Owner’s manual
Is 40 1 or 50 1 better for chainsaws?
For the Craftsman chainsaw model 358351210, 40:1 is the correct and better mix because it matches the manufacturer’s fueling specification. Mixing at 50:1 reduces lubrication compared to what this engine is designed for and can increase wear over time; confirm the fueling section in the 358351210 owner's manual.
What to use for model 358351210
The manual specifies:
- Use unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil
- Mix at 40:1 (that is 8.2 oz of oil per 1 gallon of gas)
- Do not use automotive oil or marine (boat) oil
If your saw is hard to start or runs poorly after a fuel change, follow the checks in tips for a hard to start chainsaw.
40:1 vs 50:1: quick comparison
| Mix ratio | Oil per 1 gallon gas | What it generally means |
|---|---|---|
| 40:1 | 8.2 oz | More lubrication; matches this Craftsman engine spec |
| 50:1 | 6.4 oz | Less lubrication; common on some newer engines designed for it |
Why the correct mix matters
Running the specified fuel mix helps protect the piston, cylinder, crank bearings, and carburetor metering system. Too little oil can accelerate internal wear, especially under heavy cutting loads or hot conditions.
Related maintenance that supports good running
Fuel mix is only part of reliable performance. We also recommend:
- Keep the air intake clean; replace a clogged filter such as the air filter 545057701 when it is dirty or damaged
- Use fresh, properly mixed fuel; avoid old fuel that has been sitting for weeks or months
- Keep the bar and chain lubricated; fill bar oil when you fill fuel
- For storage longer than 30 days, use fuel stabilizer and follow the storage steps in the manual
Last updated: January 2026
What kind of gas goes into a Craftsman chainsaw?
For the Craftsman 358351210 gas chainsaw, we use unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil at a 40:1 ratio (8.2 oz of oil per 1 gallon of gas). Use the fuel mix and keep the bar-and-chain oil tank filled as well; see the 358351210 operator's manual.
Fuel type and mix ratio (what to put in the tank)
Use a fresh 40:1 fuel mix made from:
- Unleaded gasoline
- 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil (Craftsman oil is recommended)
- Mix ratio: 40 parts gas to 1 part oil
Do not use these oils (they can damage the engine):
- Automotive (4-cycle) motor oil
- Boat or marine 2-cycle oil
Quick mix chart
| Gasoline amount | 40:1 oil amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 8.2 oz | Standard mix for this model |
| 1/2 gallon | 4.1 oz | Good for small batches |
| 1 quart | 0.2 oz (about 1.6 tsp) | Use a measuring bottle for accuracy |
Don’t forget bar and chain oil
This model uses a separate bar-and-chain oil tank and the oiler meters oil automatically during operation. We fill bar oil every time we fill the fuel tank.
Common bar-oil guidance:
- Use chainsaw bar oil when possible
- SAE 30 oil works as a temporary substitute
- Running low on bar oil can overheat and quickly wear the guide bar and chain
If the saw is hard to start after fueling
Fuel issues are a top cause of starting problems. Check these basics:
- Fuel mix is correct (40:1) and freshly mixed
- Fuel filter is not restricted (consider the Craftsman lawn & garden equipment engine fuel filter 530095646)
- Air filter is clean (consider the air filter 545057701)
- Fuel tank vent is open (a plugged vent can starve fuel)
For step-by-step troubleshooting, use tips for a hard to start chainsaw.
Why it matters
Using the correct 40:1 fuel mix protects the 2-cycle engine from scoring and premature wear, and keeping bar oil topped off prevents rapid chain and guide bar damage.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I find the model number on my 358351210?
Your Craftsman gas chainsaw’s model number is printed on the saw’s identification label; for this unit it appears as 358.351210 in the operator documentation. Use the label on the saw (not the bar or chain) to confirm the exact model before ordering parts.
Where to look on the saw
Check these common locations on Craftsman chainsaws like model 358351210:
- On the starter housing (recoil starter cover) area
- Near the rear handle or trigger area
- On or near the cylinder cover
- On the crankcase area behind the clutch cover (sometimes visible after removing the side cover)
- On a sticker or metal tag with other information (serial number, emissions info)
For diagrams that help you identify covers and controls, use the owner's manual.
What the model number looks like
In the manual, the model is shown with a dot format:
| Where you’ll see it | Example format | What to enter when searching parts |
|---|---|---|
| ID label or manual cover | 358.351210 | 358351210 |
Why it matters
The model number determines the exact parts list and diagrams for your chainsaw. Even small differences in a Craftsman 2-cycle saw (46cc class, 20-inch bar setups, or production changes) can affect fit for items like the air filter, clutch, or ignition components.
Quick tips before ordering parts
- Match the full model number character-for-character
- Use the saw’s ID label, not the bar length printed on the guide bar
- If the label is worn, compare your saw’s assemblies to the exploded views in the manual
- When you’re ready to service common maintenance items, the air filter 545057701 is one example of a model-matched part listed for 358351210
Last updated: March 2026
