Trimmer Fuel Tubing: Replacing And Revitalizing Your Trimmer

Replacing the fuel lines of a trimmer is a common repair job, as the plastic fuel lines will eventually break down and become brittle if not replaced every few seasons. The fuel lines of string trimmers and other gas-powered equipment rest partially in the fuel, which increases the rate at which the plastic degrades. To replace the fuel lines, you will need to disassemble the trimmer's fuel system, which can be a complex process with many steps. It is important to have the right tools and safety equipment and to work in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources.

Removing the fuel system cover

To remove the fuel system cover, you will first need to locate it. On the demonstration trimmer used in the source material, the fuel cover is located on the rear of the engine. However, it is important to note that the location of the fuel cover may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your trimmer. Once you have located the fuel cover, follow these steps:

• Remove any fasteners that affix the cover to the engine: This will give you access to the carburetor. Be sure to keep track of the fasteners as you remove them so that you can easily reassemble the trimmer when you are finished.
• Access the carburetor: With the cover removed, you should now be able to access the carburetor. The carburetor is the part of the trimmer that mixes air and fuel to form the air-fuel mixture that powers the engine. It is important to handle the carburetor with care as it is a delicate component.
• Disconnect the throttle cable from the carburetor: This is usually done with a lift-and-twist motion. The throttle cable controls the engine speed, so it is important to disconnect it before proceeding.
• Unscrew any fasteners holding the carburetor in place: There may be a choke plate or choke assembly that needs to be removed as well. The choke plate is the part of the carburetor that restricts the flow of air, creating the proper fuel-air mixture for the engine.
• Carefully lift and remove the carburetor: With the fasteners removed, you should now be able to lift the carburetor out of its housing. Again, be gentle as the carburetor is a delicate component.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the fuel system cover and accessed the internal components of the trimmer's fuel system. From here, you can proceed with further repairs or maintenance as needed. Remember to keep track of all removed parts and fasteners to facilitate a smooth reassembly process.

Disconnecting the carburetor

Prepare the Work Area:

Before beginning any work on your trimmer, it is essential to ensure your safety and the suitability of your workspace. Put on safety glasses and nitrile gloves to protect your eyes and skin from any fuel or sharp components. Additionally, work in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or ignition sources.

Drain the Fuel Tank:

Fuel in the tank poses a hazard and can make your work more difficult. Use an approved container to drain any remaining fuel from the tank. Cap the container securely and set it aside, ensuring it doesn't accidentally spill. Remember, old fuel is considered hazardous waste, so be sure to dispose of it properly according to local regulations.

Remove the Fuel System Cover:

The fuel system cover is typically located at the rear of the engine. Remove any fasteners or screws holding the cover in place. This will grant you access to the carburetor and other fuel system components.

Disconnect the Throttle Cable:

The throttle cable is usually attached to the carburetor. To disconnect it, use a lift-and-twist motion, or simply lift and tilt the carburetor to release the cable.

Unscrew Carburetor Fasteners:

The carburetor is often affixed to the engine against a plate, sometimes called a carburetor choke plate. Unscrew and remove any fasteners holding the carburetor in place. This will free the carburetor and allow you to access the fuel lines.

Disconnect the Fuel Lines:

Before disconnecting the fuel lines, it is a good idea to make a diagram or take a picture of how they are configured between the tank and the carburetor. This will help you during reassembly. Use needle-nose pliers or hemostat forceps to carefully disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor.

By following these steps, you will have successfully disconnected the carburetor and be ready to perform maintenance or repairs on your trimmer's fuel system. Remember to work carefully and refer to your trimmer's manual or a professional if you have any doubts or concerns.

Removing the old fuel lines

Before beginning work on your trimmer, make sure you are wearing safety gear, including nitrile gloves and safety glasses. Work in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or other ignition sources.

The first step in replacing your trimmer's fuel lines is to remove the old ones. This process will vary depending on the make and model of your trimmer, but here are some general steps to follow:

• Drain the fuel tank: Before servicing your trimmer, it is important to drain any remaining fuel from the tank. Place a receptacle under the fuel tank and remove the fuel cap to allow the fuel to drain. Be sure to dispose of the old fuel properly, as it is considered hazardous waste.
• Disconnect the spark plug wire: Pull the spark plug wire straight off the spark plug.
• Remove the fuel system cover: This will give you access to the fuel tank, carburetor, and fuel lines. The location of the fuel cover may vary depending on your trimmer model.
• Detach the carburetor: Depending on your trimmer model, you may need to remove screws or fasteners to detach the carburetor. Drain any excess fuel from the fuel tank before detaching it. You may also need to disconnect the throttle cable from the carburetor, usually by lifting and twisting it.
• Disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor: Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or hemostat forceps to carefully disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor.
• Remove the fuel lines from the tank: Pull the old fuel lines out of the tank. If they are difficult to remove, you can use needle-nose pliers to grip the lines and pull them out. If the lines break while pulling, tip the trimmer and shake it to remove any remaining pieces.
• Remove the fuel filter: The fuel filter is usually attached to the end of the small fuel line inside the tank. Use needle-nose pliers or a straightened wire hanger to fish the filter out of the tank. Then, pull the fuel filter off the end of the fuel line.

Once you have removed all the old fuel lines, you can begin installing the new ones. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your particular trimmer model.

Installing the new fuel lines

Before beginning the installation, ensure you have the correct tools and safety equipment. You will need safety glasses, scissors, hemostat forceps or long needle-nose pliers, shop rags or paper towels, a small gas can, a funnel, a pen or pencil, and paper. It is also recommended to have a lubricant such as WD-40 and nitrile gloves for hand protection. It is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area, away from any ignition sources.

Firstly, you should cut the end of the new small fuel line at an angle. This angled cut will make it easier to insert the line into the small hole in the tank. Use scissors to create a clean, angled cut. Next, push the cut end of the small fuel line into the corresponding small hole in the tank. Grab the line inside the tank with hemostat forceps or needle-nose pliers and pull it through the fuel tank filler opening. Pull out approximately 4 inches of the line. If you encounter resistance, a small amount of WD-40 can be applied to the fuel line to facilitate a smoother pull.

Now, cut the end of the small fuel line straight or square. This will ensure a proper connection later on. Attach the fuel filter to the end of the small fuel line. Then, push the fuel filter into the tank. The fuel filter should be positioned securely inside the tank. At this point, you can attach the small fuel line to the correct port on the carburetor. Refer to your diagram or digital photograph to identify the correct port. If the line is too long, you can cut it to the appropriate length with scissors. Remember to wipe off any lubricant residue with a paper towel before making the connection.

For the large fuel line, repeat a similar process. Cut the end of the large fuel line at an angle, mirroring the cut made on the small line. Push the cut end into the large hole in the tank. Grab the line with long needle-nose pliers or forceps and pull it out through the tank fill opening. Pull out enough of the line so that you can cut it straight or square, ensuring a proper connection later. If your model has a connector, hold the fuel line and push the connector onto it. Pull the line out of the top of the tank until the connector rests against the hole. Once positioned, cut the large line to the appropriate length and connect it to the carburetor.

Finally, refuel the fuel tank with fresh fuel and carefully check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, your repair is complete.

Reattaching the fuel system

First, double-check your installation of the new fuel lines against your diagram. Once you are satisfied, position the fuel tank in its place and reinstall the fasteners that hold the carburettor mount plate in position.

Next, reinstall the throttle cable into the carburettor. Thread the throttle cable through its hole in the mount plate and reattach it to the carburettor.

After this, affix the carburettor to the mount plate. This should just require reinstalling some fasteners.

Finally, replace the fuel system cover. You may need to guide the carburettor's choke lever through an access opening. Replace all fasteners that hold the cover in position.

Your trimmer is now reassembled with new fuel lines installed.

Frequently asked questions