When it comes to keeping your lawn neat and tidy, a string trimmer (also known as a weed eater or weed whacker) is an essential tool. String trimmers use a rotating plastic string to cut grass and weeds around edges and obstacles that a regular lawn mower can’t reach. Most string trimmers come spooled with a certain thickness of string from the manufacturer. This begs the question – can you use other sizes of string in your string trimmer, or do you have to stick with what came with the machine?
The short answer is yes, you can use different sizes of string in your string trimmer. However, it’s important to use the right thickness and material to avoid potential issues. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when choosing replacement string, the consequences of using the wrong size, and provide string thickness recommendations for common trimmer models. Read on to learn everything you need to know about selecting the proper string for your weed whacker.
Page Contents
What Factors Determine Ideal String Size?
When selecting a replacement string for your trimmer, there are a few key factors to consider:
Trimmer Motor Power
More powerful trimmer motors can handle thicker, heavier lines without bogging down. Using a line that’s too thick for the motor will cause premature wear, less than optimal cutting power, and frustration. Refer to your owner’s manual to determine the optimum cutting line thickness range recommended for the engine displacement. As a general rule of thumb:
– Light duty trimmers (25cc-30cc): .065″-.080″ line
– Medium duty trimmers (30cc-45cc): .085″-.105″ line
– Heavy duty trimmers (45cc+): .110″-.155″ line
Spool Capacity
The spool, or head, on your trimmer has limited space capacity. Fitting an overly thick line onto a spool designed for thinner line will result in the line jamming or coil overlapping itself. This can cause the head to seize up. Again, check the owner’s manual for the maximum line diameter the existing spool can accommodate.
Cutting Swath Needed
The thickness of the line impacts cutting swath width. Thicker lines cut wider swaths, while thinner lines provide a more precise, narrower cutting path. Evaluate the type of trimming jobs you plan to perform and choose a line width accordingly. For basic grass edging, .065″-.080″ line should suffice. For large areas or thick brush, opt for .155″ or thicker line.
Line Material
Most trimmer line is made from nylon or a nylon blend. Some brands offer specialized lines made from materials like polyethylene for added durability and stiffness. Make sure to match the replacement line material to what the manufacturer recommends. Using a material that’s too stiff or hard can damage the trimmer head.
Consequences of Using the Wrong Size Line
While you can technically use any size string in your trimmer, doing so can lead to the following issues:
Motor Overload
Attempting to use thick, heavy line on an underpowered trimmer places excessive load on the motor. This can cause overheating, premature wear, and motor burnout over time.
String Jamming
Trying to cram an oversized line onto a spool leads to overlapping, crisscrossing, and jamming. The line ends up wedged together, preventing smooth feeding. Jamming usually requires disassembling the head to unsnarl the string.
Reduced Cutting Efficiency
A line that’s too thin for the job won’t cut as effectively through thick vegetation. Meanwhile, an extremely thick line on light trimming jobs can be overkill. Using the right gauge improves efficiency.
Excess Line Breakage
A thin line used heavily in thick growth is prone to breaking frequently. Continually stopping to advance more line ruins productivity. Heavy lines used delicately can also break if they lack the flexibility to handle lighter trimming tasks.
Trimmer Head Damage
Attempting to force oversized line into a spool can crack housings, break eyelets, and destroy the head. Similarly, very stiff lines like wire can chew up the bump knob and spool. Always stay within recommended line specifications.
Increased Safety Risk
Improper line pairings lead to trimmers that vibrate excessively, kickback dangerously, and are hard to control. This poses a higher safety risk to the operator and bystanders. Don’t overlook line selection as a key factor in safe operation.
Ideal Line Diameters by Trimmer
To take the guesswork out of choosing the optimum string size, here are the recommended line diameters for common weed trimmer models:
| Trimmer Make/Model | Motor Displacement | Recommended Line Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| Black & Decker GH3000 | 14cc | .065″-.080″ |
| Craftsman 30cc | 30cc | .085″-.105″ |
| DeWalt DCST970X1 | 60V | .110″-.155″ |
| ECHO SRM-225 | 21.2cc | .080″ |
| Greenworks 10-Inch 40V Cordless | 40V | .095″-.155″ |
| Hitachi CG22EAP2SL | 21.1cc | .080″ |
| Husqvarna 128LD | 28cc | .095″ |
| Makita XRU02Z | 18V | .065″-.080″ |
| Milwaukee 2760-20 M18 | M18 | .095″-.155″ |
| Poulan Pro 966774201 | 25cc | .095″ |
| Remington RM2510 Rustler | 25cc | .080″ |
| Ryobi P2008 | 18V | .065″-.080″ |
| Tanaka TCG27EBSP | 26.9cc | .095″ |
| Troy-Bilt TB42 BC | 25cc | .080″ |
| Worx WG163 GT 3.0 20V | 20V | .065″-.080″ |
This covers some of the most popular gas-powered and battery electric trimmer options, along with the diameter range of cutting line they are designed to use. Always defer to your owner’s manual if unsure.
For added convenience, many brands now offer pre-cut replacement spools with line installed. This takes the guesswork out of line selection and installation. Check packaging for the compatible trimmer models before purchasing.
Key Takeaways on Line Size Selection
Choosing the right cutting line thickness for your trimmer is critical for optimal performance and longevity. To recap:
– Consult your owner’s manual for recommended line sizes. This depends on motor power and spool capacity.
– Match line diameter to common trimming tasks. Light lines for edging, heavy lines for brush.
– Only use line materials approved by the manufacturer, typically nylon blends.
– Avoid jamming and head damage by not overloading spools with too large a line.
– Expect issues like breakage, loss of power, and poor cutting if the line size is incorrect.
– Look to the recommended line diameters for your specific trimmer make and model.
With the proper line installed, your string trimmer will operate smoothly and deliver a clean, even cut on every task. Taking the time to choose the right line means fewer bumps in the road while keeping your lawn maintained.
Conclusion
The versatility and convenience of a string trimmer depends heavily on using the manufacturer recommended line size. While it is possible to run other line diameters through most trimmers, doing so risks decreased performance, frequent line breaks, and overtaxing the motor. Referencing your owner’s manual and model-specific line guidelines prevents mismatches and ensures a smooth trimming experience. With the proper string installed, you can wield your string trimmer confidently knowing it will handle whatever weeds and grass you throw its way.