Quck answer
To change the spool on a Makita weed trimmer, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the trimmer and disconnect it from the power source.
2. Locate the spool cover on the trimmer head. It is usually a round or oval-shaped cover with tabs or screws holding it in place.
3. Remove the cover by unscrewing the screws or pressing the tabs and lifting it off.
4. Take out the old spool from the trimmer head. It may be secured with a cap or a spring-loaded mechanism.
5. Insert a new spool into the trimmer head, making sure it is properly aligned and secure.
6. Replace the spool cover and tighten the screws or snap it back into place.
7. Reconnect the trimmer to the power source and test it to ensure the new spool is working properly.
Remember to consult the trimmer’s user manual for specific instructions for your model.
When your Makita weed trimmer runs out of string, you can either rewind more string or install a new spool that has already been pre-strung at the factory. Rewinding string is not a difficult task, but buying a pre-strung spool is definitely easier and saves you from having to keep a supply of pre-strung spools in your workshop.
The process for removing the spool is almost the same for gas-powered and cordless trimmers, but the size of the string you require varies by model. Therefore, it’s important to check the owner’s manual to ensure that you use the correct size string. Using string that is too thin may not work, while using string that is too heavy may overwork the trimmer motor and cause it to fail. Buying a pre-strung spool eliminates the possibility of choosing the wrong string size.
How to Replace a Makita Weed Trimmer Spool
Step 1: Turn off the Trimmer
If you are replacing the spool on a cordless trimmer, remove the battery, or if it’s a gas-powered model, pull the spark plug wire off the plug. This step may seem unnecessary, but it’s crucial, especially if it’s a cordless model. If the trimmer starts up while you’re working, it could cause severe injury.
Step 2: Position the Trimmer for Replacement
Place the trimmer on a flat surface with the trimmer head guard resting on the surface and the trimmer head facing you.
Step 3: Remove the Spool Cover and Spool
Notice the two tabs on the side of the spool cover, which are positioned directly opposite each other. Place your hand over the spool with a finger touching each tab, and squeeze them together. This action loosens the spool cover, allowing it to slip right off into your hand, exposing the spool. Carefully slip the spool off the rotary shaft as it’s spring-loaded, and you don’t want the spring to pop off.
Step 4: Install the New Spool and Spool Cover
Slide on a new spool or the same spool after you have rewound the string. Push it onto the shaft to depress the spring and hold it in place. Align the two tabs of the spool cover with the notches on the trimmer head, slip the cover onto the spool, and push until you hear it snap in place.
Step 5: Prepare the String for Cutting
Gently pull the strings to ensure that they are disengaged from the locking notches on the spool. Stretch them out as far as the cutter on the side of the head guard and cut them to that length. You’re now ready to continue trimming.
Rewinding the Spool
If you choose to rewind your old spool, cut a length of trimmer string about three arms in length and bend the string back on itself to make two lengths, one about four fingers shorter than the other. Hook the bend onto the notch on the inside of the spool, wind the string in the direction shown on the head guard, and keep the string under tension to prevent it from unraveling.
After you have wound the string, hook each end into the locking notches on the spool’s rim. This will prepare the spool for installation into the trimmer. Remember to pull on the strings once you have replaced the spool cover, in order to release them from the locking notches.
FAQ
1. How often should I change the spool on my Makita weed trimmer?
You should change the spool on your Makita weed trimmer whenever you notice that the line is worn down or no longer cuts efficiently. This can vary depending on how often you use the trimmer and the type of vegetation you are cutting. As a general guideline, it is recommended to change the spool every 10-15 hours of use or when the line is less than 2-3 inches long.
2. What tools do I need to change the spool on a Makita weed trimmer?
To change the spool on a Makita weed trimmer, you will need a pair of pliers or a small wrench to remove the trimmer head, a new spool with pre-wound line, and a clean cloth or brush to remove any debris from the trimmer head assembly. It is also helpful to have the user manual for your specific model of Makita trimmer for detailed instructions on how to properly change the spool.
3. Can I use any brand of spool on my Makita weed trimmer?
While it is possible to use spools from other brands on your Makita weed trimmer, it is recommended to use genuine Makita spools for optimal performance and compatibility. Makita spools are specifically designed to fit and function properly with Makita trimmers, ensuring smooth operation and efficient cutting. Using non-Makita spools may result in poor cutting performance or damage to the trimmer.
4. How do I remove the old spool from my Makita weed trimmer?
To remove the old spool from your Makita weed trimmer, first, ensure that the trimmer is turned off and the spark plug wire is disconnected. Then, locate the trimmer head assembly and use pliers or a small wrench to loosen and remove the trimmer head. Once the trimmer head is removed, you can easily access the old spool and remove it from the trimmer. Be sure to clean any debris or dirt from the trimmer head assembly before installing the new spool.
5. How do I install a new spool on my Makita weed trimmer?
To install a new spool on your Makita weed trimmer, first, ensure that the trimmer is turned off and the spark plug wire is disconnected. Clean any debris or dirt from the trimmer head assembly. Then, insert the new spool into the trimmer head, making sure that the line is properly aligned with the cutting head. Reattach the trimmer head assembly and tighten it securely using pliers or a small wrench. Finally, reconnect the spark plug wire and you are ready to use your Makita weed trimmer with the new spool.