Instruction Manual
I[,RRFTSMRN*I
25cc/1.5 cu.in. 2-Cycle
17 Inch Cutting Path/0.080 Inch Line
GASOLINE WEEDWACKER ®
•Model No.
358.795501
• Safety
• Assembly
• Operation
• Maintenance
• Parts List
• Espa_ol
For Occasional Use Only
Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating
WARNING:
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.
53o1838s4 _m04
Warranty Statement 2 Storage 16
Identification of Symbols 2 Troubleshooting Table 17
Safety Rules 3 Emissions Statement 17
Assembly 9
Operation 10 Parts List 19
Maintenance 14 Spanish 21
Service & Adjustments 15 Parts and Ordering Back Cover
FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ® GASOLINE POWERED
WEEDWACKER ® LINE TRIMMER.
For one year from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Gasoline Powered
Weedwacker Line Trimmer ismaintained, lubricated, and tuned up accordingto
the operating and maintenance instructionsin 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.
Ifthis Weedwacker Une Tnmmer is usedfor commercialpurposes,thiswarrantyap-
plies for only90 days fromthe date of purchase,ifthisWeedwacker LineTrimmeris
usedfor rentalpurposes, this warrantyappliesforonly30 days fromthe date of pur-
chase. This warrantyappliesonlywhile thisproductis in usa inthe United States.
WARRANTYSERVICEISAVAILABLEBYRETURNINGTHEWEEDWACKERUNETRIMMER
TOTHENEARESTSEARSSTOREOR SERVICECENTERINTHE UNITEDSTATES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights,and you may also have other rights
whichvary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., D/817WA, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
WARNING! This trimmer
canbedangerous! Caretessor
Jmproperuse can cause
seriousor evenfatal injury.
Alwayswear appropriateearprotection, eye protection and headprotection.
Only the following Gasoline Powered Combination Gardening Ap.pliance power-
head models andtheir respective attachments have been Classified by.Under-
writers Laboratories, Inc., in accordance with the applicable safety requirements.
Powerhead including trimmer attachment .................... 358.795501
Optional brushcutter attachment ...................... _..... 358.792441
Optional blower attachment ................................ 358.792421
The following attachment is Lis_ed by Underwriter's Laboratories, Inc., in accor-
dance with UL Standard 1602, Gasoline-Engine-Powered, Rigid-Cutting Mem-
ber Edgers and Edge-Trimmers."
Optional edger attachment ................................. 358.792401
2
Read and understand the
instruction manual before
usingthe trimmer.
_b, 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 wamings 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
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.
@Q©
WARNING: Tdmmar line throws
objects violently. You and others can be
blinded/injured. Wear eye and leg
protection. Keep body parts clear of ro-
tating line.
Protection
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, contactyour 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.
• 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 allparts of your body away
from muffler and spinning line (or
other optional attachment). Keep
engine below waist level. A hot muf-
fler 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 daylight or good artificial
light.
• Use only for jobs explained in this
manual (or manuals for optional at-
tachments).
3
UNiT I 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 ram) 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.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
• 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, 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.
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-
pines be equipped with a spark arrest-
ng 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 a
Sears Service Center.
LINE TRIMMER SAFETY
_)AWARNING: 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.
• Use only for trimming, scalping, mow-
ing and sweeping. Do not use 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.
4
ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES
FOROPTIONALA'n'ACHMENTS
_ WARNING: For each optional
attachment used, read entire opera-
tors manual before use and follow all
warnings and instructions in manual
and on attachment.
_IL WARNING: Ensure handlebar is
installed when using edger or brush-
cutter attachments. Attach handlebar
above arrow on safety label on the up-
per shaft (engine end of unit). If your
edger or brushcutter attachment does
not include a handlebar, a handlebar
accessory kit (#530071451) is avail-
able from your Sears Service Center.
_Handlebar
EDGER SAFETY
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.
Bladerotates Allowblade tostop
momentarily • before removingItI
after the / I from _e cut. /
rele__
triggeris/ II_/
• 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.
• Always use the handlebar when us-
ing edger attachment.
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.
5
BRUSHCUTTER SAFETY
DANGER: Blade can thrust vio-
lentlyaway from material itdoes notcut.
Blade thrust can cause amputation of
arms or legs.
tL _________
all, WARNING: Do not use trimmer
head as a fastening device for the
blade.
_ WARNING: The blade contin-
ues to spin after the throttle is re-
leased or engine is turnedoff. The
coasting blade can throw objects or
seriously cut you if accidentally
touched. Stop the blade by contacting
the left hand side of the coasting
blade with material already cut.
Stop coasting
blade by contact
with cut material.
®
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.
_ILWARNING: Only use brushcut-
ter attachments that provide a metal
shield with proboscis nose.
PrOo iS
• Use only specified blade and make
sure it isproperly installed and se-
curely fastened.
Cut from your rightto your left.
Always use thehandlebar and a
properly adjusted shoulder strap
with blade (see ASSEMBLYinstruc-
tions in brushcutter attachment in-
struction manual).
CULTIVATOR SAFETY
_WARNING: RotaUng tines can
cause serious injury. Keep away from
rotatingtines. Stop the engine and
disconnectthe spark plug before un-
clogging tines or making repairs.
_, WARNING: Inspect the area to
be cultivated before starting the unit.
Remove all debris end hard and sharp
objects such as rocks, vines, branch-
es, rope, string, etc.
• Avoid heavy contact with solid ob-
jects that might stop the tines. If
heavy contact occurs, stop the en-
gine and inspect the unit for dam-
age.
• 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.
6
HEDGE TRIMMER SAFETY
DANGER: RISK OF CUR KEEP
HANDS AWAY FROM BLADE - Blade
moves momantadly after the trigger ls
released. Do not attemptto clear away
cutmaterialwhen theblade is inmotion.
Make sure the switch isinthe OFF posi-
tion, the spark plug wire is discon-
nected, and the blade has stopped
movingbefore removingjammed mate-
rial from the cuttingblade. Do notgrab
or holdthe unitby the cutting blade.
Blades move
momentarily
after the
ed.triggeris
Allow blades to stop
beforeremoving
them fromthe cut.
WARNING: Inspect the area be-
fore startingthe unit. Remove all de-
bris and hard objects such as rocks,
glass, wire, etc. that can ricochet,be
thrown,orotherwise cause injuryor
damage during operation.
• Do notuse a cuttingblade that is
bent, warped, cracked, brokenor
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.
• Keep the cutting blade and air vents
clear of debris.
POLEPRUNERSAFETY
_' 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, al-
ways 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
protectionwhen operating this unit
with a pole pruner attachment.
_ WARNING: To prevent serious
injury, do not use more than one boom
extensionwith a pole pruner attach-
ment.
WARNING: Keep the pruner
away from power lines or electrical
wires.
• Only use for pruning limbs or
branches up to 4 inches 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.
7
SNOWTHROWERSAFETY
WARNING: Keep hands and
feet away from the rotor when starting
or runningthe engine. Never attempt
to clear the rotor with the engine/motor
running. Stop engine and disconnect
spark plug before uncloggingsnow or
debris from discharge chute or when
adjusting vanes.
_1_WARNING: Never lean over dis-
charge chute. Rocks or debris could
be thrown intothe eyes and face and
cause serious injuryor blindness.
_ WARNING: Inspectthe area
where the unit isto 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 snow-
thrower, and stay alert for holes in
the terrain and other hidden haz-
ards.
• Make sure the rotorwill spinfreely
before attaching the snowthrowerto
the powerhead.
• If the rotor will not rotatefreely due
to frozen ice, thaw the unitbefore
thoroughlybefore attempting to op-
erate under power.
• Keep the rotorclear of debris.
• Do not throw snow near other
people. The snow throwercould
propel small objects at high speed
causing injury.
• Afterstrikinga foreign object, stop
the engine, disconnectspark plug
and inspect the snowthrowerfor
damage and repair if necessarybe-
fore restartingunit.
• Never operate the snowthrowernear
glass enclosures, automobiles and
trucks.
• Never attempt to use the snow-
thrower on a roof.
• Never operate the snowthrowernear
window wells, dropoffs,etc.
• Never discharge snow onto public
roads or near moving traffic.
• Clear snow from slopes by goingup
and down; never across. Use cau-
tion when changing directions. Nev-
er clear snow from steep slopes.
• Let snowthrower runfor a few min-
utes after clearing snow so moving
parts do not freeze.
• Look behind and use care when
backing up. Exercise cautionto
avoid slipping or falling, especially
when operating in reverse.
• Know how to stop quickly.
8
CARTON CONTENTS
Check carton contents against the fol-
lowing list.
Model 358.795501
• 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 normalfor the fuel filterto 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
A ________
llWARNING: If received as-
sembled, repeat all steps to ensure
_,aOUrunit Is properly assembled and all
steners are secure.
INSTALLING TRIMMER A'I'rACH-
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
Coupler Primary Hole
Guide Recess
Lower
Shaft Release Attachment
Button
WARNING: Make sure the lock-
ing/release button is locked in the pd-
mary hole and the knob is securely
tightened beforeoperating the unit.
All attachments are designed to be
used in the primaryhole.
Foroptionalattachments, see the AS-
SEMBLYsection of the applicable at-
tachment instructionmanual.
ATTACHING SHIELD
m_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 limitar 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
KNOW YOUR TRIMMER 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.
TIGHTEN
2. Remove shipping protector from
coupler.
3. Remove the shaft cap from the
trimmer attachment (if present).
4. Position locking/release button of
attachment Into guide recess of
coupler.
5. Push the attachment into the cou-
pler until the locking/release button
snaps into the primary hole.
6. Before using the unit, tighten the
knob securely by turning clock-
wise.
Knob
Shield % Slot
,= ,_\\ Bracket
LineLimiter Blade NuTg
ADJUSTING THE HANDLE
_WARNING: When adjusting the
handle, 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 upright position; retighten wing
nut.
9
KNOWYOURTRIMMER
READ THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
UNIT. Compare the illustrationswith your unitto familiarizeyourself withthe location
of the various conb'ols and adjustments. Save this manual for futurereterence.
AssistHandle
Coupler
Shaft _/
Trimmer _ ON/OFF Switch
Head
Shield Handle Spark Plug
Starter
/
Line Limiter
Blade
Thro_le Muffler
Trigger
Start
Lever
Primer Bulb
ON/OFF SWITCH
The ON/OFF switch is located on the
trigger handle and is used to stop the
engine. Move the switch to the OFF
position to stop the engine.
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
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
_' WARNING: Remove fuel cap
slowly when refueling.
This engine is cerlitied 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
START LEVER
The STARTLEVERhelpsto supplyfuel
to the engine to aid in starting.Acti-
vate the startingsystem by movingthe
start lever to the STARTposition. DO
NOTsqueeze the throttle triggeruntil
the engine has started and runs.After
the engine starts,allow the engine to
warm-up 10-15 seconds, then fully
squeeze the throttletriggerto deacti-
vate the starting system.
COUPLER
The COUPLER enables optional at-
tachments to be installed on the unit.
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.
10
IMPORTANT
Expedence 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 storagefor 30 days or
longer.Drain the gas tank, startthe
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season. Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner productsin the fuel
tank or permanent damage may oc-
cur. See the STORAGEsection for
additional information.
HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT
• Tostop the engine, move the
ON/OFFswitchto the OFF position.
_/ON/OFF
Throttle Trigger _
HOW TO START YOUR UNIT
WARNING: Avoid any contact
with the muffler.A hot mufflercan
cause serious burns.
STARTING A COLD ENGINE
NOTE: DO NOT squeeze the throttle
trigger until the engine has started and
runs.
1. Set unit on a flat surface.
2. Move ON/OFF switch to the ON
position.
3. Slowly press the primer bulb 6
times.
4. Move the start lever to the START
position.
Start Lever
Primer Bulb
5. Pull starter rope handle sharply
until engine starts and runs.
6. Allow unit to run for 10-15 seconds,
then fully squeeze the throttle trigger
to disengage the starting system.
STARTING A WARM ENGINE
1. Move ON/OFF switch to the ON
position.
2. Move the start lever to the RUN
position.
3. Squeeze and hold the throttle trig-
ger. Keep throttle trigger fully
squeezed until engine runs
smoothly.
4. Pull starter rope sharply while
squeezing throttle trigger until en-
gine 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 ran, it will be necessary
to start the unit by following the steps
under STARTING A COLD ENGINE or
following the starting instruction steps
shown on the unit.
STARTING A FLOODED ENGINE
Flooded engines can be started by
placing the ON/OFF switch in the ON
position. Move the start lever to the
RUN position and fully squeeze throttle
trigger. Pull the starter handle repeat-
edly while squeezing throttle trigger
until engine starts and runs. This
could require pulling the starter handle
many times, depending on how badly
the unit is flooded.
Jffler
11
If the unit still doesn't start, refer to the
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call
1-800-235-5878.
OPERATING THE COUPLER
This model is equipped with a coupler
which enables optional attachments to
be installed. The optional attach-
ments are:
Edger ................. 358.792401
Cultivator .............. 358.792410
Blower ................ 358.792421
Brushcutter ............ 358.792441
Pruner ................ 358.792450
WARNING: Always stop unit
and disconnectspark plug before re-
moving or installing attachments.
REMOVING TRIMMER ATrACH-
MENT (OR OTHER OPTIONAL AT-
TACHMENTS)
CAUTION: When removing or instal-
ling attachments, place the uniton a
flat surface for stability.
1. Loosen the coupler by turning the
knob counterclockwise.
Upper Shaft
Coupler PrimaryHole
Upper Locking/ Attachment
Shaft Release
Button
_'WARNING: Make sure the lock-
ing/release buttonis locked in the pri-
mary hole and the knob is securely
tightened before operating the unit.
OPERATING POSITION
ALWAYS WEAR:
Eye Protection
Long Pants
Heavy Shoes
Coupler
Lower
Attachment
TIGHTEN Knob
2. Press and holdthelocking/release
button.
Locking/Release
Button
/
Lower Attachment
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.
.OOSEN
Upper Shaft
Cut only from your rightto your left.
_1_ WARNING: Always wear eye
protection. Never lean over the tnm-
mer head. Rocks or debris can rico-
chet 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 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 '_veld"
onto the spool.
Always release the throttle trigger and
allow the engine to return to idle
speed when not cutting.
12
Tostop engine:
: Release the throttletdgger,
Move the ON/OFFswitchto the OFF:
position.
TRIMMER LINE ADVANCE
The cutting head advances line au-
tomatically. Do not tap head on the
ground to advance line. This may
break parts and cause cutting headto
malfunction.
Uponunitstartup, the linewilladvance
automaticallyto the correctcuttingpath
length
Always keep the shield in place when
the tool is being operated.
WARNING: Dee only 0.080"
(2 mm) diameter round line. Other
sizes and shapes of linewill not ad-
vance propedy and will result in im-
proper cuttinghead function or can
cause serious injury.Do not use other
materials such as wire, stdng, rope,
etc. Wire can break offduring cutting
and become a dangerous missile that
can cause serious injury.
CUTTING METHODS
_I=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.
Tip of the Line
Does The Cutting
LineCrowded Into
Work Area
During lightduty cutting.
Near objects around which the line
can wrap such as small posts,
trees or fence wire.
• For mowing or sweeping, use full
throttlefor a good clean job.
TRIMMING - Holdthe bottom ofthe
trimmer head about 3 in. (8 cm) above
the ground and at an angle. Allow only
the tipof the line to make contact. Do
notforce trimmer line intowork area.
Trimming
3 in. (8 cm)
AboveGround
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
MOWING - Your trimmer is ideal for
mowing in places conventional lawn
mowers cannot reach. In the mowing
position, keep the line parallel to the
t_ound. Avoid pressing the head into
e ground as this can scalp the
ground and damage the tool.
Right
• 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:
Wr
•
Mowing
13
SWEEPING - The fanning action of
the rotating linecan be used to blow
away loose debris from an area. Keep
the line parallel to and above the area
Sweeping____X_ _
surface and swing the toolfrom side
to side.
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 labels
Clean air filter
Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen
Replace spark plug
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 properly 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/OFF Switch - Ensure ON/OFF
switch functions properly by moving
the switch to the OFF position. 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
LABELS
• After each use, inspect complete
unit for loose or damaged parts.
Clean the unit and labels using a
damp cloth with a mild detergent.
WHEN TO PERFORM
Before each use
Before each use
Affereach use
Every 5 hours of operation
Every 50 hours of operation
Yearly
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
around it to keep dirt from falling
into the carburetor chamber when
the cover is removed.
2. Remove parts by pressing latch to
release air filter cover.
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;
squeeze the filter to distribute oil.
6. Replace parts.
Air Filter
/
Air Filter
Cover Latch
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.
14