Threading new string into your Echo trimmer takes about five minutes once you know the path

Echo trimmers use a bump-feed head — a rotating spool that holds the string and advances it automatically when you tap the head on the ground. To replace the string, you unwind the old spool, thread new string into the channels, and wind it back up. The exact steps depend on whether your Echo model has a fixed spool or a removable cartridge, but both follow the same basic pattern: remove the old string, load the new string into the channels in the right direction, and wind it tight.

The whole job requires only the trimmer itself and a spool of replacement string — Echo sells pre-cut spools, or you can buy bulk string and cut it to length. Most people finish in under ten minutes, and the hardest part is usually getting the string seated properly in the channels before you start winding.

Key Takeaways

  • Echo bump-feed heads come in two types: fixed spools that you wind by hand, and removable cartridges that you wind separately and snap back in.
  • String must be wound in the direction marked on the spool — usually counterclockwise — or it will unwind when the trimmer runs.
  • Both string ends must be seated in the notches at the edge of the spool before you wind, or the string will slip and tangle.
  • After winding, you feed the string ends through the eyelets on the head and trim them to the length marked on the housing.
  • If the string does not advance when you tap the head, the spool may be wound backwards or the string may not be seated in the notches.

Identify which type of head your Echo trimmer has

Echo makes two bump-feed designs. The fixed spool stays attached to the trimmer — you wind the string directly on it without removing anything. The removable cartridge (also called a spool cartridge) twists out of the head, and you wind the string on it separately, then snap it back in. Both work the same way once you understand which one you have.

Look at the top of your trimmer head. If you see a single rotating cap with a notch or slot, you have a fixed spool — twist it counterclockwise to open it. If the entire spool assembly pulls straight out of the head housing, you have a removable cartridge. Check your Echo manual if you are unsure; the model number is on the shaft just below the head.

Remove the old string and clean the spool

For a fixed spool: Unscrew the cap counterclockwise by hand or with a wrench if it is tight. Pull out the old string and any tangled bits. Wipe the spool clean with a dry cloth — dried grass and dirt can jam the string as it winds.

For a removable cartridge: Grip the head housing with one hand and twist the cartridge counterclockwise with the other until it comes free. Pull it straight out. Remove all old string and wipe the spool and the inside of the head housing clean. Set the housing aside where you will not lose it.

Cut and prepare your replacement string

Echo sells pre-wound spools that are ready to use, but you can also buy bulk string and cut it yourself. Standard Echo string is 0.080 inches in diameter. If you are cutting your own, measure the length marked on the spool or head housing — most Echo trimmers use either 20 or 21 feet of string total, which means two pieces of 10 or 10.5 feet each.

Cut the string straight across with scissors or a utility knife. Slightly rounded or frayed ends will not fit into the notches, so trim cleanly. If the ends are rough, you can smooth them quickly by running them across a lighter flame for a half-second — do not hold them in the flame or they will melt.

Thread the string into the spool channels and wind it

Look at the spool. You will see two channels or grooves running around it, and two notches at the edge where the string ends will sit. The spool itself will have an arrow or the word "wind" printed on it, showing which direction to turn.

Take one piece of string and insert one end into the notch on the edge of the spool — push it in until it seats firmly. Now feed the string into one of the channels, following it all the way around. When you reach the center of the spool, the string should naturally transition to the second channel. Keep feeding until the other end of the string reaches the second notch on the opposite side. Seat that end firmly in the notch as well.

Once both ends are locked in the notches, begin winding the spool in the direction marked on it — almost always counterclockwise when you are looking down at the spool from above. Wind slowly and keep tension on the string with your other hand so it stays in the channels and does not bunch up. Wind until the string is tight and the spool is nearly full. You should be able to fit the second piece of string on the same spool, or on a separate spool if your Echo head has two.

Repeat the process with the second piece of string, feeding it into the second channel and winding it in the same direction. When both pieces are wound, the spool should feel firm and balanced.

Install the spool and thread the string through the eyelets

For a fixed spool: Screw the cap back on clockwise until it is snug. Do not over-tighten — hand-tight is enough.

For a removable cartridge: Align the cartridge with the head housing and push it straight in until it clicks or seats fully. Twist it clockwise until it is tight.

Now pull the two string ends out through the eyelets (the small holes) on the side of the head. The eyelets are usually marked with arrows showing which direction the string should exit. Pull each end until you feel resistance — the string should be taut but not stretched. Trim each end to the length marked on the head housing, usually about 4 to 5 inches. Use scissors or a utility knife and cut straight across.

Test the trimmer and troubleshoot if the string does not advance

Start the trimmer and let it run for a few seconds at idle. Tap the head gently on the ground — you should hear a click and feel the head rotate slightly. The string should advance a small amount. If nothing happens, stop the trimmer and check the following.

String is wound backwards: The most common problem. If you wound the spool clockwise instead of counterclockwise, the string will unwind instead of advance. Remove the spool, unwind the string completely, and rewind it in the correct direction marked on the spool.

String is not seated in the notches: If one or both ends are loose, the string will slip and tangle. Remove the spool, push each end firmly into its notch, and wind again.

String is too long: If the trimmed ends are longer than the marked length, they may be hitting the housing and preventing the spool from rotating. Trim them shorter and try again.

Once the string advances smoothly, the trimmer is ready to use. The bump-feed mechanism will automatically advance the string each time you tap the head on the ground during normal operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use string other than Echo brand?

Yes. Any 0.080-inch string made for bump-feed trimmers will work in an Echo head. Aftermarket string is often cheaper and performs the same way. Just make sure the diameter matches your trimmer — using thicker or thinner string can cause feeding problems.

What if I wind the string and it when ready unwinds?

The spool is wound backwards. The string must wind in the direction marked on the spool, usually counterclockwise. Unwind it completely and start over, turning the spool in the opposite direction. If you are unsure which way is correct, check the arrow or text printed on the spool itself.

How often do I need to replace the string?

It depends on how often you trim and what you are cutting. Light residential use might need new string every few months. Heavy use or hitting rocks and hard objects will wear it out faster. You will know it is time when the string becomes noticeably shorter or thinner, or when it stops cutting cleanly.

Can I use a pre-wound spool instead of winding my own?

Yes. Echo sells pre-wound spools that you straightforward snap into the head. They cost more than bulk string but save you the winding step. They work exactly the same way as hand-wound spools once they are installed.

Why does my string keep tangling inside the head?

String tangles when it is not seated properly in the notches before winding, or when it bunches up during winding. Make sure both ends are pushed firmly into the notches at the edge of the spool before you start. Wind slowly and keep light tension on the string with your other hand to keep it in the channels. If it still tangles, unwind it, remove it completely, and start over.