How do I know what trimmer line to buy?
For the Craftsman 358795590 28-cc gas brushwacker, we use 0.080-inch (2 mm) round trimmer line. This size feeds and advances correctly in the cutting head; other sizes or shapes can jam, wear the head faster, or create a safety hazard (never use wire, rope, or string). See the owner's manual for the exact line specification and operating tips.
What to buy for this model
- Diameter: 0.080 in (2 mm)
- Shape: round line
- Material: standard nylon trimmer line (not wire or metal-reinforced line)
- Use case: general residential trimming and mowing
Quick size guide (why 0.080 in is the right fit here)
| Line size | Best for | What happens if you use it in this model |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 in (1.7 mm) | Light-duty trimming | Breaks faster; may not cut well in thicker weeds |
| 0.080 in (2.0 mm) | Most residential trimming | Correct feed and cutting performance for 358795590 |
| 0.095 in (2.4 mm) and up | Heavy brush, larger trimmers | Often will not advance properly; can overload the head |
Tips to prevent line problems (breakage, poor feed, rapid wear)
- Keep the shield installed; it helps control cutting path length and protects you from debris.
- Let the tip of the line do the cutting; do not force the line into heavy material.
- Avoid hitting hard objects (rocks, gravel, fence posts); impacts can damage the head and snap line.
- Do not tap the head on the ground to advance line on this trimmer; the head advances line automatically.
- For trimming near posts and fences, use lower throttle to reduce line wear.
Why it matters
Using the specified 0.080-inch round line keeps the automatic line advance working as designed and reduces the chance of head damage, tangles, and unsafe line break-off.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman 358795590 (28-cc gas brushwacker), we remove the cutting head cap, lift out the spool, then install a matching pre-wound spool or rewind the spool with 0.080 inch (2 mm) round line and reassemble the head so the line feeds smoothly. See the owner's manual for the exact cutting head steps and diagrams.
Before you start (safety and setup)
- Stop the engine and let it cool.
- Disconnect the spark plug boot before maintenance.
- Work on a clean surface so dirt does not get into the cutting head.
- Use only 0.080 inch (2 mm) round trimmer line (other sizes can jam or fail to advance).
Replace the line using a pre-wound spool (fastest method)
- Hold the spool housing and unscrew the cap in the direction shown on the cap.
- Remove the line guide ring and lift out the spool.
- If using a pre-wound spool, remove any tape/retainer holding the line.
- Feed the line ends through the eyelets/line guides, seat the spool, reinstall the line guide ring, then tighten the cap.
Refill (rewind) the existing spool (if you are not using a pre-wound spool)
- Cut two equal lengths of 0.080 inch round line (use the length specified in the owner's manual).
- Wind the line neatly and evenly on the spool so it does not overlap.
- Keep tension on the line while winding; crossed wraps are the most common cause of tangles.
- Route the line ends into the spool retainers (if equipped), then reassemble the head.
Quick checks after reassembly
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Line will not advance | Wrong line size or messy winding | Rewind neatly with 0.080 inch round line |
| Line tangles inside head | Overlapping wraps | Rewind with tight, even layers |
| Head feels loose | Cap not fully seated | Remove and reinstall cap and guide ring |
Why it matters
Correct line size and clean, even winding help the cutting head advance line properly and reduce breakage, vibration, and premature wear of the trimmer head components.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the fuel mix for a Craftsman gas trimmer?
For the Craftsman 358795590 28-cc gas brushwacker, we use a 40:1 fuel mix: 3.2 oz of 2-cycle, air-cooled synthetic oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline. This is the correct mix for starting, running, and protecting the engine from damage (scoring and overheating). See the owner's manual for the exact fueling procedure and safety steps.
Quick mix chart (40:1)
| Gasoline amount | 2-cycle oil to add | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 oz | Matches the included 3.2 oz oil bottle size |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 oz | Mix in an approved fuel container |
| 1 quart | 0.8 oz | Useful for small batches |
How we recommend mixing fuel
- Use fresh unleaded gasoline in a fuel-approved container.
- Add the measured 2-cycle, air-cooled synthetic oil.
- Cap the container and shake briefly to fully blend.
- Fuel the trimmer outdoors; wipe up spills and move at least 10 feet away before starting.
- Set choke to FULL for cold starts, then move to HALF after it fires, and OFF once running.
What not to use
- Do not use automotive oil.
- Do not use marine or boat 2-cycle oil.
- Do not guess the ratio; running too lean on oil can quickly damage the piston and cylinder.
Why it matters
A 2-cycle engine relies on the oil in the fuel for lubrication. The correct 40:1 mix keeps internal parts like the piston rings and bearings lubricated, reduces heat, and helps the trimmer start and idle consistently.
Last updated: February 2026





