Craftsman 358795920 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

ICRRFTSMRN°I

33cc/2.0 cu.in. 2-Cycle GASOLINE WEEDWACKER ®

Model No.

358.795920

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

• Espa_ol, p. 29

WARNING:

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

For answers to your questions about this product:

Call 7 am-7 pm, Mon.-Sat., or 10 am-7 pm, Sun.

1-800-235-5878 <Hoots listed are Central Time)

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A. 545212846 Rev. 1 1/15/09 BRW

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 22 Identification of Symbols 3 Troubleshooting Table 23

Safety Rules 5 Emissions Statement 24 Assembly 7 Operation 11 Parts List 26 Maintenance 19 Spanish 29

Service & Adjustments 20 Parts and Ordering Back Cover

CRAFTSMAN FU LL WARRANTY If this Craftsman product fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within two

years from the date of purchase, return it to any Sears store, Parts & Repair Service

Center, or other Craftsman outlet in the United States for free repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).

This warranty applies for only 90 days 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 rights which vary from state to state. Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

Congratulations on making a smart purchase. Your new Craftsman product is designed and manufactured for years of dependable operation. But like all products,

it may require repair from time to time. That's when having a Repair Protection

Agreement can save you money and aggravation.

Here's what the Repair Protection Agreement* includes:

_" Expert service by our 10,000 professional repair specialists _" Unlimited service and no charge for parts and labor on all covered repairs _" Product replacement up to $1500 if your covered product can't be fixed

_" Discount of 10% from regular price of service and related installed parts

not covered by the agreement; also, 10% off regular price of preventive maintenance check

_" Fast help by phone - we call it Rapid Resolution - phone support from a

Sears representative. Think of us as a "talking operator's manual".

Once you purchase the Repair Protection Agreement, a simple phone call is all

that it takes for you to schedule service. You can call anytime day or night, or schedule a service appointment online.

The Repair Protection Agreement is a risk-free purchase. If you cancel for any

reason during the product warranty period, we will provide a full refund. Or, a pro- rated refund anytime after the product warranty period expires. Purchase your Repair Protection Agreement today!

Some limitations and exclusions apply, For prices and additional informa-

tion in the U.S.A. call 1-800-827-6655, *Coverage in Canada varies on some items. For full details call Sears

Canada at 1-800-361-6665.

Sears Installation Service For Sears professional installation of home appliances, garage door openers,

water heaters, and other major home items, in the U.S.A. or Canada call

1-800-4-MY-HOME®.

.. ,J ,c_. _/L DANGER: Blade can thrust vio-

.:.!__ ...... -'T" cut. Blade thrust can cause amputation

_*_, lently away from material it does not

of arms or legs. Keep people and anima s 50 feet (15 meters) away.

A A _DAN_iER: Use only specified trimmer

head and recommended trimmer line. Never use blades, flailing devices, wire, rope,

string, etc. This attachment is designed for line trimmer use only. Failure to follow these

instructions may result in serious injury.

®®®®

WARNING: The blade continues to spin

after the trigger is released or engine is turned off. The coasting blade can throw objects or seriously cut if accidentally touched. Stop the

blade by contacting the right hand side of the coasting blade with material already cut.

improper use can cause serious injury.

_/LWARNING: This unit can be dangerous! Careless or

instructions could result in serious injury. Save operator's

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

manual.

Blade/trimmer line can throw ob- jects violently. 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.

Hazardzoneforthrownobjects.

• Blade/trimmer line throws objects violently.

• You and others can be blinded/injured.

• Keep children, bystanders, and animals 50 feet (15 meters) away.

Do not wear jewelry, loose clothing,

or clothing with loosing hanging

O secureha'rab°vesh°u'der'ength.

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.

straps, ties, tassels, etc. They can

be caught in moving parts.

When servicing unit, use only identical replace-

ment parts.

Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before cleaning or servicing.

or use the unit near a flame or sparks (including smoking, open

,_k WARNING: Fire hazard. Never mix, pour, or store gasoline

flames, or work that can cause sparks).

Useunleadedgasolineandtwo-strokeoilmixedata ratioof40:1(2.5%).

_WARNIN_I:Whenusinggarden- ingappliances,basicsafetyprecautions

mustalwaysbefollowedtoreducethe riskoffireandseriousinjury.

_/L DANGER: This power tool can be dangerous! This unit can cause se-

rious injury including amputation or blindness to the operator and others.

The warnings and safety instructions in this manual must be followed to pro- vide reasonable safety and efficiency

in using the unit. The operator is re- sponsible for following the warnings

and instructions in this manual and on the unit. Read the entire operator's

manual before assembling and using the unit! Restrict the use of this unit to

persons who read, understand, and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the unit. Never al-

low children to operate this unit.

OPERATOR'S SAFETY INFORMATION MANUAL ON THE UNIT

4_ DANGER: Never use blades with

line trimmer attachment. Never use flail- ing devices with any attachment. This

unit (when used with supplied line trim- mer attachment) is designed for line

trimmer use only. Use of any other ac- cessories with line trimmer 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 call 1-800-235-5878. OPERATOR SAFETY

• Dress properly. Always wear safety glasses or similar eye protection when

operating, or performing maintenance on your unit. (Safety glasses are available.) Eye protection 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.

• Secure hair above shoulder length. Secure or remove loose clothing and

jewelry or clothing with loosely hang- ing ties, straps, tassels, etc. They can be caught in moving parts.

• Being fully covered also helps protect you from debris and pieces of toxic

plants thrown by spinning line/blade.

• Stay Alert. Do not operate unit when you are tired, ill, upset or under influ-

ence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Watch what you are doing; use com-

mon sense.

• Wear hearing protection.

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

exhaust fumes can kill.

• Keep handles free of oil and fuel.

• Always use the handlebar and a properly adjusted shoulder strap

with a blade (see ASSEMBLY).

UNIT/MAINTENANCE SAFETY

_WARNING: Stop unitand 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 unit in good working condition.

• Throw away blades that are bent, warped, cracked, broken, or damaged

in any other way. Replace trimmer head parts that are cracked, chipped,

broken, or damaged in any other way before using the unit.

• Maintain unit according to recom- mended procedures. Keep blade

sharp. Keep cutting line at the proper length.

•UseonlyCraftsmanbrandreplace- mentline.Neverusewire,rope,

string,etc.

•Installrequiredshieldproperlybefore usingtheunit.Usethemetalshield

forallmetalbladeuse.Usetheplastic

shieldforalllinetrimmeruse.

•Useonlyspecifiedtrimmerheador blade;makesureitisproperlyin- stalledandsecurelyfastened.

•Neverstartenginewithclutchshroud removed.Theclutchcanflyoffand

causeseriousinjury.

•Besuretrimmerheadorbladestops turningwhenengineidles.

•Makecarburetoradjustmentswiththe lowerendsupportedtopreventtrim-

merlineorbladefromcontactingany object.Holdunitbyhand;donotuse

theshoulderstrapforsupport.

•Keepothersawaywhenmakingcar- buretoradjustments.

•UseonlyrecommendedCraftsman accessoriesandreplacementparts.

•Haveallmaintenanceandservicenot explainedinthismanualperformedby

yourSearsServiceCenter.

FUELSAFETY

•Mixandpourfueloutdoors

•Keepawayfromsparksorflames

•Donotsmokeorallowsmokingnear fuelortheunitorwhileusingtheunit

•AvoidspillingfueloroilWipeupall fuelspillsbeforestartingengine

•Moveatleast10feet(3meters)away fromfuelingsitebeforestartingen- gine

•Stopengineandallowittocoolbe- foreremovingfuelcap

•Emptythefueltankbeforestoringor transportingtheunitUseupfuel]eft

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

CUTTING SAFETY

_LWARNING: Inspect the area to

be cut before each use Remove ob-

jects (rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, string, etc.) which can be thrown or be- come entangled in the blade or trimmer

head

• Keep others including children, ani- mals, bystanders, and helpers at least

50 feet (15 meters) away. Stop engine immediately if you are approached.

• Always keep engine on the right- hand side of your body.

• Hold the unit firmly with both hands.

• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.

• Keep blade or trimmer head below waist level. Do not raise engine

above your waist.

• Keep all parts of your body away from blade, trimmer head, and muf-

fler when engine is running. A hot muffler can cause serious burns.

• Cut from your left to your right. Cutting on right 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

• Keep muffler away from your body

• Allow the engine to cool and secure the unit before storing or transport-

ing it in a vehicle

• Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the unit Use up fuel ]eft

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

• Store unit so the blade or line limiter blade cannot accidentally cause inju-

ry 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 gasoline

powered hand tools could cause blood

vessel or nerve damage in the fingers,

hands, and joints of people prone to cir-

culation disorders or abnormal swell-

ings. 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. Users who operate power tools on a continual

and regular basis must monitor closely their physical condition and the condi-

tion of this tool.

SPECIALNOTICE:Thisunitisequip- pedwithatemperaturelimitingmuffler

andsparkarrestingscreenwhichmeets therequirementsofCaliforniaCodes

4442and4443.AllU.S.forestlandand thestatesofCalifornia,Idaho,Maine,

Minnesota,NewJersey,Oregon,and

Washingtonrequirebylaw that many

internal combustion engines be equipped with a spark arresting screen.

If you operate in a locale where such regulations exist, you are legally re-

sponsible 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 ser- vice. After 50 hours of use, we recom-

mend that your muffler be serviced or

replaced by your Sears Service Center.

WARNING: The engine exhaust

from this product contains chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other

reproductive harm.

CARTON CONTENTS Check carton contents against the fol-

lowing list. Model 358,795920

• Powerhead

• Trimmer attachment

• Brushcutter attachment

• aex wrench

• Handlebar

• Bracket cover

• Bracket cover screws (2)

• Plastic shield

• Wing nut (screwed onto shield)

• Shoulder strap with warning

• Container of oil

• Container of line 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. TOOLS REQUIRED

• Hex Wrench (provided)

• Adjustable Wrench

• Phillips Screwdriver

INSTALLING ATTACHMENT

CAUTION: When installing attach-

ment, place the unit on a flat surface for stability.

Loosen the coupler by turning the knob counterclockwise.

Coupler

Shipping protector

TIGHTEN

2. Remove shipping protector from coupler.

3. Remove the shaft cap from the 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 clockwise.

Coupler Primary Hole

_/ Guide Recess

/ Locking/ " "

Upper Release Attachment

Shaft

dlIIWARNING: 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 could lead to serious injury or damage

to the unit.

Button

LOOSEN

Knob

Locking/Release Button in Primary Hole

For assembly of optional attachments (see list on page 13), refer to the

ASSEMBLY section of the applicable attachment operator's manual.

ASSEMBLY INFORMATION -

LINE TRIMMER ATTACHMENT

%t TRIMMER

HEAD

INSTALLATION OF THE TRIMMER HEAD

NOTE: Before installing the trimmer head, make sure the dust cup and re-

taining washer are positioned on the shaft of the gearbox. The retaining

washer must be positioned with the

raised section toward the gearbox.

1. Align hole in the dust cup with the hole in the side of the gearbox by

rotating the dust cup.

2. Insert a small screwdriver into aligned holes. This will keep the

shaft from turning while tightening

trimmer head. NOTE: Make sure all parts are prop- erly installed as shown in the illustra-

tion before installing the trimmer head.

3. While holding the screwdriver in position, thread trimmer head onto

the shaft by turning counterclock-

wise (looking from bottom of unit). Only tighten hand tight!

GearboxJ__

Dust cup _ \

_ Aligned holes

Retaining

washer _,

Trimmer head L_--_J_i,_

4. Remove the screwdriver.

ATTACHING THE PLASTIC SHIELD

_IkWARNING: 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 lim-

iter blade which cuts excess line to the

proper length. The line limiter blade

(on underside of shield) is sharp and can cut you.

1. Remove wing nut from shield.

2. Insert bracket into slot on shield.

3. Pivot shield until bolt )asses

through hole in bracket.

Reinstall wing nut and tighten se- curely.

Shield

Slot

ADJUSTING THE HANDLE ,i_ WARNING: When adjusting the

assist handle, be sure it remains above the safety label and below the mark or

arrow on the shaft.

1. Loosen wing nut on handle.

2. Rotate the handle on the shaft to an upright position; retighten wing nut.

ASSEMBLY INFORMATION -

BRUSHCUTTER ATTACHMENT

WEED

BLADE

ATTACHING THE HANDLEBAR

_I, DANGER: Ensure handlebar

is installed when using brushcutter

attachment. To avoid serious injury, the barrier portion of the handlebar

must be installed as shown to provide

a barrier between operator and the spinning blade.

1. Locate the decal on the handlebar. This decal includes an arrow. Posi-

tion the handlebar with the mount-

ing bracket at the end of the arrow.

2. Position the bracket cover over the handlebar. Again make sure the

handlebar is at the end of the arrow.

3. Insert screws and hand tighten only. Be sure the handlebar is installed correctly; then, tighten

each screw securely with the hex wrench.

Handlebar , ,,_---Screw

Shoulder _

trap Clamp _ J)

_ Bracket Cover

Mounting - _"_ Bracket

ASSEMBLY OF SHOULDER STRAP ,I_WARNING: Proper shoulder

strap and handlebar adjustments must

be made with the engine completely

stopped before using unit.

1. Insert your right arm and head through the shoulder strap and al-

low it to rest on your left shoulder. Make sure the danger sign is on your back and the hook is to the right side of your waist.

NOTE: A one-half twist is built into the

shoulder strap to allow the strap to rest flat on the shoulder.

2. Adjust the strap, allowing the hook to be about 6 inches (15 cm) below

the waist.

3. Fasten the strap hook to the clamp located between the throttle trigger

and the handlebar mounting bracket and lift the tool to the operating

position.

4. Try on shoulder strap and adjust for fit and balance before starting the engine or beginning a cutting

operation.

NOTE: It may be necessary to relo- cate the shoulder strap clamp on the shaft for proper balancing of unit.

TO RELOCATE SHOULDER STRAP

CLAMP:

1. Loosen and remove both clamp screws.

2. Place the upper shoulder strap clamp over the shaft.

3. Position the lower shoulder strap clamp under the shaft and align the

upper and lower clamp screw holes.

Upper Shoulder Strap Clamp

j. j_l,-

Lower Shoulder II A

Strap Clamp ! Screws

4. Insert two screws into the screw holes.

5. Secure shoulder strap clamp by tightening screws with a hex

wrench.

SHOULDER STRAP

ADJUSTMENT

FOR BALANCE

1. Place the metal shield under the gearbox, and align the screw holes.

.'-..

6 inches 4 - 12 inches (15 cm) (10 - 30 cm)

below above waist round

30 inches (76 cm)

minimum

ATTACHING THE METAL SHIELD

,_IkWARNING: The metal shield

must be properly installed on the tool

anytime the tool is used with a blade. The forward tip of the metal shield

helps to reduce the occurrence of blade thrust which can cause serious

injury such as amputation to the oper-

ator or bystanders. Failure to install the shield in the position shown below

can result in serious injury to the oper- ator. The length of the shield must be

aligned with the length of the shaft.

lade

I p Sha

ShielX ; i

2. Insert and thread the 4 mounting screws through the holes of the

gearbox and the metal shield. Tighten evenly and securely with

the hex wrench provided.

INSTALLATION OF THE METAL BLADE

'_ WARNING: Wear protective gloves when handling or performing

maintenance on the blade to avoid inju- ry. The blade is sharp and can cut you

even when it is not moving.

_,WARNING: Do not use any

blades, or fastening hardware other

than the washers and nuts shown in the following illustrations. Replacement

parts must be purchased at Sears and installed as shown below. Failure to use

proper parts can cause the blade to fly

off and seriously hurt you or others.

NOTE: The dust cup and retaining washer are located on the gearbox shaft and not in the parts bag. All other

fasteners mentioned in the following as- sembly steps are in the parts bag.

1. Remove the retaining washer from the threaded shaft of the gearbox.

Leave the dust cup on the shaft.

2. Install the blade and the retaining washer over the threaded shaft.

3. Make sure the raised part of the re- taining washer is facing the gearbox

and the raised area fits into the hole in the center of the blade.

4. Slide the blade and retaining wash- er onto the shaft of the gearbox.

5. Place the cupped washer onto the shaft. Make sure the cupped side of the washer is toward the blade.

6. Install the blade nut by threading onto the shaft counterclockwise.

NOTE: Make sure all parts are in place

Gearbox

Shield

as illustrated, and the blade is sand- wiched between the dust cup and the

retaining washer. There should be no

space between the blade and the dust cup or the retaining washer.

7. Align hole in dust cup with hole in side of gearbox by rotating the

blade.

8. Insert a small screwdriver into aligned holes. This will keep the

Aligned holes J _ Dust cup

_l Threaded shaft

shaft from turning while tightening the blade nut.

9. Tighten blade nut firmly with a wrench while holding screwdriver in position.

Re_ de

Washer _

Cupped ....._

Washer _i_-,t Nut

10. Remove the screwdriver.

11. Turn blade by hand. If the blade binds against the shield, or appears to be uneven, the blade is not cen-

tered, and you must reinstall.

NOTE: To remove blade, insert screw-

driver into aligned holes. Unthread the

nut and remove parts. Be sure to store parts and instructions for future use.

KNOW YOUR WEEDWACKER 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.

Handlebar

Brushcutter Attachment

Blade

Assist Handle __

_' \ / (2"i\\ ._._

_ Coupler _,_k __,_

_1 Shield Shaft i _'__

_. _. __) ON/STOP Switch I_reJamdmer. _" Primer B_lb Starter Handle

.,_ --Shield

/ Muffler

Line Limiter Blade

Throttle Trigger /

Start Lever

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/STOPswitch.

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 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 5 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.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

_ILWARNING: Be sureto 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 _ILWARNING: 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 en- gine oil. We recommend Craftsman

brand synthetic oil. Mix gasoline and oil at a ratio 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 brushcutter is a 3.2 ounce con- tainer 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 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 en- gine 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 carbure-

tor are empty. Use fresh fuel next sea- son. Never use engine or carburetor

cleaner products in the fuel tank or

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

al 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.

ON/STOP Switch

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

WARNING: Avoid any contact

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

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 flat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

3. Move the start lever to the START position.

Primer Bulb

Starter Handle

Start Lever

4. This unit has the Sim-pulTM 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.

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) and begin normal operation.

STARTING A WARM ENGINE Pull starter rope handle with a con-

trolled and steady motion until engine 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 in the RUN posi- tion. Fully squeeze throttle trigger.

Pull 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 TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call 1-800-235-5878.

CRAFTSMAN ®

CONVERTIBLE TM FEATURE

This model is equipped with a coupler which enables optional attachments to

be installed. The optional attachments are:

Edger ................. 358.79240

Cultivator .............. 358.79241

Blower ................ 358.79242

Brushcutter ............ 358.79244

Pruner ................ 358.79245

Muffler

,_ WARNING: Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before re-

moving or installing attachments. REMOVING ATTACHMENTS

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.

Coupler

Attachment

Upper Shaft

LOOSEN

TIGHTEN Knob

Press and hold the locking/release button.

Locking/Release Button

Attachment

3. While securely holding the engine

INSTALLING OPTIONAL ATTACH- MENTS

1. Remove the shaft cap from the at-

2. Position locking/release button of

3. Push the attachment into the cou-

4. Before using the unit, tighten the

,_WARNING: Make surethe 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

Cou_ Upper Shaft

and upper shaft, pull the attach- ment straight out of the coupler.

tachment (if present). attachment into guide recess of

coupler. pler until the locking/release button

snaps into the primary hole. knob securely by turning clock-

wise.

Coupler Primary Hole

Upper Locking/ Attachment

Shaft Release

Guide Recess

Button

stated in the applicable attachment op-

erator's manual. Using the wrong hole

could lead to serious injury or damage to the unit.

Locking/Release Button in Primary Hole

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

To maximize operating efficiency, do

not run the engine for longer than 1 minute at a time at full throttle.

OPERATING POSITION

ALWAYS USE: Hearing J-t

Protection Eye Protection

Long Pants

Shoes Heavy _,I_

Cutfrom yourle_to yourright.

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

• Wear eye protection, hearing protec- tion and heavy 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 left to your right to ensure debris is thrown away from

you. Without bending over, keep the blade or trimmer head near and par- allel to the ground and not crowded into material being cut.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE WITH TRIMMER HEAD

WAR NI N G: Always wear eye

protection. Never lean over the trimmer head. Rocks or debris can ricochet or

be thrown into eyes and face and

cause blindness or other serious injury.

Before trimming, bring engine to a speed sufficient to cut material to be trimmed.

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. Always release the throttle trigger and allow the engine to return 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

4(_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 line does the Line crowded into cutting, worl

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.

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 cn above ground

SCALPING - The scalping technique removes unwanted vegetation down to

the ground. Hold the bottom of the trim-

mer head about 3 inches (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

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

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE WITH BRUSH BLADE

• Blade Thrust is a reaction that only occurs when using a bladed unit. This

reaction can cause serious injury such as amputation. Carefully study

this section. It is important that you understand what causes blade thrust, how you can reduce the chance of its

occurring, and how you can remain in control of unit if blade thrust occurs.

• WHAT CAUSES BLADE THRUST - Blade Thrust can occur when the

spinning Made contacts an object that it does not cut. This contact causes

the Made to stop for an instant and then suddenly move or 'thrust" away from the object that was hit. The

"thrusting" reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to be propelled in any direction and lose control of the unit. The uncontrolled

unit can cause serious injury if the blade contacts the operator or others.

• WHEN BLADE THRUST OCCURS

- Blade Thrust can occur without

warning if the Made snags, stalls, or binds. This is more likely to occur in

areas where it is difficult to see the material being cut. By using the unit

properly, the occurrence of blade thrust will be reduced and the opera-

tor will be less likely to lose control.

• Cut only grass, weeds, and woody brush up to 1/2 inch (1 cm) in diame-

ter with the brush blade. Do not let the Made contact material it cannot cut such as stumps, rocks, fences, metal, etc., or clusters of hard, woody brush

having a diameter greater than 1/2 inch (1 cm).

• A dull blade is likely to snag and thrust. Ensure that the blade is

sharp. Replacement blades are available at Sears.

• Cut only at full throttle. The blade will have maximum cutting power

and is less likely to bind or stall.

• "Feed" the blade deliberately and not too rapidly. The blade can thrust

away if it is fed too rapidly.

• Cut only from your left to your right. Cutting on right side of the shield will

throw debris away from the operator.

• Use the shoulder strap and keep a firm grip on the unit with both hands.

A properly adjusted shoulder strap will support the weight of the unit,

freeing your arms and hands to con- trol and guide the cutting motion.

• Keep feet comfortably spread apart and braced for a possible sudden,

rapid thrust of unit. Do not overreach. Keep firm footing and balance.

• Keep blade below waist level; it will be easier to maintain control of unit.

• Do not raise the engine above your waist as the blade can come dan-

gerously close to your body.

• Do not swing unit with such force that you are in danger of losing your balance.

Bring the engine to cutting speed be-

fore entering the material to be cut. Always release the throttle trigger and

allow engine to return to idle speed when not cutting. The blade should

_WARNING: For each optional attachment used, read entire instruc- tion manual before use and follow all

warnings and instructions in manual and on attachment.

,_WARNING: Ensure handlebar

remains installed on upper shaft (en-

gine end of unit) at all times.

not turn while the engine is running at idle. If the blade turns at idle, do not

use your unit. Refer to the CARBURE-

TOR ADJUSTMENT section or contact your Sears Service Center.

• Maintain good firm footing while using the unit. Do this by planting feet firmly

in a comfortable apart position.

• Cut while swinging the upper part of your body from left to right.

• As you move forward to the next area to cut, be sure to maintain your balance and footing.

RECOMMENDED CUTTING POSITION

Cut using the 2 o'clock to 4 o'clock position of the / _ %'€'4o'clock blade

2 o'clock

'lr-

,_ WARNING:

ers must not try to clear away cut mate- rial with the engine running or the blade

turning to avoid serious injury. Stop en- gine and blade before removing materi-

als wrapped around blade or shaft.

ousl

cut you or others. Allow blade to

sto

before removing it from the cut.

The operator or oth-

%, •

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.

_WARNING: Blade rotates mo-

mentarily after the trigger is released or engine is turned off. The blade can seri-

• 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 material nor hold material to be cut when the

engine is running or when cutting 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.

+ 36 hidden pages