Craftsman 316794470 line trimmer Parts

The thickest commonly sold trimmer line is typically 0.170 inch. For the Craftsman 316794470 gas line trimmer, the exact maximum line diameter depends on the cutting head and spool design, so we recommend confirming the supported line size in the 316794470 owner’s manual.

Common trimmer line sizes (and what they’re best for)

• 0.065 inch: light trimming, small yards
• 0.080 inch: general residential trimming
• 0.095 inch: thicker grass and moderate weeds
• 0.105 inch: heavier weeds, faster wear on small heads
• 0.130 inch: heavy-duty cutting heads and brushy areas
• 0.155 to 0.170 inch: commercial or heavy brush setups (only if the head is rated for it)

How to choose the right thickness for Craftsman 316794470

Using line that is too thick can overload the engine, reduce RPM, and cause poor feeding or head damage. We recommend matching line diameter to the head rating, then choosing the thickest option within that rating for tougher weeds.

Line thickness	Cutting strength	Engine load	Typical use
0.065 to 0.080	Low to medium	Low	Grass edging, light trimming
0.095 to 0.105	Medium to high	Medium	Dense grass, weeds
0.130+	High	High	Heavy weeds, brush (rated heads only)

Why it matters

Correct line diameter helps your trimmer cut efficiently while protecting the cutting head, drive components, and engine from unnecessary strain.

Last updated: January 2026

On the Craftsman line trimmer model 316794470, the key difference between 2.4 mm and 2.7 mm trimmer line is thickness: 2.7 mm is heavier-duty and more durable, while 2.4 mm is lighter and typically cuts with less load on the trimmer. Always confirm the maximum line size your trimmer head supports in the 316794470 user manual.

How to choose the right line size

We match line diameter to the job and the trimmer’s cutting head capability:

• 2.4 mm: best for routine edging and trimming grass in tighter areas
• 2.7 mm: better for thicker grass and heavier weeds where breakage is more likely
• Thicker line can reduce line breakage, but it can also reduce runtime and increase vibration
• If the head is designed for a smaller diameter, oversized line can feed poorly or jam
• Line shape matters too (round is smooth-feeding; twisted or serrated can cut more aggressively)

Quick comparison

Line diameter	Best for	Tradeoff you may notice
2.4 mm	Light trimming, edging, normal grass	Wears faster in heavy weeds
2.7 mm	Thick grass, weeds, tougher trimming	More load on the engine and head

Why it matters

Using the correct diameter helps your trimmer head feed properly, keeps cutting performance consistent, and helps prevent premature wear on the cutting head and drive components. For the Craftsman 316794470, the manual is the safest way to confirm what the head was designed to run.

Tips to avoid feed problems (any brand)

• Cut line ends cleanly and wind evenly on the spool
• Do not overfill the spool; leave room for the line to expand
• Keep the head clean; grass buildup increases drag
• Replace worn line before it gets too short to feed reliably

Last updated: January 2026

To reload the trimmer spool on your Craftsman 316794470, we remove the spool cap, wind new trimmer line onto the spool in the direction shown on the head, then feed the line ends through the eyelets and reinstall the cap so the line can advance smoothly. See the 316794470 owner’s manual for head-specific details.

Steps to reload the spool (typical bump-feed head)

• Shut the engine off and let the cutting head stop completely.
• Press the spool cap tabs (or remove the cap) and lift the spool out.
• Cut two equal lengths of trimmer line (use the diameter recommended for your head).
• Anchor the line in the spool slot/hole, then wind tightly in the arrow direction.
• Feed the line ends through the eyelets, seat the spool, and snap the cap back on.
• Pull both ends evenly to remove slack; confirm the line moves freely.

Winding direction and line length tips

Winding the wrong direction is the most common reason line tangles or will not feed.

What you see	What it usually means	What we do
Line “bird-nests” inside the head	Loose winding or wrong direction	Rewind tight, follow the arrow
Line will not advance	Line jammed in spool or eyelet	Re-seat spool, check eyelets
Line breaks off short	Too large line diameter or worn head	Use correct diameter; inspect head

Why it matters

A properly loaded spool reduces vibration, improves cutting performance, and prevents constant line jams that can overheat the head and wear the spool cap.

If the cap will not stay on

On the Craftsman 316794470, a cap that will not latch is often caused by debris under the tabs, a mis-seated spool, or a stripped fastener. If you find a missing or damaged fastener during inspection, match it to the correct replacement from the parts list (for example, screw 9689A if it matches your assembly).

Last updated: January 2026

Yes, TrimmerPlus attachments can work with a Craftsman line trimmer like model 316794470 as long as your power head is a TrimmerPlus-compatible, split-shaft (attachment-capable) design. Compatibility is determined by the coupler/drive connection on your trimmer, not just the Craftsman brand name; confirm the attachment-capable setup in the 316794470 user manual.

How to confirm your 316794470 is attachment-capable

Check these items before buying an edger, cultivator, or blower attachment:

• Look for a split shaft with a coupler (usually a clamp collar with a knob or bolt) between the engine and the lower shaft
• Verify there is a drive shaft inside the tube (attachments need the internal drive)
• Confirm the attachment you want is labeled TrimmerPlus compatible
• Make sure the attachment’s shaft diameter and coupler style match your trimmer’s connection
• If your trimmer is a solid shaft (no coupler), attachments typically will not fit

What “works with Craftsman” usually means

Many universal attachment systems are designed to fit multiple brands, including Craftsman, when the trimmer accepts TrimmerPlus-style attachments. For model 316794470, the key is whether your specific unit has the attachment coupler and matching drive connection.

Quick compatibility checklist

What you have	What it means	Likely result
Split-shaft with coupler	Built for attachments	Often compatible
Solid straight shaft	No attachment joint	Usually not compatible
Attachment labeled TrimmerPlus compatible	Designed for that system	Best chance of fit

Why it matters

Using an attachment that does not match the coupler or drive connection can cause poor performance (slipping, vibration) and can damage the drive shaft or coupler. Verifying fit first helps you avoid returns and protects your Craftsman trimmer.

Last updated: January 2026