How to start a line trimmer?
To start the Craftsman gas line trimmer model 917773762, set the throttle to FAST, follow the priming/choke steps in the 917773762 owner's manual, then pull the starter rope handle until the engine starts and runs smoothly.
Quick start steps (most common)
- Move the trimmer to a flat, clear area; keep the trimmer head away from gravel, concrete, and debris.
- Set the throttle control to FAST.
- Set the choke as directed for a cold start (typically full choke, then reduce as the engine warms).
- Prime only as instructed; over-priming can flood the engine.
- Pull the starter rope handle with a smooth, firm motion until the engine starts.
- Let the engine warm briefly, then adjust choke to run position.
If it will not start (fast checks)
If the engine does not start after a few pulls, use these checks before you keep priming:
- Flooded engine: wait a few minutes, then try again without repeating priming.
- Spark plug wire: make sure it is firmly connected.
- Fuel: use fresh gasoline (old fuel commonly causes hard starting).
- Airflow: clear grass and chaff from around the starter and top of the engine.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Strong fuel smell, no start | Flooded engine | Wait a few minutes; retry with less/no priming |
| Starts then dies | Choke not adjusted | Move choke toward run as it warms |
| Hard pull or rough running | Debris buildup | Clean around starter and engine top |
Why it matters
Correct starting steps protect the starter system, reduce flooding, and help the engine get proper airflow. Keeping the engine top clear also improves cooling and can extend engine life.
Last updated: January 2026
How to operate a grass trimmer?
To operate the Craftsman gas line trimmer model 917773762, set the throttle to FAST for starting and normal trimming, start the engine, then hold the trimmer head drive control bar down to engage head rotation; release the bar to stop the head. Use only trimmer line, not blades. See the 917773762 owner's manual.
Quick start and basic operation
- Wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
- Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
- Set the throttle to FAST for starting and normal trimming.
- Start the engine using the starter handle; pull quickly and do not let the rope snap back.
- Stand behind the handle; hold the drive control bar down to spin the trimmer head.
- Release the control bar to stop the trimmer head rotation.
Trimming technique tips (for cleaner edges and longer line life)
- Use the ends of the line to cut; move slowly in thick weeds.
- Use the left side of the trimmer when trimming along fences, walls, and flowerbeds.
- If grass is tall and thick, keep the throttle at FAST but walk slower.
- Stop the rotating head when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads; wait for the lines to stop.
- Avoid letting the trimmer head ride on concrete or asphalt; it can wear the mow ball faster.
Safety rules we recommend every time
- Never use blades, wire, or flailing devices; this unit is designed for line trimmer use only.
- Never operate in wet grass; keep firm footing and walk, never run.
- Stop the engine and let it cool before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing.
- If the trimmer vibrates abnormally, stop the engine and check for the cause.
What the controls do (at a glance)
| Control | What it does | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Throttle (FAST/SLOW/STOP) | Sets engine speed or shuts engine off | FAST for starting and normal trimming; SLOW for light trimming; STOP to shut down |
| Trimmer head drive control bar | Starts and stops trimmer head rotation | Hold down to rotate; release to stop |
Why it matters
Correct throttle and control-bar use helps the 917773762 cut consistently, reduces premature wear on the cutting head components, and improves safety when moving across hard surfaces or working near fences and edging.
Last updated: January 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
On the Craftsman 917773762 gas line trimmer, you replace the cutting line by disconnecting the spark plug wire, removing the worn line from the carrier plate, then installing new line using the fold-and-seat method under the retainer clips. Follow the Craftsman 917773762 owner's manual for the exact procedure and safety steps.
What line to use for model 917773762
The manual specifies the cutting line size and how to prep it before installation.
- Use 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line.
- Cut each new piece to 18-3/4 inches.
- Keep both installed lines within 1 inch of each other in length.
- Replace lines when they wear to half their original length.
- Never substitute wire, rope, or string.
Step-by-step: replace the trimmer line (carrier plate style)
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and position it so it cannot contact the plug.
- Remove the worn line from the line carrier plate.
- Cut two pieces of new line to 18-3/4 inches each.
- Fold one piece in half.
- Insert the folded end through the carrier plate opening to the back side of the retainer clip.
- Pull both ends outward until the line is fully seated under the retainer clip.
- Repeat for the other side; confirm both lines are nearly the same length.
Quick specs table
| Spec | Value for Craftsman 917773762 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.155 in | Helps the head retain line and cut correctly |
| Cut length (each piece) | 18-3/4 in | Keeps the head balanced |
| Allowed mismatch | 1 in max | Reduces vibration |
If the head will not retain the line
- Reinstall the line and make sure it is fully seated under the retainer clip.
- Confirm you are using 0.155-inch line, not a smaller diameter.
- Inspect the carrier plate openings and retainer clip area for wear; replace the carrier plate if it is damaged (see line trimmer carrier plate 594935003).
Why it matters
Correct line diameter, correct cut length, and matching line lengths keep the trimmer head balanced. That prevents abnormal vibration, improves trimming performance, and reduces wear on the trimmer head.
Last updated: January 2026





