Craftsman 90079973 trimmer Parts

Yes. For a Craftsman hedge trimmer like model 90079973, we use WD-40 mainly as a cleaner and rust inhibitor after trimming; it helps loosen sap and moisture, but it is not a long-lasting blade lubricant, so follow up with a light machine or clipper oil for smoother cutting.

Best way to use WD-40 on hedge trimmer blades

• Turn the trimmer off and let the blades stop completely; disconnect power (unplug cord or remove battery).
• Brush off clippings first so you are not grinding debris into the teeth.
• Spray a light coat of WD-40 on both sides of the blade bar.
• Wipe the blades with a rag to remove sap, pitch, and residue.
• Apply a few drops of light oil along the blade teeth and run the trimmer briefly to distribute it.

What to use WD-40 for vs. what to use for lubrication

Task	WD-40 works well	Better long-term choice
Removing sap and grime	Yes	Degreaser plus wipe-down
Displacing moisture after cleaning	Yes	Light oil after drying
Preventing rust during storage	Yes (short-term)	Light oil film for storage
Reducing blade friction while cutting	Temporary	Clipper oil or blade lubricant spray

Why it matters

Clean, lightly oiled blades cut faster, run cooler, and put less load on the motor and gearbox. That reduces premature wear and helps prevent poor cutting, binding, and overheating.

Model-specific tips for Craftsman 90079973

• Follow the cleaning and lubrication intervals and any oil recommendations in the 90079973 owner's manual.
• If the blades still bind after cleaning and oiling, inspect for bent teeth, loose fasteners, or damaged wiring; our how to repair broken or damaged wires video can help with safe inspection and repair basics.
• For replacement parts and diagrams for this model, start with the parts list for 90079973, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes. On the Craftsman 90079973 hedge trimmer, the cutting blades are a serviceable wear item and are designed to be removed for cleaning, sharpening, and replacement when they get bent, chipped, or won’t cut cleanly. For model-specific removal steps and fastener locations, use the 90079973 owner's manual.

When you should replace (not just sharpen) the blades

• The blade teeth are chipped, cracked, or missing
• The blade bar is bent or the trimmer vibrates more than normal
• You see heavy rust pitting that catches on branches
• The trimmer tears leaves instead of making clean cuts
• The blades bind even after cleaning and lubrication

Basic blade replacement overview (typical process)

We follow the same safe sequence on most electric and gas hedge trimmers:

1. Disconnect power (unplug, remove battery, or disconnect the spark plug wire).
2. Clean debris from the blade area so hardware is visible.
3. Remove the blade cover/guard (if equipped).
4. Remove the blade fasteners in order and keep spacers/washers organized.
5. Install the replacement blade set in the same orientation.
6. Torque fasteners evenly, then lubricate and test for smooth movement.

What to check before ordering parts

Because blade sets vary by length, tooth spacing, and drive style, match parts by model number and diagram callout.

What to match	Why it matters	What to look for
Model number	Ensures correct fit	90079973 on the ID label
Blade length	Affects coverage and guard fit	Measured tip-to-tip
Drive interface	Prevents slipping/binding	Gear/slider style and hole pattern
Hardware/spacers	Keeps blade aligned	Washers, bushings, and sleeves

Why it matters

A worn or damaged blade set increases load on the motor or engine, causes poor cutting performance, and can lead to overheating or premature wear of the gearbox and drive components.

Finding the right replacement blade set

Start with the parts list for Craftsman 90079973; if you’re searching across models, use your full model number on Sears PartsDirect to locate the correct blade set and any related hardware.

Last updated: February 2026

For a Craftsman hedge trimmer model 90079973, we sharpen the blades by fully disconnecting power, locking the blade bar so it cannot move, then lightly filing each cutting tooth to restore a clean edge. Finish by cleaning and lubricating the blade set before use. See the 90079973 owner's manual for model-specific safety steps.

Safety first (do this every time)

• Remove the battery or unplug the cord before touching the blades.
• Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection.
• Clamp the blade bar securely in a vise (use wood blocks to protect the blade).
• Keep your hands behind the cutting edges at all times.
• Do not sharpen a bent, cracked, or heavily nicked blade; replace the blade set instead.

How we sharpen the blades (hand-file method)

1. Clean first: Brush off debris; wipe sap with a rag and a small amount of solvent safe for metal.
2. Expose the cutting edges: Rotate or slide the blade bar by hand only if it moves freely with power disconnected.
3. Match the factory angle: Use a flat mill file and follow the existing bevel on each tooth.
4. Use light, consistent strokes: File in one direction; 3 to 10 strokes per tooth is typical.
5. Deburr: Lightly remove burrs on the back side of the tooth without changing the blade shape.
6. Lubricate: Apply a light coat of blade oil along the full length.

Quick checklist: file choice and results

Item	What we recommend	What you should see
File type	Flat mill file (fine to medium)	Smooth, even bevel
Pressure	Light	No gouges or waves
Goal	Restore edge, not remove lots of metal	Teeth look uniform

Why it matters

Sharp hedge trimmer blades cut cleanly, reduce motor load, and help prevent branch tearing that can jam the blade bar. Regular cleaning and lubrication also slows rust and sap buildup.

Parts and diagrams

If you need a replacement blade set or hardware for Craftsman 90079973, start with the model parts list, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

Yes; repairing your Craftsman hedge trimmer model 90079973 is worth it when the issue is a basic maintenance problem (dull blades, sap buildup, loose hardware, blocked vents) or a single replaceable component. Replace it when the repair cost is close to a comparable new trimmer or the cutter bar or housing is damaged.

Quick decision checklist

• Worth repairing: blades are dull but straight; it runs but cuts poorly; it hums but the blades do not move (possible jam); it vibrates because fasteners are loose.
• Usually not worth repairing: bent cutter bar; cracked housing/handle; repeated overheating with a burning smell; internal motor damage.
• Repair first when the trimmer is otherwise in good shape and you only need cleaning, adjustment, or one part.
• Replace when you need multiple major assemblies at once (for example, motor plus switch plus cutter bar).

What to try first (applies to the 90079973)

1. Unplug the trimmer and clear debris from the blade area.
2. Clean sap and residue from the blades; then apply a light coat of oil.
3. Tighten accessible screws, nuts, and blade fasteners.
4. Check the extension cord and outlet; use a properly rated cord.
5. Inspect the power cord and strain relief for cuts, kinks, or exposed wire.

For model-specific safety steps, lubrication points, and any blade service instructions, follow the 90079973 owner's manual.

Cost and time comparison

Option	Typical cost	Typical time	Best when
Clean + oil + tighten	Low	15 to 45 minutes	Sticky blades, light vibration, uneven cutting
Sharpen blades	Low to medium	30 to 90 minutes	Cuts poorly but blades are straight
Replace major assembly or trimmer	Medium to high	Same day to a week	Bent bar, cracked housing, motor failure

Why it matters

A dull or dirty cutter bar makes the motor work harder, which increases heat and vibration and can shorten the life of the trimmer. Basic maintenance often restores cutting performance and prevents bigger failures.

Getting the right parts

Match parts to the exact model number 90079973 to avoid fit issues. If you do not see what you need listed, search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026