Craftsman 358745540 Owner’s Manual

Instruction Manual

ICRRFTSMRN°J

25cc/1.5 cu.in. 2-Cycle

17 Inch Cutting Path / 0.080 In. Line

GASOLINE WEEDWACKER ®

Model No.

358.745540

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

• Espahol

For Occasional Use Only

WARNING:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating Instructions before first use of this product.

For answers to your questions about this product: Call 7 am-7 pm, Mon,-Sat., or 10 am-7 pm, Sun.

1-800-235-5878 l,ours listed are Central Time)

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

530163370 10/8/02

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 11 Safety Rules 2 Troubleshooting Chart 12

Assembly 4 Emissions Statement 12 Operation 5 Parts List 14

Maintenance 9 Spanish 16

Service & Adjustments 10 Parts and Ordering Back Cover

FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ® GAS POWERED

WEEDWACKER ® LINE TRIMMER

For one year from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Gas Powered Weedwacker Line Trimmer is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in this manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defect in materials or workmanship.

This warranty excludes nylon line, spark plug, and air filter, which are expendable

parts and become worn during normal use.

If this Weedwacker line trimmer is used for commercial purposes, this warranty ap-

plies for only 90 days from the date of purchase. If this Weedwacker line trimmer is used for rental purposes, this warranty applies for only 30 days from the date of pur-

chase. This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States. WARRANTYSERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNINGTHE WEEDWACKER LINETRIMMER TO THE NEAREST SEARS STORE OR SERVICECENTER INTHE UNITEDSTATES.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state,

Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817 WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

_Ib,WARNING: When using gar- dening appliances, basic safety pre-

cautions must always be followed to reduce the risk of fire and serious

injury. Read and follow all instructions.

This power unit can be dangerous! Op- erator is responsible for following

instructions and warnings on unit and in manual. Read entire instruction manual

before using unit! Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of

the unit. Restrict the use of this unit to

persons who have read, understand, and will follow the instructions and

warnings on the unit and in the manual.

Never allow children to operate this unit.

INSTRUCTION SAFETY INFORMATION

MANUAL ON THE UNIT

_i_ DANGER: Never use blades or flailing devices. This unit is designed

for line trimmer use only. Use of any other accessories or attachments will

increase the risk of injury.

@@O

_IkWARNING: Trimmer line throws objects violently. You and others can be

blinded/injured. Wear eye and leg protection. Keep body parts clear of ro-

tating line,

Eye Protection

;_B o_o_]__ HazardZone

Keep children, bystanders, and animals 50 feet (15 meters) away. Stop unit im- mediately if approached.

If situations occur which are not cov- ered in this manual, use care and

good judgment. If you need assis- tance, contact your Sears Service

Center or call 1-800-235-5878.

OPERATOR SAFETY

• Dress properly. Always wear safety

glasses or similar eye protection when operating, or performing main- tenance, on your unit (safety

glasses are available). Eye protec- tion should be marked Z87.

• Always wear face or dust mask if op- eration is dusty.

• Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves, boots, and gloves. Wear-

ing safety leg guards is recom- mended.

• Always wear foot protection. Do not go barefoot or wear sandals. Stay clear of spinning line.

• Secure hair above shoulder length. Secure or remove loose clothing or clothing with loosely hanging ties, straps, tassels, etc. They can be caught in moving parts.

• Being fully covered also helps pro-

tect you from debris and pieces of toxic plants thrown by spinning line.

• Stay Alert. Do not operate this unit

when you are tired, ill, upset or un-

der the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Watch what you are doing; use common sense.

• Wear hearing protection.

• Never start or run inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust

fumes can kill.

• Keep handles free of oil and fuel.

UNIT / MAINTENANCE SAFETY

• Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance except car- buretor adjustments.

• Look for and replace damaged or loose parts before each use. Look

for and repair fuel leaks before use.

Keep in good working condition.

• Replace trimmer head parts that are chipped, cracked, broken, or dam- aged in any other way before using

the unit.

• Maintain unit according to recom- mended procedures. Keep cutting line at proper length.

• Use only 0.080 inch (2 mm) diame-

ter Craftsman@ brand line. Never

use wire, rope, string, etc.

• Install required shield properly be-

fore using the unit. Use only speci- fied trimmer head; make sure it is

properly installed and securely fas-

tened.

• Make sure unit is assembled cor- rectly as shown in this manual.

• Make carburetor adjustments with lower end supported to prevent line

from contacting any object.

• Keep others away when making car- buretor adjustments.

• Use only recommended Craftsman® accessories and replacement parts.

• Have all maintenance and service not explained in this manual per-

formed by a Sears Service Center.

FUEL SAFETY

• Mix and pour fuel outdoors.

• Keep away from sparks or flames.

• Use a container approved for fuel.

• Do not smoke or allow smoking near

fuel or the unit.

• Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up all

fuel spills.

• Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from fueling site before start- ing engine.

• Stop engine and allow to cool before removing fuel cap.

• Always store gasoline in a container approved for flammable liquids.

CUTTING SAFETY

II_ WARNING: Inspect the area be- fore each use. Remove objects

(rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, etc.)

which can be thrown by or become entangled in line. Hard objects can damage the trimmer head and be thrown causing serious injury.

• Use only for trimming, edging, scalp- ing, mowing and sweeping. Do not

use for pruning or hedge trimming.

• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.

• Keep all parts of your body away

from muffler and spinning line. Keep

engine below waist level. A hot muf-

tier can cause serious burns.

• Cut from your right to your left. Cut- ting on left side of the shield will throw debris away from the operator.

• Use only in daylight or good artificial light,

• Use only for jobs explained in this manual.

TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE

• Allow engine to cool; secure unit be-

fore storing or transporting in vehicle.

• Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in the carburetor by starting the en- gine and letting it run until it stops.

• Store unit and fuel in area where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or

open flames from water heaters, electric motors or switches, fur- naces, etc.

• Store unit so line limiter blade can-

not accidentally cause injury. The unit can be hung by the tube.

• Store unit out of reach of children.

SAFETY NOTICE: Exposure to vibra- tions through prolonged use of gaso-

line powered hand tools could cause blood vessel or nerve damage in the

fingers, hands, and joints of people

prone to circulation disorders or ab- normal swellings. Prolonged use in

cold weather has been linked to blood vessel damage in otherwise healthy

people. If symptoms occur such as

numbness, pain, loss of strength, change in skin color or texture, or loss of feeling in the fingers, hands, or joints, discontinue the use of this tool

and seek medical attention. An anti- vibration system does not guarantee

the avoidance of these problems. Us-

ers who operate power tools on a con- tinual and regular basis must monitor

closely their physical condition and the condition of this tool.

SPECIAL NOTICE: This unit is

equipped with a temperature limiting

muffler and spark arresting screen

which meets the requirements of Cali- fornia Codes 4442 and 4443. All U.S.

forest land and the states of California,

Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington require by law that many internal combustion em

gines be equipped with a spark arrest-

ing screen. If you operate in a locale

where such regulations exist, you are

legally responsible for maintaining the

operating condition of these parts.

Failure to do so is a violation of the law. For normal homeowner use, the

muffler and spark arresting screen will not require any service. After 50 hours of use, we recommend that your muffler be serviced or replaced by

your Sears Service Center.

CARTON CONTENTS Check carton contents against the fol-

lowing list.

Model 358.745540

• Trimmer

• Shield

• Wing Nut (screwed onto shield)

• Assist Handle (with bolt and knob)

• Container of Oil

Examine parts for damage. Do not use damaged parts.

NOTE: If you need assistance or find

parts missing or damaged, call

1-800-235-5878.

It is normal for the fuel filter to rattle in the empty fuel tank.

Finding fuel or oil residue on muffler is

normal due to carburetor adjustments and testing done by the manufacturer.

ASSEMBLY

_WARNING: If received as- sembled, repeat all steps to ensure

your unit is properly assembled and all fasteners are secure.

Be sure to attach the assist handle to the unit before you attach the shield.

ATTACHING THE HANDLE

(some units are already assembled)

1. Assemble handle to the unit as shown; make sure bottom of ham

die is seated in the groove in the trigger housing.

NOTE: Knob must be assembled on

the right hand side of the unit as shown in the illustration.

2. Make sure the bolt is seated in the hex-shaped hole in the handle.

3. Pivot the handle to a comfortable position.

4. Tighten knob securely. ATTACHING SHIELD

_WARNING: The shield must be

properly installed. The shield provides partial protection from the risk of thrown

objects to the operator and others and

is equipped with a line limiter blade

which cuts excess line to the proper

length, The line limiter blade (on under-

side of shield) is sharp and can cut you.

For proper orientation of shield, see KNOWYOURTRIMMER illustration in OP- ERATIONsection.

1. Remove wing nut from shield.

2. Insert bracket into slot as shown.

3. Pivot shield until bolt passes through hole in bracket.

4. Securely tighten wing nut onto bolt.

KNOW YOUR TRIMMER READTHiS INSTRUCTIONMANUALAND SAFETYRULES BEFOREOPERATINGYOUR

UNIT. Compare the illustrationswith your unit to familiarize yourself with the location

of the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Assist Handle

Shield _lot

Line Limiter Blade _ Nut

Tube

Muffler ,Throttle

ON/OFF Trigger Switch\ Spark Plug

Sta er j

Shield

_"t---_" FCri_ke;BI;; r

Trimmer Head

Edge Guide

ON/OFF SWITCH The ON/OFF switch is used to stop en-

gine. Tostop the engine, move switch to the OFF position.

PRIMER BULB

The PRIMER BULB removes air from the carburetor and fuel lines and fills

them with fuel. This allows you to start the engine with fewer pulls on the

starter rope. Activate the primer bulb

by pressing it and allowing it to return

to its original form.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

_IbWARNING: Be sure to read the fuel information in the safety rules

before you begin, If you de net understand the safety rules, de not attempt to fuel your unit. Call

1-800-235-5878.

FFi_llaMpx

Blade

CHOKE The CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the engine to aid in cold starting. Activate the choke by moving the choke lever to

the FULLCHOKE position. After the em gine attempts to start, move the choke

lever to the HALF CHOKE position. Once engine has started, move the choke le-

ver to the OFF CHOKEposition.

EDGE GUIDE The EDGE GUIDE protects the unit

from contacting the ground during edging.

FUELING ENGINE _11_WARNING: Remove fuel cap

slowly when refueling. This engine is certified to operate on

unleaded gasoline, Before operation, gasoline must be mixed with a good quality synthetic 2-cycle air-ceoled

engine oil. We recommend Craftsman

brand synthetic oil. Mix gasoline and

oil at a ratio of 40:1. A 40:1 ratio is obtained by mixing 3.2 ounces of oil

with 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline.

Included with this trimmer is a 3.2

ounce container of oil. Pour the entire contents of this container into 1 gallon

of gasoline to achieve the proper fuel mixture. DO NOT USE automotive oil or

boat oil. These oils will cause engine

damage. When mixing fuel, follow

instructions printed on container.

Once oil is added to gasoline, shake container momentarily to assure that

the fuel is thoroughly mixed. Always read and follow the safety rules

relating to fuel before fueling your unit.

IMPORTANT

Experience indicates that alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract mois- ture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel sys- tem of an engine while in storage.

To avoid engine problems, empty the fuel system before storage for 30 days

or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh

fuel next season.

Never use engine or carburetor clean- er products in the fuel tank or perma-

nent damage may occur. See the STORAGE section for addition-

al information.

HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT

• To stop the engine, move the ON/

OFF switch to the OFF position.

• If engine does not stop, move choke

to the FULL CHOKE position.

Engine ON/OFF

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

_1_WARNING: The trimmer head will turn while starting the engine.

Avoid any contact with the muffler. A

hot muffler can cause serious burns.

Choke Lever

STARTING A COLD ENGINE (or a

warm engine after running out of fuel)

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Move ON/OFFswitch to the ON posi- tion.

3. Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

4. Move choke lever to FULLCHOKE position.

5. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and hold through all remaining steps.

._ Lever

_i h°ke

6. Pull starter rope handle sharply until engine sounds as it if is trying to start, but do not pull rope more than

6 times.

7. As soon as engine sounds as if it is trying to start, move choke lever to the HALFCHOKE position.

8. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls. NOTE: Ifthe engine doesn't start after 6 pulls (at the HALFCHOKE position), move the choke lever to the FULLCHOKE position and press the primer bulb 6 times. Squeeze and hold the throttle trigger and pull the starter rope 2 more times. Move

the choke lever to the HALF CHOKE position and pull the starter rope un-

til the engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls. Ifthe engine still doesn't start, it is probably flooded. Proceed

to STARTINGA FLOODEDENGINE.

9. Once the engine starts, allow itto run 10 seconds, then move the choke lever to the OFF CHOKE

position. Allow the unit to run for 30 more seconds at OFF CHOKE

before releasing the throttle trigger. NOTE: If engine dies with the

choke lever in the OFF CHOKE position, move the choke lever to

the HALF CHOKE position and pull the rope until engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls.

Primer

Bulb

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

1. Move ON/OFF switch to the ON position.

2. Move the choke lever to the HALF CHOKEposition.

3. Squeeze and hold the throttle trig- ger. Keep throttle trigger fully squeezed until the engine runs smoothly.

4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs, but no more than 5 pulls.

5. Allow engine to run 15 seconds,

then move the choke lever to the

OFF CHOKEposition.

NOTE: If engine has not started, pull starter rope 5 more pulls. If engine still does not run, it is probably flooded.

STARTING A FLOODED ENGINE

Flooded engines can be started by

placing the choke lever in the OFF CHOKE position; then, pull the rope to

clear the engine of excess fuel. This could require pulling the starter handle many times depending on how badly

the unit is flooded.

If the unit still doesn't start, refer to TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call

1-800_235_5878.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

It is recommended that the engine

not be operated for longer than 1 minute at full throttle.

OPERATING POSITION

ALWAYS WEAR:

& I

Long Pants __

Heavy Shoes ..._._!

Eye Protection

Cut from your right to your left.

_WARNING: Always wear eye

protection. Never lean over the trimmer

head. Rocks or debris can ricochet or

be thrown into eyes and face and cause blindness or other serious injury.

When operating unit, stand as shown and check for the following:

• Wear eye protection and heavy

clothing.

• Hold trigger handle with right hand

and assist handle with left hand.

• Keep unit below waist level.

• Cut only from your right to your left to ensure debris is thrown away from you. Without bending over, keep line near and parallel to the ground and not crowded into material being cut.

Do not run the engine at a higher speed

than necessary. The cutting line will cut efficiently when the engine is run at less than full throttle. At lower speeds, there

is less engine noise and vibration. The

cutting line will last longer and will be

less likely to "weld" onto the spool.

Always release the throttle trigger and allow the engine to return to idle speed when not cutting.

To stop engine:

• Release the throttle trigger.

• Move the ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.

"RNIST AND EDGE The Twist and Edge feature allows for

easy edging of sidewalks, patios, driveways, etc.

1. Pull the tab toward the engine.

2. Twist the tube to the edging posi- tion; release tab.

Tab

TRIMMER LINE ADVANCE

The trimmer line will advance approxi-

mately 2 inch (5 cm) each time the bottom of the trimmer head is tapped

on the ground with the engine running at full throttle.The most efficient line

length is the maximum length allowed

by the line limiter. Always keep the shield in place when the tool is being operated.

To advance line:

• Operate the engine at full throttle.

• Hold the trimmer head parallel to and above the grassy area.

• Tap the bottom of the trimmer head lightly on the ground one time. Ap-

proximately 2 in. (5 cm) of line will be advanced with each tap.

Toadvance line. tap bottom of trimmer head on ground one time.

_'rnp/i_egt_Ut_

Always tap the trimmer head on a grassy area. Tapping on surfaces such as concrete or asphalt can cause ex-

cessive wear to the trimmer head.

If the line is worn down to 2 in. (5 cm) or less, more than one tap will be required

to obtain the most efficient line length. _ll, WARNING: Use only 0.080 inch

(2 mm) diameter line. Other sizes of

line will not advance properly and can

cause serious injury. Do not use other materials such as wire, string, rope, etc. Wire can break off during cutting and become a dangerous missile that can cause serious injury.

CUTTING METHODS

_b_WARNING: Use minimum speed and do not crowd the line when

cutting around hard objects (rock, gravel, fence posts, etc.), which can damage the trimmer head, become entangled in the line, or be thrown

causing a serious hazard.

• The tip of the line does the cutting. You will achieve the best performance

and minimum line wear by not crowd- ing the line into cutting area. The right

and wrong ways are shown in the fol- lowing illustration.

Tip of the Line I Line Crowded Into

Do._eiThe Cutting Work Area

TRIMMING - Hold the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 in. (8 cm) above

the ground and at an angle. Allow only the tip of the line to make contact. Do

not force trimmer line into work area.

Tr mm ng /& .

3 in. (8 cm) 4""_'_\ Above Ground ,_ = _'_

SCALPING - The scalping technique

removes unwanted vegetation. Hold

the bottom of the trimmer head about

3 inch (8 cm) above the ground and at an angle. Allow the tip of the line to strike the ground around trees, posts,

monuments, etc. This technique in- creases line wear.

Scalping ....... ,

MOWING - Your trimmer is ideal for

mowing in places conventional lawn

mowers cannot reach. In the mowing

position, keep the line parallel to the ground. Avoid pressing the head into the ground as this can scalp the ground and damage the tool.

Mowing I_

/ • * E"

Right _,' ' W

• The line will easily remove grass and weeds from around walls,

fences, trees and flower beds, but it

also can cut the tender bark of trees or shrubs and scar fences.

• For trimming or scalping, use less

than full throttle to increase line life

and decrease head wear, especially:

• During light duty cutting.

• Near objects around which the line

can wrap such as small posts,

trees or fence wire.

• For mowing or sweeping, use full

throttle for a good clean job.

SWEEPING - The fanning action of

rotating line can be used for a quick

and easy clean up, Keep line parallel to and above the surfaces being swept

and move the tool from side to side.

Sweeping _

EDGING - Adjust trimmer to the edg- ing position (see TWIST AND EDGE

section). Allow only the tip of the line to make contact. Do not force trimmer

line into work area.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance

except for carburetor adjustments.

CARE & MAINTENANCE TASK

Check for loose fasteners and parts Check for damaged or worn parts Inspect and clean unit and decals

Clean air filter Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen

Replace spark plug

GEN ERAL RECOMMEN DATIONS

The warranty on this unit does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To receive full value from the warranty, the operator must maintain unit as

instructed in this manual. Various ad-

justments will need to be made peri- odically to properly maintain your unit.

CHECK FOR LOOSE

FASTENERS AND PARTS

• Spark Plug Boot

• Air Filter

• Housing Screws

• Assist Handle Screws

• Debris Shield

CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR WORN PARTS

Contact Sears Service Center for re-

placement of damaged or worn parts.

• ON/OFF Switch - Ensure ON/OFF switch functions properly by moving

the switch to the OFFposition. Make

sure engine stops; then restart en- gine and continue.

• Fuel Tank - Discontinue use of unit if fuel tank shows signs of damage

or leaks.

• Debris Shield - Discontinue use of unit if debris shield is damaged.

INSPECT AND CLEAN UNIT AND DECALS

• After each use, inspect complete

• Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.

CLEAN AIR FILTER

A dirty air filter decreases engine per- formance and increases fuel con-

sumption and harmful emissions. Al- ways clean after every 5 hours of operation.

1. Clean the cover and the area

2. Remove parts as illustrated. NOTE: To avoid creating a fire hazard

or producing harmful evaporative emissions, do not clean filter in gaso-

line or other flammable solvent.

3. Wash the filter in soap and water.

4. Allow filter to dry.

5. Add a few drops of oil to the filter;

6. Replace parts.

_dging #_/

WHEN TO PERFORM

Before each use Before each use After each use

Every 5 hours of operation Every 50 hours of operation Yearly

unit for loose or damaged parts. Clean the unit and decals using a damp cloth with a mild detergent.

around it to keep dirt from falling into the carburetor chamber when the

cover is removed.

squeeze the filter to distribute oil.

_. _Filts_rews

Cover

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