They cost between $3 and $8 each. Bulk string is cheaper if you reload often — a 100-foot spool of 0.065-inch string costs around $5 to $10 and will reload your trimmer many times.
Common mistakes that jam or break the string
The most common error is winding the string too loosely. If the string is slack, it will bunch, overlap, or tangle as you wind, and the trimmer will not feed it smoothly. Wind with steady tension so each loop sits flat against the previous one.
Another mistake is winding in the wrong direction. If you wind against the arrow on the spool, the string will unwind as the trimmer spins, and you will lose it when ready. Always follow the arrow, or wind clockwise if the spool is unmarked.
Threading the string through the eyelets incorrectly is also common. Make sure both ends go through the eyelets all the way — if one end is only halfway through, the trimmer will not feed it out. Pull both ends firmly after threading to make sure they are seated.
Finally, leaving too much free string causes feeding problems. If you leave more than 6 inches, the extra length will tangle or jam inside the head. If you leave less than 4 inches, the trimmer may not have enough string to feed out. Aim for 4 to 6 inches, then trim to the final length after threading.
How to tell if your string is wound correctly
Before you put the spool back in the head, look at the wound string. It should form a smooth, even spiral with no gaps, bunches, or overlaps. If you see loose areas or tangles, unwind and start over — it is faster than dealing with a jam later.
After you snap the spool back in and thread the string through the eyelets, tug both free ends gently. The string should pull out smoothly without resistance. If it catches or feels stuck, the spool may not be seated correctly, or the string may be pinched. Remove the spool and check that the string is threaded all the way through the eyelets and that nothing is twisted.
When to buy pre-wound spools instead of winding your own
Pre-wound spools are more expensive per reload but save time and eliminate the risk of winding incorrectly. They cost $5 to $8 each, while bulk string costs less per foot but requires you to wind it yourself. If you trim infrequently or dislike the winding process, pre-wound spools are worth the extra cost.
Pre-wound spools are sold at most hardware stores and home centers in the lawn and garden section. They are also available online from retailers like Amazon and directly from Ryobi. Make sure the spool is the correct diameter and designed for your trimmer model — Ryobi spools are usually labeled by model number or head type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different brand of string in my Ryobi trimmer?
Yes, as long as the diameter matches what your trimmer requires. Ryobi trimmers accept any 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string, regardless of brand. Check your manual or the spool to confirm the correct size, then buy any brand that matches. Generic string costs less and works just as well.
What do I do if the string keeps breaking while I trim?
Breaking usually means the string is too thin for the job or wound too loosely. Check that you are using the correct diameter for your model. If the diameter is right, unwind the spool and rewind it with tighter tension so the string does not slip. Also make sure both ends are threaded all the way through the eyelets.
How often do I need to replace the spool itself?
The spool lasts for many reloads — usually years. Replace it only if it cracks, warps, or no longer holds the string tight. If the spool is damaged, Ryobi sells replacement spools for $8 to $15 depending on the model. Check your manual or contact Ryobi customer service with your model number to order the correct one.
Why is my trimmer not feeding string even though I just reloaded it?
The most common cause is that the string is not threaded all the way through the eyelets. Remove the spool and check that both ends go through the eyelets completely. Also make sure the spool is seated firmly in the head and the cap is tight. If the string is threaded correctly and seated firmly, the spool itself may be damaged and need replacement.
Can I wind both ends of one long string onto the spool instead of two separate pieces?
No. Ryobi trimmers are designed for two separate lengths of string, one on each side of the spool. If you wind one long string, it will not feed correctly and may jam. Always cut two separate lengths and wind them into the same spool, threading one end through each eyelet.