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How to Remove the Drum and Connector to a Ryobi CS30 Trimmer

The Ryobi CS30 is a curved-shaft, gasoline-powered trimmer meant for residential landscape trimming and weed control. The head is connected to the motor by a flexible beam. The drive shaft tubing includes a connector about midway along its length that allows you to replace the lower half and quickly convert the trimmer to your brush cutter or edger. The upper region of the shaft connects to the clutch drum, which can cause the trimmer head to turn sporadically or stall once it wears out. To replace the drum, you need to separate the beam from the motor.

Lay the trimmer on a workbench and pull the cable off the spark plug to prevent an accidental start-up.

Unscrew the four screws holding the rotating shaft tube to the trimmer, employing a T-25 screwdriver. Separate the rotating shaft, and pull it into out an inch or two away from the motor.

Disconnect the electric starter wires by separating the 2 connectors. Use a set of needle-nose pliers to grasp and pull the connectors, rather than simply pulling on the wires and possibly splitting the straps in the process.

Unscrew the screw holding the throttle cable connector to the motor. After removing the port, you can simply lift the throttle cable away from the carburetor with needle-nose pliers. The beam is now fully disconnected from the motor.

Remove the connector at the center of the shaft tubing by first loosening it and pulling the two halves of this shaft apart. Loosen the T-25 screws holding it to the tubing, and slide it off.

Remove the spark plug using a 3/4-inch spark plug ins. Material a length of cotton string into the hole to bind the piston. Pull on the starter cord to squeeze the piston from the cord.

Insert the T-25 screwdriver into the hole at the center of the clutch drum and then turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw holding the drum to the motor. Pull off the drum.