Craftsman 316731970 gas trimmer Parts

For the Craftsman 316731970 gas trimmer, .095-inch line is usually the better choice because it holds up longer in thicker weeds and around fences; .080-inch line cuts well too, but it breaks faster and needs more frequent reloading. For the exact line size range your trimmer head supports, use the 316731970 owner's manual.

Quick comparison: .080 vs .095

Trimmer line size	Best for	Tradeoffs
.080 in	Light grass, edging, smaller yards	More breakage, more line consumption
.095 in	Heavier grass, weeds, tougher trimming	Slightly more load on the engine, can reduce runtime a bit

How to choose the right line for your yard

• Pick .080 if you mostly trim light grass and want easier feeding and less engine load.
• Pick .095 if you regularly hit weeds, thick growth, or chain-link fencing.
• If your trimmer head allows both sizes, .095 is the better “set it and forget it” option.
• If the head struggles to feed or the engine bogs down, step down to .080.
• Use fresh, quality line; old, dried-out line snaps easily regardless of diameter.

Setup tips that matter (especially with thicker line)

• Wind the line evenly and do not overfill the spool (overfilling causes jams).
• Keep the debris shield installed; it helps control cut length and reduces overload.
• If the trimmer is hard to start or lacks power, basic tune-up parts can help, such as a clean air filter and a good spark plug.

Helpful parts for performance issues

Symptom	Common maintenance item
Hard starting, misfire	Spark plug 794-00082
Poor power, rich running	Air filter (match your exact filter style in the manual)

Why it matters

Using the thickest line your trimmer head is designed to handle improves durability and cutting speed, but going too thick can cause poor line feed, extra vibration, and engine bogging. Matching line size to your trimming conditions keeps your Craftsman gas trimmer cutting cleanly and protects the clutch and drive components.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes, many TrimmerPlus attachments work with Craftsman powerheads, including the Craftsman 316731970 gas trimmer, as long as the trimmer has a compatible attachment-capable coupler. The quickest way to confirm fit is to match the attachment interface and shaft/coupler style shown in the 316731970 owner's manual.

What “compatible” means for Craftsman trimmers

TrimmerPlus is designed around a universal attachment system, but compatibility still depends on the coupler and drive shaft style on your specific trimmer.

Check these items before you buy:

• Attachment-capable coupler (a split shaft with a clamp/knob is common)
• Straight shaft vs. curved shaft (many attachments require a straight shaft system)
• Drive connection (square/hex drive ends must match)
• Shaft diameter and length (must seat fully and clamp securely)
• Safety guard requirements (some attachments require a specific debris shield)

Quick fit check you can do at home

Use this checklist on your Craftsman 316731970:

• Locate the coupler area on the shaft and look for a clamp/knob that loosens to accept an attachment.
• Remove the trimmer shaft section (if it separates) and inspect the inner drive end shape.
• Compare the attachment’s required coupler type and drive end to your trimmer.
• Confirm the attachment locks in firmly with no wobble.
• After installing, run at low throttle first and listen for grinding or slipping.

Common outcomes (what to expect)

What you see on the trimmer	What it usually means	Next step
Split shaft with a coupler clamp	Often attachment-capable	Verify drive end match in the manual
One-piece shaft with no coupler	Usually not attachment-capable	Use dedicated trimmer head accessories instead
Attachment fits but won’t spin	Drive ends not matching or not seated	Re-seat; confirm correct attachment type

Why it matters

Using an attachment that does not match the coupler or drive can cause poor performance, premature wear to the flexible drive components, or unsafe operation. Confirming the interface first helps you avoid returns and protects the trimmer’s drivetrain.

Last updated: February 2026

For this Craftsman gas trimmer, the model number is 316731970. You’ll use 316731970 to match the correct parts (like the spark plug and air filter) and to pull the right diagrams and specifications in the owner's manual.

Where to find the model number on the trimmer

Most Craftsman gas trimmers list the model number on an ID label. Check these common spots:

• On the shaft tube near the engine
• On the engine housing or recoil starter area
• Near the throttle housing/handle
• On the debris shield area
• On a sticker or metal tag with a barcode

Why the exact model number matters

Craftsman trimmers can look similar across multiple model families, but parts and specs can differ (fuel system, ignition, drive shaft style). Using 316731970 helps ensure you get the correct fit.

What you’re doing	Why the model number is needed	What can go wrong without it
Ordering replacement parts	Confirms the correct part listing for your unit	Wrong part fit, returns, downtime
Using diagrams and breakdowns	Matches the right assemblies and hardware	Missing parts, incorrect assembly
Following tune-up specs	Ensures correct maintenance intervals and settings	Hard starting, poor performance

Quick parts examples for model 316731970

If you’re shopping by common maintenance items, these are typical categories to verify by model:

• Spark plug (example: spark plug 794-00082)
• Air filter
• Fuel lines and primer bulb
• Carburetor and gaskets
• Recoil starter components

Why it matters

A correct model match prevents the most common DIY issue we see with outdoor power equipment: ordering a part that “looks right” but doesn’t match the mounting, fuel routing, or shaft connection for the exact build.

Last updated: February 2026

To start your Craftsman gas trimmer model 316731970, use fresh fuel mix, prime the engine, set the choke, then pull the starter rope until it fires and move the choke toward RUN as it warms up. For the exact control locations, use the 316731970 owner's manual.

Quick start steps (cold engine)

• Mix fuel correctly (most 2-cycle trimmers use 50:1 gas to 2-cycle oil; confirm the ratio in the manual).
• Move the on/off switch to ON (if equipped).
• Press the primer bulb about 10 times or until you see fuel moving through the lines.
• Set the choke to CLOSED/FULL.
• Place the trimmer on the ground; keep the cutting head clear of debris.
• Hold the throttle trigger as directed for your handle style; pull the starter rope briskly.
• When the engine “pops” or starts briefly, move the choke to OPEN/HALF, then pull again until it runs.

If it will not start (most common causes)

Symptom	What to check first	Common fix
No pop at all	Old fuel, flooded engine	Replace fuel; clear flood (see below)
Pops once then dies	Choke position, air flow	Open choke gradually; check air filter
Starts but runs rough	Air filter, spark plug	Clean/replace filter; replace plug

Fast checks we recommend

• Fuel: Dump fuel older than 30 days; refill with fresh mix.
• Spark: Inspect and replace the spark plug 753-05784 if fouled.
• Air flow: Clean or replace the mtd line trimmer air filter 751-12833 if dirty.

Clearing a flooded engine

1. Set choke to OPEN.
2. Hold throttle wide open.
3. Pull the starter 5 to 10 times.
4. Install a dry spark plug if needed, then retry normal starting.

Why it matters

Correct priming and choke use prevents flooding, reduces pull-start effort, and helps the carburetor deliver the right fuel-air mix for a quick start.

Last updated: February 2026