Craftsman 358.798980, 358.798960 Operator's Manual

IMPORTANT MANUAL

Do Not Throw Away

Operator's

Manual

Model No.

358.798960

358.798980

Always Wear Eye Protection

CUSTOMER

ASSISTANCE

1-800-235-5878

~[RAFTSMAN

®

HOURS (CST) .

Mon. - Sat. 7 a.m.• 7 p.m

Sun.10a.m.·7p.m. 32cc 2-CYCLE ENGINE

170 mph Air Velocity

GASOLINE BLOWERNAC

Ii.. WARNING

as

Read the operator's manual
and follow all warnings and
safety instructions. Failure
to do so can result in seri-
ous injury.

• Assembly

• Operation

• Customer Responsibilities

• Service and Adjustments

• Repair Parts

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

530-084009 (8/11/95)

SAFETY RULES

A

CAUTION

Always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug to prevent accidental start-
ing when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs.

OPERATOR SAFETY

• Always wear eye protection to prevent rocks or debris from
being blown or ricocheting into eyes and face which can result
in blindness and/or other serious injury.

• Always wear a respirator or facemask when working with the
unit in dusty environments.

• Always wear heavy, long pants, boots, and gloves. (To avoid
shock of static electricity, do not wear rubber gloves.) Do not
go barefoot or wear short pants, sandals, jewelry, loose cloth-
ing, or clothing with loosely hanging straps, ties, tassels, etc.;
they can be caught in moving parts. Secure hair so it is above
shoulder length.

• Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

• Keep others including children, animals, bystanders and
helpers at least 30 feet (10 meters) away. Stop the engine
immediately if you are approached.

• Inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris
and hard objects such as rocks, glass, wire, etc. that can rico-
chet, be thrown, or otherwise cause injury or damage during
operation.

UNITIMAINTENANCE SAFETY

• Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance except
for carburetor adjustment.

• Use only genuine replacement parts as recommended by
SEARS to avoid creating a hazard and/or voiding your war-
ranty.

• Check air intake openings, blower tubes, elbow tube, and vac-
uum tubes frequently, always with the engine stopped. Keep
vents and tubes free of debris which can accumulate and
restrict proper air flow.

• Use only quality SEARS accessories and replacement parts
as recommended for this unit.

• Have all maintenance and service not explained in this manu-
al performed by your SEARS Service Center.

FUEL SAFETY

• Mix and pour fuel outdoors.

• Keep away from sparks or flames.

• Use a container approved for fuel.

• Do not smoke or allow smoking near fuel or the unit or while
using the unit.

• Wipe up all fuel spills before starting engine.

• Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from fueling site before
starting engine.

• Stop engine and allow unit to cool before removing fuel cap.

OPERATION SAFETY

• Stop the engine before opening the vacuum inlet door or

attempting to insert or remove the vacuum tubes. The engine
must be stopped and the impeller blades no longer turning to
avoid serious injury from the rotating blades.

• Inspect the entire unit before each use for worn, loose, miss-
ing, or damaged parts. Do not use until the unit is in proper
working order.

• Keep the outside surfaces free of oil and fuel.

• Never start or run unit inside a closed room or building.
Breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

• Never use for spreading chemicals, fertilizers, or any other
material which may contain toxic substances.

• Do not set the unit on any surface except a clean, hard area
to start the engine or while the engine is running. Debris such
as gravel, sand, dust, grass, etc. could be picked up by the air
intake and thrown out through the discharge opening, dam-
aging the unit, property, or causing serious injury to
bystanders or the operator.

• Avoid dangerous environments. Do not use in unventilated
areas or where explosive vapors or carbon monoxide build up
could be present.

• Avoid situations which could set the vacuum bag on fire. Do
not vacuum discarded cigars or cigarettes or ash from fire-
places, barbecue pits, brush piles, etc.To avoid spreading fire,
do not use blower near leaf or brush fires, fireplaces, barbecue
pits, ashtrays, etc.

• Do not overreach or use from unstable surfaces such as lad-
ders, trees, steep slopes, rooftops, etc. Use extra care when

cleaning on stairways. Keep firm footing and balance at all
times.

• Never place objects inside the blower tubes; 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 animals, break glass, or cause other
damage. Do not allow the unit to be used as a toy.

• Never place any object in the air intake opening as this could

restrict proper air flow and cause damage to the unit.

• Never run unit without the proper equipment attached. When

used as a blower, always install a blower tube. When used as
a vacuum, always install vacuum tubes and vacuum bag
assembly.

• Use only for jobs explained in this manual.

TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE

• Stop the unit before transporting.

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

transporting in a vehicle.

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

up any fuel left in the carburetor by starting the engine and let-
ting the engine run until it stops.

• Store unit and fuel in an area where fuel vapors cannot reach

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

• Store the unit out of the reach of children.

SAFETY NOTICE

Exposure to vibrations through prolonged use of ~asoline powered hand units could cause blood vessel or nerve damage in the
fingers, hands, and joints of people prone to circu ation disorders or abnormal swellings. Prolonged use in cold weather has been
linked to blood vessel damage in otherwise healthy people. If symptoms occur such as numbness, pain, loss of strength, change in
skin color or texture, or loss of feelings in the fingers, hands or joints, discontinue the use of this unit and seek medical attention. An
anti-vibration system does not ~uarantee the avoidance of these problems. Users who operate power tools on a continual and regu-
lar basis must monitor closely t eir physical condition and the condition of this unit.

A

LOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL TO POINT OUT IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

IT MEANS - ATTENTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.

-2-

SAFETY RULES

This unit is designed for blower and vacuum use
only. Never use any other attachments with this
unit except the optional gutter attachment.

Ii..

WARNING

~ This

power

unit canbedangerous! This unit can cause serious injury or blindness to the operator and others.
The warnings and safety instructions in this manual must be followed to provide reasonable safety and efficien-
cy in using this unit. The operator is responsible for following the warnings and instructions in this manual and
on the unit. Read the entire operator's manual before assembling and using this unit! Hestrict the use of the
power unit to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on
the unit. Never allow children to use this tool.

Read Operator's Manual. Follow all warnings and
instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious
injury.

liD

A

WARNING

Blower can throw objects violently. You can be
blinded or injured. Wear eye and leg protection.

~

Face
Shield

Hazard zone for blown objects. Blower can throw
objects violently. Others can be blinded or
injured. Keep people and animals

30

feet

(10

meters) away.

-

....._

___""""...

Operator's

Manual

-3-

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a Sears
Craftsman Gasoline Blower. It has been designed, engi-
neered and manufactured to give you the best possible
dependability and performance.

Should you experience any problems you cannot easily

remedy, please contact your nearest Sears Service Cen-
ter/Department or call the 1-800 number listed on the front
of this manual. Sears has competent, well trained techni-
cians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit.

Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will
enable you to assemble and maintain your unit properly.
Always observe the "SAFETY RULES."

MODEL NUMBER:

358.798960

358.798980

DATE CODE/SERIAL NO.:

DATE OF PURCHASE:

THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBER WILL BE

FOUND ON THE PRODUCT.

YOU SHOULD RECORD BOTH SERIAL NUMBER
AND DATE OF PURCHASE AND KEEP IN A SAFE

PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

A Sears Maintenance Agreement is available on this
product. Contact your nearest Sears Store for details.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Read and observe the safety rules.

• Follow a regular schedule in maintaining, caring for, and
using your unit.

• Follow the instructions under "Customer Responsibi-
lities" and "Storage" sections of this Operator's Manual.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

AIR VELOCITY 170mph

AIR VOLUME 350 cu. ft.lmin.

ENGINE 32cc 2-cycle Air-Cooled

ENGINE RPM 7000-7600

Operating 3800-4600
Idle .

FUEUOIL MIX RATIO 40:1 (3.2 oz. per

gallon gas)

IGNITION Solid State

(Airgap

010"to.014")

IGNITION TIMING Non-adjustable, fixed

SPARK PLUG Champion (RCJ-SY)

SPARK PLUG GAP 025"

SPECIAL NOTICE
For users on U.S. Forest Land and in some states, including
California (Public Resources Codes 4442 and 4443), Idaho,
Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington:
Certain internal combustion engines operated on forest,
brush, and/or grass-covered lands in the above areas are
required to be equipped with a spark arrestor, maintained in
effective working order, or the engine must be constructed,
equipped, and maintained for the prevention of fire. Check

with your state or local authorities for regulations pertaining to
these requirements. Failure to follow these requirements is a
violation of the law. This unit is not factory-equipped with a
spark arrestor; however, a spark arrestor is available as an
optional part. If a spark arrestor is required in your area, con-
tact your SEARS Service Center/Department for the correct

kit.

Manufactured under one or moreofthe following U.S. patents: 5.269.665; 5.211,144;

5.174.255; 5.035.586: 4.940.028: 4.846.123; 4,674,146; 4,474,327; 4.413.371; 4,404,706;
4,402.106; 4.387.852; 4.325,163; 4.286.675; Re.33.050; 0349,983; 0322.971; 0304.510:

0299.074; 0266,355; 0263.547. Other U.S.and foreign patents pending.

FULL TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON SEARS BEST CRAFTSMAN GAS BLOWER

For two (2) years from date of purchase, when this Gas Blower is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the
instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair, free of charge, any defects in material or workmanship.

This warranty excludes blower tubes, spark plug and air cleaner, which are expendable parts and become worn during

normal use.

If this Blower is used for commercial purposes, this warranty applies for 90 days from date of purchase. If this Blower is

used for rental purposes this warranty applies for 30 days from date of purchase. This warranty applies only while this
product is in use in the United States.

WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE BLOWER TO THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER
IN THE UNITED STATES.

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

SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., D/817WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179

-4-

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Safety Rules 2

Product Specifications

.4

warranty 4
Accessories 5
Assembly 6
Operation 9

Customer Responsibilities 15
Service and Adjustments 18

Storage

21

Trouble Shooting Points 22
Repair Parts 23
Repair Parts Ordering/Service Back Cover

INDEX

A
Accessories 5
Adjustments

Carburetor 20
Air Filter 16
Assembly 6

B

Blower Tube 7

C

Carburetor Adjustments 20
Carton Contents 6
Customer Responsibilities 15

Spark Plug 4, 16

E

Engine

Fuel/Oil 13
Spark Plug 4, 16
Starting 14
Storage 21

F

Fuel Filter 17
Fueling 13

H

How To Use Your BlowerNac 10

K

Know Your Blower 9

M

Maintenance Schedule 15

Model Number 4

o

Operation 9

p

Product Specifications

.4

R

Repair Parts 23

Ordering Back Cover

S

Service and Adjustments 18
Starter Rope 18
Starting 14
Storage 21

T

Trouble Shooting Points 22

V

Vacuum Bag ..18
Vacuum Tube 7

W

Warranty 4

ACCESSORIES

These accessories and attachments were available when the unit was originally purchased. They are also available at most
Sears retail outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can order these items for you when you provide the model

number of your unit.

Accessories

Safety Spark Gutter Vacuum Gas Air Sears 2-Cycle

Goggles Plug Attachment Kit Attachment Kit Can Filter Engine Oil

A ~""~.

n"

~ ~ Q«~

t3

M ~.

~

-5-

CARTON CONTENTS

Parts packed separately in carton

358.798960

Flare Nozzle

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Blower Tube

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3.2 oz.

40:1

Operator's Manual

2-Cycle Engine Oil

358.798980

Parts packed separately in carton

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Operator's Manual

Flare Nozzle

Blower Tube

.3.2 oz.

40:1

2-Cycle

Engine Oil

ASSEMBLY

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

• Standard Screwdriver

TO REMOVE BLOWER FROM CARTON

• Remove carton contents included with Blower.

• Remove your Blower from the packing material.

• You may use the opened packing material as a work sur-
face.

• After removing the contents from the carton, check parts
against the Carton Contents list.

• Examine the parts for damage. Do not use damaged
parts.

• Notify Customer Assistance at 1-800-235-5878 immedi-
ately ifapart is missing or damaged.

NOTE -

It is normal to hear the fuel filter rattle in an empty

fuel tank.

-6-

ASSEMBLY

HOW TO ASSEMBLE YOUR BLOWER

r>...

WARNING

as

Stop the engine before opening the vacuum
inlet door or attempting to insert or remove the
vacuum tubes. The engine must be stopped and
the impeller blades no longer turning to avoid
serious injury from the rotating blades.

BLOWER TUBE ASSEMBLY (Fig. 1)

• Locate the two locking tabs on the side of the blower
tube.

• Align the grooves on the nozzle with the locking tabs on
the blower tube and push the nozzle onto the blower
tube.

• Turn the nozzle clockwise until the parts snap into place
and are firmly tightened.

• Align grooves on the blower tube with locking tabs in the
blower outlet (inset) and push the blower tube into the
blower outlet.

• Turn the blower tube clockwise until the parts snap into

place and are firmly tightened.

• Turn flare nozzle and blower tube counterclockwise for

removal.

Locking Tabs

Blower
Outlet

Grooves \

Blower Tube

Flare Nozzle \ \

~~{h

~'U~!

Glves Locking Tabs

Figure 1

VACUUM TUBE ASSEMBLY

(Fig. 2 & 3)

• Remove the blower tube from the engine.

• Set the unit, blower outlet up, on a flat surface. Open the
vacuum inlet cover as follows:

- Insert a screwdriver into latch area.

- Gently tilt the tip of the screwdriver forward towards the

blower outlet and open the vacuum inlet cover with
your other hand.

• Hold open vacuum inlet cover and align the grooves on
the upper vacuum tube with the locking tabs inside the
vacuum inlet. Insert the upper vacuum tube and turn
clockwise until parts snap together.

• Assemble the vacuum tubes by aligning the slanted end
of the lower vacuum tube with the blower outlet as

shown. Push the two tubes together until they are snug.

NOTE -

The bottom end of the lower vacuum tube is cut at
an angle. Make sure slanted end of vacuum tube is aligned
with blower outlet.

Locking Tabs

Figure 2

Figure 3

-7-

ASSEMBLY

VACUUM BAG ASSEMBLY (Fig. 4, 5, 6 & 7)

• Open the zipper on the large end of the vacuum bag.

• Insert the elbow tube, grooved end first, through the zip-
per opening in the vacuum bag. Then, push the grooved
end of the elbow tube through the vacuum bag tube
opening in the other end of the vacuum bag. Make sure
the vacuum bag tube opening is flush against the tube
flange.

• Close the zipper on the vacuum bag. Make sure the zip-
per is closed completely and the zipper seam is tucked
toward the inside of the vacuum bag,

Figure 4

Figure 5

• To attach the vacuum bag, align the grooves on the
elbow tube with the locking tabs inside the blower outlet.
Be sure to align the dot marked mulch on the elbow tube

with the dot on the blower housing. Insert elbow tube into

blower outlet; twist elbow tube counterclockwise until

parts snap together. Assure bent end of elbow points
downward toward vacuum tube.

• Adjust the vacuum bag at the elbow tube to remove any
twists.

• Slide the looped strap over the end of vacuum tube as
shown in Figure 6.

Elbow
Curved

~tothe

Right

Figure 6

Vacuum Bag/
Shoulder Strap
Seam

Strap Retainer

Figure 7

SHOULDER STRAP ADJUSTMENT (Fig. 7)

• Place vacuum bag strap around your back and over your
left shoulder. Snap vacuum bag hook onto the strap
retainer in the top handle.

• Adjust the shoulder strap until the vacuum tube is
suspended off the ground.

BLOWER CONVERSION

• Stop the engine. Allow the engine to cool.

• Remove the vacuum tubes and vacuum bag assembly.

• Secure the vacuum inlet cover. Make sure that the latch
on the vacuum inlet cover is securely fastened.

• Reinstall the blower tubes as shown in the "Blower Tube
Assembly" section.

CHECK LIST

• Check all fasteners. Make sure they are tight and there
are no loose parts.

-8-

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR BLOWER (Fig. 8)

READ THIS OPERATOR'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR BLOWER. Compare the illus-
trations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location of the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for

future reference.

Spark

...----Plug

Primer Bulb

,

Assist Handle
on Some Models
(See Hardware Chart)

j

Flare Nozzle

<,

Blower

Tube

/

Starter

...----- Rope

Handle

Figure

8

The CHOKE LEVER is used for starting a cold engine.

The STARTER ROPE HANDLE is used for starting the
engine.

The THROTILE TRIGGER controls engine speed.

The IGNITION SWITCH is used to stop/start the engine.

The FLARE NOZZLE is used to disperse the air

flow

over

a wider area.

The THROTTLE LOCK is used to hold the throttle in the
run and starting position.

The PRIMER BULB is used to circulate fuel to the carbu-
retor.

-9-