What To Know Before Trying To Use A 20v DeWalt Weed Eater Head On A 60v

DeWalt is perhaps best known for its pro-grade power tools, but it also makes a wide range of equipment that could be game changers for your yard and garden projects. It first introduced its cordless string trimmers a decade ago, and currently offers both 20V and 60V models. While the former is a great entry-level machine, the latter is clearly more powerful and, in independent testing, has been rated as the best heavy-duty model available. There are also those who feel it is better balanced and easier to use.

If you decide to upgrade from a 20V DeWalt weed eater (the brand actually uses the term string trimmer) to a 60V model, then your new machine will come with a head pre-wound with line. However, it could be handy to use the old 20V weed eater head as a spare. For instance, in addition to having the correct size line for your DeWalt string trimmer, it could also be loaded with a different shaped line that can improve cutting efficiency.

So the big question is whether you can use the 20V weed eater head on a 60V tool. Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. If your DeWalt 20V weed eater is relatively new, there's a chance it will fit, but if it's older, it may not. We need to look at the subject in a bit more detail.

Even on DeWalt's own website, things can seem confusing. The brand currently offers three weed eater heads. Visually, the DWO1DT980 seems to be an older model, and if you check compatibility, none of the models listed are currently sold by DeWalt. It may be that it fits older DeWalt 60V weed eaters (the 60V system was introduced back in 2016), but it would be necessary to cross-check part numbers with the owner's manual to be sure. It's the same story with the DWO1DT995. Although it appears deeper, checking again reveals that it doesn't mention being compatible with current models. Finally, there is the DWZSTH999, which the company says is compatible with all DeWalt string trimmers. If your 20V weed eater is fitted with this, it should be a straight swap to the 60V model, but that's unlikely to be true of older models.

The bottom line is that older DeWalt 20V weed eater heads may fit, but only the DWZSTH999 is sure to work with new DeWalt 60V weed eaters. If you've already purchased both, you could simply try the 20V head (carefully). If not, you could consider ordering an extra head when you buy. At around $40, they aren't cheap, but if you really need a spare, it might be the only solution. Alternatively, you could learn how to restring your weed eater. You'll save money and you can load it with exactly the type of line you need.