Craftsman 358796160 Owner’s Manual

Operator's Manual

J€:RAFTSMA#°J

40cc/2.4 cu.in. 4-Cycle

GASOLINE WEEDWAOKER ®

Model No.

358.796160

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

• Espar_ol, p. 26

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 (Hours listed are Central Time)

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.

545082938 9/12/06

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 18 Identification of Symbols 2 Troubleshooting Table 19

Safety Rules 3 Emissions Statement 20 Assembly 8 Operation 10 Parts List 23

Maintenance 15 Spanish 26 Service & Adjustments 17 Parts and Ordering Back Cover

TWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ® GAS WEEDWACKER ® When used and maintained according to the operator's manual, if this product fails

due to a defect in material orworkmanship within one year from the date of purchase, return it to any Sears store, Sears Service Center, or other Craftsman outlet in the

United States for free repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).

This warranty excludes cutting line, spark plug and air filter, which are expendable parts that can wear out from normal use in less than two years.

This warranty applies for only 30 days from purchase date if this product is used for commercial or rental purposes.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179

WARNING! This trimmer

can be dangerous! Careless or

improper use can cause serious or even fatal injury.

Always wear appropriate ear protection, eye protection and head protection.

Read and understand the operator's manual before

using the trimmer.

mlWARNING: 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 warnings on unit and in

manual. Read entire operator's 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.

OPERATOR'S 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.

QO0

_.WARNING: Trimmer line throws objects violently. You and others can be

blinded/injured. Wear eye and leg protection. Keep body parts clear of ro-

tating line.

oteo ,o

lm4oots

_WARNING: Hazard zone for thrown objects. Trimmer line can

throw objects violently. Others can be blinded or injured. Keep children, by- standers, and animals 50 feet (15 me-

ters) away. Stop unit immediately if ap- proached.

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 main-

tenance, 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. 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 protect 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 under

the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Watch what you are do-

ing; 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 optional attachment) below waist level and

away from all parts of your body. Do not raise engine above your waist.

• Keep all parts of you rbody away from muffler and spinning line (or other op-

tional attachment). Keep engine be- low waist level. A hot muffler can

cause serious burns.

• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach or use from unstable sur-

faces 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).

UNIT / MAINTENANCE SAFETY

_.WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug before performing mainte-

nance except carburetor adjustments,

• Look for and replace damaged or loose parts before each use. Look for

and repair 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 CraftsmanCR_ brand line. Never use wire, rope, string, etc.

• Install required shield properly before using the unit. Use only specified trim-

mer head; make sure it is properly installed and securely fastened.

• Make sure unit is assembled correctly 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 performed

by a Sears Service Center.

FUEL SAFETY

• 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 starting en-

gine. Stop engine and allow to cool before removing fuel cap.

• Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in

the carburetor by starting the engine and letting it run until it stops.

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

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

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

TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE

• Stop the unit before carrying.

• Allow engine to cool before storing or transporting in vehicle.

• Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in

the carburetor by starting the engine and letting it run until it stops.

• Store or transport unit with spark plug facing up.

• Do not store or transport unit with spark plug facing down (see STOR-

AGE section for additional informa- tion).

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

flames from water heaters, electric mo- tors or switches, furnaces, etc.

• Store unit so line limiter blade cannot accidentally cause injury.

• 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 dam-

age 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 atten-

tion. An anti-vibration system does not guarantee the avoidance of these prob-

lems. Users who operate power tools

on a continual and regular basis must

monitor closely their physical condition

and the condition of this tool. SPECIAL NOTICE: This unit is

equipped with a temperature limiting

muffler and spark arresting screen

which meets the requirements of Cali- fornia Codes 4442 and 4443. All U.S.

forest land and the states of California,

Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington require by

law that many internal combustion en-

gines be equipped with a spark arrest-

ing screen. If you operate in a locale

where such regulations exist, you are

legally responsible for maintaining the

operating condition of these parts.

Failure to do so is a violation of the law. For normal homeowner use, the muffler and spark arresting screen will

not require any service. After 50 hours

of use, we recommend that your muf- fler be serviced or replaced by a

Sears Service Center.

_WARNING:Theengineexhaust fromthisproductcontainschemicals

knowntotheStateofCaliforniato causecancer,birthdefects,orother reproductiveharm.

LINE TRIMMER SAFETY

WARNING: Inspect the area to

be trimmed before each use. Remove objects (rocks, broken glass, nails,

wire, etc.) which can be thrown by or become entangled in line. Hard ob-

jects can damage the trimmer head and be thrown causing serious injury.

• Only use the trimmer attachment for trimming, scalping, mowing and

sweeping. Do not use the trimmer at- tachment for edging, pruning or hedge

trimming.

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

throw debris away from the operator.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES

FOR OPTIONAL ATTACHMENTS

'_WARNING: For each optional attachment used, read entire opera-

tors manual before use and follow all warnings and instructions in manual

and on attachment. _WARNING: Ensure handlebar is

installed when using 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.

__ebar

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 se-

riously cut you or others.

• Allow blade to stop before removing it from the cut.

i '

Bladerotates Allowbladetostop

after the fromthe cut. J

release_

td_lgeris _/

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

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 ad- justing 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 using 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 except a clean, hard area while engine is run-

ning. Debris such as gravel, sand, dust, grass, etc., could be picked up

by the air intake and thrown out through discharge opening, damag-

ing unit, property, or causing serious injury to bystanders or operator.

• Never place objects inside the blower tubes, vacuum tubes or blower outlet. Always direct the blowing debris 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 ani-

mals, break glass, or cause other dam- age.

• 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 dis-

charge tubes free of debris which can accumulate and restrict proper air flow.

beforeremovingit #

• Neverplaceanyobjectinairintake openingasthiscouldrestrictproper

airflowandcausedamagetotheunit.

• Neveruseforspreadingchemicals,

fertilizers,orothersubstanceswhich maycontaintoxicmaterials.

• Toavoidspreadingfire,donotuse nearleaforbrushfires,fireplaces,

barbecuepits,ashtrays,etc.

BRUSHCUTTER SAFETY

_.DANGER: Blade can thrust vio- lently away from material itdoes not cut.

Blade thrust can cause amputation of

arms or legs.

_WARNING: Do not use trimmer head as a fastening device for the

blade.

_WARNING: Only use brushcut- ter attachments that provide a metal

shield with protruding nose.

Prootruding

• Use only specified blade and make sure it is properly installed and se-

curely fastened.

• Cut from your right to your left.

• Always usethe handlebar and a prop- erly adjusted shoulder strap with

blade (see ASSEMBLY instructions in brushcutter attachment operator's

manual).

CULTIVATOR SAFETY _kWARNING: Rotating tines can

cause serious injury. Keep away from

rotating tines. Stop the engine and

disconnect the spark plug before un- clogging tines or making repairs.

_WARNING: The blade contin- ues to spin after the throttle is re-

leased or engine is turned off. The coasting blade can throw objects or seriously cut you if accidentally

touched. Stop the blade by contacting the left hand side of the coasting

blade with material already cut.

Stop coasting _'_ blade by contact _, __,_

with cut material. __ ,,_4._

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 before using the unit. Use the metal shield for

all metal blade use.

.it

4E_WARNING: Inspect the area to

be cultivated before starting the unit.

Remove all debris and hard and sharp objects such as rocks, vines, branch- es, rope, string, etc.

• Avoid heavy contact with solid objects that might stop the tines. If heavy con- tact occurs, stop the engine and in-

spect the unit for damage.

• Never operate the cultivator without the tine cover in place and properly

secured.

• Keep the tines and guard clear of de- bris.

• 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 remove any

build-up. Oil the tines to prevent rust.

• Always wear gloves when servicing or cleaning the tines. The tines be- come very sharp from use.

• Do not run unit at high speed unless cultivating.

HEDGE TRIMMER SAFETY

_.DANGER: RISK OF CUT; KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM BLADE - Blade

moves momentarily after the trigger is released. Do not attempt to clear away

cut material when the blade is in motion. Make sure the switch is in the OFF posi-

tion, the spark plug wire is discon- nected, and the blade has stopped moving before removing jammed mate-

rial from the cutting blade. Do not grab or hold the unit by the cutting blade.

Blades move

momentarily

after the

trigger is

Allow blades to stop before removing

them from the cut.

_WARNING: Falling objects can cause severe head injury. Wear head

protection when operating this unit

with a pole pruner attachment.

_WARNING: fore starting the unit. Remove all de-

bris and hard objects such as rocks, glass, wire, etc. that can ricochet, be

thrown, or otherwise cause injury or damage during operation.

• Do not use a cutting blade that is bent, warped, cracked, broken or damaged

in any other way. Have worn or dam- aged 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.

POLE PRUNER SAFETY

_WARNING: The reciprocating blade/rotating chain can cause severe injury. Inspect the unit before use. Do

not operate unit with a bent, cracked or dull blade or dull chain. Keep away from the blade/chain.

WARNING: The reciprocating

blade/rotating chain is sharp. Do not touch. To prevent serious injury, always stop engine and ensure blade/chain

has stopped moving, disconnect spark plug, and wear gloves when changing or handling the blade or chain.

AI_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.

Inspect the area be-

_WARNING: To prevent serious

injury, do not use more than one boom

extension with 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.

• Ifyou strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine im-

mediately and check for damage. Have any damage repaired by a

Sears Service Center before attempt- ing further operations. Discard blades that are bent, warped, cracked or bro-

ken.

• Stop the unit immediately if you feel excessive vibration. Vibration is a

sign of trouble. Inspect thoroughly for loose nuts, bolts or damage before

continuing. Contact Sears Service for repair or replacement of affected

parts as necessary.

SNOW THROWER SAFETY AO&WARNING: Keep hands and feet

away from the rotor when starting or

running the engine. Never attempt to

clear the rotor with the engine/motor

running. Stop engine and disconnect

spark plug before unclogging snow or debris from discharge chute or when adjusting vanes.

•tlWARNING:Neverleanoverdis- chargechute.Rocksordebriscould

bethrownintotheeyesandfaceand causeseriousinjuryorblindness.

_IWARNING:Inspectthearea wheretheunitistobeused.Remove

objectsthatcouldbethrownordam- agetheunit.Someobjectsmaybe

hiddenbyfallensnow-bealertfor thepossibility.

• Directmaterialdischargeawayfrom glassenclosures, 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 hazards.

• Make sure the rotor will spin freely be- fore attaching the snowthrower to the

powerhead.

• If the rotor will not rotate freely due to frozen ice, thaw the unit before thor-

oughly before attempting to operate under power.

• Keep the rotor clear of debris.

• Do not throw snow near other people. The snow thrower could propel small

objects at high speed causing injury.

• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect spark plug and in-

spect the snowthrower for damage and repair if necessary before restart-

ing unit.

• Never operate the snowthrower near glass enclosures, automobiles and trucks.

• Never attempt to use the snowthrow- er on a roof.

• Never operate the snowthrower near window wells, dropoffs, etc.

• Never discharge snow onto public roads or near moving traffic.

• Clear snow from slopes by going up and down; never across. Use caution

when changing directions. Never clear snow from steep slopes.

• Let snowthrower run for a few minutes after clearing snow so moving parts

do not freeze.

• Look behind and use care when backing up. Exercise caution to avoid

slipping or falling, especially when op- erating in reverse.

• Know how to stop quickly.

CARTON CONTENTS Check carton contents against the fol-

lowing list. Model 358.796160

• Trimmer

• Shield

• Wing Nut (screwed onto shield)

• Shoulder strap

• Container of line

• Container of oil Examine parts for damage. Do not

use damaged parts.

NOTE: If you need assistance or find

parts missing or damaged, call

1-800-235-5878. It is normal 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.

A _______

IINIWARNING: If received as- sembled, read and use this ASSEMBLY

section to verify that your unit is properly assembled and that all fasteners are

tightened securely.

INSTALLING TRIMMER

ATTACHMENT CAUTION: When installing trimmer

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

1. Loosen the coupler by turning the knob counterclockwise.

Coupler

Shipping protector

TIGHTEN

2. Remove shipping protector from coupler.

Knob

3. Removetheshaftcapfromthe trimmerattachment(ifpresent).

4. Positionlocking/releasebuttonof

attachmentintoguiderecessof coupler.

5. Pushtheattachmentintothecou-

pleruntilthelocking/releasebutton

snapsintotheprimaryhole.

6. Beforeusingtheunit,tightenthe

knobsecurelybyturningclock-

wise.

Coupler Primary Hole

___'_ Guide Recess

Upper Relea_ge/ Attachment

Shaft

_f_,WARNING" 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 other- wise stated in the applicable attachment

operator's manual. Using the wrong hole could lead to serious injury or dam- age to the unit.

Button

Secondary Hole

2. Insert bracket into slot as shown.

3. Pivot shield until bolt passes through hole in bracket.

4. Securely tighten wing nut onto bolt.

Bracket "_ ?j._,........

Slot __'_/_ Wing Nut

Shield

ATTACHING THE SHOULDER

STRAP

WARNING: Proper shoulder

strap 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.

NOTE: A one-half twist is built in 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 below the waist.

3. Fasten the strap hook to the shoul- der strap attachment hole located

on the trigger handle and lift the tool to the operating position.

Locking/Release Button in Primary Hole

For optional attachments, see the AS-

SEMBLY section of the applicable at- tachment operator's manual.

ATTACHING SHIELD _,WARNING: The shield must be

properly installed. The shield provides partial protection to the operator and

others from the risk of thrown objects, and is equipped with a line limiter 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 KNOWYOUR TRIMMER illustration in OP-

ERATION section.

1. Remove wing nut from shield.

_houtder strap

\ attachment

4. Try on shoulder strap and adjust for fit and balance before starting

the engine or beginning a cutting operation.

ADJUSTING THE ASSIST HANDLE _,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.

hole

KNOW YOUR TRIMMER

READ THIS OPERATOR'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR

UNIT. Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location of the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Assist Handle

Trimmer Head

Limiter Blade

Shaft

Coupler

Choke Spark Plug

Lever _/

Muffler

ON/OFF Switch

Line __,_//

Throttle S Starter Handle Trigger

ON/OFF SWITCH Tile 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.

CHOKE

Tile CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the engine to aid in cold starting. Activate the choke by moving the red choke lever to

the FULL CHOKE position.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

_,WARNING: Be sure to read the fuel information in the safety rules

before you begin. If you do not under- stand the safety rules, do not attempt

to fuel your unit. Call 1-800-235-5878. OIL CAPACITY

The engine holds approximately 3 ounces of oil. Use only high quality

detergent oil rated with API service classification SJ-SL Select the oil's

SAE viscosity grade according to your expected operating temperature. For

most applications, SAE-30 oil is rec- ommended. Do not use special addi-

tives.

Fuelfill

Primer Bulb Dipstick

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.

COUPLER

The COUPLER enables optional at- tachments to be installed on the unit.

,_.,_--. NOTE: Synthetic oil meet-

'\_

_ ing ILSAC GF-2, API certifi-;," '" cation mark and API ser-

,<._o,_j vice symbol (shown at left)

with "SJ/CF ENERGY CON-

acceptable oil at all temper-

O SERVING" or higher, is an

atures. Use of synthetic oil does not alter required

oil change intervals.

SAE Viscosity Grades

i t I

>r 2+0 ._o 70 7o _ J ;_

S+AR I iftO IE%I_ERATURE RA_IGE AN I CIPA ED P:mro_ E I,E_ OIL C_AN6F

CAUTION: Air cooled engines run hotter than automotive engines. The

use of non-synthetic multi-viscosity oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.) in tempera- tures above 40"F (4"C) will result in

higher than normal oil consumption. When using a multi-viscosity oil,

check oil level more frequently to avoid possible engine damage from

running low on oil. *CAUTION: Synthetic oil must be

used when operating engine under 40"F (4"C) or engine damage will oc- cur.

**CAUTION: SAE 30 oil, if used be- low 50°F (10°C), will result in hard

starting and possible engine damage due to inadequate lubrication.

ADD OIL Your trimmer is shipped without oil in

the engine. The engine holds approxi- mately 3 fluid ounces (90 ml) of oil when at the FULL mark on the oil dip- stick. Included with this trimmer is a 3.4

ounce (90 ml) container of SAE 30 SJ- SL oil for properly filling the engine with

oil for first time use only. Pour the entire contents of this 3.4 ounce container of

oil into the oil fill spout. NOTE: The dipstick will show slightly above FULL. This is acceptable for

first time use only as the engine breaks in. After the first time oil fill, sim-

ply refill the engine with oil to the FULL mark on the dipstick as needed. CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with

oil or it will smoke on start-up.

CAUTION: KEEP ENGINE LEVEL

---- r ------ ....

1 ounce ---.,__

0.5 ounce __

1. Be sure engine is level and area around oil fill is clean.

2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill spout.

3. Using a measure cup, pour oil slowly down the oil fill spout into

the engine. Do not overfill.

NOTE: Engine holds approximately 3

ounces (90 ml) of oil.

Oilfill

Wait one minute to allow oil to settle. Insert and hand tighten dipstick.

Remove dipstick and wipe clean with cloth. Clear dipstick hole of oil.

Insert and hand tighten dipstick, then remove it to check oil level.

\Dipstick.. f_-

Engine must be level, with oil fill facing up, to check oil. If engine is not level,

dipstick reading will not be accurate.

This will lead to possible over or under filling causing damage to the engine.

Check oil level before starting the en- gine.

• Check oil level before every use.

• Keep oil level at FULL.

• DO NOT overfill. Use a measure cup for filling.

• Add only 1 ounce--0.5 ounce at a time.

6. Verify FULL level of oil by presence of oil in hole on dipstick, or by

measure line.

FULL _._._

7. If needed, add 0.5 ounce of oil at a time and recheck the dipstick until

oil reaches the FULL level.

8. Always be sure to retighten oil dip- stick before starting engine.

Check oil level before each use. Add oil if needed. Fill to FULL line on dip-

stick. Change oil after first 4 hours of use, then every 8 hours of operation or each season (see CHANGE ENGINE

OIL in the MAINTENANCE section). Change oil every 4 hours when oper-

ating the engine under heavy load or in high temperatures. You may need

to change the oil more often under dusty, dirty conditions.

ADD GASOLINE

Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gas-

oline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase

fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

IMPORTANT Alcohol blended fuels (called gaeohol

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

tion and formation of acids during stor- age. Acidic gas can damage the fuel

system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, empty the fuel system before storage for 30 days

or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh

fuel next season.

Never use engine or carburetor cleaner

products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

See the STORAGE section for additional information.

_WARNING: Fill to bottom of gas tank filler neck. DO NOT overfill. Wipe off any spilled fuel. Do not store, spill

or use gasoline near an open flame. ,AI_WARNING: Allow engine to cool

for 2 minutes before removing fuel cap for refueling. Remove fuel cap slowly.

1. Tilt engine in angle shown to prop- erly fill fuel tank.

_'F'FFuelfill

2. Remove fuel cap by turning coun- terclockwise. Fill tank to bottom of

tank filler neck.

3. Replace fuel cap before starting.

HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT

• Release the throttle trigger.

• Move the ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.

• If engine does not stop, move red choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.

ON/OFF SWITCH

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

your engine for the FIRST time, follow

O f you are starting

the steps listed in the STARTING A

NEW ENGINE section.

A _______ all, WARNING: Avoid any contact with the muffler. A hot muffler can

cause serious burns.

Starting Position

Choke Lever Muffler

Throttle Trigger

Prime Bulb

STARTING A NEW ENGINE

NOTE: Add oil and fuel as instructed

in this manual prior to attempting to

start engine (see ADD OIL and ADD GASOLINE sections),

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 15

times,

3. Move red choke lever to FULL

CHOKE position.

4. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and

hold through all remaining steps.

5. Pullstarterropehandlesharplyuntil engineruns.

6. Oncetheenginestarts,allowitto

runamaximumof10secondsat FULLCHOKE.Then,slowlymove

theredchokelevertotheHALF

CHOKEposition.

7. Allowtheunittorunaminimumof 20moresecondsatHALFCHOKE

(coldertemperaturesmayrequire longerwarm-upperiodsbefore

theenginewillacceptaloadand

accelerateproperly).

8. MoveredchokelevertoOFF CHOKEpositionandallowtheunitto

runaminimumof20moreseconds atOFFCHOKE.Releasethethrottle

trigger.

STARTING ENGINE

NOTE: Check oil level before starting.

Oil level should be at the FULL mark on the dipstick. If not, add oil (see ADD OIL section).

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 8

times.

3. Move red choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.

4. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and hold through all remaining steps.

5. Pull starter rope handle sharply until engine runs.

6. Once the engine starts, allow it to run a maximum of 10 seconds at

FULL CHOKE. Then, slowly move

the red choke lever to the HALF

CHOKE position.

7. Allow the unit to run a minimum of 20 more seconds at HALF CHOKE

(colder temperatures may require longer warm-up periods before

the engine will accept a load and

accelerate properly).

8. Move red choke lever to OFF CHOKE position and allow the unit to

run a minimum of 20 more seconds at OFF CHOKE. Release the throttle

trigger.

RESTARTING A WARM ENGINE

Follow steps listed in the STARTING ENGINE section without squeezing throttle trigger.

If the unit will not start, refer to the 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 attach- ments are:

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

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

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

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

Pruner .............. 358=79245

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

moving or installing attachments.

REMOVING TRIMMER ATTACH- MENT (OR OTHER OPTIONAL AT-

TACHMENTS)

CAUTION: When removing or instal-

ling attachments, place the unit on a

flat surface for stability.

1. Loosen the coupler by turning the knob counterclockwise.

Upper Shaft

Coupler

Attachment

TIGHTEN Knob

2. Press and hold the locking/release button.

Locking/Release Button

/ cup er_== Upper Shaft

Attachment

3. While securely holding the engine and upper shaft, pull the attach- ment straight out of the coupler=

INSTALLING OPTIONAL

ATTACHMENTS

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 clockwise=

Coupler Primary Hole

Upper Locking/

Shaft Release

Guide Recess

Attachment

Button

_WARNING:Makesurethelock- ing/releasebuttonislockedinthepri-

maryholeandtheknobissecurely tightenedbeforeoperatingtheunit.All

attachmentsaredesignedtobeusedin theprimaryholeunlessotherwise

statedintheapplicableattachmentop- erator'smanual.Usingthewronghole couldleadtoseriousinjuryordamage

totheunit.

Secondary Hole

Locking/Release Button in Primary Hole

OPERATING POSITION

ALWAYS WEAR: _ |*'t---'-_

Long pa

r strap

near and parallel to the ground and not crowded into material being cut.

Do not run the engine at a higher speed

than necessary. The cutting line will cut 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 tile throttle trigger.

• Move the ON/OFF switch to the OFF position.

CUTTING METHODS '_&WARNING: Use minimum

speed and do not crowd the line when cutting around hard objects (rock, gravel, fence posts, etc.), which can

damage the trimmer head, become entangled in the line, or be thrown

causing a serious hazard.

• The tip of the line does the cutting. You will achieve the best perform- ance and minimum line wear by not

crowding the line into the cutting area. The right and wrong ways are shown in the following illustrations.

Tip of line does the Line crowded into

work area.

_ heye protlection

Cut only from your left to your right.

,_LWARNING: 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.

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

• Wear eye protection and heavy clothing.

• Hold trigger handle with right hand and assist handle with left hand.

• Hold unit so that engine is below waist level.

• Cut only from your left to your right to ensure debris is thrown away from you. Without bending over, keep line

Right Wrong

• The line will easily remove grass and weeds from around walls,

fences, trees and flower beds, but it also can cut the tender bark of trees

or shrubs and scar fences.

• For trimming or scalping, use less than full throttle to increase line life

and decrease head wear, especially:

• During light duty cutting.

• Near objects around which the line

can wrap such as small posts, trees or fence wire.

• For mowing or sweeping, use full throttle for a good clean job.

TRIMMING - Hold the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 inches (8 cm) above the ground and at an angle. Al-

low only the tip of the line to make

contactwithvegetation.Donotforce trimmerlineintoworkarea.

Trimming

3 inches (8 cm above ground

SCALPING - The scalping technique removes unwanted vegetation down

to the ground. Hold the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 inches (8 cm) above the ground and at an angle. Al-

low the tip of the line to strike the ground around trees, posts, monu- ments, etc. This technique increases

line wear.

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.

Scalping

j_ Sweeping

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

Check engine oil level Inspect and clean unit and decals Change engine oil

Service air filter Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen

Replace spark plug Replace fuel filter

Change oil after first 4 hours of use, then every 8 hours or every season, Change oil

every 4 hours when operating the engine under heavy load or in high temperatures,

** Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present. Replace

air cleaner parts ifvery dirty.

Before After

Every Every

Use Use

8 Hours or

Every Season

50 Hours or

Every Season

+ 32 hidden pages

Craftsman 358796160 Owner’s Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual