How to Replace a Pull String on a Homelite Trimmer

Turn the ignition switch over to the “Off” setting. Set the trimmer onto a workbench. Unscrew the starter cover and remove it from the trimmer. Turn the cover over to replace the pull string.

Hold the pulley down and cut the string at the base of the pulley and below the starter handle. Let go of the pulley slowly and take the string off the pulley.

Insert the end of the new string into the center of the pulley. Thread the line through the hole in the starter cover and then through the hole in the starter handle. Form two knots in either end to attach the string.

Wind up all but 10 inches of string onto the pulley. Twist a loop into the unwound section. Pinch the loop at the bottom and wiggle it back and forth until the recoil spring attaches back onto the pulley.

Wind the loop and the pulley together in four to six revolutions to tension the recoil spring. Press down on the pulley with your thumb. Unwind the loop and string. Lift up slowly to wind the string back onto the pulley. Refit the starter cover to the Homelite trimmer.