Haolewill,
The Friction wheel on my WE261 is also worn, and I would like to try your repair. I have ordered the part you suggested, since It does not make sense to sense over $300 on a replacement transmission assembly. My question is what do you mean by "When putting it back togetherbe sure to use the weed eater's original friction band as this is what provides the grab that gets you moving " Also any other information on the modification, or pictures would be helpfull-thanks. I am familiar with how the transmission works, and comes apart, as I have had to replace both brackets that hold the shaft that the friction drive wheel rides on. Thanks