Can I use .095 trimmer line in a .080 trimmer?
Yes, you can usually run .095-inch trimmer line in a trimmer set up for .080-inch line, but it increases load on the Homelite ST-175 engine and can cause poor feed, bogging, and extra vibration. For best performance, use the thickest line your trimmer head reliably feeds.
What to expect if you switch to .095 line
- More cutting power on thick weeds and edging
- More drag on the engine, especially at lower RPM
- Harder bump-feed (line may not advance smoothly)
- Faster wear on the trimmer head, eyelets, and guard area
- More fuel use because the engine works harder
Quick fit check (before you spool it)
- Confirm the trimmer head spool holes and eyelets will physically accept .095 line.
- Wind a short test spool (not a full refill) and check that the line pulls freely.
- Run at full throttle and bump-feed a few times; stop if it stalls or will not advance.
- If the line will not feed cleanly, go back to .080.
Recommended line choice by job
| Job type | Better choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Light grass trimming | .080 | Easier feeding, less engine load |
| Mixed grass and weeds | .080 or .095 | Use .095 only if it feeds well |
| Heavy weeds, thick stems | .095 | More durability and cutting mass |
Why it matters
Line diameter changes how hard the engine has to work and how well the head can advance line. If the head cannot feed .095 smoothly, you will spend more time stopping to pull line than trimming.
If you are seeing excessive line breakage or uneven cutting, inspect the guard and line cutter; a damaged cutter can shred line quickly. The cut off blade 00074 is the line-length cutter on the guard for this model.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the fuel mixture for a Homelite trimmer?
For the Homelite ST-175 gas line trimmer, we use a 50:1 gasoline-to-2-cycle oil fuel mixture (50 parts gas to 1 part oil). Mix it in an approved fuel can before filling the tank so the oil is evenly blended.
Quick mix chart (50:1)
Use this chart to measure common amounts accurately.
| Gasoline amount | 2-cycle oil needed (50:1) |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 2.6 fl oz |
| 2 gallons | 5.1 fl oz |
| 2.5 gallons | 6.4 fl oz |
| 5 gallons | 12.8 fl oz |
How we recommend mixing fuel
A correct mix helps prevent hard starting, poor acceleration, and piston or cylinder damage.
- Use fresh, unleaded gasoline.
- Use quality 2-cycle oil labeled for air-cooled engines.
- Add about half the gas to the can first.
- Add the measured oil, then add the remaining gas.
- Cap and shake the can for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Pour into the trimmer only after the mix looks uniform.
Common symptoms of the wrong mix
If the ST-175 runs poorly after refueling, the mix ratio is one of the first things we check.
- Too little oil (lean mix): surging, overheating, loss of power
- Too much oil (rich mix): heavy smoke, fouled plug, carbon buildup
- Old fuel: hard starting, stalling, inconsistent idle
Related parts that often get attention during fuel issues
Fuel problems often show up as ignition or airflow issues. If you are tuning up the trimmer, these parts are commonly replaced.
Why it matters
A consistent 50:1 mix keeps lubrication correct at high RPM, which is critical for a 2-cycle trimmer engine like the Homelite ST-175.
Last updated: February 2026
What size line for Homelite trimmer?
For the Homelite ST-175 gas line trimmer, most setups use 0.065-inch trimmer line for everyday trimming. If you want heavier cutting, many Homelite heads also accept 0.080-inch line, but only if your trimmer head is rated for it.
Quick way to choose the right line diameter
- 0.065 in.: Best for light grass and routine edging; easier on the engine.
- 0.080 in.: Better for thicker weeds; can reduce feed performance if the head is not designed for it.
- Match the line shape to the job: round for general trimming, twisted or serrated for tougher weeds.
- If the line keeps jamming, step down a size before you replace parts.
- If the line breaks constantly, step up a size only if the head allows it.
What to check on your ST-175 before buying line
Because we do not have an owner’s manual for ST-175 on this page, the most reliable confirmation is what your trimmer head and spool are labeled for.
- Look for molded or printed text on the trimmer head/spool that lists line diameter.
- Confirm whether your head is single-line or dual-line.
- Check that the line feeds smoothly with the guard installed; the guard’s cut-off knife trims line to the correct length.
- Inspect the guard knife; a dull or missing knife can cause poor cutting and excess vibration.
If your guard knife is damaged, replace it with the correct part for this model: cut off blade 00074.
Line size and performance (at a glance)
| Line diameter | Best for | Common symptoms if too large |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 in. | Light to medium trimming | May wear faster in heavy weeds |
| 0.080 in. | Heavier weeds (if supported) | Jams, won’t feed, bogs engine |
Why it matters
Using the correct line diameter helps your Homelite trimmer cut cleanly, feed properly, and avoid extra load on the clutch and engine. The wrong size line is one of the most common causes of poor trimming and constant line-feed problems.
Last updated: February 2026
