What thickness trimmer line?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358798020, most cutting jobs work best with 0.080 in to 0.095 in trimmer line; lighter trimming can use 0.065 in, and heavy weeds typically need 0.095 in or thicker (only if your trimmer head is designed for it).
- 0.065 in: light grass, edging, longer runtime, less load on the engine
- 0.080 in: general residential trimming, good balance of cut and durability
- 0.095 in: thicker grass and weeds, more durability, higher engine load
- 0.105 in to 0.130 in: heavy brush style work (only for compatible heads)
Use these checks before buying a thicker line:
- Confirm your trimmer head spool accepts the diameter you want
- If the engine bogs down or stalls, step down one size
- If line breaks constantly, step up one size or switch to a tougher line shape
- If you mainly edge sidewalks, a smaller diameter usually feeds more smoothly
| Line diameter | Best for | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 in | light trimming | wears faster in weeds |
| 0.080 in | everyday trimming | moderate durability |
| 0.095 in | weeds, thicker grass | more vibration and fuel use |
| 0.105+ in | heavy growth (compatible heads) | can overload small engines |
Using the correct thickness helps your Craftsman trimmer cut cleanly without overloading the clutch and engine. Too-thick line can reduce RPM and cause poor cutting; too-thin line can snap and wear out quickly.
For more help diagnosing cutting and line-feed issues, use solving common problems with line trimmer cutting lines.
Last updated: January 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman line trimmer model 358798020, you remove the trimmer head spool, wind new line evenly (no overlaps), then reinstall the spool and feed the line through the eyelets so it advances smoothly when you bump the head.
- Shut the engine off and let the cutting head stop completely; disconnect the spark plug boot for safety.
- Clean grass and debris off the head so the spool and tabs release easily.
- Press the spool-release tabs (or unscrew the bump knob, depending on head style) and lift off the spool.
- Cut two equal lengths of trimmer line (many heads use two lines); use the diameter recommended for your head.
- Wind the line tightly and evenly in the direction of the arrow on the spool; do not overlap the wraps.
- Lock the line ends into the spool notches, reinstall the spool, then pull the ends free and thread them through the eyelets.
Using the right line and winding it correctly prevents tangles, poor feeding, and vibration.
- Use round line for easiest feeding.
- Keep tension on the line while winding so it packs tightly.
- Leave about 4 to 6 inches of line outside the head on each side after threading.
- If the line keeps welding together, reduce throttle time in heavy grass and avoid running the head against hard surfaces.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Line will not advance | Line overlapped or wound backward | Rewind neatly in the arrow direction |
| Line feeds too fast | Spool not seated or spring missing | Reinstall spool and check spring position |
| Line breaks constantly | Line too thin or old/brittle | Use correct diameter; replace old line |
| Excess vibration | Uneven line lengths | Trim both sides to equal length |
A properly loaded spool on the Craftsman 358798020 helps the bump-feed mechanism work as designed, reduces jams, and keeps the cutting head balanced so the trimmer runs smoother and cuts more consistently.
Last updated: January 2026
How long should a whipper snipper cord be?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358798020, most cutting line setups work best when each line end extends about 4 to 6 inches past the trimmer head (about 8 to 12 inches total exposed line). This length gives clean cutting without overloading the engine.
Use these practical targets when loading or bump-feeding line:
- Exposed line per side: 4 to 6 inches
- Total exposed line: 8 to 12 inches
- If the trimmer has a line limiter blade: let it trim the line automatically
- If there is no limiter: trim by hand to avoid excess vibration and bogging
| Trimmer head type | What you measure | Typical target |
|---|---|---|
| Bump-feed head | Exposed line after bumping | 4 to 6 inches per side |
| Fixed-line head | Pre-cut pieces installed | 8 to 12 inches total exposed |
| Manual-feed head | Exposed line after adjustment | 4 to 6 inches per side |
Too much line makes the engine work harder, which can cause rough running, stalling, and poor acceleration. Too little line reduces cutting reach and can make you scalp turf because you have to run the head closer to the ground.
- Match the line diameter to what your trimmer head is designed to use (common sizes are 0.065, 0.080, or 0.095 inch).
- Keep the spool wound neatly; crossed wraps can jam the feed.
- Replace worn guards or covers so the line feeds and trims correctly.
- If the trimmer runs poorly after loading new line, reduce exposed length and retest.
- For performance issues that feel fuel-related, follow how to tune up a grass line trimmer video.
If your guard or cover is damaged, replace it before trimming; it helps control debris and supports proper line trimming.
Last updated: January 2026
