Replacing Fuel Lines: A Guide For Your Weedeater

Changing the fuel lines on a weed eater is a common repair job, as the plastic fuel lines break down, become brittle and crack if not replaced regularly. This is a tricky task, as the fuel system must be entirely disassembled and reassembled, and there are many small parts that can be easily mixed up. This article will explain the steps to successfully change the fuel lines on a weedeater, using the example of a Ryobi 767rj Line Trimmer.

Disassembling the trimmer's fuel system

Begin by removing the trimmer's fuel system cover, which is usually located at the rear of the engine. Take off any fasteners that affix the cover to the engine, providing access to the carburetor.

Next, you will need to unscrew the carburetor fasteners. The carburetor is typically affixed to the engine against a plate, often called a carburetor choke plate. Since you need to remove the entire choke plate, carburetor, and fuel tank assembly, start by releasing the fasteners on the carburetor.

The third step is to release the throttle cable from the carburetor. Most trimmer throttle cables thread through the carburetor choke plate and attach to the carburetor. You can simply lift and tilt the carburetor to release the throttle cable.

Once the carburetor is free, move on to unscrewing the fasteners holding the mount plate in place. With these fasteners removed, you will be able to detach the entire fuel system assembly.

At this point, carefully remove the fuel assembly from the trimmer. The fuel tank, carburetor plate, and carburetor are still connected by the fuel lines. It is important to inspect and understand the fuel line setup before proceeding. Drawing a diagram of the fuel line arrangement can be extremely helpful and prevent potential mix-ups.

Note the following:

• The hole in the fuel tank where the fuel filter attaches.
• The path of the filtered "in" line from the fuel tank to the carburetor through the choke plate.
• The connection point of the "in" line on the carburetor.
• The route of the carburetor "out" line through the choke plate.
• The connection points of the "out" line to the primer bulb.
• The correct hole in the fuel tank for the primer overflow line.

Removing the old fuel lines

Trimmer fuel lines are usually attached to fittings on the carburettor and primer bulb. When installed correctly, the fuel lines should be tightly attached to their fittings. An easy way to remove the old fuel lines from their fittings is to use a flat-head screwdriver. Place the screwdriver against the end of the fuel line and apply some pressure to push it off the fitting.

Firstly, remove all the fuel lines from their fittings with a screwdriver. If you are using a Ryobi 767rj, the overflow line leading from the primer bulb can be simply pulled out.

Next, remove the fuel filter line. The trimmer fuel line attached to the fuel filter may have a few extra pieces holding it in place. For example, the fuel filter line on the Ryobi 767rj has a small retaining ring on the outside of the fuel tank, which can be easily removed with a screwdriver. After removing the retaining ring, cut the line with a pair of flush-cut diagonals and push the old fuel filter into the tank.

Finally, replace the primer bulb. The plastic on the primer bulb is likely to wear at the same rate as the fuel lines, so it is a good idea to replace it along with the other fuel system components. The trimmer primer bulb can be held in place in several ways. For example, the bulb on the Ryobi 767rj simply snaps in and out of place.

Diagramming the fuel line setup

To diagram the fuel line setup, first, note the hole in the fuel tank in which the fuel filter attaches. Then, observe the hole in the choke plate through which the filtered "in" line from the fuel tank passes to the carburetor. Make a note of where on the carburetor the "in" line connects.

Next, note where the carburetor "out" line passes through the choke plate. Most primer bulbs have one fuel line connection longer than the other to differentiate the "in" and "out" lines. Note which primer bulb connection the "out" line from the carburetor attaches to, and then identify the correct line to connect to the remaining primer bulb attachment site.

Finally, determine which hole on the fuel tank is for the primer overflow line. This information will be crucial when installing the new fuel lines and reassembling the fuel system.

Installing the new fuel lines

Start by referring back to the diagram you made of the original fuel line setup. This will be a crucial reference point for installing the new lines in the correct positions. Now, take the new fuel filter line and feed it into the correct hole in the fuel tank. This step can be tricky, so take your time and ensure the line is inserted securely and sits flush with the fuel tank. Once the fuel filter line is in place, secure it with the retaining ring if your trimmer has one. Use a pair of pliers to press the retaining ring into position, holding the fuel filter securely.

Next, take your new fuel lines and press them onto their fittings by hand. Ensure they are pushed on firmly and securely, creating a tight seal. Refer to your diagram to determine the correct routing for each line, threading them through the right holes and attaching them to the correct positions on your weedeater. After installing the fuel filter line, the remaining steps should be more straightforward.

Finally, reattach the fuel system and reassemble your weedeater. Position the fuel tank in place and secure it with the fasteners that hold the carburetor mount plate. Reinstall the throttle cable by threading it through the mount plate and attaching it to the carburetor. Secure the carburetor to the mount plate with the appropriate fasteners. Lastly, replace the fuel system cover, ensuring that all fasteners are in place. Your weedeater is now reassembled with new fuel lines installed.

Reattaching the fuel system

For most weedeaters, this will involve positioning the fuel tank in place and reinstalling the fasteners that hold the carburetor mount plate in position. Next, you will need to reinstall the throttle cable into the carburetor. Thread the throttle cable through the hole in the mount plate and reattach it to the carburetor. Then, simply affix the carburetor to the mount plate by reinstalling the fasteners.

Finally, replace the fuel system cover. You may need to guide the carburetor's choke lever through an access opening. Ensure that all fasteners that hold the cover in position are replaced. Your weedeater is now reassembled with new fuel lines installed.

Frequently asked questions