Ultimate Guide to Strimmer Cord: Choosing, Installing, and Troubleshooting

Introduction

A strimmer cord, also known as a trimmer line or weed wacker line, is an essential component of any grass trimmer or strimmer. It is responsible for cutting through grass, weeds, and other vegetation. Choosing the right strimmer cord for your machine is crucial for optimal performance and safety. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various types, materials, and sizes of strimmer cords, as well as provide step-by-step instructions on how to install and troubleshoot common issues.

Types of Strimmer Cord

Monofilament Cord

The most common type of strimmer cord is monofilament. It is a thin, round strand made from a single material, typically nylon or copolymer. Monofilament cord is lightweight and flexible, making it ideal for light-duty trimming tasks such as edging and shaping.

Twisted Cord

Twisted cord consists of two or more strands of monofilament cord twisted together. It is more durable than monofilament cord and can handle thicker vegetation. Twisted cord is a good choice for general-purpose trimming tasks.

Square Cord

Square cord has a square cross-section. It is more durable and longer-lasting than monofilament or twisted cord. However, it is also more expensive and can be more difficult to install. Square cord is best suited for heavy-duty trimming tasks, such as clearing thick brush or dense undergrowth.

Materials

Strimmer cords are made from various materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

Nylon

Nylon is the most common material used in strimmer cords. It is lightweight, flexible, and relatively inexpensive. However, nylon cords are not as durable as other materials and can break more easily.

Copolymer

Copolymer is a blend of nylon and other polymers. It is more durable than nylon but still maintains a good level of flexibility. Copolymer cords are a good choice for general-purpose trimming tasks.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is a tough, durable material that is resistant to abrasion and heat. Polyethylene cords are more expensive than nylon or copolymer cords but can last longer. They are a good choice for heavy-duty trimming tasks.

Size

The size of a strimmer cord is measured in millimeters (mm). The size of the cord you need depends on the power of your trimmer and the type of vegetation you will be cutting.

Light-Duty Trimmers (up to 25cc)

• 1.5mm - 2.0mm

Medium-Duty Trimmers (25cc - 35cc)

• 2.0mm - 2.5mm

Heavy-Duty Trimmers (over 35cc)

• 2.5mm - 3.0mm

Choosing the Right Strimmer Cord

To choose the right strimmer cord for your machine, consider the following factors:

• Trimmer power: The higher the power of your trimmer, the thicker the cord you can use.
• Vegetation type: Heavier vegetation requires a thicker cord.
• Budget: Thicker and more durable cords are more expensive.

Installing Strimmer Cord

1. Remove the trimmer head: Turn the engine off and disconnect the spark plug. Use a wrench or screwdriver to remove the trimmer head.
2. Clean the trimmer head: Remove any dirt or debris from the trimmer head.
3. Wind the cord: Wind the new cord around the spool inside the trimmer head, following the directions on the head.
4. Pull the cord through the eyelets: Thread the cord through the eyelets on the trimmer head.
5. Tighten the trimmer head: Reinstall the trimmer head and tighten it securely.
6. Trim excess cord: Cut off any excess cord that extends beyond the trimmer head.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Cord breakage

• Cause: Using the wrong size or type of cord, hitting hard objects, or overfeeding the cord.
• Solution: Choose the right cord for your trimmer and avoid hitting obstacles. Do not overfeed the cord.

Cord tangling

• Cause: Using the wrong type of cord, winding the cord incorrectly, or feeding the cord too quickly.
• Solution: Choose a flexible cord, wind the cord correctly, and feed the cord at a moderate pace.

Ineffective cutting

• Cause: Using a dull or damaged cord, or having the cord too short.
• Solution: Replace the cord with a new one or sharpen the existing cord. Adjust the cord length to suit the cutting task.

Effective Strategies

• Use the right cord for the job: Choose the right cord for the power of your trimmer, the vegetation you will be cutting, and your budget.
• Wind the cord correctly: Follow the instructions on the trimmer head to wind the cord correctly.
• Cut the cord to the right length: The cord should extend about 6-8 inches beyond the trimmer head.
• Sharpen the cord regularly: A dull cord will not cut effectively. Sharpen the cord using a file or a purpose-made cord sharpener.
• Avoid overfeeding the cord: Overfeeding the cord can cause it to break or tangle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong size or type of cord: This can damage your trimmer or lead to ineffective cutting.
• Winding the cord incorrectly: This can cause the cord to tangle or break.
• Feeding the cord too quickly: This can cause the cord to tangle or break.
• Using a dull cord: This will not cut effectively and can put strain on your trimmer.
• Overfeeding the cord: This can cause the cord to break or tangle.

FAQs

1. How often should I replace my strimmer cord?

• It depends on how often you use your trimmer and the type of vegetation you are cutting. As a general rule, replace the cord when it becomes dull or damaged.

2. Can I use any type of cord in my strimmer?

• No, you should only use the type of cord that is recommended for your trimmer. Using the wrong type of cord can damage your trimmer or lead to ineffective cutting.

3. How do I sharpen a strimmer cord?

• You can sharpen a strimmer cord using a file or a purpose-made cord sharpener. Sharpen the cord evenly around the circumference.

4. Why is my strimmer cord breaking?

• There are several reasons why your strimmer cord may be breaking, including:
  • Using the wrong size or type of cord
  • Hitting hard objects
  • Overfeeding the cord
  • Using a dull cord

5. Why is my strimmer cord tangling?

• There are several reasons why your strimmer cord may be tangling, including:
  • Using the wrong type of cord
  • Winding the cord incorrectly
  • Feeding the cord too quickly

6. How can I avoid damaging my strimmer?

• To avoid damaging your strimmer, follow these tips:
  • Use the right size and type of cord
  • Wind the cord correctly
  • Avoid hitting hard objects
  • Do not overfeed the cord
  • Sharpen the cord regularly
  • Store the trimmer in a dry place when not in use

Conclusion

Choosing the right strimmer cord and installing it correctly are essential for optimal performance and safety. By following the tips and advice outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your strimmer cord is always in good condition and ready to tackle any trimming task.