Line welding after sitting in a hot garage

Trimmer line that has fused together on its spool usually needs to be removed and replaced; pulling harder can damage the spool or head. Heat can soften the line, and tight, compressed wraps can stick together as they cool. Turn the trimmer off before inspecting it, and follow the checks below before putting it back to work.

Why trimmer line welds in a hot garage

Nylon trimmer line can soften when exposed to high temperatures. If it is tightly wound or pressed against adjacent turns, it may stick together. A hot garage, direct sunlight, or storage near a heat source can make the problem more likely. Old, brittle, or unsuitable line may also feed poorly, but fused sections should not be forced apart and reused.

How to fix fused trimmer line

1. Make the trimmer safe. Turn it off and let it cool. Remove the battery or disconnect the spark plug wire, as applicable, following the owner’s manual.
2. Open the head and inspect the spool. Check for fused wraps, melted or misshapen line, cracks, and debris. If the line is fused, cut it free and discard it rather than forcing it through the eyelets.
3. Clear the head. Remove grass, dirt, and loose line fragments. Check that the eyelets and spool turn freely and are not damaged.
4. Check line compatibility. Use the diameter and line type specified for your trimmer and head. Line that is too thick may bind; line that is too thin may not feed as intended.
5. Rewind or replace the line. Follow the spool’s winding arrows and the manual’s loading instructions. Keep the wraps even and snug, but do not cross, crush, or overfill them. If the line is fused throughout or badly deformed, replace it with fresh line.
6. Reassemble and test cautiously. Make sure the spool and cover are seated correctly. Reconnect power only after the head is closed, then test the feed according to the manual.

If the spool is warped, cracked, or no longer rotates freely after cleaning, replace it with a compatible spool or head. If a correctly loaded spool still will not feed, check the head’s feed mechanism and consult the manual; do not keep running the trimmer while the line is jammed.

How to prevent line from sticking again

• Store line, spare spools, and the trimmer in a cool place away from direct sun, heaters, and other heat sources.
• Keep spare line in its original packaging or another clean, closed container, following the line maker’s storage instructions.
• Avoid overfilling the spool or winding line across itself. Use the head’s stated capacity and winding direction.
• Replace line that is fused, damaged, or too brittle to feed reliably. Some manufacturers recommend soaking certain nylon lines, but do this only if the line or trimmer instructions say it is appropriate.