How to Reload an ECHO Speed-Feed Trimmer Head

If you’re tired of wrestling with traditional string trimmer heads, an ECHO Speed-Feed® trimmer head might just be your new favorite tool. Designed for quick, no-hassle line reloads, the Speed-Feed system can be reloaded in less than 60 seconds — with no disassembly required.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to reload a Speed-Feed trimmer head step-by-step, plus share tips to make reloads even faster and trouble-free.

Why Use an ECHO Speed-Feed Trimmer Head

What is a Speed-Feed head?

The Speed-Feed head is a commercial-grade string trimmer head designed for fast, tool-free reloading. Unlike traditional bump-feed heads, you simply thread the new line through the head and twist to wind — no taking the head apart.

Benefits over traditional trimmer heads:

Fast - reload in under 60 seconds
Convenient - no disassembly required
Efficient - reduced downtime for landscapers and homeowners
Universal - works with most gas or battery-powered string trimmers, whether curved or straight shaft

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have:

Replacement trimmer line (check your trimmer’s manual for the correct diameter — many Speed-Feed heads work best with .095 in. / 2.4 mm line)
Gloves (for safety and better grip)
Safety glasses
Your string trimmer with a Speed-Feed head

Pro Tip: ECHO Cross-Fire® line is designed for durability and cleaner cuts.

Step-By-Step Guide to Reloading Trimmer Line

Prepare for Safe Reloading

Step 1

Turn off the engine or remove the battery.

Use caution near the trimmer head.

The gearbox may be hot, and the cutter knife on the shield should be avoided.

Place the trimmer on a stable, flat surface.

Align the load arrows

Step 2

Hold the trimmer head body steady then rotate the top plate clockwise to align the line loading arrows of the top plate with the eyelets in the body.

Feed the trimmer line

Step 3

Cut about 15 to 20 ft (4.6 to 6 m) maximum of trimmer line.

Pro Tip: Make sure to cut a clean end if re-using line

Insert one end into either eyelet and push it straight through until it comes out the other side.

Pro Tip: Straighten the end of line to eliminate any curl or bend for smoother feeding

Pull the line so it’s even on both sides.

Wind the line

Step 4

Hold the head steady and turn the top-plate clockwise to wind the line onto the spool.

Keep twisting until about 5 in. (130 mm) of line extends from each side.

Final Check

Step 5

Tug gently on each end (at the same time) to ensure the line is secure.

If needed, trim the ends to the length of the shield knife.

TROUBLE-FREE RELOADS

Tips

Always use the correct line diameter to prevent jams.

Store trimmer line in a cool, dry place to prevent brittleness.

Keep the trimmer head clean and free of grass buildup for smoother winding

Periodically disassemble and clean out grass and dirt build up with water or light compressed air.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling with too much line — this can jam the head.
Using the wrong type or diameter of line.
Forgetting to align the line-loading arrows before feeding line.

Video Tutorial: https://youtu.be/t9IMA6vbhZQ?si=bdLDTSrvI6jgdruw

FAQs About Speed-Feed Trimmer Heads

Q: How often should I replace trimmer line?

A: It depends on usage and the type of vegetation you’re cutting, but heavy trimming may require reloading several times a week.

Q: Can I use any brand of trimmer line?

A: Yes, but for best performance, use the line recommended in your trimmer’s manual.

Q: How long does a reload take?

A: With practice, most users can reload in under 60 seconds.

Get Back to Trimming

Reloading a Speed-Feed trimmer head is quick, simple, and eliminates the frustrations of traditional trimmer heads. By following these steps and tips, you’ll spend less time loading line and more time getting the job done.