How to Restring a Hills Retractable Clothesline: A Complete Guide for the 5 & 7 Line Models

Is your Hills retractable clothesline showing signs of wear or sagging? A new line can rejuvenate your Hills retracting clothesline, making it perform like new.

Properly restringing your Hills clothes line ensures optimal performance and extends its lifespan

Before we start this guide is for replacing the lines on the Hills Retractable 5 & 7 line models, it's essential to understand that restringing these models differs significantly from working with wall mounted clotheslines or rotary clotheslines.

The key distinction lies in the specific components and mechanics involved.

Three Key Takeaways

• Use the Correct Hills Line & Spool 
• Gather Essential Tools and Follow Safety Precautions 
• Read Manufacturer’s Instructions Carefully 

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Correct Line and Spool

Most Hills Retractable models have unique tension device, tension wheel or a tension systems and spool mechanisms that require precise handling.

Unlike wall mounted clothesline or rotary clotheslines, which generally involve simpler setups.

Hills retractable clotheslines are designed with an internal spring-loaded spool and external tension lock device that must be correctly managed to ensure proper functionality.

To successfully restring your Hills retractable clothesline, you need to use the correct Hills Line & Spool that matches your model. Using an incompatible or incorrect line, put simply, it will not work.

To make sure you're using the right parts for your clothesline, click here to purchase the genuine Hills replacement line and spool tailored for your retractable clothesline.

Ensuring you have the correct components will make the restringing process smoother and more effective, so your Hills clothesline can continue to serve you well for years to come.

Follow these steps to learn how to restring a Hills retractable clothesline with precision and ease.

Tools and Materials: Gear Up for Restringing

Before diving into the process, gather these essential items:

• New Hills Line & Spool for the Hills 5 & 7 Retractable Clothes line

• Flathead Screw Drive: To remove casing.

• Measuring Tape: For accurate measurement of the new line.

• Pliers: To secure knots and make necessary adjustments.

• Few Simple Tools: Additional tools for adjustments or fixing.

You can find these tools at hardware stores or online.

Safety First: Tips for a Safe Restringing Experience

• Wear Protective Gear: Safety glasses and gloves.

• Clear Your Workspace: Avoid obstacles that could cause accidents.

• Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhere to the guidelines provided by Hills for your model.

Step by Step Guide: Restringing Your Hills Retractable Clothesline

Prepare for Action

Retract the Clothesline: Fully retract your Hills clothesline to make it easier to work on.

Remove the Clotheslines from the Wall/Bracket: Regardless of how your clothes line is mounted remove this from either the wall or the post bracket.

Remove the end covers by unscrewing the screws in the middle.  Then remove the wall mounting fasteners to take the unit off the wall

How to Remove the Outer Casing

Using a small flathead screwdriver, unclip both covers by raising the cover from the clip points.

Pull out and up to move

Removing the Old Line 

Pull out the front bar 150mm from the cabinet.

If the old line is still attached cut it off.

Then unclip the front of the spool carrier outwards and upwards using the finger pull

IMPORTANT:  

Should this occur, you must first retention the spool by pulling out the line until the spool unwinds two full turns.

Then, holding the spool so it does not turn, manually wind the line around the spool twice.

Finally, assuring that the spool does not rewind, thread the line through the tensioner between the guide posts and through the corresponding hold in the arm.

Insert Replacement Spool

Slide the line out from the spool and always keep tension on the line to avoid the spring from losing.

Position the rear of the carrier onto the rear tube and snap the down. (The reverse process of removing it)

Thread the line through the tensioner connected to the small square bar, between the guide posts and through the corresponding hold in the front bar.

Tie Off The Spool

Thread the line through the front bar hole and through the corresponding front slot, this is larger.

Tie a figure eight knot to secure the end of the new when restringing.

Cut off any cord hanging from the front bar to approximately 40mm is remaining and tuck it inside the front bar.

Replacing Multiple Lines

If you are replacing other lines repeat the process until completed.

Reinstall

Replace the outer casing by locating the front hose first and then clipping the back into position.

This is the reverse process of Step 2

Mount the retracting clothesline firmly back in its mounting place.

Replace the end covers by locating the lugs in the back of cover and into the slots in the end plates.

Finally secure with the middle screws.  

Bonus Tip: Check Your Wall Mount Kit or Ground Mount

Inspect the Mounting Bar and Brackets: Ensure they are secure and in good condition. Tighten any loose bolts and replace worn parts if needed.

Examine Fixing Slots and Bolts: Ensure they are tight and functioning correctly.

Check for Wear and Tear: Look at the wall or ground mount for any damage or signs of wear.

Important Reminder: Avoid Overloading Your Clothesline

Overloading your clothesline can stretch the cord and reduce the lifespan of the line. Balance the weight properly to maintain the integrity of your Hills clothesline and prevent premature wear and tear.

SHOP PEGS & ACCESSORIES HERE!

Conclusion:

Keep Your Hills Clothesline in Prime Shape

Regular maintenance and proper restringing are key to keeping your Hills Retractable Clothesline in top condition.

By following this detailed guide, you'll ensure your clothesline remains taut, efficient, and ready for all your drying needs.

Enjoy a well-functioning clothesline and say goodbye to sagging and inefficiency!

Need a new clothesline cord? Click here to purchase a genuine Hills replacement cord and ensure your clothesline remains in peak condition.

The Clothesline Store has more information on maintenance and replacement parts, for retractable clothesline and more!