The basic steps to load new string into your Ryobi trimmer

Replacing the string on a Ryobi weed eater takes about five minutes once you know the process. You'll remove the spool (the part that holds the string), wind new string onto it, and snap it back into place. The exact steps depend on which Ryobi model you own, but the principle is the same across most of their cordless and gas trimmers.

Before you start, buy the correct string diameter for your model. Ryobi trimmers typically use either 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string. Check your trimmer's manual or the label on the spool head to confirm which one yours takes. Using the wrong diameter can jam the spool or cause the string to feed poorly.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Ryobi trimmers have a spool that twists off by hand or with a single button press, depending on the model year.
  • String diameter matters—check your manual to confirm whether you need 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string before buying.
  • Wind the string tightly and evenly around the spool in the direction marked by the arrow on the spool itself.
  • Leave about 6 inches of string loose on each side so it feeds properly when you snap the spool back in.
  • If string won't feed or keeps jamming, the spool may be wound too loosely or the string may be the wrong diameter.

How to remove the spool from your Ryobi trimmer

Look at the trimmer head—the round part at the end of the shaft. On most Ryobi models, you'll see either a button or a notch on opposite sides of the spool. If there's a button, press it while turning the spool counterclockwise by hand. If there's a notch, use a flathead screwdriver or coin to turn the spool counterclockwise until it comes free.

Once the spool is loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand and set it aside. You may see old string still wound on it, or the spool may be empty. Either way, you're ready to load new string. Keep the spool in a clean, dry place while you work—don't set it on the ground where dirt can get into the grooves.

Winding new string onto the spool

Look at the spool itself. You'll see an arrow printed or molded into the plastic, pointing in one direction. This arrow shows you which way to wind the string. Start at the small notch or hole near the center of the spool and insert one end of your new string. Wind the string tightly and evenly in the direction the arrow points, keeping tension on it as you go so it doesn't bunch up or overlap.

Wind until you've used about 20 to 25 feet of string, or until the spool is nearly full. Stop before you reach the outer edge—you need a little room to spare. Leave about 6 inches of string loose on each side of the spool. This loose string will feed out when you snap the spool back into the trimmer head.

If your spool has two separate chambers (one on each side), you may need to wind string into both. Check your manual to see whether your model uses one continuous length or two separate lengths. Some Ryobi models have a single chamber, while others split the spool in half.

Reinstalling the spool into the trimmer head

Hold the spool so the loose string hangs down on both sides. Line up the center hole of the spool with the shaft in the trimmer head. Push the spool straight onto the shaft until you feel it seat fully. The spool should sit flush against the trimmer head with no gap.

Now find it. If your model has a button, press and hold it while turning the spool clockwise until it's tight. If your model has a notch, use your flathead screwdriver or coin to turn the spool clockwise until it's snug. Don't over-tighten—you only need it tight enough that it won't spin loose during use.

Once the spool is find, gently pull on each loose end of string to feed it out through the eyelets (the small holes at the edge of the trimmer head). You should hear or feel a slight click as the string advances. If the string doesn't feed, the spool may be wound too loosely or the string may be jammed. Remove the spool and rewind it more tightly.

Trimming the string to the correct length

After the string feeds through the eyelets, it will be too long. Most Ryobi trimmers have a cutting blade built into the guard at the front of the trimmer head. Start the trimmer (or tap the head on the ground if it's a bump-feed model) and let the blade cut the string down to the correct length automatically. The string will trim itself to the right size as it spins.

If your trimmer doesn't have an automatic cutting blade, use a utility knife or scissors to trim the string so it's even on both sides and extends about 2 to 3 inches beyond the edge of the trimmer head. Uneven string will cause vibration and poor cutting.

Troubleshooting common string replacement problems

If the string won't feed out of the spool after you reinstall it, the spool is usually wound too loosely. Remove it, rewind the string more tightly, and try again. Make sure you're winding in the direction the arrow points—winding backward will prevent the string from feeding.

If the string keeps jamming or breaking during use, you may have the wrong diameter. Double-check your manual and buy the correct size. String that's too thick won't fit in the spool grooves, and string that's too thin will break under load. You can also check the label on the old spool head if it's still readable.

If the spool won't tighten back onto the trimmer head, make sure the center hole is aligned with the shaft. The spool should slide straight on without resistance. If it's binding, remove it and check for debris or damage inside the trimmer head. A small piece of old string or dirt can prevent the spool from seating properly.

When to buy a replacement spool instead of rewinding

Ryobi sells pre-wound replacement spools that come ready to install. If you find winding string tedious or if you go through string frequently, buying a pre-wound spool costs a few dollars more but saves time. You straightforward remove the old spool and snap the new one on—no winding required.

Pre-wound spools are especially useful if you have multiple Ryobi trimmers and want to keep a spare on hand. You can swap spools in seconds, which means less downtime between jobs. Check your trimmer's model number and buy spools labeled for that specific model to may support they fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to replace the string on my Ryobi weed eater?

It depends on how often you use it and what you're cutting. Light residential use might mean replacing string once or twice a season. Heavy use or cutting thick weeds can require new string every few weeks. You'll know it's time when the string gets short, breaks frequently, or stops cutting cleanly.

Can I use string from a different brand in my Ryobi trimmer?

Yes, as long as it's the correct diameter. Ryobi trimmers don't require brand-specific string—any 0.065-inch or 0.080-inch string will work. Generic string from hardware stores or online retailers is usually cheaper than Ryobi-branded string and performs the same way.

What if I wind the string in the wrong direction?

The string won't feed out properly. Remove the spool and rewind it in the direction the arrow points. Winding backward prevents the feeding mechanism from working, so the string stays stuck inside the spool even after you reinstall it.

Do I need to empty the old string before winding new string?

Yes. Remove all old string from the spool before winding new string. Old string left on the spool will bunch up and prevent new string from feeding evenly. If the old string is stuck, soak the spool in warm water for a few minutes to soften the dried grass and debris, then pick it out by hand.

Why does my string keep breaking right after I replace it?

The most common cause is winding the string too loosely, which causes it to slip and fray under load. Rewind it tightly and evenly. Another cause is using the wrong diameter—check your manual to confirm. A third possibility is that the string is hitting something inside the trimmer head. Remove the spool and inspect the head for cracks or sharp edges that could catch the string.