So have you guys tried this yet? I can’t believe someone didn’t come up with idea sooner! Ps, also shoutout to Southern Style who showed me this one too.
I like this other guys suggestion. Taking a thick piece of rubber and gluing it to the bottom. While the bolt idea seems ingenious you have to consider the risks tapping off on cement or concrete. I live in Texas and we have dry spells but doesn't stop us from having to trim weeds like bahia or centipede grass hanging over curbs and sidewalks. The risk for starting a fire goes up using the bolt. You've probably seen bladed edgers spark the curb, well here in Texas we have to be extremely careful in which most cases we use the trimmer to edge. I'm not saying too not use the bolt, I'm just saying use extreme caution and watch carefully. The last thing you want is to burn up a customers yard and possibly their home or neighbors.
ICUEᏉERᎽᏇHERE TM if you can’t watch out for sparks and fire hazards..... chances are you had no business running lawn equipment. Especially any gas powered equipment.
I watched this video 3 years ago and I haven't regretted it since. The most that has happened since doing the upgrade has been replacing the bolt. From my own experience this is the ultimate upgrade. I haven't had to replace the cap or the trimmer head itself, just the bolt.
Brian, it looks like you got it right on this one, but just a reminder how important it is to center the bolt perfectly. Otherwise, you get a ton of vibration.
You know what really sucks? The manufacturer could very easily modify their mold to double or triple the thickness of the plastic in that area. Cost them about 2 cents for the additional plastic. But they want to sell you another cap.
I live in AZ and just bought the Milwaukee M18 and went thru my first cap in less than two hours. We use the weed eater to trim weeds not grass. So lots of dirt and rock. At $38 a trimmer head I'm glad I found this video. The large fender washer idea should work well! I shall see how the dessert likes the fix. Thanks!
Works even better if you use what we call a fender washer. Fender washer has much larger OD which will protect a larger part of the cap. Also for the guys worried about scratching things with the hex head bolt use a button head socket screw instead. Sure protects the cap when you're trimming grass and weeds growing in gravel.
I'm a little late to this video, but I think a carriage bolt would be better in this application, as it has a rounded head. I enjoy watching your videos, I have used many of your tips just doing my own yard.
Been doing this to the Speed Feed 400 head for about 5 plus years. I use grade 8 bolts and double the washers for extra wear. Was going thru a cap/head every month or so, but using the bolt and washers I get 3 - 4 months per bolt. Just watch the bolts and when they wear out and fall off just add another bolt/washers and I'm good to go for another few months. I usually get a season out of each cap/head using this method (the sides still wear down and get paper thin). Saves a ton of money over a season
Saw another video with the bolt idea, but the other guy used a washer, a lock washer, and regular nut instead of the lock nut on the inside of the cap. He also used a larger washer on the outside of the cap to give it more area coverage on the outside of the cap. This worked at keeping the bolt tight with no bolt turning.
Thanks Brian for passing on this Idea, I just received my new Universal Speedfeed 400 Head for my Shindaiwa 22F Curved Trimmer (Home Use), I am a Retired Pro Wrench and Audi Enthusiast, I used some Hardware I had in my Tool Storage: 8 mm x 1.25 x 20 mm Allen Head Bolt along with a 8 mm x 30 mm Body Washer and secured with a Flanged 8 mm Exhaust Nut with a 10 mm Hex that fit great inside the Caps inner recess allowing to tighten the assembly using a 6 mm Allen Wrench and a 10 mm Socket. (I would Post Photos if I saw a place here to do so)
I agree Bruce. A shorter carriage bolt and a spacer on the inside to bring the nut out of that slot . It would be wise to use use proper carriage bolt washers to accommodate the square anchor end on the carriage bolt . It would work much better than the first 8 sided bolt design.
I think the caps are made in plastic to protect sidewalks and driveways from being scratched. I have no problem buying new caps or spools when they wear.
Stephen Cunningham bullshit!! The companies do this so that they can add to their bottom line revenue because it is a consumable item. So many different materials they can use besides metal to increase the longevity, but they won’t do it because they know people will have to come back in for it. A nice curve flat piece of carbon or high strength fibreglass for example. Replaceable shield they could make them so easily but they won’t do it because they would be shooting themselves in the foot
Someone mentioned in the comments to use a carriage bolt, i think that round style head wouldn't do any damage to concrete compared to the bolt used in this video.
yeah i was thinking epoxy something metal to the bottom. get it centered up well enough and you shouldnt get any vibrations. a washer aint a half bad idea. im game to try it.
Quite true. In my case the part released suddenly and sliced my hand. Use a vice - rubber inserts can be added to the jaws to prevent damage to the cap.
I could see it preventing cracking issues, but you also can’t get the head as close to the ground when you’re trimming some edges because the bolt will be touching the lawn and possibly put holes in the sod. I like the recommendation that someone made stating the use of wagon bolts. That would solve the snagging issues
@@franciscodanconia45 The carriage bolt, with a spacer, is a good idea. I have one property that slopes down to the sidewalk enough that using a push mower is difficult. I have used a trimmer before on the slope but did not like the looks of the grass. Having a spacer and just resting the trimmer head on the ground would make an even cut, thus making the grass all the same height.
@@kennyplay5982 I never tap the head in the grass it scalps the grass when that happens. The key to longevity on the those bump heads is high velocity and a quick tap to get the string out quickly.
You have a chance of generating sparks on rocks and starting a fire. That's why there is no steel on any manufacturers caps. That's also the reason we use nylon string. That's especially important where I live in the mountains and any where that's also designated a wildfire sensitive area.
There is Steel on the uograde version of Stihl's new head, the 27-2. Over a decade ago, I sanded, cleaned with acetone, & glued (E6000) a thick washer to mine, & it's still there today.
I love your videos. And I also have the fast feed echo 400 on all my weed trimmers. Best replacement head on the market with no stress or effort. They even come preloaded and the string last forever before it runs out. Great video idea about using a bolt.
I see a lot of people saying not to bump your heads on concrete, but that’s what everyone does. It’s just a wear and tear part that will need to be replaced, so you may as well bang away on the driveway anyway.
Like many have said or implied, will it chip up or mark up the concrete. The first few times it might not be noticeable but after a summer of bumping the head in the general area you might. I can buy replacement caps for just under 6 bucks at a dealer and generally last a season per head depending who's using it. Neat Idea though.
if you need more room for socket on the inside of the cap, you could downsize the bolt to a 5/16" instead of 3/8". Still have the bolt head for the bumper
So.....I am using a Redmax trimmer with the PT104 Plus string head. This one is not designed with a cap to activate the line feed. The line spool actually protrudes through the cap and you are tapping on the spool, not the cap, to feed the line. That part of the spool wears out quickly, but not as quickly as the cap itself. That is because I am a small person and I find myself resting the cap on the ground; especially during long sessions of using the trimmer. These OEM string heads cost $40-$50 each and only get me through about half of a season. There are cheap knock-offs that can be had for much less, but they are not nearly the quality as the original Redmax. You basically go through 3 of those to one of the OEM ones.
OK, so don't flame me, I am NOT a professional hustling for money, but I cut a pretty large tropical yard where things grow very quickly in the rainy season and I use a Sthil FS160. It takes just a few seconds to lift up the head while on the harness, press the spool button, and pull out a good length of string (I run long). Its only when running up the link fence that it chops off the string quickly, and the spool lasts for YEARS.
Nice hack, thanks for sharing. BTW, you should try to get a hold of a Maruyama M Twist Speed Feed head, similar line feeding but the line grummets don't fall off when the bump head wears off and also has a round metal bottom melted on the bump plate, and priced similar to the Echo speed feed too.
actually it is not a nylon washer but a nylon lock nut, probably wouldn't hurt to check occasionally to see if it is getting looser, but should lock itself in place... a really good idea whoever came up with it......
Have Tried Putting Some Lock-tite Glue On The Nut and Bolt With The Washer Glued To The Cap, On The Outside? Because There’s A solution That’ll Definitely Save A Ton Of Time and Money 💴 in On Parts, For Your Trimmer.
Cool video. I'm gonna try this for my Shindaiwa T230 & T260. Otherwise the bump heads just wear out too quick with daily use. seems like a no brainer to me
I use a small round head bolt and Nyloc nut in the Center of a round 5 inch plastic disc that protects the whole head ,I found the large bolt damaged the brick paving to much left to many unsightly marks
Are you keeping an eye on it. Watch to make sure the washer is not heating up when it's spinning and slowly boring a hole in the plastic. We should start manufacturing a disposable plastic cover that is convex / concave ( or ) to fit on the bottom, that go thru the bolt hole you just made. It could be a cheap way to save your line trimmers from day one out of the box and may allow you to recover some old warn down heads giving them new life. ( If this sells cut me off some money for the idea).
I added some washers and a thin aluminum plate made from an old oil filter can. Works ok but have noticed some vibration issue so for now I just have the bolt with washers to make the tip wider. As long as the head last i'm ok with this mod.
Hay, I used a grade 8 bolt and tightened the bolt not the nut, got it tight and the grade 8 bolt lasts forever and I haven't see any effect on concrete just saying good luck
Tap it on the grass, instead of the concrete. Tap it at a stop, then rev it up, the spool unlocks when tapped, string comes out when throttled. What do you do about the eyelets wearing out?
When you start your trimmer don’t let it touch that ground that will save a lot of life. We bump on fences a lot and I would be scared to put a medal bolt on most fences. When that head on the bolt wears down have fun getting that bolt off. New heads are $8.25 for speed fed for Stihl 25-2 bump/spool they are $.75 and the cover is $2.25. We run STIHL and go through maybe 2-3 bumps and 1 or 2 covers. I always have them on hand just Incase.
Me personally I thing the heads are fine the way they are just don't tap it on concert I ran a echo speed feed head a whole year before any type of problems
This idea seems good. However I would assume that if the bolt can turn it will do so when you tap it while working and wear out the plastic cap . I would recommend setting either a Split lock, External tooth lock or Internal tooth lock washer on the inside between the Nylon lock nut and the cap to secure it in position.
Hell I just hand made a cap from some titanium that I had laying around. Works great and the best part is I don't have to buy any more $3 caps off Amazon. It's a 2 for 1. Stickin it to da man while saving litteral dollars.
3 years later... Put the 3/8" nut down in the cavity to use it as a drill guide. It will center the drill. Once you drill a dimple in the plastic remove the nut and use a step drill (unibit) to drill the hole to size. Step drills are perfect for all types of plastics. Cheers.
I do the same thing but I use a 5/16x3/4" bolt with a 5/16" i.d x 2" fender washer and locknut. Does the same thing with more room for socket and spring.
Good idea, might have to use a regular nut with blue lock tite tho. Wont get a carriage bolt on with a lock nut unless where it goes thru has that square hole that holds them.
Cool Idea, but... I'm pretty sure most of of the trimmers (all Ex Mark) my company uses have steel inserts as wear plates on the head. I'm pretty sure we use OEM parts, maybe they are after market heads that my local dealer keeps in stock or something. They seem to last at lest 2 seasons, my biggest problem is the guys losing the spring, or snagging and tugging on the throttle/stop cord , pulling them out.
@@kennyplay5982 My mistake, I meant RedMax. Everything in our lawn trailers is the color red, sometimes I mix up Ex-mark, Redmax, Craftsman, Toro, ect...
Hi Brian, just found your channel, great style, are you Michael Schumacher’s love child? 😁. This is a great tip that I’ve been doing in the UK for a few years after getting fed up with buying new heads. We’re ok here with the spark risk, far to wet for that ! On the bigger straight shaft trimmers you can get heads with aluminium bump sections but can’t for smaller curved shaft trimmers which I like to use for edging and more delicate jobs. Thanks for your enthusiasm, nice to know I’m not the only nerdy garden maintenance guy. Nice truck too 👍👍👍
Instead of "destroying" my head with a bolt, I use a paper towel to apply Flex Seal to extend the life of my speedfeed head on my SRM 225 because the spray can get messy QUICK. More importantly you're done in under a minute and it's easily repeatable. Your friend has only had enough time to find his drill and the appropriate bit and you're already done. To be clear, you do need to let Flex Seal cure for no less than 24 hours but, hopefully, you're weedeating/wacking/snipping is already done for the next week because you thought ahead.
Yo bud, again another great video, and props to you for sharing the knowledge that you get. Just one thing bud, I'm just now realizing that your channel is a bold face lie!!! I know you must have a ton of employees doing all your work, because after seeing a close up of your hands they look nicer than my wife's😂😂😂😂😂!!!!! Just some Jersey humor bud. Hope all is well, God bless and greetings from Jersey bud,nnn
Lol #actorlife my whole business and channel are a front!! I’m secretly employed by the NALP to make lawn care look cool and get new blood in the industry. Don’t tell anyone.
I knew it!!!! Hope all is well, thanks for always taking time to interact with your subscribers!!! God bless you guys, and greetings from Jersey bud!!!
I have been using the same speed feed head on my srm230 for 2 seasons and still no sign of burning it out. I run solo and mow 2 days a week I do 30-35 lawns. I use the same trimmer on all my other cleanup work etc. Just a bit of timing and throttle manipulation I tap on grass only it doesn't leave a mark and leaves no reason for smacking it on concrete I cringe when I see that lol
this is a new one on me. i usually tap in the grass anyway, so my caps usually last as long as the heads they came with, or even the trimmer 😅 good grief, i just found out there's *more rain* in the forecast; 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏼♂️and i spent half the workable days this week helping people move, etc. excellent. oh well.
OH MAN...GREAT IDEA! I JUST WORE OUT A NEW $30 DEWALT CAP IN FOUR USES. I DRAG IT ON THE GROUND WAY TOO MUCH. I TRIED GORILLA TAPE ON THE WHOLE CAP A FEW YEARS AGO. IT KINDA WORKS, BUT IF IT GETS UNBALANCED IT WOBBLES LIKE CRAZY.
So have you guys tried this yet? I can’t believe someone didn’t come up with idea sooner!
Ps, also shoutout to Southern Style who showed me this one too.
Brian's Lawn Maintenance really good idea thanks for sharing, gonna try it on one of the trimmers.
Add a 2nd nut. The 2 presed together should keep ot tight.
Should be integrated by the manufacturer but otherwise it’s a great idea to do yourself.
I like this other guys suggestion. Taking a thick piece of rubber and gluing it to the bottom. While the bolt idea seems ingenious you have to consider the risks tapping off on cement or concrete. I live in Texas and we have dry spells but doesn't stop us from having to trim weeds like bahia or centipede grass hanging over curbs and sidewalks. The risk for starting a fire goes up using the bolt. You've probably seen bladed edgers spark the curb, well here in Texas we have to be extremely careful in which most cases we use the trimmer to edge. I'm not saying too not use the bolt, I'm just saying use extreme caution and watch carefully. The last thing you want is to burn up a customers yard and possibly their home or neighbors.
ICUEᏉERᎽᏇHERE TM if you can’t watch out for sparks and fire hazards..... chances are you had no business running lawn equipment. Especially any gas powered equipment.
I watched this video 3 years ago and I haven't regretted it since. The most that has happened since doing the upgrade has been replacing the bolt. From my own experience this is the ultimate upgrade. I haven't had to replace the cap or the trimmer head itself, just the bolt.
Brian, it looks like you got it right on this one, but just a reminder how important it is to center the bolt perfectly. Otherwise, you get a ton of vibration.
Great point I meant to say that but thank you for adding!
You know what really sucks? The manufacturer could very easily modify their mold to double or triple the thickness of the plastic in that area. Cost them about 2 cents for the additional plastic. But they want to sell you another cap.
I live in AZ and just bought the Milwaukee M18 and went thru my first cap in less than two hours. We use the weed eater to trim weeds not grass. So lots of dirt and rock. At $38 a trimmer head I'm glad I found this video. The large fender washer idea should work well! I shall see how the dessert likes the fix. Thanks!
You can use JB weld and glue a big washer on the cap works great
Over a decade ago, I sanded, cleaned with acetone, & glued (E6000) a big, thick washer to mine, & it's still there today.
Just did that with 4 washer before even reading this. Lol.
Yep Works for me
I've never seen that before but what a brilliant idea it makes you sort of look around and look up at the sky thinking why didn't I think of that
Works even better if you use what we call a fender washer. Fender washer has much larger OD which will protect a larger part of the cap. Also for the guys worried about scratching things with the hex head bolt use a button head socket screw instead. Sure protects the cap when you're trimming grass and weeds growing in gravel.
small stack of washers on the inside allows for a better socket bite on the nylon nut, tighten it right up.
I've been doing this for 25 plus years. It definitely adds to the longevity of the Speed-Feed heads and is a necessity on the Stihl autocut 25-2.
I'm a little late to this video, but I think a carriage bolt would be better in this application, as it has a rounded head. I enjoy watching your videos, I have used many of your tips just doing my own yard.
if its rounded how are you going to tighten?
Been doing this to the Speed Feed 400 head for about 5 plus years. I use grade 8 bolts and double the washers for extra wear. Was going thru a cap/head every month or so, but using the bolt and washers I get 3 - 4 months per bolt. Just watch the bolts and when they wear out and fall off just add another bolt/washers and I'm good to go for another few months. I usually get a season out of each cap/head using this method (the sides still wear down and get paper thin). Saves a ton of money over a season
Saw another video with the bolt idea, but the other guy used a washer, a lock washer, and regular nut instead of the lock nut on the inside of the cap. He also used a larger washer on the outside of the cap to give it more area coverage on the outside of the cap. This worked at keeping the bolt tight with no bolt turning.
Fender washers gives more coverage. He’s using a flat washer
Thanks Brian for passing on this Idea, I just received my new Universal Speedfeed 400 Head for my Shindaiwa 22F Curved Trimmer (Home Use), I am a Retired Pro Wrench and Audi Enthusiast, I used some Hardware I had in my Tool Storage: 8 mm x 1.25 x 20 mm Allen Head Bolt along with a 8 mm x 30 mm Body Washer and secured with a Flanged 8 mm Exhaust Nut with a 10 mm Hex that fit great inside the Caps inner recess allowing to tighten the assembly using a 6 mm Allen Wrench and a 10 mm Socket. (I would Post Photos if I saw a place here to do so)
Ok Brian, I've got to try this! lol!! Those caps do wear out pretty quick. This is the first time I've seen this. Thanks for sharing!
I agree Bruce. A shorter carriage bolt and a spacer on the inside to bring the nut out of that slot . It would be wise to use use proper carriage bolt washers to accommodate the square anchor end on the carriage bolt . It would work much better than the first 8 sided bolt design.
You learn something new everyday.
I think the caps are made in plastic to protect sidewalks and driveways from being scratched. I have no problem buying new caps or spools when they wear.
I agree. Caps are $5-$10 max. Just order online and keep with you. I might go through 2 caps or spools a year. Not worth damaging customers property
Yeah I agree, just buy new caps & dont do this just in case... just write it off as a business expense on your taxes.
Stephen Cunningham bullshit!! The companies do this so that they can add to their bottom line revenue because it is a consumable item. So many different materials they can use besides metal to increase the longevity, but they won’t do it because they know people will have to come back in for it. A nice curve flat piece of carbon or high strength fibreglass for example. Replaceable shield they could make them so easily but they won’t do it because they would be shooting themselves in the foot
Someone mentioned in the comments to use a carriage bolt, i think that round style head wouldn't do any damage to concrete compared to the bolt used in this video.
I jb weld a huge washer to the cap
Over a decade ago, I sanded, cleaned with acetone, & glued (E6000) a thick washer to mine, & it's still there today.
I love how you keep it real and don’t cleanup up your work bench before a video
Thanks for the Upgrade Tips! Just bought a new Speed Feed 450, and did the upgrade before I installed it... Glad it ended up fitting my trimmer lol
I just put my speed feed on my Echo yesterday. I'm putting the screw in today!!! Thanks for the tip.
What I've done in the past is just epoxy a medium sized steel washer on the bottom right where you tap. It Worked good never came off.
Throws it off balance and makes you feel like you're holding a washing machine when weedeating 7+ hours
@@mr.e6175 it worked good for me. If you put a giant washer and had it off center then you may get vibration.
Set of balls fixes that problem
yeah i was thinking epoxy something metal to the bottom. get it centered up well enough and you shouldnt get any vibrations. a washer aint a half bad idea. im game to try it.
@@jonathandoble4105 im thinking the 450. it can take .130 line vs .105. $12 on ebay. just hope it fits my blue max.
Careful drilling like that, I have held something I was drilling and next thing I know the drill bit is through my hand.
Quite true. In my case the part released suddenly and sliced my hand. Use a vice - rubber inserts can be added to the jaws to prevent damage to the cap.
I could see it preventing cracking issues, but you also can’t get the head as close to the ground when you’re trimming some edges because the bolt will be touching the lawn and possibly put holes in the sod. I like the recommendation that someone made stating the use of wagon bolts. That would solve the snagging issues
Been doing that for ten years lol. Shindaiwa was the first to make that speed feed head. Been using them since shindaiwa released it.
Carriage bolt would be a better ideal. Won't chip concrete.
Yes! Maybe a carriage bolt with a spacer for height, and you can make it as long as you want so you can run the trimmer resting on the ground.
@@franciscodanconia45 The carriage bolt, with a spacer, is a good idea. I have one property that slopes down to the sidewalk enough that using a push mower is difficult. I have used a trimmer before on the slope but did not like the looks of the grass. Having a spacer and just resting the trimmer head on the ground would make an even cut, thus making the grass all the same height.
Bruce Stroh that is what I use been doing this for years on redmax heads
Wow, I can't tell you the last time I tapped my head on concrete or macadam. Always on grass..never on concrete... Who would do that??
@@kennyplay5982 I never tap the head in the grass it scalps the grass when that happens. The key to longevity on the those bump heads is high velocity and a quick tap to get the string out quickly.
You have a chance of generating sparks on rocks and starting a fire. That's why there is no steel on any manufacturers caps. That's also the reason we use nylon string. That's especially important where I live in the mountains and any where that's also designated a wildfire sensitive area.
There is Steel on the uograde version of Stihl's new head, the 27-2.
Over a decade ago, I sanded, cleaned with acetone, & glued (E6000) a thick washer to mine, & it's still there today.
I love your videos. And I also have the fast feed echo 400 on all my weed trimmers. Best replacement head on the market with no stress or effort. They even come preloaded and the string last forever before it runs out. Great video idea about using a bolt.
This is awesome...especially when you have employees that don’t own the equipment lol
just got one last week, thnk for the bolt info. gotta rollout n finish a landscape install b4 i do my lawns. might swing ace hw n do this b4 my lawns.
Yes sir, Ive been doing that for years, the bolt fits perfect on the Styhl crank bump head.
Doing it for a living-you should know.I think it's a great idea!!
Good idea I will be doing that next season for sure.
I see a lot of people saying not to bump your heads on concrete, but that’s what everyone does. It’s just a wear and tear part that will need to be replaced, so you may as well bang away on the driveway anyway.
Seems like s good idea. I watch a lot of your videos. Thanks for all the help along the way!
Nice video brian, All of my trimmers have that for ten years now it is awsome I have to replace the nut and washer every year!
I have been doing this as well. My guys were burning through 3 to 4 heads a month. dragging the trimmer was the problem. A bigger disc protects more.
I do this for every trimmer. We go through so many caps.
a pair of nylon washers? NUTS man!
Like many have said or implied, will it chip up or mark up the concrete. The first few times it might not be noticeable but after a summer of bumping the head in the general area you might. I can buy replacement caps for just under 6 bucks at a dealer and generally last a season per head depending who's using it. Neat Idea though.
I just make to avoid tapping on concrete. I always tap on a raised tree root or utility box cover to reduce wear on the head.
if you need more room for socket on the inside of the cap, you could downsize the bolt to a 5/16" instead of 3/8". Still have the bolt head for the bumper
So.....I am using a Redmax trimmer with the PT104 Plus string head. This one is not designed with a cap to activate the line feed. The line spool actually protrudes through the cap and you are tapping on the spool, not the cap, to feed the line. That part of the spool wears out quickly, but not as quickly as the cap itself. That is because I am a small person and I find myself resting the cap on the ground; especially during long sessions of using the trimmer. These OEM string heads cost $40-$50 each and only get me through about half of a season. There are cheap knock-offs that can be had for much less, but they are not nearly the quality as the original Redmax. You basically go through 3 of those to one of the OEM ones.
Awesome tip to share! Thanks for sharing, Brian!
OK, so don't flame me, I am NOT a professional hustling for money, but I cut a pretty large tropical yard where things grow very quickly in the rainy season and I use a Sthil FS160. It takes just a few seconds to lift up the head while on the harness, press the spool button, and pull out a good length of string (I run long). Its only when running up the link fence that it chops off the string quickly, and the spool lasts for YEARS.
Nice hack, thanks for sharing. BTW, you should try to get a hold of a Maruyama M Twist Speed Feed head, similar line feeding but the line grummets don't fall off when the bump head wears off and also has a round metal bottom melted on the bump plate, and priced similar to the Echo speed feed too.
actually it is not a nylon washer but a nylon lock nut, probably wouldn't hurt to check occasionally to see if it is getting looser, but should lock itself in place... a really good idea whoever came up with it......
Have Tried Putting Some Lock-tite Glue On The Nut and Bolt With The Washer Glued To The Cap, On The Outside? Because There’s A solution That’ll Definitely Save A Ton Of Time and Money 💴 in On Parts, For Your Trimmer.
Cool video. I'm gonna try this for my Shindaiwa T230 & T260. Otherwise the bump heads just wear out too quick with daily use. seems like a no brainer to me
I like that idea just replaced 3rd head..bolt idea is being put on as I type..great idea
I use a small round head bolt and Nyloc nut in the Center of a round 5 inch plastic disc that protects the whole head ,I found the large bolt damaged the brick paving to much left to many unsightly marks
Are you keeping an eye on it. Watch to make sure the washer is not heating up when it's spinning and slowly boring a hole in the plastic. We should start manufacturing a disposable plastic cover that is convex / concave ( or ) to fit on the bottom, that go thru the bolt hole you just made. It could be a cheap way to save your line trimmers from day one out of the box and may allow you to recover some old warn down heads giving them new life. ( If this sells cut me off some money for the idea).
I think as long as you have everything centered well so it does not affect the balance of he trimmer head it should work just fine.
I added some washers and a thin aluminum plate made from an old oil filter can. Works ok but have noticed some vibration issue so for now I just have the bolt with washers to make the tip wider. As long as the head last i'm ok with this mod.
Hay, I used a grade 8 bolt and tightened the bolt not the nut, got it tight and the grade 8 bolt lasts forever and I haven't see any effect on concrete just saying good luck
Tap it on the grass, instead of the concrete. Tap it at a stop, then rev it up, the spool unlocks when tapped, string comes out when throttled. What do you do about the eyelets wearing out?
When you start your trimmer don’t let it touch that ground that will save a lot of life. We bump on fences a lot and I would be scared to put a medal bolt on most fences. When that head on the bolt wears down have fun getting that bolt off. New heads are $8.25 for speed fed for Stihl 25-2 bump/spool they are $.75 and the cover is $2.25. We run STIHL and go through maybe 2-3 bumps and 1 or 2 covers. I always have them on hand just Incase.
When it wears down to nothing the problem solves itself.
Me personally I thing the heads are fine the way they are just don't tap it on concert I ran a echo speed feed head a whole year before any type of problems
This idea seems good. However I would assume that if the bolt can turn it will do so when you tap it while working and wear out the plastic cap . I would recommend setting either a Split lock, External tooth lock or Internal tooth lock washer on the inside between the Nylon lock nut and the cap to secure it in position.
Brian thank you for all your information you really helped me out on my new journey
Great idea I’m gona do it but I’m gona use a smooth carriage bolt head with washer
Hell I just hand made a cap from some titanium that I had laying around. Works great and the best part is I don't have to buy any more $3 caps off Amazon. It's a 2 for 1. Stickin it to da man while saving litteral dollars.
Did this in my lawn care in Nebraska 1997 to 2008 worked on old bobins as well
3 years later... Put the 3/8" nut down in the cavity to use it as a drill guide. It will center the drill. Once you drill a dimple in the plastic remove the nut and use a step drill (unibit) to drill the hole to size. Step drills are perfect for all types of plastics. Cheers.
I do the same thing but I use a 5/16x3/4" bolt with a 5/16" i.d x 2" fender washer and locknut. Does the same thing with more room for socket and spring.
Carriage bolt with spacer to protect the cap, and also to give a minimum trim height to avoid scalping.
Good idea, might have to use a regular nut with blue lock tite tho. Wont get a carriage bolt on with a lock nut unless where it goes thru has that square hole that holds them.
@@The2012waiting makes perfect sense my friend! i like you way!
Your videos are great! You make life easier! You're a very knowledgeable guy! Thank You!
You bet pal
I like the JB Weld epoxy covers more surface
Cool Idea, but... I'm pretty sure most of of the trimmers (all Ex Mark) my company uses have steel inserts as wear plates on the head. I'm pretty sure we use OEM parts, maybe they are after market heads that my local dealer keeps in stock or something. They seem to last at lest 2 seasons, my biggest problem is the guys losing the spring, or snagging and tugging on the throttle/stop cord , pulling them out.
Never heard of ExMark trimmers??
@@kennyplay5982 My mistake, I meant RedMax. Everything in our lawn trailers is the color red, sometimes I mix up Ex-mark, Redmax, Craftsman, Toro, ect...
Hi Brian, just found your channel, great style, are you Michael Schumacher’s love child? 😁. This is a great tip that I’ve been doing in the UK for a few years after getting fed up with buying new heads. We’re ok here with the spark risk, far to wet for that ! On the bigger straight shaft trimmers you can get heads with aluminium bump sections but can’t for smaller curved shaft trimmers which I like to use for edging and more delicate jobs. Thanks for your enthusiasm, nice to know I’m not the only nerdy garden maintenance guy. Nice truck too 👍👍👍
Ha thanks Simon!
I like the idea but I believe a flat head bolt would work much better. It would be closer to the design of the cap but still save from wear and tear.
Great vid. Going to try this with mushroom head or round head (Allen) bolt.
Great job ,to save trimmer cap,keep up awesome ideas
I think it's a trade secret , until now , I'm definitely going to try it . Cheers for video 👍
I glued a cut down hole saw over the part you tap to extend the line. I never even check it for wear!
I would be afraid of damaging surfaces with the bolt.
How hard are people tapping their feed heads?😕
Instead of "destroying" my head with a bolt, I use a paper towel to apply Flex Seal to extend the life of my speedfeed head on my SRM 225 because the spray can get messy QUICK. More importantly you're done in under a minute and it's easily repeatable. Your friend has only had enough time to find his drill and the appropriate bit and you're already done. To be clear, you do need to let Flex Seal cure for no less than 24 hours but, hopefully, you're weedeating/wacking/snipping is already done for the next week because you thought ahead.
How about affixing 3 or 4 pieces of duct tape to the bottom cover?
I wanted to try this, but also use some epoxy as an extra skin just to see if it helps protect the plastic
Same mod....only with a 5/16" bolt/nut/washer might allow you get a socket to fit in that hole and tighten all the way down....
Yo bud, again another great video, and props to you for sharing the knowledge that you get. Just one thing bud, I'm just now realizing that your channel is a bold face lie!!! I know you must have a ton of employees doing all your work, because after seeing a close up of your hands they look nicer than my wife's😂😂😂😂😂!!!!! Just some Jersey humor bud. Hope all is well, God bless and greetings from Jersey bud,nnn
Lol #actorlife my whole business and channel are a front!! I’m secretly employed by the NALP to make lawn care look cool and get new blood in the industry. Don’t tell anyone.
I knew it!!!! Hope all is well, thanks for always taking time to interact with your subscribers!!! God bless you guys, and greetings from Jersey bud!!!
I have been using the same speed feed head on my srm230 for 2 seasons and still no sign of burning it out. I run solo and mow 2 days a week I do 30-35 lawns. I use the same trimmer on all my other cleanup work etc. Just a bit of timing and throttle manipulation I tap on grass only it doesn't leave a mark and leaves no reason for smacking it on concrete I cringe when I see that lol
I see that you don't have workers/employees.
Worker don't care
@@dennisbatista6360 yeah man true...
Great idea I have tried duct tape that was a fail my only concern is stamped concrete and pebbled treated cement with wax on it
Great idea!
I used a button head screw it’s rounded an doesn’t have square shoulder like a carriage bolt.
this is a new one on me. i usually tap in the grass anyway, so my caps usually last as long as the heads they came with, or even the trimmer 😅
good grief, i just found out there's *more rain* in the forecast; 🤦🏽♂️🤦🏼♂️and i spent half the workable days this week helping people move, etc. excellent. oh well.
OH MAN...GREAT IDEA! I JUST WORE OUT A NEW $30 DEWALT CAP IN FOUR USES. I DRAG IT ON THE GROUND WAY TOO MUCH. I TRIED GORILLA TAPE ON THE WHOLE CAP A FEW YEARS AGO. IT KINDA WORKS, BUT IF IT GETS UNBALANCED IT WOBBLES LIKE CRAZY.
Great idea. I've seen it before. But will it work on my Stihl FS90 button? It has a smaller spring and it's designed different.
I did try it but unfortunately the bolts and nuts loosen while grass cutting and have some few bumps
If you use a lock washer it will keep it tight and want loosen up over time, just a thought!!
How do you bidding on a leaf clean on yards
Your weed eater sounds badass mann!!
I'm going to try a nylon bolt and nut to see how it works.
I patented that lol Inside joke!
Lol dude that’s all you. But if they paint them orange, I want my check. 😝
That is simple and effective. I will install that now
Great video I'm sick of replacing trimmer heads every couple of months
you could always add a washer or 2 on the inside so the nut is still able to finish the tighten up. cheers!
Firbyd ,probably just needed a deeper socket.
Great idea. Thanks for the info
Pretty slick. Will try it out. Thanks