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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
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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.
2
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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.
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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).
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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
A
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.
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•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.
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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.
1,
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
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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.
4,
Reinstall wing nut and tighten se-
curely.
4
Shield
Slot
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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. j_l,-
I
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.
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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.
10
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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
11
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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.
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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
2,
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
13
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
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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.
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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.
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• "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.
16