How to Replace a Starter Cord on a Ryobi Weed Eater

Slide the ignition switch on the Ryobi to the “Off” setting. Loosen and remove the four screws on the starter cover, at the front end of the trimmer. Take the starter cover off. The starter cord is on the bottom side of the cover.

Cut the old cord off the handle and at the base of the pulley. Unwind the old cord. Feed the new cord into the center of the pulley. Continue feeding it through the starter cover and the starter handle.

Tie a simple knot in each end to anchor the cord to the pulley and the handle. Wind all but 10 inches of the cord onto the pulley. Form the unwound section into a loop.

Twist the loop back and forth until the recoil spring connects to the pulley and creates tension. Wind the cord and pulley until the recoil spring feels tight, but don’t overtighten the spring.

Hold the pulley down. Let go of the loop and unwind the cord if it’s twisted. Release the pulley slowly to allow the cord to wind back up slowly. Turn the starter cover over and connect it to the back of the trimmer.