How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773705, cut two pieces of .155-inch line to 18-3/4 inches, remove the worn line from the carrier plate, then fold and seat each new line under the retainer clips so both sides match in length. See the 917773705 owner's manual for the illustrated steps.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug
- Let the engine and muffler cool completely
- Work on a flat surface with the trimmer stabilized
- Wear gloves and eye protection
- Use only .155-inch diameter trimmer line (never wire, rope, or string)
- Disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Remove the worn trimmer line from the line trimmer carrier plate.
- Cut new line to 18-3/4 inches.
- Fold the new 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 (they should not vary by more than 1 inch).
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
Keeping both lines equal prevents vibration and improves cutting.
| What to check | What “right” looks like | What happens if it’s wrong |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch | Poor retention, weak cutting, more breakage |
| Line length | 18-3/4 inches each | Unbalanced head, vibration |
| Length match | Within 1 inch side-to-side | Excessive vibration, uneven trimming |
Correct line size and equal length help the trimmer head stay balanced, reduce excessive vibration, and improve trimming performance, especially in thick weeds where using the ends of the line does the cutting.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the best trimmer line on the market?
For the Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773705, the “best” trimmer line is the one that matches the manual spec: .155-inch diameter line, cut to 18-3/4 inches per piece. Using the correct size reduces vibration, improves cutting, and helps prevent premature wear on the trimmer head.
We follow the model 917773705 manual guidance for line size and length because it directly affects balance and performance.
- Use .155 inch diameter trimmer line
- Cut each piece to 18-3/4 inches
- Replace lines when they’re worn to about half their original length
- Keep all installed lines within 1 inch of each other in length to avoid vibration
- Never use wire, rope, or string substitutes (they can break and become dangerous)
For the exact procedure and the built-in length gauge location, use the 917773705 owner’s manual.
Many premium lines cut well, but for a high-wheel walk-behind trimmer like this Craftsman, the best choice is the line that:
| What matters most | Best choice for 917773705 | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | .155 in | Proper cutting power and fit |
| Length | 18-3/4 in | Correct reach and head balance |
| Consistency | All pieces nearly equal | Reduces vibration and wear |
The manual’s operating tips make a big difference in how long line lasts.
- Cut using the ends of the line, not the middle
- Move slowly in thick weeds to avoid overloading the head
- Use the left side of the trimmer along fences and walls
- Clean grass buildup from the underside of the trimmer regularly
- Avoid letting the head contact concrete or asphalt (it wears the bottom ball faster)
Correct line size and balanced line lengths keep the trimmer head running smoothly. That means cleaner cuts, less vibration, and less stress on drive components like the belt and spindle.
Last updated: February 2026
What trimmer line does Craftsman use?
For the Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773705, we use .155-inch diameter trimmer line cut to 18-3/4 inches long. Replacing the line when it wears to about half its original length helps prevent vibration and keeps cutting performance consistent (see the 917773705 owner's manual).
Use these specs for this model:
- Line diameter: .155 inch
- Cut length (each piece): 18-3/4 inches
- Replace when worn to: less than half the original length
- Keep all installed lines within: 1 inch of each other in length (for balance)
| Item | Spec for model 917773705 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch | Fits the trimmer head correctly and cuts efficiently |
| Line length | 18-3/4 inches | Maintains proper reach and head balance |
| Length matching | Within 1 inch | Reduces abnormal vibration |
We recommend these operating habits to reduce premature wear:
- Cut using the ends of the line, not the middle
- Move slowly in thick weeds to avoid overloading the head
- Avoid letting the trimmer head contact concrete or asphalt (it wears the mow ball quickly)
- Stop the trimmer head before crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads
- Clean grass buildup from the underside of the trimmer regularly
Using the specified .155-inch line and the correct 18-3/4-inch cut length keeps the trimmer head balanced. Balanced line length reduces vibration, protects the spindle and bearings, and helps the engine maintain steady cutting speed.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I get Craftsman replacement parts?
You can get replacement parts for your Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773705 from Sears PartsDirect, and you can also find Craftsman parts through major retailers and online marketplaces. For the best fit, we always match parts by the exact model number and the part name.
- Use the full model number 917773705 when searching; it narrows results to the correct chassis, drive, and cutting head configuration.
- Confirm the part description matches what you are replacing (for example, belt vs. spindle vs. hardware).
- Compare your worn part to the diagram and parts list in the 917773705 owner's manual.
- For wear items, plan to replace related hardware if it is damaged or stripped (nuts, bolts, washers).
- If the trimmer has been modified, return it to stock before ordering parts so everything aligns correctly.
These are examples of parts we commonly see replaced on the Craftsman 917773705:
| What you are fixing | Part you may need | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Trimmer will not drive or slips | Drive belt | Wheel drive and cutting head load handling |
| Excess vibration at the head | Spindle or housing components | Cutting head stability and smooth operation |
| Cutting head hardware loosens | Lock nuts, bolts, washers | Keeps the head assembly tight |
If you are replacing the belt, the manual’s service section walks through removing the cover, routing the belt around pulleys, and reinstalling shields and screws. For a model-matched belt example, see the line trimmer belt 532185476.
Using the correct model number and a model-matched parts list prevents ordering a similar-looking part that does not fit your pulley sizes, spindle stack-up, or mounting hardware. That saves time and helps your trimmer run safely and smoothly.
Last updated: February 2026





