Owner’s manual
Can you spray WD-40 on a hedge trimmer?
Yes. For the Craftsman 358795660 gas hedge trimmer, we use WD-40 mainly to loosen sap and wipe down the blade for short-term rust protection; for actual blade lubrication during use, a dedicated light oil works better and lasts longer. See the owner's manual for maintenance and safety reminders.
- Shut the engine off and let the muffler and blade cool completely.
- Brush off clippings, then spray a light coat on the blade teeth.
- Let it soak briefly to soften sap and grime.
- Wipe clean; then apply a light lubricating oil to the blade.
- Store the trimmer dry with the blade protected.
| Task | WD-40 works well | Better choice |
|---|---|---|
| Removing sap and sticky residue | Yes | None needed beyond wiping |
| Short-term corrosion protection after cleaning | Yes | Light oil for longer protection |
| Long-lasting blade lubrication while trimming | Not ideal | Light machine oil or similar |
| Freeing up a stiff blade after storage | Sometimes | Clean first, then oil |
- Keep spray away from hot surfaces (especially the muffler) and ignition sources.
- Never spray while the engine is running.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning the cutting blade.
- Wipe off excess so it does not fling onto the clutch area.
A clean, lightly oiled blade cuts faster and runs cooler, which reduces strain on the clutch and engine and helps prevent rust during storage.
If you need replacement fuel-system parts while servicing the unit, you can order model-matched parts on this page or search by model at Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is a good price for a hedge trimmer?
A good price for a hedge trimmer depends on power type and features. For a gas hedge trimmer like the Craftsman 358795660 (21 cc, 22-inch blade), most homeowners find solid value in the mid-range: typically about $150 to $300 for a comparable new gas model, with higher prices tied to heavier-duty build and longer blades.
- Corded electric: about $40 to $120
- Cordless battery: about $80 to $250 (battery and charger can raise cost)
- Gas (like model 358795660): about $150 to $350
- Commercial-grade gas: about $300 to $600+
A “good price” is really the best match for your yard size and how often you trim.
- Blade length: longer blades usually cost more (your model is 22 in.)
- Engine size and power: higher cc typically costs more (your model is 21 cc)
- Vibration control and ergonomics: better handles and isolation add cost
- Serviceability: easier access to fuel system and starter parts can save money long-term
- Included accessories: blade cover, tool kit, and extra filters can affect value
Use this to judge whether the price is worth it.
| If you need... | A good buy usually includes... |
|---|---|
| Occasional trimming | 18 to 22-inch blade, basic 2-cycle engine |
| Regular seasonal trimming | 22 to 24-inch blade, easy-start recoil, good anti-vibration |
| Thick, woody hedges | Stronger engine, robust gearbox, readily available service parts |
Paying a little more for the right power type can reduce trimming time and prevent premature wear on fuel and starting components. On older gas units, keeping the fuel system sealed and clean also helps avoid hard-start and stalling issues.
If you already own the Craftsman 358795660, repairs often cost far less than replacement when you focus on common wear items:
- Replace a leaking fuel cap such as lawn mower fuel cap 577858601
- Refresh fuel delivery parts like ayp chainsaw fuel line fitting 530023877
- Replace a restricted in-tank filter like fuel filter 530095646
- Follow the fuel, storage, and safety guidance in the owner's manual
For parts pricing and availability beyond the list for this model, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Is a 400W hedge trimmer good?
A 400W hedge trimmer can be a good choice for light to medium trimming on small to mid-size hedges, but it is a different class than your Craftsman 358795660, which is a 21 cc 2-cycle gas hedge trimmer with a 22-inch blade. For thicker growth and longer run time, gas models like the 358795660 typically have more cutting power.
- Light shaping and small hedges: 400W corded electric usually works well.
- Thicker branches and dense hedges: gas trimmers usually cut faster with less bogging.
- Long sessions: gas avoids extension cords and voltage drop.
- Noise and maintenance: electric is typically quieter and simpler; gas needs fuel mix, tune-ups, and periodic service.
- Portability: gas is easier to move around large yards.
| Feature | 400W corded electric | Craftsman 358795660 gas hedge trimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Light trimming | Heavier trimming, larger jobs |
| Runtime | Unlimited with power | Limited by fuel, refill as needed |
| Maintenance | Low | Higher (fuel system, spark plug, air filter) |
| Mobility | Limited by cord | High |
Matching power to the job helps you get cleaner cuts and reduces strain on the motor or engine. Using an underpowered trimmer on thick growth can lead to slow cutting and extra wear.
- Follow the fuel and maintenance schedule in the owner's manual.
- If it runs lean, stalls, or won’t stay running, inspect the fuel system; a clogged in-tank filter is common, and the fuel filter 530095646 is a listed replacement part.
- Replace cracked or leaking fuel lines and fittings; the ayp chainsaw fuel line fitting 530023877 is one option shown for this model’s parts list.
- Use sharp blades and keep the cutting area clear of debris.
- Let the engine cool before transporting or storing.
For replacement parts for Craftsman 358795660, use the parts list for this model or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the difference between a hedge trimmer and a hedge cutter?
A “hedge trimmer” and “hedge cutter” are often used interchangeably, but in practice a hedge trimmer (like the Craftsman 358795660 gas hedge trimmer) is typically meant for routine shaping and light-to-medium growth, while a hedge cutter usually refers to a heavier-duty tool built to power through thicker, woody branches.
| Feature | Hedge trimmer | Hedge cutter |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | Shaping, maintenance trimming | Renovation, aggressive cut-back |
| Branch size | Small, flexible stems | Thicker, woody stems |
| Tool feel | Lighter, easier to maneuver | Heavier, more power-focused |
| Common power types | Electric, battery, gas | Often gas or heavy-duty electric |
We recommend matching the tool to what you cut most often:
- Choose a hedge trimmer for frequent touch-ups, clean lines, and lighter branches
- Choose a hedge cutter if you regularly tackle overgrown hedges and thicker stems
- If you already own a trimmer, use loppers or a pruning saw for the occasional thick branch instead of forcing the blades
- For gas models, plan on routine maintenance (fuel system, air filter, spark plug, blade lubrication) to keep cutting performance strong
Using the right tool helps you get cleaner cuts, reduces strain and vibration during longer jobs, and prevents premature wear on cutting blades and engine components. For gas trimmers like the Craftsman 358795660, proper upkeep also supports safe operation and reliable starting.
If your cutting performance drops or the engine starts acting up, common service items include fuel system parts and carburetor-related gaskets.
- For fuel delivery issues, check the tank cap venting and fuel lines
- Replace cracked or hardened fuel lines to prevent air leaks
- If the engine surges or won’t stay running, inspect carburetor gaskets and consider a rebuild kit
Helpful parts you can order for this model include the fuel filter 530095646 and poulan lawn & garden equipment engine carburetor gasket 530019194. For diagrams, safety rules, and maintenance intervals, use the owner's manual. To search additional Craftsman parts by model number, visit Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
