Craftsman 358.791031 User Manual [en, es]
Operator’s Manual
CRRFTSMRN
25CC/1.5 cu.in. 2-Cycle
17 Inch Cutting Path / 0.080 Inch Line
GASOLINE WEEDWACKER®
Model No.
358.791031
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Parts List
• Espanoi, p. 24
WARNiNG:
Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating
A
9
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 (Hours listed are Central Time)
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
545167683 Rev. 1 1/18/08 BRW
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Warranty Statement 2 Storage 18
Identification of Safety Symbols 2
Safety Rules 4
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance 15
Service & Adjustments 17 Parts and Ordering Back Cover
10
11
Troubleshooting Table 19
Emissions Statement 20
Parts List 22
Spanish 24
WARRANTY STATEMENT
ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN GAS WEEDWACKER
When used and maintained according to the operator’s manual, if this product fails due
to a defect in materia! or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase, return
it to any Sears store, Sears Service Center, or other Craftsman outlet in the United States
for free repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).
This warranty excludes cutting line, spark plug and air filter, which are expendable
parts that can wear out from normal use in less than one year.
This warranty applies for only 90 days from purchase date if this product is ever used
for commercial or rental purposes.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
IDENTIFICATION OF SAFETY SYMBOLS
AdANGER; Use only specified trimmer
head, spool, and 0.080 inch (2 mm) recom
mended trimmer line. Never use blades, flail
ing devices, wire, rope, string, etc. This
attachment is designed for line trimmer use
only. Failure to follow these instructions may
result in serious injury.
AwARNING: This unit can be dangerous! Careless or
improper use can cause serious injury.
Read the operator’s manual before use. Failure to follow
instructions could result in serious injury. Save operator's
manual.
Trimmer line can throw objects vio
lently. You can be blinded or injured.
Always wear hearing protection and
safety glasses marked Z87. Always
wear head protection, heavy, long
pants, long sleeves, boots and
gloves.
IDENTIFICATION OF SAFETY SYMBOLS
Hazard zone for thrown objects.
• Trimmer line throws objects violently.
• You and others can be blinded/injured.
• Keep children, bystanders, and animals
50 feet (15 meters) away.
Secure hair above shoulder length.
Do not wear jewelry, loose clothing,
or clothing with loosing hanging
straps, ties, tassels, etc. They can
be caught in moving parts.
Assist handle to be positioned only below
the arrow.
Never allow children to operate this unit.
Store unit indoors in a high, dry place out of the
reach of children. Store unit and fuel in area where
fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames
from water heaters, electric motors or switches,
furnaces, etc.
When servicing unit, use only identical replace
ment parts.
Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before
cleaning or servicing.
feisslj ^
A
WARNING: Fire hazard. Never mix, pour, or store gasoline
or use the unit near a flame or sparks (including smoking, open
flames, or work that can cause sparks).
These attachments used in combination with the specified powerhead have been
evaluated to ANSI B175.3-2003, “Grass Trimmers and Brushcutters - Safety
Requirements”.
Powerhead including trimmer attachment
Brushcutter attachment
..........................................................................
.............................................
358.79103
358.79244
These attachments used in combination with the specified powerhead have been
evaluated to applicable ISO and EN safety requirement standards by the Swedish
Machinery Testing Institute:
Edger attachment................................................................................... 358.79240
Cultivator attachment.......................................................................... 358.79241
Blower attachment.............................................................................. 358.79242
Pruner attachment.................................................................................. 358.79245
SAFETY RULES
4a 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!
Operator is responsible for following
instructions and warnings on unit and in
manual. Read entire operator’s manual
before using uniti 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.
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
SAFETY INFORMATION
ON THE UNIT
in DANGER: Never use blades
with line trimmer attachment. Never
use flailing devices with any attach
ment. This unit (when used with sup
plied line trimmer attachment) is de
signed for line trimmer use only. Use
of any other accessories with line trim
mer attachment will increase the risk
of injury.
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 cal! 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. Wearing
safety leg guards is recommended.
• 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 handies free of oil and fuei.
• Always keep engine on the right
hand side of your body,
• Hold the unit firmly with both hands.
• Keep trimmer head (or other option
al attachment) below waist level and
away from all parts of your body. Do
not raise engine above your waist.
• Keep all parts of your body away
from muffler and spinning line (or
other optional attachment). A hot
muffler can cause serious burns.
• Keep firm footing and balance. Do
not overreach or use from unstable
surfaces such as ladders, trees,
steep slopes, rooftops, etc.
• Use only in dayiight or good artificial
light.
• Use only for jobs explained in this
manual (or manuals for optional at
tachments).
UNIT / MAINTENANCE SAFETY
A WARNING: Stop unit and dis
connect the spark plug before per
forming maintenance (except carbure
tor 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.
• Repiace 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) diameter
Craftsman® brand line. Never use
wire, rope, string, etc.
• install required shield properly before
using the unit. Use only specified
trimmer head; make sure it is properly
installed and securely fastened.
• 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,
• 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 it
to cool before removing fuel cap.
• 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, furnaces, etc.
• Always store gasoline in a container
approved for flammable liquids.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
• Stop the unit before carrying.
• Allow engine to cool before 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 fuei
vapors cannot reach sparks or open
flames from water heaters, electric
motors or switches, furnaces, etc.
• Store unit so line limiter blade can
not accidentally cause injury. The
unit can be hung by the shaft.
• Store unit out of reach of children.
This unit is not equipped with an anti
vibration system and is intended for
occasional use only.
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 en
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 muf
fler be serviced or replaced by a
Sears Service Center.
LINE TRIMMER SAFETY
 WARNING: Inspect the area to
be trimmed before each use. Remove
objects (rocks, broken glass, nails,
wire, etc.) which can be thrown by or
become entangled in line. Hard ob
jects can damage the trimmer head
and be thrown causing serious injury.
• Only use the trimmer attachment for
trimming, scalping, mowing and
sweeping. Do not the trimmer attach
ment for edging, pruning or hedge
trimming.
• Cut only from your right to your left.
Cutting on left side of the shield will
throw debris away from the operator.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES
FOR OPTIONAL ATTACHMENTS
 WARNING; For each optional
attachment used, read entire opera
tors manual before use and follow all
warnings and instructions in manual
and on attachment,
 WARNING; Ensure handlebar
is installed when using brushcutter
attachment. Attach handlebar above
arrow on safety label on the upper
shaft (engine end of unit). If your
brushcutter attachment does not
include a handlebar, a handlebar
accessory kit (#530071451) is avail
able from your Sears Service Center.
^WARNING: Inspect the area to
be edged before each use. Remove
objects (rocks, broken glass, nails,
wire, etc.) which can be thrown by the
blade or can wrap around the shaft.
• Blade rotates momentarily after the
trigger is released. The blade can
seriously cut you or others.
• Allow blade to stop before removing
it from the cut.
Blade rotates
momentarily
after trie ‘
trigger Is
reJeasedj
Allow blade to stop
before removing it
from (fie cut
• Throw away blades that are bent,
warped, cracked, broken or dam
aged in any other way. Replace
parts that are cracked, chipped, or
damaged before using the unit.
• Do not attempt to remove cut materi
al nor hold material to be cut when
the engine is running or when cut
ting blade is moving.
• Always keep the wheel and depth
adjusting skid in contact with the
ground,
• Always push the unit slowly over the
ground. Stay alert for uneven side
walks, holes in the terrain, large
roots, etc.
BLOWER/VACUUM SAFETY
^WARNING: Inspect area before
starting unit. Remove all debris and
hard objects such as rocks, glass,
wire, etc. that can ricochet, be thrown,
or otherwise cause injury or damage
during operation.
• Do not set unit on any surface ex
cept a clean, hard area while engine
is running. Debris such as gravel,
sand, dust, grass, etc., could be
picked up by the air intake and
thrown out through discharge open
ing, damaging unit, property, or
causing serious injury to bystanders
or operator.
• Never place objects inside the blow
er tubes, vacuum tubes or blower
outlet. Always direct the blowing de
bris away from people, animals,
glass, and solid objects such as
trees, automobiles, walls, etc. The
force of air can cause rocks, dirt, or
sticks to be thrown or to ricochet
which can hurt people or animals,
break glass, or cause other damage.
• Never run unit without the proper
equipment attached. When using
your unit as a blower, always install
blower tubes.
• Check air intake opening, blower
tubes or vacuum tubes frequently,
always with engine stopped and
spark plug disconnected. Keep
vents and discharge tubes free of
debris which can accumulate and
restrict proper air flow.
• Never place any object in air intake
opening as this could restrict proper
air flow and cause damage to the
unit.
• Never use for spreading chemicals,
fertilizers, or other substances which
may contain toxic materials.
• To avoid spreading fire, do not use
near leaf or brush fires, fireplaces,
barbecue pits, ashtrays, etc.
BRUSHCUTTER SAFETY
Jib WARNING: inspect the area to
be cut before each use. Remove ob
jects (rocks, broken glass, nails, wire,
etc.) which can be thrown or become
entangled in the blade or trimmer line.
• Throw away and replace blades that
are bent, warped, cracked, broken
or damaged in any other way.
• Install required shield properly be
fore using the unit. Use the metal
shield for all metal blade use.
WARNING: Only use brushcut-
ter attachments that provide a metal
shield with protruding nose.
 DANGER: Blade can thrust vio
lently away from material it does not out.
Blade thrust can cause amputation of
arms or legs.
WARNING; Do not use trimmer
head as a fastening device for the
blade.
a WARNING: The blade contin
ues to spin after the throttle is re
leased or engine is turned off. The
coasting blade can throw objects or
seriously cut you if accidentally
touched. Stop the blade by contacting
the right hand side of the coasting
blade with material already cut.
• Use only specified blade and make
sure it is properly installed and se
curely fastened.
• Cut from your right to your left.
• Always use the handlebar and a
properly adjusted shoulder strap
with blade (see ASSEMBLY instruc
tions in brushcutter attachment oper
ator's manual).
CULTIVATOR SAFETY
^WARNING: Rotating tines can
cause serious injury. Keep away from
rotating tines. Stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug before un
clogging tines or making repairs.
^WARNING: Inspect the area to
be cultivated before starting the unit.
Remove all debris and hard and sharp
objects such as rocks, vines, branch
es, rope, string, etc.
• Avoid heavy contact with solid objects
that might stop the tines. If heavy con
tact occurs, stop the engine and in
spect the unit for damage.
• Never operate the cultivator without
the tine cover in place and properly
secured.
• Keep the tines and guard clear of
debris.
• After striking a foreign object, stop
the engine, disconnect the spark
plug and inspect the cultivator for
damage. Repair before restarting.
• Disconnect attachment from the
drive engine before cleaning the
tines with a hose and water to re
move any build-up. Oil the tines to
prevent rust.
• Always wear gloves when servicing
or cleaning the tines. The tines be
come very sharp from use.
• Do not run unit at high speed unless
cultivating.
HEDGE TRIMMER SAFETY
A DANGER: RISK of cut; keep
HANDS AWAY FROM BLADE - Blade
moves momentarily after the trigger is
released. Do not attempt to dear
away out material when the blade is in
motion. Make sure engine is stopped,
the spark plug wire is disconnected,
and the blade has stopped moving
before removing jammed material
from the cutting blade. Do not grab or
hold the unit by the cutting blade.
Blades move
momentarily
alter the
trigger is
released.
Allow blades to stop
before removing
them from the cut.
• Keep the cutting blade and air vents
clear of debris.
POLE PRUNER SAFETY
^WARNING: The reciprocating
blade/rotating chain can cause severe
injury, inspect the unit before use. Do
not operate unit with a bent, cracked
or dull blade or dull chain. Keep away
from the blade/chain.
^WARNING: The reciprocating
blade/rotating chain is sharp. Do not
touch. To prevent serious injury, always
stop engine and ensure blade/chain
has stopped moving, disconnect spark
plug, and wear gloves when changing
or handling the blade or chain.
WARNING: A coasting blade/ ro
tating chain can cause injury while it
continues to move after the engine is
stopped. Maintain proper control of the
unit until the blade/chain has completely
stopped moving. Keep hands, face and
feet at a distance from all moving parts.
Do not attempt to touch or stop the
blade or chain when it is moving.
^WARNING: Falling objects can
cause severe head injury. Wear head
protection when operating this unit
with a pole pruner attachment.
A WARNING: Inspect the area be
fore starting the unit. Remove all de
bris and hard objects such as rocks,
glass, wire, etc. that can ricochet, be
thrown, or otherwise cause injury or
damage during operation.
• Do not use a cutting blade that is
bent, warped, cracted, broken or
damaged in any other way. Have
worn or damaged parts replaced by
your Sears Service Center,
• Always keep unit in front of your
body. Keep all parts of your body
away from the cutting blade.
©
nWARNING: To prevent serious
injury, do not use more than one boom
extension with a pole pruner attach
ment.
AwARNING: Keep the pruner
away from power lines or electrical
wires.
• Only use for pruning limbs or
branches up to 6 inches (15 cm) in
diameter.
• Do not operate the unit faster than
the speed needed to prune. Do not
run the unit at high speed when not
pruning,
• Always stop the unit when work is
delayed or when walking from one
cutting location to another.
• If you strike or become entangled
with a foreign object, stop the engine
immediately and check for damage.
Have any damage repaired by a
Sears Service Center before at
tempting further operations. Discard
blades that are bent, warped,
cracked or broken.
• Stop the unit immediately if you feel
excessive vibration. Vibration is a
sign of trouble. Inspect thoroughly
for loose nuts, bolts or damage be
fore continuing. Contact Sears Ser
vice for repair or replacement of af
fected parts as necessary.
SNOW THROWER SAFETY
A WARNING: Keep hands and
feet away from the rotor when starting
or running the engine. Never attempt
to clear the rotor with the engine/motor
running. Stop engine and disconnect
spark plug before unclogging snow or
debris from discharge chute or when
adjusting vanes.
a WARNING: Never lean over dis
charge chute. Rocks or debris could
be thrown into the eyes and face and
cause serious injury or blindness.
A WARNING: Inspect the area
where the unit is to be used. Remove
objects that could be thrown or dam
age the unit. Some objects may be
hidden by fallen snow - be alert for
the possibility.
Direct material discharge away from
glass enclosures, automobiles, etc.
Do not run engine at high speed
while not removing snow.
Be attentive when using the snowthrower, and stay alert for holes in the
terrain and other hidden hazards.
Make sure the rotor will spin freely
before attaching the snowthrower to
the powerhead.
If the rotor will not rotate freely due
to frozen ice, thaw the unit thorough
ly before attempting to operate
under power.
Keep the rotor clear of debris.
Do not throw snow near other
people. The snowthrower could
propel small objects at high speed
causing injury.
After striking a foreign object, stop
the engine, disconnect spark plug
and inspect the snowthrower for
damage and repair if necessary be
fore restarting unit.
Never operate the snowthrower near
glass enclosures, automobiles and
trucks.
Never attempt to use the snow
thrower on a roof.
Never operate the snowthrower near
window wells, dropoffs, etc.
Never discharge snow onto public
roads or near moving traffic.
Clear snow from slopes by going up
and down; never across. Use cau
tion when changing directions. Nev
er clear snow from steep slopes.
Let snowthrower run for a few min
utes after clearing snow so moving
parts do not freeze.
Look behind and use care when
backing up. Exercise caution to
avoid slipping or falling, especially
when operating in reverse.
Know how to stop quickly.
ASSEMBLY
CARTON CONTENTS
Check carton contents against the fol
lowing list.
Model 358.791031
• Powerhead
• Trimmer attachment
• Shield
• Wing nut (screwed onto shield)
• 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; Always stop unit
and disconnect spark plug before per
forming any assembly procedures.
^WARNING: If received as
sembled, repeat all steps to ensure
your unit is properly assembled and all
fasteners are secure.
iNSTALLiNG TRIMMER ATTACH
MENT
CAUTION: When installing trimmer
attachment, place the unit on a flat
surface for stability.
1. Loosen the coupler by turning the
knob counterclockwise.
Coupler
Shipping
protector
TIGHTEN
Remove shipping protector from
coupler.
Remove the shaft cap from the
trimmer attachment (if present).
Position locking/release button of
attachment into guide recess of
coupler.
Push the attachment into the cou
pler until the locking/release button
snaps into the primary hole.
LOOSEN
Knob
Before using the unit, tighten the
knob securely by turning clock
wise.
Coupler Primary Hole
11 ’'Ü8*
.......
Guide Recess
R°etease Attachment
Button
aWARNING: Make sure the lock
ing/release button is locked in the pri
mary hole and the knob is securely
tightened before operating the unit. All
attachments are designed to be used in
the primary hole unless otherwise
stated in the applicable attachment op
erator’s manual. Using the wrong hole
couid lead to serious injury or damage
to the unit.
For optional attachments, see the AS
SEMBLY section of the applicable at
tachment operator's manual.
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 shieid) is sharp and can cut you.
For proper orientation of shield, see
KNOW YOUR TRIMMER illustration in OP
ERATION section.
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.
10
ADJUSTING THE HANDLE
^WARNING: When adjusting the
handie, be sure it remains above the
safety label and below the mark or ar
row on the shaft.
1. Loosen wing nut on handle.
2. Rotate the handle on the shaft to an
Wing
Nut
upright position; retighten wing nut.
OPERATION
KNOW YOUR TRIMMER
READ THIS OPERATOR'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
UNIT Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location of
the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Muffler
ON/STOP SWITCH
The ON/STOP switch is located on the
trigger handle and is used to stop the
engine. To stop the engine, push and
release the engine ON/STOP switch.
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.
Start
Lever
Starter
Handle
START LEVER
The START LEVER helps to supply fuel
to the engine to aid in starting. Acti
vate the starting system by moving the
start lever to the START position. DO
NOT squeeze the throttle trigger until
the engine has started and runs. After
the engine starts, allow the engine to
warm-up 10-15 seconds, then fully
squeeze the throttle trigger to deacti
vate the starting system (start lever
returns to RUN position).
COUPLER
The COUPLER enables optional at
tachments to be installed on the unit.
11
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
A WARNING: Be sure to read
the fuel information in the safety rules
before you begin. If you do not under
stand the safety rules, do not attempt
to fuel your unit. Call 1 -800-235-5878.
FUELING ENGINE
A 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-cooled
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
marine 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
moisture which leads to separation
and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system 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 cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may
occur. See the STORAGE section for
additional information.
HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT
• Release the throttle trigger.
• Push and release the engine ON/
STOP switch. The switch will auto
matically return to the ON position.
Wait 5 seconds before attempting to
restart unit to allow switch to reset.
HOWTO START YOUR UNIT
A WARNING: Avoid any contact
with the muffler. A hot muffler can
cause serious burns.
NOTE: DO NOT squeeze the throttle
trigger until the engine has started and
runs.
1. Set unit on a flat surface.
2. Slowly press the primer bulb 6
times.
3. Move the start lever to the START
position.
Primer Bulb.,
■ V
Starter Handle
This unit has the Sim-pu!'“ starting
system. You do not have to pull the
starter rope handle sharply or brisk
ly Pull starter rope handle with a
controlled and steady motion until
engine starts and runs.
12
5. Allow unit to run for 5 seconds, then
fully squeeze the throttle trigger to
disengage the starting system {start
lever returns to RUN position),
STARTING A WARM ENGINE
1. Squeeze and hold the throttle trig
ger.
2. Pull starter rope handle with a con
trolled and steady motion while
squeezing throttle trigger until en
gine starts and runs.
NOTE: Normally, the warm starting
procedure can be used within 5-10
minutes after the unit is turned off. If
the unit sits for more than 10 minutes
without being used, it will be neces
sary to start the unit by following the
steps under STARTING A COLD EN
GINE or following the starting instruc
tion steps shown on the unit.
STARTING A FLOODED ENGINE
Flooded engines can be started by
placing the start lever to the RUN posi
tion. Fully squeeze throttle trigger.
Puli the starter handle repeatedly
while squeezing throttle trigger until
engine starts and runs. This could re
quire pulling the starter handle many
times, depending on how badly the
unit is flooded.
if the unit still doesn’t start, refer to the
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call
1-800-235-5878.
CRAFTSMAN®
CONVERTIBLE™ FEATURE
This model is equipped with a coupler
which enables optional attachments to
be installed. The optional attachments
are:
Edger................................. 358.79240
Cultivator
Blower
Brushcutter
Pruner
..........................
............. ................
........................
..............................
358.79241
358.79242
358.79244
358.79245
^WARNING: Always stop unit
and disconnect spark plug before re
moving or installing attachments.
REMOVING TRIMMER ATTACH
MENT (OR OTHER OPTIONAL AT
TACHMENTS)
CAUTION: When removing or instal
ling attachments, place the unit on a
flat surface for stability.
1. Loosen the coupler by turning the
knob counterclockwise.
Upper Shaft
Coupler
.OOSEN
Attachment
TIGHTEN Knob
2. Press and hold the locking/release
button.
Locking/Release
Button
Attachment
Coupler
Upper Shaft
3. While securely holding the engine
and upper shaft, pull the attach
ment straight out of the coupler.
INSTALLING OPTIONAL ATTACH
MENTS
1. Remove the shaft cap from the at
tachment (if present).
2. Position locking/release button of
attachment into guide recess of
coupler.
3. Push the attachment into the cou
pler until the locking/release button
snaps into the primary hole.
4. Before using the unit, tighten the
knob securely by turning clock
wise.
Coupler
Primary Hole
Guide Recess
^5S!P|
Upper Locking/ Attachment
Shaft Release
^WARNING: Make sure the lock
ing/release button is looked in the pri
mary hole and the knob is securely
tightened before operating the unit. All
attachments are designed to be used in
the primary hole unless otherwise
stated in the applicable attachment op
erator's manual. Using the wrong hole
could lead to serious injury or damage
to the unit.
Button
13
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
To maximize operating efficiency, do
not run the engine for longer than 1
minute at a time at full throttle.
OPERATING POSITION
Cut only from your right to your left.
A WAR NIN G: Always wear eye
protection. Always use hearing protec
tion. 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.
• Hold unit so that engine is below
waist ievel.
• 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 materi
al 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,
HOWTO STOP YOUR UNIT
• Release the throttle trigger.
• Push and release the engine ON/
STOP switch.
TRIMMER LINE ADVANCE
The trimmer line will advance approxi
mately 2 inches (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 inches (5 cm) of line
will be advanced with each tap.
Always tap the trimmer head on a
grassy area. Tapping on surfaces such
as concrete or asphait can cause ex
cessive wear to the trimmer head.
If the line is worn down to 2 inches (5
cm) or less, more than one tap will be
required to obtain the most efficient line
length.
WARNING: Use only 0.080 inch
(2 mm) diameter round line. Other
sizes and shapes of line will not ad
vance properly and will result in im
proper cutting head function or 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
AwARNING: 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 wiil achieve the best perform
ance and minimum line wear by not
crowding the line into the cutting
area. The right and wrong ways are
shown below.
14
Tip of the Line
Does The Cutting
Line Crowded into
Work Area
■ s
^ V ‘
Right Wrong
• 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.
TRIMMING - Hold the bottom of the
trimmer head about 3 inches {8 cm)
above the ground and at an angle. Al
low only the tip of the line to make
contact with vegetation. Do not force
trimmer line into work area.
Trimming
3 inches (8 cm) i"
above ground | ^
SCALPING - The scalping technique
removes unwanted vegetation down
to the ground. Hold the bottom of the
trimmer head about 3 in. (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 increases line wear.
Scalping^
A.itsJ iK
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
SWEEPING - The fanning action of
the rotating line can be used to blow
away loose debris from an area. Keep
the line parallel to and above the area
surface and swing the tool from side
to side.
Sweeping
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
A WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance
except for carburetor adjustments.
CARE & MAINTENANCE TASK WHEN TO PERFORM
Check for loose fasteners and parts Before each use
Check for damaged or worn parts Before each use
Inspect and clean unit and labels After each use
Clean air filter Every 5 hours of operation
Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen Every 50 hours of operation
Replace spark plug Yearly
15
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