The basic steps to replace Ryobi trimmer string

To replace the string on a Ryobi trimmer, you'll remove the spool from the trimmer head, wind new string onto the spool, and reinstall it. The whole job takes about 10 minutes once you have the right string. Ryobi makes this simpler than many brands because the spool release is usually a button or tab you can operate by hand—no tools needed.

The exact steps depend on whether your Ryobi is a bump-feed model (where you tap the head on the ground to release more string) or an automatic-feed model (where the trimmer feeds string as it wears). Both use the same basic removal and winding process, but the spool design differs slightly.

Key Takeaways

  • Ryobi trimmers use a spool that releases by pressing a button or twisting a cap—check your manual to see which, because it varies by model.
  • The string gauge (thickness) matters: use .065 inch, .080 inch, or .095 inch depending on what your trimmer model accepts, printed on the spool or in the manual.
  • Wind the string tightly and evenly around the spool in the direction marked by the arrow, or it will tangle and jam when you reinstall it.
  • Leave 4 to 6 inches of string loose before you thread the ends through the eyelets, or the trimmer will cut them off when ready.

What string gauge your Ryobi trimmer needs

Ryobi trimmers accept three common string sizes: .065 inch, .080 inch, and .095 inch diameter. The correct size for your model is printed on the spool itself or in your owner's manual. Using the wrong gauge can jam the spool, cause the string to break too easily, or prevent the spool from fitting back into the head.

Most Ryobi cordless models use .065 inch string, which is the thinnest and best for light trimming around flower beds and edges. Gas-powered Ryobi trimmers and some of the larger cordless models use .080 inch or .095 inch for tougher grass and light brush. If you've lost your manual, the model number is usually on a sticker on the trimmer body—you can search that number on Ryobi's website to find the manual and string specification.

Buy string in bulk on a spool rather than pre-wound cartridges. A bulk spool costs less per foot and lasts much longer. Ryobi sells its own string, but any trimmer string of the correct gauge will work.

How to remove the spool from your trimmer head

Unplug the trimmer or remove the battery before you touch the spool. On most Ryobi models, you'll see a button or tab on the side of the trimmer head. Press or pull this release, and the spool cap will come free in your hand. On some older models, you twist the cap counterclockwise instead—your manual will show which.

Once the cap is off, the spool itself will slide out. Keep the cap, spring, and any washers in a safe place—they're small and straightforward to lose. If your model has a spring under the spool, note which way it's coiled so you can put it back the same way.

Winding new string onto the spool

Look at the spool and find the arrow printed on it. This arrow shows the direction you must wind the string. Wind the string tightly and evenly, following the arrow. Start by inserting one end of the string into the small notch or hole at the edge of the spool—this anchors it so it won't unwind as you work.

Wind slowly and keep tension on the string with your other hand so each wrap sits flat against the spool without overlapping or bunching. Wind until you've filled the spool almost completely, leaving about 1/4 inch of space. Most Ryobi spools hold between 15 and 25 feet of string, depending on the gauge and spool size.

Once the spool is full, leave 4 to 6 inches of string loose—do not cut it yet. This loose end is what you'll thread through the eyelets in the trimmer head. If you cut the string too short, the trimmer will cut it off the moment you turn it on.

Threading the string through the eyelets and reinstalling the spool

The trimmer head has two small holes or eyelets on opposite sides. Thread one loose end of the string through one eyelet, then thread the other loose end through the other eyelet. Pull both ends so they stick out evenly—about 2 to 3 inches on each side is typical, though your manual may specify a different length.

Slide the spool back into the trimmer head, making sure the spring (if there is one) sits under it in the same position it was before. Press or twist the cap back on until it clicks or seats firmly. Do not force it—if it won't go on smoothly, the spool may be slightly misaligned. Remove the cap, check that the spool is sitting flat, and try again.

Testing the trimmer and trimming the string to length

Before you use the trimmer on grass, hold it over a trash can or bucket and run it for a few seconds. This lets any loose wraps of string unwind and fall away. If the string jams or the spool doesn't spin, turn off the trimmer when ready, remove the cap, and check that the string is wound in the direction of the arrow and that nothing is twisted.

Once the trimmer runs smoothly, use it to trim the string to the correct length. For most Ryobi models, the string will cut itself to the right length as it hits the cutting blade on the trimmer head. Run the trimmer along a hard surface like a driveway or sidewalk for a few passes, and the string will trim itself down. If your trimmer has a manual cutting guide, follow the instructions in your manual for that model.

Troubleshooting common winding problems

If the string jams when you try to use the trimmer, the most common cause is that you wound it in the wrong direction. Remove the spool, unwind the string, and rewind it following the arrow on the spool. The second most common cause is overlapping wraps—if the string bunches up on itself, it will catch when the spool tries to spin.

If the string keeps breaking or wears out very quickly, you may be using the wrong gauge. Check the spool or manual again to confirm the thickness. If the spool won't fit back into the trimmer head, you may have wound too much string—remove some and try again. If the string doesn't feed out when you tap the ground (on a bump-feed model), the loose ends may be too short or may not be threaded through the eyelets far enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any brand of trimmer string on a Ryobi?

Yes, as long as it's the correct gauge for your model. Ryobi string works, but so does string from other manufacturers like Echo, Stihl, or generic brands sold at hardware stores. The gauge matters more than the brand—using the wrong thickness will cause problems.

How often do I need to replace the string?

It depends on how often you trim and what you're cutting. Light weekly use around flower beds might mean replacing the string every few weeks. Heavy use in thick grass or weeds can wear it out in days. You'll know it's time when the trimmer head stops cutting cleanly or the string breaks repeatedly.

What if I wind the string the wrong direction?

The spool won't spin properly and the string will jam. Remove the spool, unwind the string, and rewind it following the arrow printed on the spool. It's a common mistake and takes only a few minutes to fix.

Do I need to replace the spool itself, or just the string?

Just the string. The spool is reusable and lasts for years. You only replace the spool if it cracks, warps, or the eyelets break—which is rare.

Why does my string keep breaking?

The most common reasons are using the wrong gauge (too thin for the job), winding it too loosely so it vibrates and frays, or hitting hard objects like rocks or concrete. Make sure you're using the correct thickness for your model and avoid trimming near driveways or gravel.