What kind of gas goes into a Craftsman chainsaw?
For the Craftsman 358350160 gas chainsaw, we use fresh unleaded gasoline mixed with a good-quality 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil at a 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon of gas). We do not use straight gas in this model; it requires a gas-and-oil mix.
Fuel type and mix ratio (what to put in the tank)
Use this checklist when fueling:
- Use unleaded gasoline (fresh, clean fuel)
- Mix with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil (not automotive oil, not marine/boat oil)
- Mix at 40:1
- Measure accurately: 3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon of gas
- Shake the approved fuel container to fully blend before filling the saw
For the exact fueling instructions and safety rules for this model, follow the 358350160 operator's manual.
Quick mix chart
| Gasoline amount | 40:1 oil amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 oz | Standard full-size mix |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 oz | Good for small batches |
| 1 quart | 0.8 oz | Useful for occasional use |
Bar and chain oil is separate (do not mix it with gas)
This chainsaw has a separate bar oil tank; we fill it whenever we fill the fuel tank.
- Use chainsaw bar oil when possible
- If bar oil is not available, a good grade SAE 30 oil works as a temporary substitute
- Expect roughly one tank of bar oil per tank of fuel mix
Why it matters
Correct 40:1 fuel mix protects the 2-cycle engine from internal damage and helps it start and run consistently. Using straight gas, automotive oil, or marine oil commonly leads to poor performance and premature engine wear.
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 358350160 chainsaw?
The model number for this Craftsman gas chainsaw is 358.350160 (often written without the dot as 358350160). You can confirm it on the product ID label and in the 358350160 operator's manual, which lists “Model No. 358.350160” with a 16-inch bar.
Where to find the model number on the saw
We recommend checking these common locations on Craftsman chainsaws:
- On the housing near the starter/recoil cover
- Near the rear handle or trigger area
- On the chassis/frame label under the top cover
- In the printed manual that came with the saw
Why you might see two formats (with dots vs. no dots)
Both formats refer to the same model; the dot is just a formatting style.
| You may see it written as | What it means |
|---|---|
| 358.350160 | Standard Craftsman model format shown in the manual |
| 358350160 | Same model number without punctuation (common online) |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number ensures you get the correct parts and diagrams for your saw, especially for fit-critical items like the bar, chain, fuel system, and carburetor components.
Examples of parts that depend on the correct model
- Bar and chain size compatibility
- Fuel line routing and diameter
- Carburetor gaskets and rebuild kits
- Oil pump and oil pickup parts
Last updated: January 2026
Is 40 1 or 50 1 better for chainsaws?
For the Craftsman 358350160 gas chainsaw, 40:1 is the better choice because it is the manufacturer-specified fuel mix (3.2 oz of 2-cycle air-cooled oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gas). Using 50:1 reduces lubrication and can increase wear in an engine designed for 40:1; follow the 358350160 owner's manual.
What we recommend for this model
Use fresh, unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil at 40:1.
- Mix 3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas (40:1)
- Use 2-cycle air-cooled oil (not automotive oil, not marine/boat oil)
- Shake the fuel container after mixing so oil disperses evenly
- Fill bar oil every time you fill fuel; this saw typically uses about one tank of bar oil per tank of fuel
- Avoid old fuel; drain or treat fuel for storage to help prevent fuel-system issues
40:1 vs 50:1: quick comparison
| Mix ratio | Oil per 1 gallon gas | Best use case | What it means for the 358350160 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40:1 | 3.2 oz | Engines designed for more lubrication | Correct mix for this Craftsman chainsaw |
| 50:1 | 2.6 oz | Some newer engines designed for leaner oiling | Too little oil for a saw specified for 40:1 |
Why it matters
The fuel mix ratio controls lubrication for the piston, rings, and crank bearings. On a 2-cycle engine like the Craftsman 358350160, running less oil than specified can accelerate internal wear and shorten engine life.
Related maintenance tip (helps either mix run better)
If the saw starts poorly, surges, or bogs after sitting, the issue is often stale fuel or a fuel-system restriction. A cracked fuel line or air leak can also lean out the mix.
- Inspect the fuel line for softness, cracks, or loose fit
- Replace a damaged line with the correct size, such as ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216
- Make sure the fuel cap seals properly and vents correctly
- Use clean fuel and a clean container dedicated to 2-cycle mix
Last updated: January 2026





