Owner’s manual
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman gas line trimmer model 316791860, you remove the old line, clean the cutting head, set the line glide plate to the correct position, then feed a new length of line through the proper holes so both sides end up the same length (this prevents tangles and vibration). For diagrams and line type guidance, use the 316791860 owner's manual.
Steps to replace the trimmer line (cutting head stays on)
- Turn the trimmer off and let it cool completely.
- Remove the old line and remove the line glide plate from the cutting head.
- Clean the entire surface of the cutting head.
- Reinstall the line glide plate and align the arrow to the correct setting:
- Position A: medium (red) or large (black) line
- Position B: line smaller than medium (red)
- Insert both ends of the new line through the proper holes in the side of the cutting head.
- Pull the line so it seats against the hub and runs fully through the positioning tunnels.
- Confirm both line ends are the same length.
Line choice and setup tips
Using the right line and loading it evenly reduces breakage and keeps the head from vibrating.
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Line tangles or feeds poorly | Line crossed or not seated in tunnels | Re-thread and keep both ends routed cleanly |
| Excessive vibration | Line lengths uneven | Re-pull and even the line ends |
| Line breaks often | Hitting fences, walls, thick stalks, or debris | Trim with lighter contact; clear the area first |
| Poor cutting on heavier weeds | Line too light for the job | Switch to heavier line (black) if your head supports it |
Why it matters
Correctly loading the line on the 316791860 keeps the cutting head balanced. Balanced line reduces vibration, protects the cutting head components, and makes trimming smoother and safer.
Last updated: January 2026
Which is better, .080 or .095 trimmer line?
For the Craftsman 316791860 gas line trimmer, .095 line is better for heavy weeds and durability, while .080 line is better for lighter trimming and easier cutting. Your best choice depends on what you cut most often and what line type the trimmer head is designed to use (see the 316791860 owner's manual).
Quick comparison: .080 vs .095
| Feature | .080 trimmer line | .095 trimmer line |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Light grass, edging, detail work | Thick grass, weeds, tougher growth |
| Durability | Lower | Higher |
| Cutting load on engine | Lower | Higher |
| Typical feel | More precise | More aggressive |
How to choose the right size for your yard
- Choose .080 if you mostly edge sidewalks, trim around landscaping, and cut light grass.
- Choose .095 if you regularly hit thick weeds or want longer time between line breaks.
- If your trimmer bogs down or stalls more with thicker line, step down to .080.
- If line keeps snapping or wearing too fast, step up to .095.
- Match the line to the head style; this model uses a Hassle Free head and specifies a spiral line type in the manual.
What the manual calls out (important)
Your Craftsman 316791860 manual specifies using Hassle Free XTRA QUIET Spiral Line and warns against metal-reinforced line, wire, chain, or rope. Use the line type and loading method shown in the 316791860 owner's manual to avoid feed problems and reduce vibration.
Why it matters
Line diameter changes how hard the engine works and how cleanly the head cuts. Too thick can reduce RPM and increase vibration; too thin can wear quickly and waste time reloading.
Last updated: January 2026
Can I use .095 trimmer line?
Yes, you can use .095-inch trimmer line on the Craftsman 316791860 as long as it is the correct type for the head and you install equal lengths. Our manual specifies using Hassle Free XTRA QUIET Spiral Line and warns against metal-reinforced line, wire, chain, or rope; those are unsafe.
What line type works best on this model
The 316791860 uses a Hassle Free head and is designed around spiral trimmer line for smooth feeding and lower vibration. For the most reliable performance, follow the line guidance in the 316791860 owner's manual.
- Use spiral trimmer line (the manual calls out Hassle Free XTRA QUIET Spiral Line)
- Avoid metal-reinforced line, wire, chain, or rope (projectile hazard)
- Cut and install the line so both sides are as even as possible
- Replace line if it wears unevenly and causes excessive vibration
Quick fit check before you buy a spool
If you are switching to .095, confirm it feeds freely through the head eyelets and does not bind.
| Check | What you want to see | If not |
|---|---|---|
| Feed through eyelets | Line slides smoothly by hand | Step down in diameter or use spiral line |
| Balance | Both ends are equal length | Recut and reinstall evenly |
| Vibration | Normal, controllable | Stop and replace line evenly |
Why thicker line can cause problems
Thicker line can increase load on the trimmer mechanism and can make vibration worse if the ends are uneven. The manual notes that uneven line length can cause excessive vibration; that is the main issue we see when customers move up in diameter.
If the trimmer runs poorly after changing line
Line choice is only one factor. If performance drops, check basic maintenance items first.
- Inspect the unit before use; tighten loose fasteners
- Check for fuel leaks and damaged trimmer attachment parts
- Clean or replace the air filter if airflow is restricted
- Do not force the line into fences, walls, or thick stalky weeds
Last updated: January 2026
