The basic steps to replace Ryobi weed wacker string

Replacing the string on a Ryobi weed wacker takes about five minutes once you know the process. You'll need to remove the spool, wind new string onto it, and snap it back into place. The exact steps depend on whether your model has a fixed spool or an automatic feed head, but both follow the same general pattern: stop the trimmer, let it cool, access the spool, remove old string, load new string, and reassemble.

Most Ryobi trimmers use a bump-feed or automatic-feed head, which means you tap the head on the ground to release more string as it wears down. This design is simpler to reload than manual-wind models because you don't have to thread string through guides — you just wind it onto the spool and let the head do the rest.

Key Takeaways

  • Ryobi weed wackers use either a fixed spool or an automatic feed head; check your manual to confirm which type you have before starting.
  • You will need replacement string that matches your trimmer's diameter, usually 0.065 inches or 0.080 inches, which is printed on the spool or in your manual.
  • The spool twists counterclockwise to remove on most Ryobi models, but some have a release button instead — forcing it the wrong way can crack the head.
  • Wind string onto the spool in the direction marked by the arrow on the spool itself, or the head will not feed string correctly when you reassemble it.
  • After reassembly, tap the head firmly on the ground once or twice to release the initial length of string before you start trimming.

What string diameter your Ryobi trimmer uses

Ryobi trimmers come in two common string sizes: 0.065 inches and 0.080 inches. The size is printed on the spool itself, usually on the bottom or side. You can also find it in your owner's manual under "specifications" or "replacement parts." Using the wrong diameter will either jam in the feed head or fall out during use, so confirm the size before you buy.

String is sold in spools of 30 to 100 feet. A single load onto your trimmer's spool uses roughly 20 to 30 feet, so one spool of replacement string will last you several reloads. Ryobi sells its own branded string, but any trimmer string of the correct diameter will work — you do not need to buy Ryobi-branded replacements.

How to remove the spool from your trimmer head

Unplug the trimmer or remove the battery, then let the head cool for a few minutes if you've been using it. Most Ryobi bump-feed heads have a spool that twists counterclockwise to remove. Grip the head with one hand and turn the spool left until it comes free — it usually takes two or three full turns.

Some newer Ryobi models have a release button on the side of the head instead of a twist-off spool. Press and hold the button while pulling the spool straight out. Check your manual if you're unsure which type you have; forcing a button-release head to twist can crack the plastic.

Once the spool is out, you'll see the old string still wound around it. You can leave it there or pick off the loose ends — the new string will wind over it without problems either way.

Winding new string onto the spool

Look for an arrow molded into the spool that shows the direction to wind. This is critical: if you wind against the arrow, the head will not feed string when you reassemble it. Wind in the direction the arrow points, starting from the hole or notch at the spool's center.

Insert the end of your new string into the center hole, then wind it tightly around the spool in overlapping loops. Keep tension on the string as you wind so the loops sit flat and don't bunch up. Wind until you have about 6 to 8 inches of string left, then tuck the end into one of the notches at the spool's edge — this holds it in place while you reassemble the head.

If your spool has two separate chambers (one for each cutting line), wind string into each chamber separately, leaving 6 to 8 inches free in each. Some Ryobi models use a single chamber with one continuous line, so check your manual to confirm how many lines your head uses.

Reinstalling the spool and feeding the string

Align the spool with the head and push it back in. If your head has a twist-off spool, turn it clockwise until it's snug — don't over-tighten, as plastic can crack. If it has a button release, push the spool straight in until you hear or feel it click into place.

Pull the free ends of string out through the eyelets or notches on the head's edge. Most Ryobi heads have two small notches where the string exits. Thread each end through its notch so the string hangs out about 2 to 3 inches on each side.

Tap the head firmly on the ground once or twice. This activates the automatic feed and releases more string. You should see the string extend slightly. If it doesn't move, the spool may be wound backward — remove it, flip the direction, and try again.

Troubleshooting string that won't feed or keeps jamming

If the string won't feed after reassembly, the spool is almost certainly wound in the wrong direction. Remove the spool, check the arrow again, and rewind in the opposite direction. This is the most common mistake and the easiest to fix.

If the string jams or bunches up inside the head, the loops on the spool are probably overlapping or stacked unevenly. Remove the spool, unwind it completely, and rewind more slowly, keeping each loop flat and tight against the previous one. Loose or crossed loops will catch on the feed mechanism.

If you're using the wrong string diameter, it will either fall out or refuse to feed. Confirm the size on your spool and buy the correct replacement. Mixing diameters in the same head can also cause jamming.

When to replace the entire head instead of just the string

If the spool cracks, the eyelets break off, or the head won't hold the spool in place, replacement string won't solve the problem — you'll need a new head. Ryobi sells replacement heads separately for most models, and they cost between $15 and $30. Swapping the head takes about two minutes: unplug the trimmer, unscrew the old head from the shaft, and screw the new one on hand-tight.

Heads can also wear out internally so the automatic feed stops working. If you've reloaded the string correctly and it still won't feed, the feed mechanism inside the head may be broken. Again, a new head is the fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different brand of string on my Ryobi trimmer?

Yes. Any trimmer string of the correct diameter will work in a Ryobi head. You don't need Ryobi-branded string — generic string from any hardware store or online retailer will perform the same way and usually costs less.

How often do I need to replace the string?

String wears down during use and needs reloading every few hours of trimming, depending on how much thick brush you're cutting. Most people reload once or twice per season. The string doesn't wear out permanently — you're just using up the length on the spool and winding on more.

What if I wind the string too tight and it won't turn?

Remove the spool and unwind it slightly, then rewind with a bit less tension. The string should be snug enough not to slip, but loose enough that the spool spins freely by hand. If the head itself won't turn after reassembly, the spool may be cross-threaded — remove it and try again, making sure it seats evenly.

Do I need to replace the string if I'm not using the trimmer for a while?

No. String doesn't degrade from sitting unused. If you store your trimmer for the winter or longer, the string will be fine when you take it out again. You only need to reload when the string on the spool runs out or breaks during use.

Why does my string keep breaking during use?

String breaks when it hits rocks, metal, or thick branches. It's normal wear. If it's breaking constantly, you may be winding it too tightly, which makes it brittle, or you may be hitting obstacles you can avoid. Loosen the wind slightly on your next reload and try to trim around hard objects rather than through them.