{
  "id": "lst300-cap-latch",
  "version": "2.0.0",
  "title": "Check a spool cap that will not latch",
  "deviceFamily": "garden",
  "intent": "Troubleshooting",
  "summary": "Inspect both retaining tabs, clear the slots and correct spool or line seating before considering a replacement cap.",
  "modelApplicability": [
    "lst300-us"
  ],
  "modelDetails": [
    {
      "id": "lst300-us",
      "family": "garden",
      "brand": "BLACK+DECKER",
      "series": "LST300",
      "label": "BLACK+DECKER LST300 · US · AF-100",
      "region": "US",
      "componentVersion": "Automatic-feed head with AF-100 spool; match model and tool type to manual",
      "manual": "lst300-manual",
      "help": "Remove the battery. Find LST300 and the adjacent type number on the tool label. Compare the guard, cap, spool and assembly figures with the linked LST300 manual. Use ServiceNet for your exact type if they differ. LST300 is not a bump-feed head.",
      "exclusions": [
        "LST420 / LSTE525",
        "GH corded models",
        "Dual-line heads",
        "Metal line or blades",
        "Nonmatching tool type or modified head"
      ],
      "recognitionSource": "bd-manual-help"
    }
  ],
  "exclusions": [
    "LST420 / LSTE525",
    "GH corded models",
    "Dual-line heads",
    "Metal line or blades",
    "Nonmatching tool type or modified head",
    "Unknown tool type or missing exact-type manual",
    "Bump-feed conversion"
  ],
  "prerequisites": [
    "Release the trigger, let the head stop, engage the lock-off and remove the battery. Leave it removed throughout hands-on care. Keep fingers away from the sharp cutter on the guard.",
    "Read LST300 and the tool type from the label. Open the official model/type lookup and compare its manual and parts figures with your actual guard, single-line head and AF-100 spool. A readable model name alone does not establish the type. If the exact type manual cannot be obtained, or any figure differs, save a preparation record and stop."
  ],
  "tools": [
    "Good lighting"
  ],
  "materials": [
    "No replacement material needed for an intact tool"
  ],
  "checks": [
    {
      "id": "safety",
      "prompt": "Is the battery removed, the trigger released and the cutting head stopped, with no battery damage, exposed wiring or faulty switch?",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp2–3 Safety; p8 Installing and removing the battery pack",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "compatibility",
          "advice": "Keep the battery removed for every hands-on step."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "service",
          "advice": "Stop using the tool for electrical, battery or switch damage. If you have only omitted battery removal, make the tool safe before restarting."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Keep the battery removed. Save your preparation record and check the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "compatibility",
      "prompt": "Have you matched the label LST300 AND its exact tool type to the official lookup manual and its figures, with the original AF-100 automatic single-line head?",
      "sourceId": "bd-manual-help",
      "sourceLocator": "Official model/type lookup instructions; type is beside or below the model number",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "check-1",
          "advice": "Record the label type and matching manual reference in the first step."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "An unknown type, unavailable type manual, different figures, bump-feed head or dual-line conversion blocks this procedure. Use manufacturer support to identify the correct instructions."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Keep the battery removed. Save your preparation record and check the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "check-1",
      "prompt": "Do the cap and housing match the exact-type manual and RC-100 specification?",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English p9 Cutting line / Line feeding; Replacement accessories",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "check-2",
          "advice": "Check the two retaining sides separately."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Identify the correct cap before trying to fit it."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Keep the battery removed. Save your preparation record and check the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "check-2",
      "prompt": "Are both cap tabs and housing slots intact, without cracks or distorted plastic?",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "steps",
          "advice": "A seating problem may be corrected by cleaning and alignment."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "service",
          "advice": "Broken retention parts need the correctly matched replacement or service; do not tape the cap down."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Keep the battery removed. Save your preparation record and check the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    }
  ],
  "branches": [
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "compatibility"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "service"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "compatibility",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "check-1"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "compatibility",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "compatibility",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "check-2"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "steps"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "service"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    }
  ],
  "steps": [
    {
      "title": "Record the exact tool and make it safe",
      "text": "Release the trigger, let the head stop, engage the lock-off and remove the battery. Leave it removed throughout hands-on care. Keep fingers away from the sharp cutter on the guard. Read LST300 and the tool type from the label. Open the official model/type lookup and compare its manual and parts figures with your actual guard, single-line head and AF-100 spool. A readable model name alone does not establish the type. If the exact type manual cannot be obtained, or any figure differs, save a preparation record and stop.",
      "observation": "The battery is physically separate from the tool; your label type and matching manual reference are written below.",
      "sourceId": "bd-manual-help",
      "sourceLocator": "Official model/type lookup instructions; type is beside or below the model number",
      "requiredFields": [
        "tool-type",
        "matched-manual"
      ],
      "id": "step-1"
    },
    {
      "title": "Inspect both retention points",
      "text": "Remove the cap by pressing its tabs. Compare each tab and each housing slot with fig O. Note trapped grass, a line caught under the cap, or a spool sitting high; do not bend the tabs.",
      "observation": "Each retaining point is intact and the obstruction, if any, is visible.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "id": "step-2"
    },
    {
      "title": "Clear the slots and rim",
      "text": "Remove loose dirt and grass from the housing rim and slots. Keep the feed lever in place. If the lever is displaced and its fig N position is unclear, stop before refitting the spool.",
      "observation": "The cap seating surfaces are clear and the lever position is known.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "id": "step-3"
    },
    {
      "title": "Correct the spool and line position",
      "text": "Guide the single line through the eyelet. Set the original compatible spool on the boss and rotate it slightly until fully seated. Move any line away from the cap rim.",
      "observation": "The spool rests fully down and no nylon crosses the cap seating surface.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "id": "step-4"
    },
    {
      "title": "Align and snap the cap",
      "text": "Match both tabs with their slots and press the cap onto the housing until it snaps securely into place. Do not try to overcome resistance by striking the cap.",
      "observation": "Both tabs engage; a click on only one side is insufficient.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "id": "step-5"
    },
    {
      "title": "Check retention and record the result",
      "text": "Gently check that the cap remains attached without holding its tabs in. Record whether cleaning or seating resolved the problem. If it still will not retain, keep the battery out and obtain service or a confirmed compatible cap.",
      "observation": "The cap stays retained on both sides, or the tool is clearly left out of use.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O",
      "id": "step-6"
    }
  ],
  "outcomeChecks": [
    {
      "id": "outcome-1",
      "text": "Both tabs and slots are intact, clean and aligned.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O"
    },
    {
      "id": "outcome-2",
      "text": "The spool is seated with an unobstructed eyelet path and the cap holds without force.",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O"
    }
  ],
  "stopConditions": [
    "Keep the battery removed if the exact type/manual match is unknown or parts differ from the figures.",
    "Stop for a damaged battery, exposed wiring, a faulty switch, cracked guard, broken spool/hub, damaged cap tabs or housing slots. Use an authorized service center. Never open the battery, motor housing or charger."
  ],
  "sources": [
    {
      "id": "lst300-manual",
      "title": "BLACK+DECKER LST300 instruction manual (manufacturer document, retailer-hosted)",
      "url": "https://pdf.lowes.com/productdocuments/1935f26b-7448-4c95-b467-a223bb73d80f/63056925.pdf",
      "checkedAt": "2026-10-13",
      "use": "Safety, assembly, replacement spool/line, maintenance and troubleshooting. Match the tool type and figures before use.",
      "license": "Manufacturer copyright, hosted by Lowe’s. Facts paraphrased; no diagrams or manual redistributed.",
      "region": "US",
      "locator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O"
    },
    {
      "id": "bd-manual-help",
      "title": "BLACK+DECKER: locate a manual using model and type number",
      "url": "https://support.blackanddecker.com/hc/en-us/articles/360012700118-How-can-I-get-a-parts-list-or-manual-for-my-tool",
      "checkedAt": "2026-10-13",
      "use": "Model/type number identification and authoritative ServiceNet lookup",
      "license": "Linked only.",
      "region": "US",
      "locator": "Official model/type lookup instructions; type is beside or below the model number"
    },
    {
      "id": "lst300-product",
      "title": "BLACK+DECKER LST300 product and support",
      "url": "https://www.blackanddecker.com/products/lst300",
      "checkedAt": "2026-10-13",
      "use": "Model identity, automatic feed, AF-100 included spool",
      "license": "Linked only; no product photos reused.",
      "region": "US",
      "locator": "LST300 model identity; Automatic Feed Spool; Includes AF-100"
    }
  ],
  "assets": [
    {
      "path": "/assets/garden/cap-latch.svg",
      "title": "Inspect tabs, seat spool, clear rim and latch both sides",
      "kind": "Original sequence schematic; compare the exact tool-type manual for shape and location",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual"
    }
  ],
  "relatedIds": [
    "lst300-line-spec",
    "lst300-spool-replace",
    "lst300-after-care"
  ],
  "specs": [],
  "updatedAt": "2026-10-13",
  "estimatedDuration": null,
  "group": "lst300-feed",
  "recordFields": [
    {
      "id": "tool-type",
      "label": "Tool type exactly as printed on the label",
      "type": "text",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-1"
    },
    {
      "id": "matched-manual",
      "label": "Exact-type manual reference or link that you matched",
      "type": "text",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-1"
    },
    {
      "id": "latch-obstruction",
      "label": "What prevented the cap from seating?",
      "type": "select",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "grass",
          "label": "Loose grass or dirt"
        },
        {
          "value": "line",
          "label": "Line trapped at the rim"
        },
        {
          "value": "spool",
          "label": "Spool sitting high"
        },
        {
          "value": "unknown",
          "label": "No clear cause"
        }
      ],
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-2"
    },
    {
      "id": "both-tabs",
      "label": "Both tabs now hold the cap securely",
      "type": "checkbox",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-5"
    },
    {
      "id": "final-result",
      "label": "Result of this task",
      "type": "select",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "ready",
          "label": "Checks passed; ready for the stated next step"
        },
        {
          "value": "follow-up",
          "label": "More preparation or a linked task is needed",
          "resultGate": "prepared"
        },
        {
          "value": "service",
          "label": "Leave unused and contact service",
          "resultGate": "service"
        }
      ],
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-6"
    }
  ],
  "consumables": [
    {
      "name": "Replacement spool cap",
      "specification": "BLACK+DECKER RC-100, confirmed against the exact tool-type parts list",
      "fit": "Original compatible AF-100 housing with undamaged slots",
      "exclude": "Damaged housing; caps with different tabs; forcing an apparently similar part",
      "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "English p9 Cutting line / Line feeding; Replacement accessories"
    }
  ],
  "maintenance": {
    "trigger": "Cap will not snap securely or was removed for line care",
    "intervalText": "Inspect when the stated condition occurs. The manual gives no fixed day or month interval.",
    "basis": "manufacturer",
    "sourceId": "lst300-manual",
    "sourceLocator": "English pp9–10 Replacing the spool; figs M–O"
  },
  "fitChecks": [
    {
      "id": "type",
      "label": "Model and tool type",
      "accepted": "matched",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "",
          "label": "Choose the version you can confirm"
        },
        {
          "value": "matched",
          "label": "LST300 and the exact type on my label match my manufacturer manual and figures"
        },
        {
          "value": "different",
          "label": "My type or manual figures differ"
        },
        {
          "value": "unchecked",
          "label": "I have not checked the type number"
        },
        {
          "value": "unknown",
          "label": "I am not sure"
        }
      ],
      "help": "Remove the battery before finding the label. Use the manufacturer model-and-type lookup; this site does not infer a type number from LST300 alone."
    },
    {
      "id": "head",
      "label": "Cutting head",
      "accepted": "af100",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "",
          "label": "Choose the version you can confirm"
        },
        {
          "value": "af100",
          "label": "Original AF-100 automatic-feed single-line head"
        },
        {
          "value": "bump",
          "label": "Bump-feed head"
        },
        {
          "value": "dual",
          "label": "Dual-line or modified head"
        },
        {
          "value": "metal",
          "label": "Metal line or blade"
        },
        {
          "value": "unknown",
          "label": "I am not sure"
        }
      ],
      "help": "Do not substitute a bump-feed procedure, dual-line spool or metal cutting attachment."
    }
  ]
}