Craftsman 316.731970 User Manual

0 (0)

Operator's Manual

4-CycJe

Electric Start Capable

WEEDWACKER® GAS TRIMMER

Model No. 316.731970

U_F_VABLE STAftTt_6 EA $ $_

,, SAFETY

* ASSEMBLY * OPERATION

CAUTION: Before using this product, read this manual and follow all its Safety Rules and Operating instructions.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

Visit our website: www.craftsman.com

769-08582 / 00 10/12

* MAINTENANCE * PARTS LIST

* ESPANOL, R 23

TABLEOFCONTENTS

Safety............................................... 2

Warranty............................................. 5

KnowYourUnit........................................ 6

Specifications......................................... 6

Assembly............................................. 7

OilandFuel........................................... 9

StartingandStopping.................................. 11

Operation............................................ 13

Maintenance......................................... 14

CleaningandStorage.................................. 19

Troubleshooting....................................... 20

RepairProtectionAgreements........................... 21

PartsList............................................ 46

ServiceNumbers.............................. BackCover

Allinformation,illustrationsandspecificationsinthismanualarebased onthelatestproductinformationavailableatthetimeofprinting.We reservetherighttomakechangesatanytimewithoutnotice.

©SearsBrands,LLC

Thepurposeofsafetysymbolsistoattractyourattentionto

possibledangers.Thesafetysymbols,andtheirexplanations, deserveyourcarefulattentionandunderstanding.Thesafety warningsdonotbythemselveseliminateanydanger.The instructionsorwarningstheygivearenotsubstitutesforproper accidentpreventionmeasures.

iSYMBOL MEANING

DANGER: Signals an EXTREME hazard.

Failure to obey a safety DANGER signal WILL result in serious injury or death to yourself or to others.

WARNING: Signals a SERIOUS hazard.

Failure to obey a safety WARNING signal CAN result in serious injury to yourself or to others.

CAUTION: Signals a MODERATE hazard.

Failure to obey a safety CAUTION signal MAY result in property damage or injury to yourself or to others.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the

operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SPARK ARRESTOR NOTE

NOTE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in the states of

California, Maine, Oregon and Washington. All U.S. Forest Land and the state of California (Public Resources Codes 4442 and

4443), Oregon and Washington require, by law that certain internal combustion engines operated on forest brush and/or grass-covered areas be equipped with a spark arrestor, maintained in effective working order, or the engine be constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of fire. Check with your state or local authorities for regulations pertaining to these requirements. Failure to follow these requirements could subject you to liability or a fine. This unit is factory equipped with a spark arrestor. Replacement requires Muffler Assembly Part #753-08052, installed at a Sears

Parts & Repair Service Center.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents and

certain finished components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or

other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Read the operator's manual and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

• iMPORTANT SAFETY iNSTRUCTiONS

READ ALL iNSTRUCTiONS BEFORE OPERATING

WARNING: When using the unit, allsafety rules must be

followed. Please read these instructions before operating

I'1

the unit in order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.

Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the influence of

alcohol, drugs or medication. Children must not operate the unit. Teens must be accompanied

and guided by an adult. All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly

before operating the unit. Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for

fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure.

Replace parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any

way. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts. Only use the trimming line described in the Specifications section

of this manual. Never use metal-reinforced line, wire, chain or rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

Be aware of risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.

Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, string and other objects that may be thrown or become entangled with the unit.

Clear the area of children, bystanders and pets; keep them outside a 50-foot (15 m) radius, at a minimum. Even then, they are still at risk from thrown objects. Encourage bystanders to wear eye protection. Ifyou are approached, stop the unit immediately.

Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or

repairs before using the unit.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS

_WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors j

• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved

can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:

for the storage of such materials. Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the

tank. Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel when the engine is hot. Always loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve

any pressure in the tank before fueling. Always add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where

there are no sparks or flames. DO NOT smoke.

Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately, before starting the unit.

Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and

site before starting the engine. DO NOT smoke.

Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well

ventilated outdoor area.

WHILE OPERATING

Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet current ANSI Z87.1 standards and are marked as such. Wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face mask or dust mask if the operation is dusty.

Wear heavy long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go

barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.

The cutting head shield must always be in place while operating

the unit. Do not operate the unit without both trimming lines extended and the proper line installed. Do not extend the

trimming line beyond the length of the shield.

This unit has a clutch. The cutting head remains stationary when

the engine is idling. If it does not, take the unit to a Sears or other qualified service dealer for an adjustment.

Adjust the handle to provide the best grip.

Make sure the attachment is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.

Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever

pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. Refer to Starting and Stopping.

Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose.

Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a

firm grip on both handles or grips. Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. Take

extra care when working on steep slopes or inclines. Keep hands, face, and feet away from all moving parts. Do not

touch or try to stop moving parts. Do not touch the engine, gear housing or muffler. These parts get

extremely hot from operation, even after the unit is turned off. Do not operate the unit faster than the speed needed to do the job.

Do not run the unit at high speed when not inuse. Do not force the unit. It will do a better, safer job when used at

the intended rate.

Always stop the unit when operation is delayed or when walking

from one location to another. If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the

unit immediately and check for damage. Do not operate the unit before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

Turn the engine to off and disconnect the spark plug for

maintenance or repair. Use only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement

parts and accessories for this unit, as listed in the Parts List section of this manual. Use of any other parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void the warranty.

Keep the unit clean. Carefully remove vegetation and other debris that could block moving parts.

To reduce fire hazard, replace a faulty muffler and spark arrestor.

Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.

If the unit starts to vibrate abnormally, stop the unit immediately. Inspect the unit for the cause of the vibration. Vibration is

generally an indicator of trouble.

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

• All service, other than the maintenance procedures described in this manual, should be performed by a Sears or other authorized

service dealer.

Before inspecting, servicing, cleaning, storing, transporting or replacing any parts on the unit:

1.Stop the unit.

2. Make sure all moving parts have stopped.

3.Allow the unit to cool.

4. Disconnect the spark plug wire. Secure the unit while transporting.

Never store the unit with fuel in the tank, inside a building where

fumes may reach an open flame (pilot lights, etc.) or sparks

(switches, electrical motors, etc.).

,, SAFETY & INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS ,,

This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

Store the unit in a dry place, secured or at a height to prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep the unit out of the reach of

children. Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid.

Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean the unit after each use. Refer to Cleaning and Storage.

Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan this unit to others, also loan

them these instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

SYMBOL MEANING

o SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

Indicates danger, warning Or caut!0n. MaYbe used in

conjunction with other symbo!s or pictographs,

o READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

WARNING: Read t,e oPerat0FS manUal(s)and

follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator

and!or bystanders, ............

r_,_ t _ oWEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION .-m_1 _ i cause severe eye !njury and hearing loss, Wear eye

WARNING: Thi0wn objects and ioUd noiSe

Protection meeting current ANSI Z87:1 standards and

ear protection when operating this unit, Use afull face

shield when needed.

Always USeclean; fresh Unleaded fuel.

.*OIL !Refer to operator s manual for the proper type Of oil.

WARNING: it has been Pr0ven that fuel Containing

_ o DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT

greater than10% ethanol will likely damage this

engine and void the warranty.

SYMBOL MEANING

'ON/OFF STOP CONTROLOFF or STOP

' PRIMER BULBPush primer bulb, fully and slowly, 10 times.

._ ' ' ' CHOKE CONTROL

_" { 1., FULLchoke position

, 2. • PARTIAL choke position

3. * RUN choke position

_.71_.,,=_ , THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER CAN

.- cAusESEVERE,NJURY

J_'_ speed, causing injury. Keep away from the rotating rotor.

_. _KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY

,_;_,_ WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially children

J_*-*l_, and pets, at least 50 feet (15 m) from the operating area.

WARNING: Small objects can be propelled at high

HOT SURFACE You may get burned. These parts get extremely hot

WARNING: Do not touch a hot muffler or cylinder.

from operation. When turned off they remain hot for a short time.

, SHARP BLADE

WARNING: Sharp blade on trimmer attachment

shield. To prevent serious injury, do not touch the I ne cutting blade.

CRAFTSMANTWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY

FOR TWO YEARS from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. A defective product will receive free repair or replacement if repair is unavailable.

ADDITIONAL LIMITED WARRANTY on TRIMMER SHAFTS FOR THE THIRD THROUGH TENTH YEAR from the date of purchase, the outer metal housing of the upper and lower trimmer shafts is

warranted against any defects in material or workmanship. With proof of purchase, a new housing will be supplied free of charge. You are responsible for the labor cost of installation. This additional coverage does not apply to inner trimmer shaft components.

For warranty coverage details to obtain free repair or replacement, visit the web site: www.craftsman.com This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Warranty coverage does NOT include:

• Expendable items that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period, such as cutting line, spark plugs, or filters.

• Product damage resulting from user attempts at product modification or repair or caused by product accessories.

• Repairs necessary because of accident or failure to operate or maintain the product according to all supplied instructions.

• Preventive maintenance, or repairs necessary due to improper fuel mixture, contaminated or stale fuel. This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial services or if rented to another person. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

To order parts or schedule service for this product, call 1-800-469-4663.

APPLiCATiONS Asatrimmer:

• Cuttinggrassandlightweeds. Edging

Decorativetrimmingaroundtrees,fences,etc.

Otheroptionalaccessoriesmaybeusedwiththisunit.

Shaft Gri

Muffler

Spark Plug Starter

Rope Grip

Primer Bulb

ASSEMBLY TOOLS REQUIRED:

• #2 Phillips screwdriver

• 3/8" Socket

Cutting Head

Shaft Housing

Line Cutting Blade

Handle

Cutting Head

Shield

On/Off Switch

Coupler

Throttle

Control

Oil Fill Plug

Air Filter

Cover

Fuel Cap

Choke Lever

Engine Type ........................................................................................ Air-Cooled, 4-Cycle

Displacement ....................................................................................... 30 cc (1.83 cu. in.)

Spark Plug Gap .................................................................................... 0.025 in. (0.635 mm)

Spark Plug ......................................................................... Champion® RDZ4H or equivalent plug

Lubrication ................................................................................................ SAE 30 Oil

Crankcase Oil Capacity ................................................................................. 2.03 oz. (60 ml)

Fuel Tank Capacity ...................................................................................... 12 oz. (355 ml)

Approximate Unit Weight (No fuel, with cutting head, cutting head shield and handle) .......................... 13 - 14 Ibs. (5.9 - 6.4 kg)

Trimmer Mechanism ................................................................................. Hassle FreeTM Head

Trimming Line ....................................................................... Hassle FreeTM XTRA QUIET Spiral Line

Cutting Path Diameter .................................................................................. 14 in. (35.56 cm)

* All specifications are based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.

iNSTALLiNG THE CUTTING HEAD SHIELD

Screws (2}

_ WARNING: To prevent serious personal injury, never ]

operate the unit without the cutting head shield in place.

Use the following instructions if the cutting head shield is not installed. Use only the instructions that apply to the type of shaft and shield equipped with this unit.

1. Place the cutting head shield onto the mount bracket. Align the holes in the cutting head shield with the holes in the mount

bracket. (Fig. 1)

2. Screw the 2 screws through the mount bracket and into the cutting head shield until finger tight.

3. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, tighten the screws until the cutting head shield is firmly in place. Tighten the screws equally. The gap between the mount bracket and the cutting head shield

should be the same on each side.

iNSTALLiNG AND ADJUSTING THE HANDLE

installing the Handle

1. Push the handle down onto the shaft housing (Fig. 2). The bolt hole in the handle should be to the right.

2. Insert the bolt into the bolt hole and push it through (Fig. 2). Tighten the bolt with a 3/8" socket, but do not tighten the bolt completely.

3. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 13), move the handle to the location that provides the best grip. Place it a minimum of 6 inches (15.24 cm) from the end of the shaft grip (Fig. 2).

4. Tighten the bolt with a 3/8" socket until the handle is secure.

Adjusting the Handle If the handle requires adjustment:

1. Loosen the bolt with a 3/8" socket (Fig. 2).

2. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 13), move the handle to the location that provides the best grip. Place it a

minimum of 6 inches (15.24 cm) from the end of the shaft grip (Fig. 2).

3. Tighten the bolt with a 3/8" socket until the handle is secure.

Mount Bracket " hield

Fig. 1

Handle

Shaft Grip

Minimum 6 in.

(15.24cm)

Shaft

Housing

Bolt _

Fig. 2

OPERATING THE COUPLER The coupler enables the use of various optional attachments.

90° Edging Hole

(Trimmer Only)

_ WARNING: Before using any attachment, read and

_ WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury and j

NOTE: To make installing or removing the attachment easier, place

installing the Attachment NOTE: Remove the protective cap and gray spacer from the upper

1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 3).

2. While firmly holding the attachment, push it straight into the

NOTE: Aligning the release button with the guide recess will help

3. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten (Fig. 3). NOTE: Do not tighten the nut (Fig. 4).

IAIc,u ,o°; e,o eo e ati theun,t, a esu etheI

_ CAUTION: The release button should be snapped into i

understand the manual that came with the attachment. Follow all safety information contained within.

damage to the unit, shut the unit off before removing or installing an attachment.

the unit on the ground or on a work bench.

and lower shafts prior to assembling the attachment.

coupler until the release button snaps firmly into the primary hole (Fig. 5).

installation (Fig. 4).

release button is fully snapped into the primary hole (Fig. 5) and the knob (Fig. 3) is securely tightened.

the primary hole only. Using the wrong hole could lead to

1personal injury or damage to the unit.

Coupler

Knob

Fig. 3

Release Button

Fig. 4

Primary Hole

For decorative edging with a string trimmer attachment, lock the release button into the 90° edging hole (Fig. 3).

Removing the Attachment

1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 3).

2. Press and hold the release button (Fig. 4).

3. While firmly holding the upper shaft housing, pull the attachment straight out of the coupler (Fig. 5).

Upper Shaft

Housing

Lower Shaft

Housing

Fig. 5

USING THE RIGHT OiL

Use a high-quality SAE 30 weight oil. DO NOT use dirty oil. Failure to use clean oil of the correct type can cause premature engine

wear and failure.

ADDING OIL: INITIAL USE

WARNING: OVERFILLING THE CRANKCASE MAY

CAUSE SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY. Check the oil level before each use. The importance of maintaining the proper

oil level cannot be overemphasized. Change the oil according to the Maintenance Schedule.

NOTE: This unit was shipped without oil in the crankcase. Oil must

be added before starting the unit.

NOTE: This unit comes with a 2.03 fluid oz. (60 ml) bottle of oil.

1. Unscrew the top of the oil bottle. Remove the paper seal. Reinstall the top of the oil bottle.

2. Remove the cap from the oil bottle. Cut the tip off the funnel

spout (Fig. 6).

3. Set the unit on a fiat, level surface.

4. Unscrew the oil fill plug (Fig. 7).

5. Pour the entire bottle into the oil fill hole (Fig. 7). DO NOT

overfill. Refer to Checking the Oil Level.

NOTE: Never add oil directly to the fuel tank. This unit has a four-

cycle engine. DO NOT mix oil with gasoline.

6. Wipe up any oil that may have spilled.

7. Reinstall the oil fill plug.

NOTE: Make sure the O-ring is in place on the oil fill plug (Fig. 7). NOTE: Save the empty oil bottle. Use the bottle to measure the

correct amount of oil during future oil changes.

Funnel Spout _(_

Fig. 6

Oil Fill Plu_

O-Ring

Fig. 7

USING THE RIGHT FUEL

The use of old fuel is the most common cause of performance problems. Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline.

NOTE: This unit has afour-cycle engine. DO NOT mix oil with gasoline. Definition of Blended Fuels

Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methanol or MTBE (ether). Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs

water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil separate, forming acids when stored. ALWAYS use fresh fuel (less

than 30 days old). NOTE: Dispose of old fuel according to federal, state and local

regulations.

Using Blended Fuels If using a blended fuel:

• Always use fresh unleaded gasoline Use the fuel additive STA-BILQor an equivalent

Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit

__ IWARNING: DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT.

Using Fuel Additives

Use a fuel additive, such as STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer or an equivalent, to inhibit corrosion and minimize gum deposits. Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel, according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to

the unit's fuel tank.

It has been proven that fuel containing greater than 10% ethanol will likely damage this engine and void the warranty.

FUELING THE UNiT

WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable, ignited

vapors may explode. Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not smoke while filling the tank. Keep sparks and open flames at a distance

from the area.

WARNING: Remove the fuel cap slowly to avoid injury

from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

WARNING: Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated outdoor

area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.

1. Position the unit with the fuel cap facing up.

2. Remove the fuel cap.

3. Place the fuel container spout into the fill hole on the fuel tank and fill the tank.

NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.

4. Wipe up any fuel that may have spilled.

5. Reinstall the fuel cap.

6. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fuel container and

the fueling site before starting the engine.

outdoor area. Carbon monoxide exhaust fumes can be

I_ IWARNING: Operate this unit only in a well-ventilated

lethal in a confined area.

serious injury, the operator and the unit must be in a stable

WARNING: Avoid accidentally starting the unit. To avoid

position when pulling the starter rope (Fig. 11).

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Check the oil level. Refer to Checking the Oil Level.

2. Fill the fuel tank. Refer to Fueling the Unit. NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off switch is in

the ON (I) position at all times (Fig. 8).

3. Slowly press and release the primer bulb 10 times (Fig. 9). If fuel cannot be seen in the primer bulb, press and release the primer

bulb until fuel is visible.

4. Move the choke lever to Position 1 (Fig. 10).

5. Crouch in the starting position (Fig. 11).

NOTE: SQUEEZE and HOLD the throttle control for ALL further steps. NOTE: This unit uses the INOREDI-PULL TM starting system, which

significantly reduces the effort required to start the engine.

6. Squeeze the throttle control (Fig. 8) and pull the starter rope with a controlled and steady motion 5 times (Fig. 11).

7. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Move the choke lever to Position 2 (Fig. 10).

8. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Pull the starter rope with a controlled and steady motion 3 to 5 times to start the engine.

9. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Allow the engine to warm up for 30 to 60 seconds.

10. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Move the choke lever to Position 3 (Fig. 10) and continue warming the engine for an additional 60 seconds. The unit may be used during this time.

NOTE: The engine is properly warmed up when it accelerates

without hesitation.

IF... the engine hesitates, return the choke lever to Position 2 (Fig. 10)

and continue the warm-up.

IF... the engine does not start, begin the starting procedure with step 3. IF... the engine fails to start after a few attempts, move the choke

lever to Position 3 and squeeze the throttle control. Pull the starter rope with a controlled and steady motion 3 to 8 times. The engine should start. If it does not, repeat this instruction.

IF... the engine is already warm, begin the starting procedure with

step 7.

IF THE ENGINE IS HOT... Move the choke lever to Position 2,

press the primer bulb 10 times, squeeze the throttle control and

pull the starter rope until the unit starts. Run the unit for 2-5 minutes. The unit may be used during this time. Then move the

choke lever to Position 3.

Fig. 8

Fig. 9

Position 3 Position 2 Position 1

Fig. 10

Starter Rope Grip_

Off (O) / Stop

Primer Bulb

Choke

Lever

Starting Position

STOPPING iNSTRUCTiONS

1. Release the throttle control and allow the engine to idle.

2. Press and hold the On/Off switch in the OFF (O) position until the engine comes to a complete stop (Fig. 8).

Throttle Control

Fig. 11

ThisunitcanbestartedwithanoptionalSpeedStartTM accessory

(items sold separately). Please refer to the Speed Start TM accessory operator's manual for the proper use of this feature.

Please contact your local Craftsman retailer, call 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.craftsman.com for more information.

STARTING iNSTRUCTiONS

1. Check the oil level. Refer to Checking the Oil Level.

2. Fill the fuel tank. Refer to Fueling the Unit. NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off switch is in

the ON (I) position at all times (Fig. 8).

3. Slowly press and release the primer bulb 10 times (Fig. 9). If fuel cannot be seen in the primer bulb, press and release the primer

bulb until fuel is visible.

4. Move the choke lever to Position 1 (Fig. 10).

5. Crouch in the starting position (Fig. 11).

6. insert the Speed Start TM accessory into the Speed Start TM port (Fig. 12). Refer to the Operation section of the Speed Start TM

accessory operator's manual.

NOTE: SQUEEZE and HOLD the throttle control for ALL further steps.

7. Squeeze and hold the throttle control (Fig. 8). Run the Speed Start TM accessory for 2 seconds.

8. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Move the choke lever

to Position 2 (Fig. 10).

9. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Run the Speed Start TM accessory in intervals no longer than 2 seconds each until the

unit starts.

10. Remove the Speed Start TM accessory from the unit.

11. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Allow the engine to

warm up for 30 to 60 seconds.

12. Continue to squeeze the throttle control. Move the choke lever

to Position 3 (Fig. 10) and continue warming the engine for an

additional 60 seconds. The unit may be used during this time.

NOTE: The engine is properly warmed up when it accelerates

without hesitation.

IF... the engine hesitates, return the choke lever to Position 2 (Fig. 10)

and continue the warm-up.

IF... the engine does not start, begin the starting procedure with step 3. IF... the engine fails to start after a few attempts, move the choke

lever to Position 3 and squeeze the throttle control. Run the Speed Start TM accessory in intervals no longer than 2 seconds each until the unit starts. The engine should start. If it does not, repeat this instruction.

IF... the engine is already warm, begin the starting procedure with

step 8.

IF THE ENGINE IS HOT... Move the choke lever to Position 2,

press the primer bulb 10 times, squeeze the throttle control, and run the Speed Start TM accessory in intervals no longer than 2

seconds each until the unit starts. Run the unit for 2-5 minutes. The unit may be used during this time. Then move the choke

lever to Position 3.

Item No. Description

316.85951 .............................. Plug-in Power Start

316.85951 .................................. Power Bit Start

316.85953 ............................. Cordless Power Start

_il"i

......._------- Speed Start TM

Port

Fig. 12

STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Release the throttle control and allow the engine to idle.

2. Press and hold the On/Off switch in the OFF (O) position until

the engine comes to a complete stop (Fig. 9).

HOLDINGTHE TRIMMER

body protection to reduce the risk of injury when operating|

WARNING: Always wear eye, hearing, hand, foot and I

this unit.

• Stand in the operating position (Fig. 13). Hold the shaft grip with the right hand. Keep the right arm

slightly bent.

Hold the handle with the left hand. Keep the left arm straight. 1 Hold the unit at waist level. ,_

Keep the cutting head parallel to the ground so that it easily _,_ contacts the grass without the need for bending over. Fig. 13

TiPS FOR BEST TRiMMiNG RESULTS

• Keep the cutting head parallel to the ground.

Cut from left to right whenever possible. This improves the unit's cutting efficiency and throws clippings away from the operator.

Do not trim wet grass or weeds.

NOTE: Some line breakage will occur from:

Entanglement with foreign matter Normal line fatigue

Attempting to cut thick vegetation

Forcing the line into objects such as walls or fence posts

Fig. 14

DECORATIVE TRiMMiNG

When trimming around trees, posts, fences, etc., rotate the whole unit so that the cutting head is at a 30 ° angle to the ground (Fig. 14).

WARNING: To prevent serious injury, never perform

maintenance or repairs while the unit is running. Always allow the unit to cool before servicing or repairing the unit. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the unit from starting accidentally.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Perform these required maintenance procedures at the frequency stated in the table. These procedures should also be a part of any seasonal tune-up.

NOTE: Some maintenance procedures may require special tools or

skills. If unsure about these procedures, take the unit to a Sears or other qualified service dealer. Call 1-800-469-4863 for more

information.

NOTE: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control

devices and system may be performed by a Sears or other qualified service dealer. Call 1-800-469-4663 for more information.

NOTE: Please read the California/EPA statement that came with the

unit for a complete listing of terms and coverage for the emissions control devices, such as the spark arrestor, muffler,

carburetor, etc.

Cutting Head

FREQUENCY

Every 10 hours

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED

• Clean and re-oil the air filter. Refer to

Maintaining the Air Filter.

After the first

10 hours and at 38 hours

Change the oil. Refer to Changing the Oil. Have the rocker arm clearance checked by

an authorized service dealer. Check the spark plug condition and gap.

Refer to Maintaining the Spark Plug.

REPLACING THE TRiMMiNG LiNE

Only use the trimming line described in the Specifications section. Other types of trimming line may cause the engine to overheat or fail.

_ WARNING: Never use metal-reinforced line, wire, chain or

NOTE: When using Craftsman® Hassle FreeTM XTRA QUIET Spiral

Installing New Trimming Line

1. Remove the old line from the cutting head.

2. Use a clean cloth to clean the surface of the cutting head. If the

3. Insert the ends of the line through the large circular holes in the

4. Pull the ends of the line until the line is tight against the cutting

rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

Line, use the line best suited for the job at hand. Medium-sized (red) line is designed for cutting grass and small weeds. Large-sized (black) line is designed for cutting larger weeds and light brush.

cutting head is too dirty to accept new line, refer to Cleaning the

Cutting Head.

side of the cutting head (Fig. 15). Push the line through the holes

until both ends protrude from the positioning tunnels (Fig. 16).

head. Make sure the ends of the line are of equal length (Fig. 17).

Holes

Fig. 15

Positioning

Tunnel

Positioning

Tunnel

Line

Fig. 16

Line

Fig. 17

CleaningtheCuttingHead NOTE:Thecuttingheadwillremainattachedtotheunit.

1. Removetheoldlinefromthecuttinghead.Thelineglideplate

cannotberemovedifthereisstilllineinthecuttinghead.

2. Locatethesmallholeinthesideofthecuttingheadthatholdsthe blacklockingtab(Fig.18).InsertasmallPhillipsscrewdriverand pushthelockingtabinward.Atthesametime,pullthelineglide plateoutofthecuttinghead.

3. Useacleanclothtocleantheinsidesofthecuttingheadand lineglideplate.

4. Alignthearrowonthelineglideplatewiththe"A"markonthe

cuttinghead(Fig.18).

5. Pushthelineglideplateintothecuttingheaduntilthelocking

tabsnapsintoplace.

Cutting Head

AITOW

Line Glide Plate

Fig. 18

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