How to Replace the Fuel Return Line on a Ryobi Trimmer

Trimmer out of whack? It's time to face the fix. Whether you are a legendary landscaper or a weekend weed whacker, eReplacementParts.com provides the parts, procedures and facts you need to fearlessly fix what fails you.

The fuel return line completes the fuel system's circuit: From the fuel tank, to the carburetor, to the primer bulb, and back to the fuel tank. Like most plastic and rubber components, the fuel return line will eventually begin to harden and crack. Fortunately, replacing the line is very easy to do.

This article provides step-by-step instructions for removing and installing the fuel return line on a Ryobi trimmer.

Let's get started.

  REMOVING THE FUEL RETURN LINE [top] 1. Remove the fuel return line.

Drain any excess fuel from the fuel tank before servicing the fuel lines.

Disconnect the fuel return line from the primer assembly.

Disconnect the fuel return line from the fuel tank. The line should pull freely from the hole in the tank.

  INSTALLING THE NEW FUEL RETURN LINE [top] 2. Install the fuel return line.

The new fuel return line must be cut to match the length of the original. Compare the two lines (side-by-side).

Use wire cutters to cut the new fuel return line to approximately the same length as the original line.

Use wire cutters to cut a taper on one end of the new fuel return line (this will allow the line to smoothly pass through the mounting hole in the fuel tank).

Install the square (uncut) end of the new fuel return line to the primer assembly.

Use two-cycle engine oil to lightly lubricate the tapered end of the new fuel return line.

Thread the tapered end of the new fuel return line through the mounting hole in the fuel tank.

Feed any excess slack in the return fuel line into the fuel tank.

You don't have to leverage your savings to level your lawns. As you just learned, repairing your own equipment is easy when you follow our step-by-step guides. Not only did you restore trimmer functionality at a fraction of the cost of replacement; you have taken the edge off of future repairs, wherever you may find them.

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