Craftsman 358798020 line trimmer Parts

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).

Quick size guide (pick by workload)

• 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)

How to choose the right line for 358798020

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 vs. performance

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

Why it matters

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

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.

Quick steps (most Craftsman bump-feed heads)

• 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.

Line size and winding tips

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.

Common problems after reloading (and what they mean)

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

Why it matters

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.

Related DIY help

• Solving common problems with line trimmer cutting lines
• Grass line trimmer maintenance checklist

Last updated: January 2026

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.

Recommended line length (what to aim for)

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

Quick guide by trimmer head style

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

Why the exact length matters

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.

Tips to prevent line problems

• 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.

Related part that helps with safe operation

If your guard or cover is damaged, replace it before trimming; it helps control debris and supports proper line trimming.

• Blade cover 530351801

Last updated: January 2026