Abstract: A "bump-feed" type line head (108) and replaceable spool (116) for a flexible line trimmer are specially adapted for removing and mounting the spool in a single manual movement to the line head to facilitate spool and line replacement. The line head includes a "U" shaped retention spring (118) mounted within a hub in the line head on with the spool is journalled. The spring includes knob-shaped sections (122) protruding through the hub, beneath the spool, for retaining the spool on the hub without interfering with a bump-feed indexing means. Pulling the spool from or pushing the spool onto the hub tends to deflect the knobs inwardly, allowing axially movement of the spool on the hub. The compression force of the spring is set to be sufficient to retain the spool on the hub during normal operation but not to withstand force manually applied in an axial direction to the reel.

Abstract: The cutting head assembly of a motor-driven flexible line trimmer has a line feed mechanism which includes a housing member connected to and driven by a drive shaft from the prime mover and having a centrally located cylindrical wall for receiving a compression spring. A locking plate and cup member is reciprocably disposed around the cylindrical wall and compresses the spring substantially to its normal running position where it is held in position relative to the housing member by suitable retention structure. A spool is disposed around the cup portion of the locking plate and cup member and unless restrained, is free to rotate relative to the housing member to pay out line through an aperture in the housing member. A cover ring member has a central opening which is coupled to the housing member and holds a ground engaging button member against the lower end of the cup member.