Craftsman 358.791980 User Manual

Operator's Manual

_ P R 0 F E S S I 0 N A L_

28cc/1.7 cu.in. 2-Cycle

GASOLINE WEEDWACKER ®

Model No.

358.791980

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

• Espa_ol, p. 19

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 pro, Mon.-Sat., or 10 am-7 pro, Sun.

1-800-235-5878 (HourslistedareCentr_31me)

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
545167661 Rev. 3 6/19/08 BRW

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 13
Identification of Safety Symbols 2 Troubleshooting Table 14

Safety Rules 4 Emissions Statement 15
Assembly 6

Operation 7 Parts List 17
Maintenance 10 Spanish 19

Service & Adjus_nents 11 Parts and Ordering Sack Cover

CRAFTSMAN PROFESSIONAL FULL WARRANTY
When used and maintained according to the operator's manual, ifthis product fails

due to a defect in material or workmanship within three (3) years from the date of
purchase, retum it to any Sears store, Sears Service Center, or other Craftsman out-
let in the United States for flee repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).

This warranty applies for only 1 year from purchase date if this product is ever
used for commercial or rental purposes.

This warranty covers ONLY defects in material and workmanship. Sears will
NOT pay for:

• Expendable items that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period,

such as cutting line, filters or spark plugs=

• 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 gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other tights
which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co=, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

_DANGER: Use only specified trimmer

head, spool, and recommended trimmer line.

Never use blades, flailing devices, wire,
rope, string, eto. This unit is designed for line

trimmer use only. Failure to follow these

instructions may result in serious injury.

®®®

I_ ]_WARNING: This unit can be dangerous! Careless or

_1 Read the operator's manual before use. Failure to follow

improper use can cause serious injury.

instructions could result in serious injury. Save operator's
manual.

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.

®®®

Assist handle to be positioned only below
the arrow.

Never allow children to operate this unit.

Trimmerlinecanthrowobjectsvio-
lently.Youcanbeblindedorinjured.

Always wear hearing protection and
safety glasses marked Z87. Always

wear heavy, long pants, long
sleeves, boots and gloves.

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.

l

reach of children. Store unit and fuel in area where

fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames

__ i Store unit indoors in a high, dry place out of the

__ When sen/icing unit, use only identical replace-

from water heaters, elecl_ic motors or switches,

I

furnaces, etc.

ment parts.

Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before

cleaning or servicing.

ltt+'

J

_IWARNING: 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).

Use unleadedgasoline and two-strokeoil mixed at a

ratio of 40:1 (2.5%).

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

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

injury. Read and fellow all instructions.

Th,_ power unit can be dangerous! Op-

erator is responsible for following
instructions and warnings on unitand in

manual. Read entire operator's manual
before using unit! Be thoroughly familiar
with the consols and the proper use of

the unit. Rester 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 SAFETY INFORMATION

MANUAL ONTHE UNIT

A

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.

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_00-235_._78.

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

operation 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 handles free of oil and fuel.
UNIT / MAINTENANCE SAFETY

_WARNING: Disconnect the

spark plug before performing mainte-
nance except carburetor adjustments.

• Look for and replace damaged or

loose parts before each use. Look
for and repair feel leaks before use.

Keep in good working condiiton.

• Replace t_mmer head parts thst 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 Craftsman@ replacement
line. Never use wire, rope, string, etc.

• install required shield properly before

using the unit. Use only specified trim-
mer head; make sure it is propedy

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 unitor while using the unit.

• Avoid spilling fuel or oil.Wipe up all

fuel spills before staring engine.

• 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

ftanspordng the unit. Use up fuel left

in the carburetor by starting the en-
gine and let_ng it run until it stops.

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

flames from water heaters, alectdc

motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

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

CUTTING SAFETY

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 tnmming, scalping, mow-
ing, edging 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 mot-

fieF can cause serious burns.

• Cut only from your right to your left.
Cutting 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

• 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 fuel
vapors cannot reach sparks or open

flames from water heaters, elec_aic
motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

• Store unit so line limitsr 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 ofthese 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-

fernia 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.

CARTON CONTENTS
Check carton contents against the fol-

lowing list.
Model 358.791980

• Trimmer

• Shield

• Wing Nut (screwed onto shield)

• Container of line

• 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 fur 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: IfreceNed as-
sembled, repeat all steps to ensure

your unti is properly assembled and all
fasteners are secure.

ADJUSTING THE HANDLE

the safety label and below the mark or
arrow on the sha_.

f. Loosen wing nut on handle.

2. Rotate the handle on the shaR to an

upright position; retighten wing nut.

A'I-rAC HING SHIELD
_' WARNING: The shield must be

properly installed. The shield provides
par_al 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

leng_. The line limiter blade (on under-
side of shield) is sharp and can cut you.

For proper orienta_on of shield, see
KNOW YOUR TRIMMER illustrationin

OPERATION section.

1. Remove wing nut,Tom shield.

2. Insert bracket into slot as shown.

3. Pivot shield until bolt passes

through hole in bracket.

4. Securely tighten wing nut onto pelt_

Bracket _ng Nut

Shield

KNOWYOURTRIMMER

READ THIS OPERATOR'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFOREOPERATING YOUR
UNE Compare the illisbations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location

of the various conbols and edjusbnents. Save this manual for future reference.

AssistHandle

Throttle

Trimmer
Head

Shield

Shaft

J

ON/STOP

Switch

Une Umiter Choke

Blade Lever

ON/STOP SWITCH
The ON/STOP switch is used to stop
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.

Throttle

Trigger

L_" Muffler

Starter

Handle

THRO'FrLE LOCK-OUT
The THROTI]JE LOCK-OUT must be

pressed with the palm of your hand as
you grip the throttle handle before the

trigger can be used. This feature
prevents you from accidentally
squeezing the throttle trigger.
CHOKE

The CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the
engine to aid in cold stsr_ng. Activate

the choke by moving the choke liver to

the FULL CHOKE position. After the en-
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 CHOKE position.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

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 feel your unit. Call 1-800-235-5878.
FUELING ENGINE

_ WARNING: Remove feel cap

slowly when refueling.
This engine is cedJfledto operate on

unleaded gasoline. Before operation,
gasoline must be mb<edwith a good

quality synthe_c 2_ycli air-cooled
engine oil We recommend Craftsman
brand synthe_c oil. Mix gasoline and oil

at a ra_o of 40:1. A 40:1 ratio is ob-
tained by mixing 3.2 ounces of oil with 1

gallon of unleaded gasoline. Included
with this trimmer is a 3.2 ounce contain-

er 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.

7

Onceoil is added to gasoline, shake

container momentarily to assure that
the fuel is thoroughly mixed. Always
read and follow the safety rules relat-

ing to fuel before fueling your unit.

IMPORTANT
Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol

or using ethanol or methanol) can at-
tract moisture which leads to separa-

tion and formation of acids during stor-
age. 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 oc-
cur. 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.

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

z_
ItmWARNING: Avoid any contact

with the muffler. A hot muffler can
cause serious bums.

Starting Position

STARTING A COLD ENGINE
NOTE: DO NOT squeeze the throttle

trigger until the engine has started and
runs.

1. Set unit on a fiat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 10
itmes.

PrimerBulb

3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE

position.

Lever

_ _hoke

4. This unit has the Sim-pul_ 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 moiton until
engine sounds as if it is trying to
start, but do not bull rope more

than 3 times.

5. As soon as engine sounds as if it is

_ying to start, move choke lever to

HALFCHOKE posi_on.

6. Pull starter rope unitlengine runs.
NOTE: If the engine doesn_ start

after 6 pulls (st the HALFCHOKE
position), move the choke liver to

the FULL CHOKE position. Pullthe
starter rope 2 more times. Move the

choke lever to the HALFCHOKE
position and pull the starter rope un-

itl the engine runs, but no more than

6 pulls. Ifthe engine still doesn't

start, it is probably flooded. Proceed

to STAR33NGA FLOODED ENGINE.

7. Once the engine starts, allow it to
run 10 seconds, then move the

choke lever to the OFF CHOKE
position. NOTE: If engine dies with

the choke lever in the OFF CHOKE

position, move the choke lever to

the FULL CHOKE position and pull
the rope until engine runs, but no

more than 6 pulls.

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

1. Move the choke lever to the HALF
CHOKE posi_on.

2. Pull starter rope with a controlled
and steady motion until engine
runs, but no more than 6 pulls.

3. Alliw engine to run 15 seconds,

then move the choke lever to OFF

CHOKE.

8

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 posi_on; 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

To maximize operating efficiency, do
not run the engine for longer than 1

minute at a time at full throffie.
OPERATING POSITION

ALWAYS USE:

Eye Protec_on

Always release the throttle trigger and
allow the engine to retum to idle

speed when not cutting.
HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT

• Release the throttle trigger.

• Push and release the engine ON/

STOP switch.

CUTTING METHODS

_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 perform-

ance and minimum line wear by not
crowding the line into the cutting

area. The right and wrong ways are
shown below.

33pof linedoesthe Line crowded into

work Bres.

Long

Pants

Cut from your leftto your right.

_k WARNING: Always wear eye

protection and hearing protection. Never
lean over the _mmer head. Rocks or

debits 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, hearing protec-

tion andheavy clothing.

• Hold trigger handle with right hand

and assist handle with left hand.

• Hold unit so that engine is below
waist level.

• Cut only from your ]eft to your right to
ensure debits is thrown away from

you. Without bending over, keep line
near and paraJ]elto 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

efficientlywhen the engine is run at less
than full throtfle. At lower speeds, there
is less engine noise and vibration.

cutting.
Right Wr

• The line will easily remove grass

and weeds (TOm 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 cut_ng.

• Near objects around which the line

can wrap such as small posts,

trees or fence wire.

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

(8 crn) above
ground

SCALPING - The scalping technique
removes unwanted vegetation down to

the ground. Hold the bottom of the _im-
mer head about 3 inches (8 cm) above

the ground and at an angle. Allow the
rip of the line to s'_ike the ground
around f_ees, posts, monuments, etc.

This technique increases line wear.

Scalping

SWEEPING - The fanning acrion of the
rotaring line can be used to blew away
loose debris from an area. Keep the line

parallel to and above the area surface
and swing the tool from side to side.

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.

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

WHEN TO PERFORM

Before each use
Before each use

After each use

Every 5 hours of operation
Every 50 hours of operation

Yearly

Mowing

Sweeping

GENERALRECOMMENDATIONS

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 propedy maintain your unit.

CHECK FOR LOOSE
FASTENERS AND PARTS

• Spark Plug Boot

• Air Filter

• Housing Screws

• Assist Handle Screw

• Debris Shield

CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR
WORN PARTS

Contact Sears Service Center for re-
placement of damaged or worn parts.

• ON/STOP Switch - Ensure ON/STOP
switch functions properly by pushing

and releasing the switch. Make sure
engine stops. Wait 5 seconds be-

fore attempting to restart unit to al-
low switch to reset. Restart engine

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.

10

INSPECTANDCLEANuNrrANDDE-
CALS

• Aftereachuse,inspectcomplete
unitfor loose or damaged parts.

Clean the unit and decals using a
damp cloth with a mild detergent.

• Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.

CLEAN AIR FILTER
A dirty air filter decreases engine per-

formance and increases fuel consump-
tion and h_l emissions. Always

clean after every 5 hours of operation.

1. Clean the cover and the area
around it to keep dirt from falling

into the carburetor chamber when

the cover is removed.

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. Anow fifler to dry.

5. Replace parts.

__Air Filter Air Filter

I_ Cover

INSPECT MUFFLER AND SPARK
ARRESTING SCREEN

WARNING: The muffler on this

product contains chemicals known to

the State of Califumia to cause cancer.
As your unit is used, carbon deposits

build up on the muffler and spark ar-
resting screen.
For normal homeowner use, however,

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.
REPLACE SPARK PLUG

Replace the spark plug each year to

ensure the engine starts easier and
runs better. Set spark plug gap at

0.025 inch. Ignition timing is fixed and
nonadjustable.

1. Twist, then pull oft spark plug boot.

2. Remove spark plug from cylinder
and discard.

3. Replace with Champion RCJ-hY
spark plug and tighten securely

with a 3/4 inch socket wrench.

4. Reinstall the spark plug boot.

LINE REPLACEMENT

• Always use Craftsman replacement

line.

Choose the line size best suited for
the job at hand. Red line (#71-85908)

is designed for cutting grass and small
weeds. The black colored line

(#71-85909) is designed for cutting

larger weeds and light brush.

NOTE: Before inserting new line into
the holes in the cutting head, identify
the proper holes. Follow directions as

shown on the line glide plate.

1. Remove the old line and line glide
plate from the cutting head.

2. Clean entre surface ofcut_ng head.

3. Reinstall line glide plate (see il-

lustration). Align arrow with:

when using medium (red) or

(_) large (black) line

when using lines with diameter

(_) smaller than medium (red) line

(bption_d)

Line glide Arrow

Cutting head

11

NOTE: Line glide plsCcemust be rein-
stalled incut_ng head before inserting

new line.

4. Insert both eeds of your line

through the proper holes in the

side of the cutting head.

5. Pull the line and make sure the line

is against the hub and extended full

through the positioning tunnels.

6. Correctly installed line will be the

same length on both ends.

REPLACING THE TRIMMER HEAD

1. Align bole in the dust cup with the
hole in the side of the gearbox by
rotating the arbor shaft.

2. Insert a small screwdriver into

aligned holes. This will keep the

shaft _Tomturning while removing

and installing trimmer head.

Screw_

3. While holding the screwdriver in
position, remove trimmer head by

turning clockwise.

4. Thread replacement trimmer head
onto the shaft by turning counter-

clockwise. Only tigl-;ten hand l_ght!

5. Remove the screwdriver.

Lineagainst

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT

_ WARNING: Keep others away

when making idle speed adjustments.
The trimmer head will be spinning dur-

ing most ofthis procedure. Wear your
protective equipment and observe all
safety precautions. After making ad-

justments, the trimmer head must not
move or spin at idle speed.

The carburetor has been carefully set
at the factory. Adjustments may be

necessary if you notice any of the fol-
lowing conditions:

• Engine will not idle when the throttle is

released.

• The trimmer head moves or spins at

idle.

Make adjustments with the unit sup-
ported so the cutting attachment is off

the ground and will not make contact
with any object. Hold the unit by hand

while running and making edjus_'nents.
Keep all parts of your body away from
the cut_ng attachment andmuffier.

Idle Speed Adjustment
Allow engine to idle. Adjust speed until

engine runs without trimmer head
moving or spinning (idle too fast) or

engine stalling (idle speed too slow).

• Turn idle speed screw clockwise to
increase engine speed if engine

stalls or dies.

• Turn idle speed screw counterclock-
wise to decrease engine speed if

trimmer head moves or spins at idle.

_ Idk_Speed

Screw

/ / / Cover

AI_ WARNING: Recheck the idle
speed after each adjustment. The

trimmer head must not move or spin at
idle speed to avoid serious injury to

the operator or others.

If you require further assistance or are

unsure about performing this proce-
dure, contact your Sears Service Cen-

ter or call our customer assistance
help line at 1-800-235-5878.

AirFilter

12

4_WAHNING: Perform the follow-
ing steps after each use:

• Allow engine to cool before storing
or transporting.

• Store unit and fuel in a well venti-
lated area where fuel vapors cannot

reach sparks or open flames from
water heaters, electric motors or
switches, furnaces, etc.

• Store unit with all guards in place.
Position unit so that any sharp ob-

ject cannot accidentally cause injury.

• Store unit and fuel well out of the
reach of children.

SEASONAL STORAGE
Prepare unit for storage at end of sea-

son or if it will not be used for 30 days
or more.

If your unit is to be stored for a period

of time:

• Clean the entire unit before lengthy
storage.

• Store in a clean dry area.

• Lightly oil extemal metal surfaces.

FUEL SYSTEM

Empty the fuel system before storage
for 30 days or longer. Drain the gas

tank, start the engine and let it run un-
til the fuel lines and carburetor are

empty. Use fresh fuel next season.
Under FUELING ENGINE in the OPERA-

TION section of this manual, see mes-
sage labeled IMPORTANT regarding

the use of gasohol in your engine.

Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alter-

native in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits duitng storage. Add

stabilizer to the gasoline in the fuel

tank or fuel storage container. Follow
the mix instructions found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 3 min-
utes after adding stabilizer.

Craftsman 40:1,2-cycle engine oil (air
cooled) is already blended with fuel
stabilizer. If you do not use this Sears

oil, you can add a fuel stabilizer to
your fuel tank.
ENGINE

• Remove spark plug and pour 1 tea-

spoon of 40:1,2-cycle engine oil (air
cooled) through the spark plug

opening. Slowly pull the starter rope
8 to 10 times to distribute oil.

• Replace spark plug with new one of

recommended type and heat range.

• Clean air filter.

• Check entire unit for loose screws,

nuts, and bolts. Replace any dam-
aged, broken, or worn parts.

• At the beginning of the next season,

use only fresh fuel having the proper
gasoline to oil ratio.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one sea-

son to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if it starts
to rust.

13

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

WARNING: Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before perform-
ing all of the recommended remedies below except remedies that require

unit to be operating.

TROUBLE CAUSE REMEDY

Enginewillnot 1. Engineflooded. 1. See "Starting a FloodedEngine"in
start. OperationSection.

Enginewill 1. Carburetorrequires 1. See "Carburetor Adjustment"in
notidle adjustment. Serviceand AdjustmentsSection.
properly. 2. Crankshaft seals worn. 2. ContactSeam S_ (seebackcover).

Enginewillnot 1. Airfilter dirty. 1. Clean or replace air fitier.
accelerate, 2. Spark plugfouled. 2. Clean or replace plug

lacks power, and regap.
ordies under 3. Carburetorrequires 3. ContactSearsService (seeback cover).

a load. adjustment.

Engine 1. Fuel mixtureincorrect. 1. Emptyfuel tankand refillwith
smokes correctfuel mixture.

excessively. 2. Air filterdirty. 2. Clean or replace airfilter.

Engine runs 1. Fuelmixture incorrect. 1. See "Fueling Engine"inOperation
hot. section.

2. Fueltank empty. 2. Filltank withcorrect fuel mixture.

3. Spark plugnotfiring. 3. Installnew spark plug.

4. Fuel notreaching 4. Check for dirtyfuel filter;replace.
carburetor. Check for kinkedor splitfuel line;

5. Carburetorrequires 5. ContactSearsService(see backcover).
adjustment.

3. Compressionlow. 3. ContactSeam S_ (see back cover).

4. Carbon build-upon 4. ContactSearsService (seeback cover).
muffler outlet screen.

5. Compressionlow. 5. ContactSears Sewloe (see back cover).

3. Carburetor requires 3. Co_ Sears Sennce(see back cover).
adjustment.

2. Spark plugincorrect. 2. Replacewithcorrect spark plug.

3. Carburetorrequires 3. ContactSears Serv=ce(seeback cover).

adjustment.

4. Carbon build-upon 4. Co_ SearsSennce(see back cover).

muffleroutletscreen.

repair or replace.

14

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OB-
LIGATIONS: The U.S. Environmental
Preteclion Agency/California Air Re-

sources Board and Sears, Roebuck
and Co., U.SJ_., are pleased to explain

the emissions control system warranty
on your year 2007 and later small off-

read engine. In California, all small off-
read engines must be designed, built,

and equipped to meet the State's s_in-

gent anti-smog standards. Sears must
warrant the emission control system on

your small off-road engine for the perk
ods of time listed below provided there
has been no abuse, neglect, or improp-

er maintenance of your small off-road
engine. Your emission control system

includes parts such as the carburetor,
the ignitionsystem and the fuel tank

(Califomia only). Where a warrantable

condition exists, Sears will repair your
small off-read engine at no cost to you.

Expenses covered under warranty in-
clude diagnosis, parts and labor.

MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY
COVERAGE: If any emissions related

part on your engine (as listed under

missions Con_ol Warranty Parts List)

is defoc_ve or a defect in the materials
or workmanship of the engine causes

the failure of such an emission related
part, the part will be repaired or re-

placed by Sears. OWNER'S WAR-
RANTY RESPONSIBILITIES: As the

small off-read engine owner, you are
responsible for the performance of the

required maintenance listed in your op-
erator's manual. Sears recommends

that you retain all receipts covering
maintenance on your small off-road en-
gine, but Sears cannot deny warranty

solely for the lack of receipts or for your
failure to ensure the performance of all

scheduled maintenance. As the small

off-road engine owner, you should be
aware that Sears may deny you war-
ranty coverage if your small off-road

engine or a part of it has failed due to
abuse, neglect, improper maintenance,

unappreved medifica_ons, or the use of
parts not made or approved by the orig-

inal equipment manufacturer. You are
responsible for presen_ng your small

off-read engine to a Sears authorized
repair center as soon as a problem ex-
ists. Warranty repairs should be com-

pleted in a reasonable amount of _me,
not to exceed 30 days. If you have any
ques_ons regarding your warranty rights

and responsibilities, you should contact
your nearest authorized service center

or call Sears at 1400-469-4663.
WARRANTY COMMENCEMENT

DATE: The warcanty period begins on
the date the small off-read engine is

purchased. LENGTH OF COVERAGE:

This warranty shall be for a period of
two years from the ini_al date of pur-
chase. WHAT IS COVERED: REPAIR
OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS. Re-

pair or replacement of any warranted
part will be performed at no charge to
the owner at an approved Sears Servi-
ce Center. If you have any questions

regarding your warranty rights and re-
sponsibili_es, you should contact your

nearest authorized service center or call
Sears at 1-800-469-4663. WARRAN-

TY PERIOD: Any warranted part which
is not scheduled for replacement as re-

quired maintenance, or which is sched-
uled only for regular inspec_on to the

effect of "repair or replace as neces-
sary" shall be warranted for 2 years.
Any warranted part which is scheduled

for replacement as required mainte-
nance shall be warranted for the period
of time up to the first scheduled replace-

ment point for that pert. DIAGNOSIS:
The owner shall not be charged for
diagnostic labor which leads to the de-
termination that a warranted part is de-

fec_ve ifthe diagnostic work is per-
formed at an appreved Sears Service

Center. CONSEQUENTIAL DAM-
AGES: Sears may be liable for dam-

ages to other engine components
caused by the failure of a warranted

part s_l( under warranty. WHAT IS NOT
COVERED: All failures caused by

abuse, neglect, or improper mainte-
nance are not covered. ADD-ON OR

MODIRED PARTS: The use of edd-on
or modified parts can be grounds for

disallowing a warranty claim. Sears is
not liable to cover failures of warranted

parts caused by the use of edd-on or
modified parts. HOW TO RLE A
CLAIM: If you have any questions re-

garding your warranty rights and re-
sponsibililJes, you should contact your

nearest authorized service center or call
Sears at 1-800-469-4663. WHERE TO

GEr WARRANTY SERVICE: Warranty
services or repairs shall be provided at

all Sears Service Centers. Call

1-800-469-4663.

15

MAINTENANCE, REPLACEMENT
AND REPAIR OF EMISSION RE-

LATED PARTS: Any Sears approved
replacement part used in the perfor-

mance of any warranty maintenance or
repair on emission related parts will be
provided without charge to the owner if

the part isunder warranty.

The information onfile productlabelindicateswhich standardyourengine is certified.

Example:(Year) EPA Phase I or Phase 2 and!orCALIFORNIA.

This engine is ce_fied to be emissions compliant for the following use:
[] Moderate (50 hours)

[] Intermediate (125 hours)
[] Extended (300 hours)

EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY
PARTS UST: Carburetor, Ignition Sys-

tem: Spark Plug (covered up to mainte-
nance schedule), IgnilJonModule, Muf-

fler including catalyst, Fuel Tank

(Califomia only). MAINTENANCE

STATEMENT: The owner is responsible
for the performance of all required main-

tenance as defined in the operator's

manual.

16

REPAIR PARTS

SEARS GAS TRIMMER MODEL 358.791980

Ref. part NO.

1. 545125301

2. 545066002

3. 545024202

4. 530016448

5. 530016449

6. 530016454

7. 545072103

8. 545045601

9. 545071801

10. 545030601

11. 545074201

12. 530015820

13. 545081899

14. 530059185

15. 530016152

16. 545007507

17. 530071765

18. 530052285

19. 530015814

20. 530015820

21. 530015775

22. 530016014

23. 530016152

24. 545150701

25. 530096099

Description

A_sy Cable Wire Hamess
Trigger

Housing Throttle (RH)

Screw
Screw

Spring Trigger

Lockout Throttle

Sl_ng Lcckout

Housing Throttle (LH)
Ki[ Switch

Handle Assist
Bolt

KikDriveshalt
Clamp-Handle
Wingnat

Flexshaff

Ki_Shield Assy (Incl. 18,19)

Limite_Line
Screw

BoOt
Screw

Screw
Wingnut

Bracket Shield
Assy Gearbox

Ref. Part No. De.trip'on

26. 71 85740 AssyCuSing Head

27. Tube Twisted Line
71_5908 Red Line

71 _5909 Slack Line

28. 530096039 Plate Glide

545167661 Operator Manual
545144402 Decal Shaft Warning

REPAIR PARTS

SEARS GAS TRIMMER MODEL 358.791980

5

I

51

R_.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

8.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33. 545071601

34. 530059780

1.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

Part N_

530150253

530016101
545071701

530057844
530058709

545050402
530035596

545051898
530016400

545001001
952030201

545050403
530016475

545160301
545102303

530059800
530695646

545081897
545073101

530019293
545105107

545065202
530016448

545029901
545043201

530016426
530016449

545102703
545029801

545029701
530016468

545102702

Description Re =. part No.

Filter 35. 530058982
NutCarb. Screw 36. 530015241

Air Box 37. 530150440

Lever Choke 38. 530016449
Bulb Purge 39. 545065401

_OtCarb. Gasket (Incl. 8,64) 40. 545030501

Adaptor Carb. 41. 545057501

KitGnsket (foam) 42. 545076701
Bolt 43. 530015897

Cylinder 44. 545046702
Plug Spark (RCJ_SY) 45. 530039227

I_JtCranksha6 Seal 46. 530016456

WasheFBtarter 47. 530016463

Spring Sta_er Cup 48. 530094189

Assy Starter Cap 49. 530016469

Coupling Starter 50. 530016470

AssyFuel Filter 51. 530015768

h3t Fuel Line 52. 530016456

AssyCap w/ret.(Incl. 20) 53. 545072903

O ring Fuel Cap 54. 530150039

Assy Fuel Tank 55. 545050405

(Incl. 17,18,19,20) 56. 530057852

Shroud Rear 57. 530038242
Screw 58. 545054601
W=tRope 59. 545013401

Handle Bta_er 60. 545030001
Screw 61. 530015162

Screw 62. 530019283
Starter Housing w/eyelet 63. 545030301

W=tStailer Spring 64. 545081898
W=tSta_ler Pulley 65 530015897

Screw 66. 545081850

AssySta_er Hsg. 67. 545071901

( Ind. 24,25,28,29,30,31 ) 68. 545072201

Plate Wear 69. 545081898

Isolator Tank

18

Description

Bolt Muffler

Screw
Shield Heat

Screw
Guard Muffler

}13tSpark (incl. 36)

Assy Muffler

Gasket Paper Metal

Screw

Module

Assy Leadwire

Screw

Washer
WasheFClutch.

Screw
Screw

Locknut

Screw

Assy Fan Housing
Assy Clutch Drum

}_t Clutch Assy.
Spacer

Flywheel
Crankcase

Bearing
Kit Crankshaft

Ret. Piston Pin
Ring Pistan
Kit Piston (Incl. 61,62)

Kit Gasket (adaptor seal)
Screw

_OtCarb. (Ind. 4,6)
CoveFAir Box

Assy Knob

_OtGasket(incl. 6,8,12,20,42,64)