Craftsman BRUSHWACKER 358.795180 Instruction Manual

Instruction Manual

I CRRFTSMRN°I

32cc/1.9 cu.in. 2-Cycle
GASOLINE BRUSHWACKER ®

Model No.

358.795180

• Safety

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts List

• Espa_ol

For Occasional Use Only

DANGER:

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.

530088128 12/3/01

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 15
Safety Rules 2 Troubleshooting Table 16

Assembly 5 Emissions Statement 16
Operation 8 Parts List 18

Maintenance 13 Spanish 21
Service & Adjustments 14 Parts and Ordering Back Cover

FULL TWO YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ® GAS POWERED
BRUSHWACKER ® BLADED TRIMMER.

For two years from the date of purchase, when this Craftsman Gas Powered
Brushwacker is maintained, lubricated, and tuned up according to the operating

and maintenance instructions in the instruction manual, Sears will repair, free of
charge, any defect in materials or workmanship.

This warranty excludes nylon line, spark plug, and air filter, which are expendable

parts and become worn during normal use.
If this Brushwacker is used for commercial purposes, this warranty applies for only 90

days from the date of purchase. If this Brushwacker is used for rental purposes, this
warranty applies for only 30 days from the date of purchase.

This warranty applies only while this product is in use in the United States.
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY RETURNING THE BRUSHWACKER TO THE

NEAREST SEARS STORE OR 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, H offman Estates, IL 60179

dlIIWARNING: When using gar-
dening appliances, basic safety pre-
cautions must always be followed to

reduce the risk of fire and serious
injury.

,_ 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 instruction

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.

INSTRUCTION SAFETY INFORMATION
MANUAL ON THE UNIT

,_ DANGER: Blade can thrust vio-

lently away from material it does not
cut. Blade thrust can cause amputa-
tion of arms or legs. Keep people and

animals 50 feet (15 meters) away.

,_ WARNING: Trimmer line can

throw objects violently. You and others
can be blinded or injured. Wear safety

glasses and leg protection.

WEAR:

ALWAYSEye_ Thrown-'_

tt Protection_ ObjectsI

.. LegGuardsi_°_

Boots

A(}/LWARNING: Hazard zone for

thrown objects. Blade/Trimmer line
can throw objects violently. Others can

be blinded or injured. Keep people

and animals 50 feet (15 meters) away.

___ _td z°ne

_WARNING: Do not use trimmer

head as a fastening device for the
blade.

WARNING: The blade continues

to spin after the throttle is released or,

engine is turned off. The coasting blade

can throw objects or seriously cut if ac-
cidentally touched. Stop the blade by

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

Stop coasting
blade by contact

with cut material.

®

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

_ILWARNING: 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 dam-

aged in any other way. Replace trim-
mer 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.

• Use only Craftsman <_brand replace-
ment line. Never use wire, rope,

string, etc.

• Install required shield properly before
using the unit. Use the metal shield
for all metal blade use. Use the plastic
shield for all line trimmer use.

• Use only specified blade or trimmer
head; make sure it is properly in-

stalled and securely fastened.

• Never start engine with clutch
shroud removed. The clutch can fly
off and cause serious injury.

• Besurebladeortrimmerheadstops
turningwhenengineidles.

• Makecarburetoradjustmentswith
thelowerendsupportedtoprevent

bladeortrimmerlinefromcontacting
anyobject.Holdunitbyhand;donot

usetheshoulderstrapforsupport.

• Keepothersawaywhenmakingcar-
buretoradjustments.

• UseonlyrecommendedCraftsman_
accessoriesandreplacementparts.

• Haveallmaintenanceandservicenot
explainedinthismanualperformedby

yourSearsServiceCenter.

FUELSAFETY

• Mixandpourfueloutdoors

• Keepawayfromsparksorflames

• Useacontainerapprovedforfuel

• Donotsmokeorallowsmokingnear
fuelortheunitorwhileusingtheunit

• Avoidspillingfueloroil Wipeupall
fuelspillsbeforestartingengine

• Moveatleast10feet(3meters)
awayfromfuelingsitebeforestart-

ingengine

• Stopengineandallowittocoolbe-
foreremovingfuelcap

• Emptythefueltankbeforestoringor
transportingtheunitUseupfuelleft

inthecarburetorbystartingtheen-
gineandletting 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

WARNING: Inspect the area to

be cut before each use Remove ob-

jects (rocks, broken glass, nails, wire,
string, etc.) which can be thrown or

become entangled in the Made or

trimmer head

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

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 ]eve] 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 left

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 in-

jury. The unit can be hung by the
tube.

• Store unit out of reach of children.

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 US
forest land and the states of California,

Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey,

Oregon, and Washington require by law
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

responsible for maintaining the operat-

ing condition of these parts Failure to
do so is a violation of the law For nor-

mal homeowner use, the muffler and
spark arresting screen will not require

any service After 50 hours of use, we

recommend that your muffler be ser-
viced or replaced by your Sears Service

Center

CARTONCONTENTS
Checkcartoncontentsagainstthefol-

lowinglist.

Model 358.795180

• Brushcutter

• Blade Shield Screws (4)

• Cupped Washer

• Large Nut for installing Blades

• Hex Wrench

• Metal Shield

• Plastic Shield

• Shoulder Strap with Warning

• 4-Point Weed Blade

• 8-Point Weed Blade

• Trimmer Head (assembled on unit)

• Handlebar (assembled on unit)

• Wing Nut (screwed onto shield)

• 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.

,_LWARNING: 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

ADJUST AND SECURE THE HAN-

DLEBAR

DANGER: To avoid serious inju-

ry, the barrier portion of the handlebar
must be adjusted and remain installed

as shown to provide a barrier between
operator and the spinning blade. The

handlebar clamp must be positioned
between the arrows on the handlebar

decal.

1. Lift handlebar to upright position.

Handlebar

2,

Rotate handlebar/clamp counter-
clockwise toward engine until
clamp falls into groove of base.

Handlebar

Clamp ',,

Clamp

3. Place the handlebar in a comfort-

able position.

4. Retighten handlebar by turning

clamp knob clockwise until handle-
bar is secure and stationary in

clamp base (clamp knob can not
be overtightened).

ASSEMBLY OF SHOULDER STRAP

WARNING: Proper shoulder

strap and handlebar adjustments are

required before starting the engine.

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

engine or beginning a cutting opera-
tion.

2. 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 in the

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

3. Adjust the strap, allowing the hook
to be about 6 inches below the

waist.

4. Fasten the strap hook to the clamp
located between the trigger handle

and the handlebar clamp base and
lift the tool to the operating position.

Handlebar

Base

CONFIGURINGYOURUNIT

Youcanconfigureyourunitusinga
cuttingheadforgrassandlight

weeds,oraweedbladeforcutting
grass,weeds,andbrushupto1/2

inchindiameter.Toassembleyour
unit,gotothesectionforthedesired

configurationandfollowtheinstruc-
tions.

ASSEMBLYINFORMATION-
TRIMMERHEAD

,,t-Gearbox

l_,_/--- Dust Cup

Cutting Head. _ WasherRetaining

_=_"_..... Washer

Hex Nut _.,_

Alignment

TRIMMER
HEAD

NOTE: Remove the blade and metal

shield before attaching the plastic shield
and trimmer head. To remove blade,

push in locking lever and hold. Rotate
blade nut until the locking lever falls into

one of the grooves in the dust cup.

Continue to hold the locking lever. This

will keep the shaft from turning while

loosening the blade nut. Remove blade
nut by turning clockwise. Release lock-
ing lever. Remove both washers and
blade. To remove metal shield, loosen

and remove the four mounting screws.

See Aq-IACHING THE METAL SHIELD and
INSTALLATIONOF THE METAL BLADE for
illustrations. Be sure to store all parts

and instructions for future use.

INSTALLATION OF THE CUTTING
HEAD (if not already installed)

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. Push in locking lever and hold.

2. Rotate dust cup until the locking
lever falls into one of the grooves.

Locking Lever

5. Place the alignment washer over
the hex nut.

6. Install alignment washer and hex
nut by threading nut onto the shaft

counterclockwise.

NOTE: It will be necessary to use a

deep socket to tighten the hex nut. The

hex nut must be centered in the hole of

the cutting head before tightening.

7. Tighten nut securely (10-12 ft-lbs).

8. Release locking lever.

ATTACHING THE PLASTIC SHIELD

,_/kWARNING: 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 passes
through hole in bracket.

4. Tighten the wing nut securely.

Slot Bracket\ X _'_,_

• L>'-. \_,N_'_d_) Wing Nut

Shield f-----_ ......

ASSEMBLY INFORMATION - WEED

BLADES

WEED
BLADES

3. Continue to hold in locking lever.
This will keep the shaft from turn-

ing while tightening the hex nut.

4. Slide the trimmer head onto the

shaft of the gearbox.

NOTE: Remove the trimmer head

and plastic shield before attaching the

metal shield and installing one of the

weed blades. To remove the trimmer

head, push in locking lever and hold.
Rotate trimmer head until the locking

lever falls into one of the grooves in

the dust cup. Continue to hold in lock-

ing lever. This will keep the shaft from

turning while loosening the hex nut

(the hex nut is located in the center of
the cutting head). It may be neces-
sary to use a deep socket to loosen
the hex nut. Remove the hex nut by

turning clockwise. Remove alignment
washer and trimmer head. Release

locking lever. To remove the plastic
shield, loosen and remove wing nut.

Pivot shield to release bracket from
slot. See INSTALLATION OF THE CUT-

TING HEAD and ATTACHING THE PLAS-
TIC SHIELD for illustrations. Be sure to

store all parts and instructions for fu-
ture use. Never use the trimmer head
with the metal blade installed.

ATTACHING THE METAL SHIELD

_/LWARNING" 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 can

result in serious injury to the operator.
The length of the shield must be

aligned with the length of the tube.

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

INSTALLATION OF THE METAL
BLADE

_/L 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.

_ILWARNING: Do not use any

blades, or fastening hardware other

than the washers and nuts shown in the
following illustrations. These parts must

be provided by 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
retaining 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.
NOTE: When installing 8-point
weed blade, ensure side of blade

with decal is facing gearbox and
points of blade will rotate counter-

clockwise (see illustration).

8-POINT BLADE

DECAL SIDE OF
BLADE MUST
FACE GEARBOX

Shield _,_ _ Gearbox

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.

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.

Shield

Gearbox

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

7. Push in locking lever and hold.

8. Rotate blade nut until the locking
lever falls into one of the grooves

in the dust cup.

Dust Cu

Washer

Retaining

Cupped
Washer

NOTE: Make sure all parts are in place
as illustrated, and the blade is sand-
wiched between the dust cup and the

retaining washer. There should be no

Threaded Shaft

Blade

)-_ Nut

_¢/ Locking Lever

9. Continue to hold in locking lever.
This will keep the shaft from turning
while tightening the blade nut.

10. Tighten blade nut firmly with a
wrench.

11. Release locking lever.

12. 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.

KNOW YOUR BRUSHWACKER
READ THIS INSTRUCTION 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

Tube

\

ON/STOP Switch

Starter Handle

Blade

Throttle
Trigger

Choke Lever

ON/STOP SWITCH

The ON/STOP switch is used to stop the

engine. To stop the engine, push and
release the engine ON/STOP switch.
PRIMER BULB

The PRIMER BULB removes air from the
carburetor and fuel lines and fills them

with fuel. This allows you to start the en-
gine with fewer pulls on the starter rope.

Activate the primer bulb by pressing it
and allowing it to return to its original

form.

Primer Bulb

/-

;HOKE

The CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the

engine to aid in cold starting. Activate

the choke by moving the choke lever to
the FULL CHOKE position. After the en-
gine attempts to start, move the choke

lever to the HALF CHOKE position. Once
engine has started, move the choke le-

ver to the OFF CHOKE position.

BEFORESTARTINGENGINE

,_/LWARNING: 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

_/LWARNING: 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 trimmer is a 3.2 ounce contain-

er of oil. Pour the entire contents of this

container into 1 gallon of gasoline to
achieve the proper fuel mixture. DO

NOT USE automotive oil or boat oil.

These oils will cause engine damage.
When mixing fuel, follow instructions

printed on container.

Once oil is added to gasoline, shake
container momentarily to assure that
the fuel is thoroughly mixed. Always

read and follow the safety rules relat-

ing to fuel before fueling your unit.

IMPORTANT

Experience indicates that alcohol

blended fuels (called gasohol or using

ethanol or methanol) can attract mois-
ture which leads to separation and

formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel sys-

tem of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, empty the
fuel system before 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 clean-

er products in the fuel tank or perma-

nent damage may occur.

See the STORAGE section for addition-
al information.

HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT

• To stop the engine, push and re-
lease the engine ON/STOP switch.
The switch will automatically return
to the ON position. Wait 5 seconds

before attempting to restart unit to
allow switch to reset.

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

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

'_ WARNING: The trimmer head

will turn while starting the engine.
Avoid any contact with the muffler. A

hot muffler can cause serious burns.

STARTING A COLD ENGINE (or a

warm engine after running out of
fuel)

Position

,,___-Starter Handle

Choke
Lever

Primer Bulb

Muffler

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 6
times.

3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE
by aligning lever with position

shown on decal (see illustration
below).

Choke

position
decal

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

5. Pull starter rope handle sharply
until engine sounds as if it is trying

to start, but do not pull rope more
than 6 times.

6. As soon as engine sounds as if it
is trying to start, move choke lever

to HALF CHOKE by aligning lever
with position shown on decal (see

illustration below).

7. Pullstarterropesharplyuntilengine
runs,butnomorethan6pulls.Ifthe
enginedoesn'tstartafter6pulls(at

theHALFCHOKEposition),movethe

chokelevertotheFULLCHOKE
positionandpresstheprimerbulb6

times.Squeezeandholdthethrottle
triggerandpullthestarterrope2

moretimes.Movethechokelever

totheHALFCHOKEpositionandpull
thestarterropeuntiltheengine

runs,butnomorethan6pulls.Ifthe
enginedoesn'tstart,repeatproce-

dure2additionaltimes.
NOTE:Ifenginestilldoesn'tstart,it
isprobablyflooded.Proceedto

STARTINGAFLOODEDENGINE.

8. Oncetheenginestarts,allowitto
run10seconds,thenmovethe

chokelevertoOFFCHOKEbyalign-
ingleverwithpositionshownonde-

cal(seeillustrationbelow).Allowthe
unittorunfor30moresecondsat

OFFCHOKEbeforereleasingthe

throttletrigger.NOTE:Ifenginedies

withthechokeleverintheOFF
CHOKEposition,movethechokele-

vertotheHALFCHOKEpositionand

pulltheropeuntilengineruns,but
nomorethan6pulls.

Choke
position

decal

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

1. Move the choke lever to the HALF
CHOKE position.

2. Squeeze and hold the throttle trig-
ger. Keep throttle trigger fully

squeezed until the engine runs
smoothly.

3. Pull starter rope sharply until engine
runs, but no more than 5 pulls.

4. Allow engine to run 15 seconds,

then move the choke lever to the

OFF CHOKE position.

NOTE: If engine has not started, pull

starter rope 5 more pulls. If engine still
does not run, it is probably flooded.
STARTING A FLOODED ENGINE

Flooded engines can be started by

placing the choke lever in the OFF
CHOKE position; then, pull the rope to

clear the engine of excess fuel. This
could require 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.

OPERATING POSITION

ALWAYS WEAR:

Long Pants

Boots

Cut from your left to your right.

When operating unit, clip shoulder
strap onto clamp, stand as shown and

check for the following:

• Wear eye protection and heavy
clothing.

• Extend your left arm and hold
handlebar grip with your left hand.

• Hold throttle grip with your right hand
with finger on throttle trigger.

• Keep unit below waist level.

• Keep shoulder strap pad centered
on your left shoulder and danger
sign centered on your back.

• Maintain full weight of tool on your
left shoulder.

• Without bending over, keep the
blade or trimmer head near and

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

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR
USE WITH TRIMMER HEAD

_/L WARNING: 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.

10

Donotruntheengineatahigherspeed

thannecessary.Thecuttinglinewillcut

efficientlywhentheengineisrunatless

thanfullthrottle.Atlowerspeeds,there

islessenginenoiseandvibration.The

cuttinglinewilllastlongerandwillbe

lesslikelyto%reid" onto the spool.

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

speed when not cutting.
To stop engine:

• Release the throttle trigger.

• Push and release the engine ON/
STOP switch.

,_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

we!

Trimming

3 in. (8 ore)
Above Ground

SCALPING - The scalping technique
removes unwanted vegetation down to

the ground. Hold the bottom of the trim-

mer head about 3 in. (8 cm) above the

ground and at an angle. Allow the tip of
the line to strike the ground around

trees, posts, monuments, etc. This tech-

nique increases line wear.

Scalping

Right

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

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

or shrubs and scar fences.

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

and decrease head wear, especially:

• 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 in. (8 cm) above

the ground and at an angle. Allow only
the tip of the line to make contact. Do

not force trimmer line into work area.

Wrong

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.

11

Sweeping

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR
USE WITH WEED BLADES

• 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 blade 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
operator will be less likely to lose

control.

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

less likely to bind or stall.

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

away if it is fed too rapidly.

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

throw debris away from the operator.

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

A properly adjusted shoulder strap
will support the weight of the unit,
freeing your arms and hands to

control 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

dangerously 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.If
the blade does not turn when you

squeeze the throttle trigger, make sure
tube is fully inserted into the engine.

Always release the throttle trigger and
allow engine to return to idle speed
when not cutting. The blade should

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 only grass, weeds, and woody
brush up to 1/2 inch in diameter with

the weed blade. Do not let the blade
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.

• Keep the blade sharp. A dull blade
is more likely to snag and thrust.

Cut using the 2
o'clock to 4 o'clock

position of the _ JJ %'€'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 tube.

12

The operator or oth-

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

,_ WARNING: Disconnect the spark plug

except for carburetor adjustments.

CARE & MAINTENANCE TASK

Check for loose fasteners and parts

Check for damaged or worn parts

Inspect and clean unit and decals
Clean air filter

Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen

Replace spark plug

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this unit does not
cover items that have been subjected

to operator abuse or negligence. To

receive full value from the warranty,
the operator must maintain unit as

instructed in this manual. Various ad-
justments will need to be made peri-
odically to properly maintain your unit.

CHECK FOR LOOSE

FASTENERS AND PARTS

• Spark Plug Boot

• Air Filter

• Housing Screws

• Assist Handle Screw

• Debris Shield

CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR
WORN PARTS

Contact Sears Service Center for re-

placement of damaged or worn parts.

• ON/STOP Switch - Ensure ON/STOP
switch functions properly by pushing

and releasing the switch. Make sure
engine stops. Wait 5 seconds be-

fore attempting to restart unit to al-
low switch to reset. Restart engine

and continue

• Fuel Tank - Discontinue use of unit
if fuel tank shows signs of damage

or leaks.

• Debris Shield - Discontinue use of
unit if debris shield is damaged.

INSPECTAND CLEAN UNITAND DE-
CALS

• After each use, inspect complete
unit for loose or damaged parts.

Clean the unit and decals using a
damp cloth with a mild detergent.

• Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.

before performing maintenance

WHEN TO PERFORM

Before each use

Before each use

After each use

Every 5 hours of operation

Every 50 hours of operation

Yearly

CLEAN AIR FILTER
A dirty air filter decreases engine per-

formance and increases fuel con-
sumption and harmful emissions. Al-
ways clean after every 5 hours of

operation.

1. Clean the cover and the area
around it to keep dirt from falling

into the carburetor chamber when

the cover is removed.

2. Remove parts by pressing button
to release air filter cover.

NOTE: To avoid creating a fire hazard

or producing harmful evaporative
emissions, do not clean filter in gaso-

line or other flammable solvent.

3,

Wash the filter in soap and water.

4.

Allow filter to dry.

5.

Add a few drops of oil to the filter;

squeeze the filter to distribute oil.

6,

Replace parts.

B 8, Air Filter

utton

_-_ Cover

REPLACE SPARK PLUG
Replace the spark plug each year to

ensure the engine starts easier and
runs better. Set spark plug gap at

0.025 in. Ignition timing is fixed and

nonadjustable.

1. Twist, then pull off spark plug boot.

2. Remove spark plug from cylinder

and discard.

3. Replace with Champion RCJ-6Y

spark plug and tighten securely
with a 3/4 inch socket wrench.

4. Reinstall the spark plug boot.

13

LINE REPLACEMENT

• Always use Craftsman replacement

line.

Choose the line size best suited for
the job at hand. Green colored line is

designed for cutting grass, red line for
grass and small weeds. The black col-

ored line is designed for cutting larger
weeds and light brush.

• Before inserting the line into the
holes in the cutting head, identify the

proper holes. When using Green, or
Red, insert line into the holes

marked small on the cutting head.
Black line should be inserted in the

holes marked large.

• Insert both ends of your line through
the proper holes in the side of the

cutting head.

Positioning _ _Small
Tunnel --. J_(--_-)_N:_ jj holes

holes _ Hub

• Insert ends of the line one at a time
through the positioning tunnels.

Carburetor adjustment is critical and if

done improperly can permanently
damage the engine as well as the car-

buretor. If you require further assis-

tance or are unsure about performing
this procedure, call our customer as-
sistance help line at 1-800-235-5878.

Old fuel, a dirty air filter, a dirty fuel fil-

ter, or flooding may give the impres-
sion of an improperly adjusted carbu-

retor. Check these conditions before

adjusting the carburetor.
The carburetor has been carefully set

at the factory. Adjustments may be

necessary if you notice any of the fol-
lowing conditions:

• The trimmer head/blade moves at
idle. See IDLE SPEED under adjusting

procedure.

• Engine will not idle. See IDLE SPEED
under adjusting procedure.

• Engine dies or hesitates instead of
accelerating. See ACCELERATION

CHECK under adjusting procedure.

• Loss of cutting power. See MIXTURE
ADJUSTMENT (L or H) under adjusting

procedure.

There are three adjustment screws on
the carburetor. The low speed adjust-

ment screw is marked with the letter L,

and the high speed adjustment screw

is marked with the letter H. The third

screw is the idle adjustment screw.

gainst

• Pull the line and make sure the line
is against the hub and extended fully
through the positioning tunnels.

• Correctly installed line will be the
same length on both ends.

BLADE REPLACEMENT
Refer to the ASSEMBLY section for

blade replacement instructions and
illustrations.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT

,_WARNING: The trimmer head

or blade will be spinning during most
of this procedure. Wear your protec-
tive equipment and observe all safety

precautions. After making mixture ad-
justments, recheck idle speed. The
trimmer head or blade must not move/

spin at idle speed.

Adjustment (_djustment (L)

Idle Screw Adjustment

ADJUSTING PROCEDURE

CAUTION: Do not force plastic limiter
caps on screws beyond the built-in
stops or damage will occur. Be sure

trimmer line is extended to the maxi-

mum length allowed by the line limiter

blade.

Initial Settings

1. Turn both mixture screws (L and H)
counterclockwise until they stop.

2. Turn the idle speed screw clockwise
until it stops. Now turn counterclock-

wise 4 1/2 turns.

3. Start engine, cut grass for 3 min-
utes, then proceed to adjust screws

according to the instructions below.
If engine performance at initial set-

tings is acceptable, no further ad-
justments are necessary. If engine

14

does not start, refer to TROUBLE-
SHOOTING TABLE. If still unable to

remedy situation, call
1-800-235-5878.

Idle Speed

Allow engine to idle. Ifthe trimmer head
moves, idle speed is too fast. If the en-
gine stalls, idle speed is too slow.

• Turn idle speed screw clockwise to
increase engine speed.

• Turn idle speed screw counterclock-
wise to decrease engine speed.

Low Speed Mixture Adjustment - L

1. Allow the engine to idle.

2. Turn low speed mixture screw (L)
slowly clockwise until the speed be-
gins to drop.

3. Turn the low speed mixture screw
(L) counterclockwise until the speed
increases and then starts to drop

again.

4. Set the low speed mixture screw (L)
at the midpoint between the two

positions.

Readjust the idle speed (See IDLE

SPEED).

High Speed Mixture Adjustment - H
CAUTION: Do not operate engine at

full throttle for prolonged periods while

making adjustments as damage to the
engine can occur. Adjust the mixture

screw 1/16 of a turn at a time. A 1/16
turn is about the width of the slot in the

top of the screw.

1. Allow the engine to idle.

2. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully.
Turn the high speed mixture screw
(H) counterclockwise until it stops.

3. Turn the high speed mixture screw
(H) 1/16 of a turn clockwise at a
time until the engine runs smoothly.

After completing adjustments, check
for acceleration and trimmer head

movement at idle. Reset if necessary.

Acceleration Check

If engine dies or hesitates instead of

accelerating, turn the low speed mix-
ture screw (L) counterclockwise until

you have smooth acceleration.

_WARNING: Perform the follow-

ing steps after each use:

• Allow engine to cool before storing
or transporting.

• Store unit and fuel in a well venti-
lated area where fuel vapors cannot
reach sparks or open flames from

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

• Store unit with all guards in place.

Position unit so that any sharp ob-

ject cannot accidentally cause injury.

• Store unit and fuel well out of the
reach of children.

SEASONAL STORAGE

Prepare unit for storage at end of sea-
son or if it will not be used for 30 days
or more.

If your unit is to be stored for a period
of time:

• Clean the entire unit before lengthy
storage.

• Store in a clean dry area.

• Lightly oil external metal surfaces.

FUEL SYSTEM

Under FUELING ENGINE in the OPERA-
TION section of this manual, see mes-
sage labeled IMPORTANT regarding

the use of gasohol in your engine.

Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alter-

native in minimizing the formation of
fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to the gasoline in the fuel

tank or fuel storage container. Follow
the mix instructions found on stabilizer

container. Run engine at least 5 min-

utes after adding stabilizer.

Craftsman 40:1,2-cycle engine oil (air
cooled) is already blended with fuel

stabilizer. If you do not use this Sears
oil, you can add a fuel stabilizer to

your fuel tank.

ENGINE

• Remove spark plug and pour 1 tea-
spoon of 40:1,2-cycle engine oil (air
cooled) through the spark plug

opening. Slowly pull the starter rope
8 to 10 times to distribute oil.

• Replace spark plug with new one of
recommended type and heat range.

• Clean air filter.

• Check entire unit for loose screws,
nuts, and bolts. Replace any dam-

aged, broken, or worn parts.

• At the beginning of the next season,
use only fresh fuel having the proper

gasoline to oil ratio.

OTHER

• Do not store gasoline from one sea-
son to another.

• Replace your gasoline can if it starts
to rust.

15

TROUBLESHOOTINGTABLE

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

ing all of the recommended remedies below except remedies that require

operation of the unit.

TROUBLE CAUSE

Engine will not 1. Engine flooded.
start.

2. Fuel tank empty.

3. Spark plug not firing.

4. Fuel not reaching
carburetor.

5. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

REMEDY

1. See "Starting a Flooded Engine" in
Operation Section.

2. Fill tank with correct fuel mixture.

3. Install new spark plug.

4. Check for dirty fuel filter; replace.
Check for kinked or split fuel line;

repair or replace.

5. See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.

Engine will 1. Carburetor requires
not idle adjustment.
properly. 2. Crankshaft seals worn.

Engine will not 1. Air filter dirty.
accelerate, 2. Spark plug fouled.
lacks power,

or dies under 3. Carburetor requires
a load. adjustment.

Engine 1. Choke partially on.
smokes 2. Fuel mixture incorrect.

excessively.

Engine runs 1. Fuel mixture incorrect.
hot.

3. Compression low.

4. Carbon build-up on
muffler outlet screen.

5. Compression low.

3. Air filter dirty.

4. Carburetor requires

adjustment.

2. Spark plug incorrect.

3. Carburetor requires

adjustment.

4. Carbon build-up on

muffler outlet screen.

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND

OBLIGATIONS: The U. S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency and Sears,

Roebuck and Co., U.S.A., are pleased

to explain the emissions control system
warranty on your year 2001-2004 small

off-road engine. Sears must warrant
the emission control system on your

small off-road engine for the periods of
time listed below provided there has
been no abuse, neglect, or improper
maintenance of your small off-road en-

gine. Your emission control system in-
cludes parts such as the carburetor and

the ignition system. Where a warrant-
able condition exists, Sears will repair

1. See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.

2. Contact Sears Service Center.

3. Contact Sears Service Center.

1. Clean or replace air filter.

2. Clean or replace plug

and regap.

3. See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.

4. Contact Sears Service Center.

Contact Sears Service Center.5.

1. Adjust choke.

2. Empty fuel tank and refill with
correct fuel mixture.

3. Clean or replace air filter.

4. See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.

1. See "Fueling Engine" in Operation
section.

2. Replace with correct spark plug.

3. See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.

4. Contact Sears Service Center.

your small off-road engine at no cost to
you. Expenses covered under warranty

include diagnosis, parts and labor.
MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY

COVERAGE: If any emissions related
part on your engine (as listed under

Emissions Control Warranty Parts List)

is defective or a defect in the materials
or workmanship of the engine causes

the failure of such an emission related
part, the part will be repaired or re-

placed by Sears. OWNER'S WAR-

RANTY RESPONSIBILITIES: As the
small off-road engine owner, you are
responsible for the performance of the

required maintenance listed in your in-

16

structionmanual.Searsrecommends
thatyouretainallreceiptscovering

maintenanceonyoursmalloff-roaden-
gine,butSearscannotdenywarranty
solelyforthelackofreceiptsorforyour

failuretoensuretheperformanceofall
scheduledmaintenance.Asthesmall

off-roadengineowner,youshouldbe
awarethatSearsmaydenyyouwar-

rantycoverageifyoursmalloff-road

engineorapartofithasfaileddueto
abuse,neglect,impropermaintenance,

unapprovedmodifications,ortheuseof

partsnotmadeorapprovedbytheorig-

inalequipmentmanufacturer.Youare

responsibleforpresentingyoursmall
off-roadenginetoaSearsauthorized

repaircenterassoonasaproblemex-

ists.Warrantyrepairsshouldbecom-

pletedinareasonableamountoftime,

nottoexceed30days.Ifyouhaveany
questionsregardingyourwarrantyrights
andresponsibilities,youshouldcontact

yournearestauthorizedservicecenter
orcallSearsat1-800-469-4663.

WARRANTYCOMMENCEMENT

DATE: The warranty period begins on
the date the small off-road engine is

purchased. LENGTH OF COVERAGE:
This warranty shall be for a period of
two years from the initial date of pur-

chase. WHAT IS COVERED: REPAIR

OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS, Re-

pair or replacement of any warranted

part will be performed at no charge to
the owner at an approved Sears servic-

ing center. If you have any questions

regarding your warranty rights and re-
sponsibilities, you should contact your

nearest authorized service center or call

Sears at 1-800-469-4663. WARRAN-
TY PERIOD: Any warranted part which

is not scheduled for replacement as re-
quired maintenance, or which is sched-

uled only for regular inspection to the

effect of "repair or replace as neces-
saP!" shall be warranted for 2 years.
Any warranted part which is scheduled

This engine is certified to be emissions compliant for the following use:

[] Moderate (50 hours)

[] Intermediate (125 hours)

[] Extended (300 hours)

for replacement as required mainte-

nance shall be warranted for the period

of time up to the first scheduled replace-

ment point for that part. DIAGNOSIS:

The owner shall not be charged for
diagnostic labor which leads to the de-

termination that a warranted part is de-
fective if the diagnostic work is per-

formed at an approved Sears servicing
center. CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES:

Sears may be liable for damages to
other engine components caused by
the failure of a warranted part still under
warranty. WHAT IS NOT COVERED:

All failures caused by abuse, neglect, or

improper maintenance are not covered.
ADD-ON OR MODIFIED PARTS: The

use of add-on or modified parts can be
grounds for disallowing a warranty

claim. Sears is not liable to cover fail-

ures of warranted parts caused by the

use of add-on or modified parts. HOW
TO FILE A CLAIM: If you have any

questions regarding your warranty rights
and responsibilities, you should contact
your nearest authorized service center
or call Sears at 1-800-469-4663.
WHERE TO GET WARRANTY SER-

VICE: Warranty services or repairs shall

be provided at all Sears service centers.

Call 1-800-469-4663. MAINTE-

NANCE, REPLACEMENT AND RE-

PAIR OF EMISSION RELATED

PARTS: Any Sears approved replace-

ment part used in the performance of
any warranty maintenance or repair on

emission related parts will be provided
without charge to the owner if the part is

under warranty. EMISSION CONTROL
WARRANTY PARTS LIST: Carburetor,

Ignition System: Spark Plug (covered

up to maintenance schedule), Ignition

Module. MAINTENANCE STATE-

MENT: The owner is responsible for the

performance of all required mainte-

nance as defined in the instruction

manual.

17