The Ultimate Guide to Strimmer Cord: Everything You Need to Know

Strimmer cord, also known as trimmer line or weed eater string, is an essential component of any lawn maintenance arsenal. It's responsible for cutting through thick vegetation and providing a clean, manicured look to your lawn. With so many different types of strimmer cord available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make an informed decision and keep your lawn looking its best.

Types of Strimmer Cord

Strimmer cords are typically made from nylon, copolymer, or a combination of both. Each type offers unique advantages and disadvantages:

Nylon:
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Copolymer:
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Nylon/Copolymer Blend:
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Shapes and Sizes

Strimmer cords come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different trimmer heads:

Round:
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Square:
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Star-Shaped:
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Length and Thickness

The length and thickness of strimmer cord will depend on the size of your trimmer and the type of vegetation you need to cut:

Length:
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Thickness:
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Choosing the Right Strimmer Cord

The best strimmer cord for you will depend on several factors, including:

• The size of your trimmer
• The type of vegetation you need to cut
• The desired cutting performance
• Your budget

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid damaging your trimmer or compromising cutting performance, follow these tips:

• Never use metal wire or fishing line as strimmer cord.
• Choose a thickness that is compatible with your trimmer's recommended range.
• Load the cord according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Avoid overwinding the spool.
• Replace the cord when it becomes worn or damaged.

How to Replace Strimmer Cord

Replacing strimmer cord is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps:

1. Unplug the trimmer and disconnect the spark plug.
2. Press the release button on the trimmer head to remove the old cord.
3. Remove the spool and wrap the new cord around it, following the manufacturer's guidelines.
4. Reassemble the trimmer head and insert it into the shaft.
5. Reconnect the spark plug and plug in the trimmer.

Pros and Cons of Different Types of Strimmer Cord

Nylon:
- Pros: Durable, resistant to abrasion, less prone to breakage
- Cons: May not cut as aggressively as other materials

Copolymer:
- Pros: Flexible, cuts through thicker vegetation more effectively
- Cons: More expensive, may break more easily if not handled properly

Nylon/Copolymer Blend:
- Pros: Combines the advantages of both materials, suitable for general gardening applications
- Cons: May not be as durable or flexible as pure nylon or copolymer

FAQs

1. What is the difference between round, square, and star-shaped strimmer cord?
   - Round cord is the most common and offers a general purpose cutting performance. Square cord is more aggressive and suitable for heavy-duty applications. Star-shaped cord is aerodynamic and provides more efficient cutting.

2. How often should I replace my strimmer cord?
   - Replace the cord when it becomes worn or damaged, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

3. Can I use any type of string as strimmer cord?
   - No, never use metal wire or fishing line as strimmer cord. Only use strimmer cord specifically designed for this purpose.

4. How do I know if my strimmer cord is too thick or thin?
   - If the cord is too thick, it may not cut effectively or it may damage the trimmer head. If the cord is too thin, it may break easily or wear out quickly. Use the recommended thickness for your trimmer.

5. What is the best way to load strimmer cord?
   - Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the proper loading procedure for your trimmer model.

6. Can I use strimmer cord on a lawnmower?
   - No, strimmer cord is not designed for use on lawnmowers. It can damage the lawnmower and potentially create a safety hazard.

Conclusion

Choosing the right strimmer cord can make a significant impact on the efficiency and performance of your trimmer. By understanding the different types, shapes, sizes, and thicknesses available, you can make an informed decision that will keep your lawn looking its best. By following the tips and advice outlined in this guide, you can ensure safe and effective operation of your strimmer for years to come.

Additional Resources

• Choosing the Right Strimmer Cord
• How to Replace Strimmer Cord
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Strimmer Cord

Tables

Table 1: Strimmer Cord Types and Characteristics

Table 2: Strimmer Cord Shapes and Applications

Table 3: Strimmer Cord Length and Thickness