What is the difference between a string trimmer and a line trimmer?
A string trimmer and a line trimmer are the same tool in most everyday use; both cut grass and weeds with a fast-spinning nylon line. Your Black & Decker GH900 uses round nylon cutting line and can also convert to edging mode for lawn edges.
What each name usually means
- Line trimmer: Emphasizes the replaceable nylon line (the “cutting line”) on a spool.
- String trimmer: Common nickname for the same nylon-line tool.
- Edger mode: Some trimmers (including GH900) rotate the head to edge along sidewalks and beds.
- Brush cutter: A different category; often uses heavier line or metal blades for thicker growth.
GH900 specifics that help clarify the terms
The GH900 is a nylon-line trimmer with an automatic line feed system. It’s designed for trimming and maintenance edging, not for trenching or heavy brush cutting.
| Feature | What it means on GH900 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting media | .065 in (1.65 mm) round nylon line | Using the right diameter helps feeding and cutting performance |
| Feed method | Automatic feed (do not bump to feed) | Bumping can cause poor feed and extra wear |
| Modes | Trimming and edging (head rotates 180°) | Cleaner edges without a separate dedicated edger |
Why it matters when buying line and using the tool
Using the correct line type and operating angle helps the trimmer cut cleanly and reduces line breakage.
- Use .065 inch round nylon line for the GH900.
- Cut with the tip of the line and keep a 5° to 10° cutting angle.
- Keep the guard in place and maintain at least 24 inches between the guard and your feet.
- In edging mode, keep bystanders and pets at least 100 feet away.
For operating details, edging conversion, and safety guidance, follow the GH900 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
How to change string on black and decker electric trimmer?
To change the cutting line on your Black & Decker GH900 line trimmer, unplug it first, remove the spool cap tabs, lift out the spool, then install a new spool or rewind .065-inch round nylon line and feed it through the eyelet before reseating the spool.
Safety first (do this every time)
- Unplug the trimmer before changing the spool or line.
- Wear eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1.
- Clear the area of wire, cord, and string-like debris that can tangle in the head.
- Use only the correct line size to avoid overheating the motor.
Replace the spool (fastest method)
- Unplug the trimmer.
- Press the two tabs on the spool cap and remove the cap.
- Pull the empty spool straight out.
- Clean grass and dirt from the spool housing.
- If the internal lever in the base of the housing is out of place, set it back correctly.
- Guide the line end into the eyelet.
- Push the new spool onto the boss and rotate slightly until it seats.
For this model, the manual specifies a Black & Decker replacement spool model AF-100 and replacement cap RC-100; the cutting line should stick out about 5-3/8 in. (136 mm) after installation.
Rewinding line (if you are using bulk line)
Use .065 in. (1.65 mm) round nylon line.
| Item | What to use | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .065 in (1.65 mm) round | Prevents motor overload and overheating |
| Spool option | AF-100 prewound spool | Quick, consistent feed |
| Cap option | RC-100 | Helps secure the spool and line |
Why it matters
Correct line diameter and proper spool seating help the GH900 feed line smoothly, cut efficiently, and reduce nuisance issues like overheating, poor trimming performance, or rapid line wear.
For diagrams and the exact head parts callouts, follow the steps shown in the GH900 owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What size line is a Black and Decker electric trimmer?
For the Black & Decker GH900 electric line trimmer, we use .065 inch (1.65 mm) round nylon line. Using the correct diameter helps the Auto Feed System work properly and prevents motor overload and overheating; see the GH900 owner's manual for line and spool details.
Recommended line type for GH900
Use line that matches these specs:
- Diameter: .065 inch (1.65 mm)
- Shape: round
- Material: nylon
- Feed system: automatic (do not bump the head to feed line)
Why the exact size matters
Using the wrong line size changes how the trimmer cuts and how hard the motor has to work.
- Thicker or serrated line can overload the motor and cause overheating
- Incorrect line can cause poor auto-feed performance
- Wrong line can increase line tangling and uneven feeding
Quick spec check
| Item | What GH900 uses | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .065 in (1.65 mm) | Heavier gauge line |
| Line shape | Round | Serrated or specialty shapes |
| Feeding method | Auto Feed System | Bumping the head to feed line |
Helpful tips to reduce line wear
Line wears faster when edging along abrasive surfaces (like sidewalks). We recommend:
- Keep the cutting line over grass or dirt, not over concrete
- Use the wheeled edge guide when edging so auto-feed works correctly
- Slightly tilt the trimmer for a closer cut (instead of forcing the head down)
- Trim heavy weeds in lighter passes to reduce drag on the line
Why it matters
Correct .065-inch round nylon line protects the GH900 motor, keeps the Auto Feed System consistent, and reduces downtime from frequent reloading.
Last updated: February 2026


