Owner’s manual
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman gas line trimmer model 358795560, remove the old line, clean the cutting head, then install new Craftsman replacement line through the correct holes shown on the line glide plate so the line feeds evenly and does not overlap. See the 358795560 owner's manual for the exact head layout.
Steps to replace the trimmer line
- Shut the engine off and let it cool; disconnect the spark plug boot before maintenance.
- Remove the old cutting line and take off the line glide plate.
- Clean the entire cutting head so the new line seats correctly.
- Reinstall the line glide plate.
- Identify the correct line holes (the line glide plate shows which holes to use).
- Insert equal lengths of new line so both sides match and feed smoothly.
Line selection and setup tips
Using the right line and loading it cleanly prevents tangles and poor cutting.
| What to check | What we recommend | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Line type | Use Craftsman replacement line | Prevents breakage and head damage |
| Line size | Match the size listed for the head in the manual | Ensures proper feed |
| Line length | Load equal lengths on both sides | Reduces vibration and uneven cutting |
| Routing | Avoid crossing or overlapping inside the head | Prevents jams and tangles |
Why it matters
A properly loaded cutting head keeps line at the correct length, reduces tangling, and helps your Craftsman 358795560 cut consistently without excessive vibration or stalling.
Related DIY help
- Use our solving common problems with line trimmer cutting lines guide if the line keeps breaking, welding together, or will not advance.
Last updated: January 2026
How to unflood a string trimmer?
If your Craftsman 358795560 gas line trimmer is flooded, clear the extra fuel by stopping the engine, letting it sit briefly, then restarting with the throttle held open so more air moves through the engine. Once it fires, ease off the throttle and let it stabilize at idle.
Steps to unflood the engine safely
- Move the trimmer outdoors to a clear, well-ventilated area.
- Release the throttle trigger and use the ON/STOP switch to stop the engine.
- Wait 5 to 10 minutes so excess fuel can evaporate.
- Restart with the throttle held open (wide open throttle) and keep the cutting head off the ground.
- When the engine starts to catch, gradually reduce throttle so it can settle into a steady idle.
- If it still will not start after several pulls, remove and dry the spark plug, then try again.
What to check if it keeps flooding
Flooding usually happens when too much fuel enters the engine during starting. These checks prevent repeat flooding:
- Air filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes flooding more likely; clean it per the 358795560 owner's manual.
- Primer bulb use: Pressing the primer too many times can over-fuel the carburetor.
- Starting technique: Avoid repeated pulls with the choke fully on once the engine has “popped” or tried to start.
- Fuel system condition: Cracked or loose fuel lines can cause inconsistent fueling; inspect and replace as needed.
- Fuel filter: A restricted filter can contribute to hard starting and repeated priming; consider replacing the Craftsman lawn & garden equipment engine fuel filter 530095646.
Quick reference: symptoms and the best response
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What we recommend |
|---|---|---|
| Strong gas smell, wet spark plug | Flooded engine | Wait, then restart at wide open throttle |
| Starts, then dies when you release throttle | Idle speed too low | Adjust idle speed so it runs without stalling (cutting head off the ground) |
| Won’t start after many pulls | Over-primed or choke left on too long | Dry plug, reduce priming, retry |
Why it matters
A flooded 2-cycle trimmer can look like an ignition failure, but it is usually a starting and airflow issue. Clearing the excess fuel correctly reduces plug fouling, prevents unnecessary carburetor adjustments, and gets your 358795560 back to a stable idle faster.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the fuel mix for a Craftsman gas trimmer?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358795560, we use a 40:1 fuel mix (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil). That equals 3.2 ounces of synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline, as specified in the 358795560 owner's manual.
Correct 40:1 mix amounts
Use this quick reference when mixing fuel for your 2-cycle trimmer:
| Gasoline amount | 2-cycle oil needed (40:1) |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 oz |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 oz |
| 1 quart | 0.8 oz |
How we recommend mixing fuel
Mixing correctly helps prevent hard starting, rough running, and premature engine wear.
- Use fresh, unleaded gasoline in an approved fuel container
- Add the measured 2-cycle synthetic air-cooled engine oil
- Cap the container and shake briefly to fully blend the mixture
- Mix and pour fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flames
- Wipe up spills and move at least 10 feet away before starting
Oil type and what to avoid
Using the right oil matters as much as the ratio.
- Use a good quality synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil
- Do not use automotive oil
- Do not use boat oil (marine 2-cycle oil)
Why it matters
A 2-cycle engine relies on oil mixed into the gasoline for lubrication. If the mix is too lean (not enough oil), internal engine parts can overheat and wear quickly. If it is too rich (too much oil), you can get excess smoke, fouled spark plugs, and poor performance.
Last updated: January 2026
