What type of oil and gas for Craftsman 917773730?
For the Craftsman 917773730 wheeled weed trimmer (Briggs & Stratton 625 Series engine), use unleaded regular gasoline and engine oil (not 2-cycle mix). The specified oil is SAE 30 above 32°F or SAE 5W-30 below 32°F, with an oil capacity of 20 oz. See the 917773730 owner's manual for the full product specifications and maintenance schedule.
Fuel and oil specs (what to use)
- Gasoline: Unleaded regular; capacity 1.6 quarts
- Engine oil type (API SG-SL):
- SAE 30 for temperatures above 32°F
- SAE 5W-30 for temperatures below 32°F
- Oil capacity: 20 ounces
- Important: This trimmer ships without oil or gasoline in the engine
Quick reference table
| Item | Specification for Craftsman 917773730 |
|---|---|
| Gas type | Unleaded regular |
| Gas capacity | 1.6 quarts |
| Oil type (warm weather) | SAE 30 (above 32°F) |
| Oil type (cold weather) | SAE 5W-30 (below 32°F) |
| Oil capacity | 20 oz |
Why it matters
Using straight gasoline (not a 2-cycle mix) and the correct SAE oil viscosity helps the Briggs & Stratton engine lubricate properly, start easier in cold weather, and reduce wear that can shorten engine life.
Tips before you start it
- Check the oil level before every use; top off as needed (do not overfill).
- Use fresh gasoline and keep the fuel cap tight to reduce contamination.
- If the engine smokes heavily after an oil change, recheck the oil level and air filter condition.
Last updated: January 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
On the Craftsman wheeled weed trimmer model 917773730, we replace the cutting line by removing the worn pieces from the carrier plate, cutting new .155-inch line to 18-3/4 inches, folding each piece in half, and seating it under the retainer clips so both sides match in length.
What line to use (size and length)
Use the correct line size and length to prevent vibration and poor trimming.
- Line diameter: .155 inch
- Cut length (each piece): 18-3/4 inches
- Replace when worn to half the original length
- Keep both installed lines within 1 inch of each other (same length is best)
- Never substitute wire, rope, or string
| Item | Spec for 917773730 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch | Fits the carrier plate and retains correctly |
| Line length | 18-3/4 in. | Maintains cut width and balance |
| Length match | Same length (max 1 in. difference) | Reduces vibration and uneven cutting |
Steps to replace the trimmer line
Follow these steps from the 917773730 owner's manual.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and move it away from the plug.
- Remove the worn trimmer line from the carrier plate.
- Fold a new, pre-cut line in half.
- Insert the folded end through the carrier plate opening to the back side of the retainer clip.
- Pull the line outward until it is fully seated under the retainer clip.
- Repeat for the other side.
- Confirm both lines are the same length, then reconnect the spark plug wire.
If the line will not stay in the head
These checks fix most “line won’t retain” complaints.
- Confirm you used .155-inch line (wrong diameter slips out).
- Re-seat the folded end fully under the retainer clip.
- Replace the carrier plate if the retainer clip is broken or worn.
- Check for excessive wear from hitting concrete or asphalt.
Helpful part to consider
If the line keeps coming out because the carrier plate or clip is damaged, replacing the carrier plate is the typical fix: line trimmer carrier plate 594935003.
Why it matters
Correct line size, correct cut length, and equal lengths on both sides keep the trimmer head balanced. That improves cutting performance, reduces vibration, and helps prevent premature wear on the mow ball and trimmer head.
Last updated: January 2026
Which is better, .080 or .095 trimmer line?
For Craftsman wheeled weed trimmer model 917773730, .095 is the better choice between the two because it holds up longer in heavier weeds and is less likely to break. .080 is best for light trimming and edging where you want easier cutting and less drag.
How to choose the right line for the job
Use these practical guidelines when deciding between .080 and .095:
- Choose .080 for light grass, touch-up edging, and small weekly maintenance
- Choose .095 for thicker weeds, taller grass, and longer trimming sessions
- If your line keeps snapping, step up to .095
- If the trimmer feels bogged down or you want a cleaner, lighter cut, use .080
- Always match the line type and length to the cutting head design and the instructions in the 917773730 owner's manual
Quick comparison: .080 vs .095
| Line diameter | Durability | Cutting feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| .080 | Medium | Faster, lighter | Light grass, detail trimming |
| .095 | High | Slightly more drag | Heavy weeds, rough areas |
Tips that improve cutting performance (any diameter)
These steps make a bigger difference than most people expect:
- Cut with the tips of the line, not the full length
- Move slower in very thick weeds so the line can do the cutting
- Replace line when it is worn down and trimming takes noticeably longer
- Avoid letting the trimmer head hit concrete or asphalt; it accelerates wear on the head and line
Why it matters
Line diameter affects durability, cut quality, and how hard the engine has to work. Picking the right size for your yard reduces breakage, improves trimming speed, and helps protect the cutting head components.
Last updated: January 2026





