How to Replace Bolens BL110 String (Step By Step)

Used up all the string on your Bolens BL 110 trimmer? Here’s a step-by-step guide you can use to replace the string at your home, within just a few minutes.

When and Why should you change the string?

Every time you use your trimmer, the corners of the string get choppy from cutting the grass. After a few runs, the string is not sharp enough to cut grass properly.

Moreover, there is a great chance of the string breaking due to the cut marks!

It is important to get rid of the choppy strings every once in a while, which means the string in the spool will end eventually, and you’ll need to replace it.

Tools Needed for Replacement

• Channel-lock  
• String (You can either use .065, .080, or .095 string for Bolen trimmers)

HOW TO REPLACE THE STRING?

Step 1: Remove the Bump Knob

Position your Bolen trimmer in such a way that the part that cuts the grass, i.e., the head of the trimmer, is in front of you.

You will see that the top nut, called the bump knob, is removable. Hold the head of the trimmer firmly so it doesn’t move, and then use the channel lock to rotate the knob counterclockwise.

Once the knob is loose, you can easily unscrew the rest using your hands. Once you have removed it, you will be able to directly access the string holding section.

Step 2: Removing any Old String left in the String Holder

Very carefully, take out the string holder. This section contains the strings.

There will be a spring attached to the center of this section. Make sure that it remains attached to the string holder when you remove it from the rest of the trimmer’s body.

Now, remove any old string that is still present in the string holder. You should be able to push it out easily, without any problem.

Step 3: Cutting the correct length of the string

Take your new string and cut out two pieces equal to the length that will fit the spool. ( This length will be different based on the string that you are using.)

Step 4: Adjusting the new string on the spool

There are two channels, one for each string, on the inner side of the string holder.

If you look closely, you will find two holes in the spool, one in each channel. Start with the top channel and insert one end of the string inside.

Once it is inside, it will keep the string in place. Now you can start winding the string. The direction you need to wind the string in (clockwise or counterclockwise) will be marked on the outer section of the string holder.

Tip: You can insert the strings the way they are, but a good practice is to cut the ends that you are inserting in the spool so that you have a diagonal cut. The diagonal cuts make it easier for the strings to get fixed inside the spool.

Step 05: Fixing the other end of String in the String Holder

Along with the direction for winding the string, you will find different slots labeled with different string sizes on the outer section of the string holder.

A string of a certain size can fit perfectly in a slot of the same size.

Once you have winded the majority of the string and are only left with about 3 to 4 inches, find the slot labeled with the size of your string.

Once you have found that slot, insert the string into it and you will find that it will get fixed there perfectly. 

These slots are mentioned on the top of the string holder. This is the reason why you should always start with the top channel.

Step 06: Adjusting the other String

Now take the second piece of string and repeat step 04 and 05 for it, to adjust it and fix it in the second channel.

Note that there are two slots, on opposite corners, for each string size. You need to fix one string in one slot and the other string, in the opposite slot.

Alternative (Faster Way)

If you want to save some time, then you can put both strings inside in their respective channels at the same time and wind them up at the same time.

Note – You might have a hard time if you lose the grip of one string while fixing the other. Therefore, it is better to replace them one by one, separately. 

Step 07: Putting the String Holder back in the Trimmer

You are almost done! You just have to put everything back together now.

Take the string holder and carefully put it back. While doing so, make sure you pass the strings through the small holes present in the head of the trimmer.

Once the strings are through, push the section holder inside.

Step 08: Screwing Back the Bump Knob

Now screw back the bump knob by rotating it clockwise. Tightening it with your hand is enough but if you want, you can use the channel lock as well.

Step 09: Loosen the String Holder (important)

Now that the bump knob is back on, pull out the string holder that you pushed in. This way it will rest against the bump knob. This is essential for the proper working of the trimmer.

And that’s about it! You now have a loaded spool of sharp-edged strings! Good job and happy trimming!