What size string for Craftsman string trimmer?
For the Craftsman 358791620 gas line trimmer, we recommend using 0.080 inch (2 mm) round trimmer line. Using the correct diameter helps the line advance properly and prevents excessive wear or unsafe operation; the operator guidance is in the owner's manual.
- Diameter: 0.080 in (2 mm)
- Shape: round line
- Do not use: wire, rope, string, or bladed attachments
- Why this matters: other sizes or shapes may not advance correctly and can cause improper cutting head function
| What you’re choosing | Best choice for 358791620 | What can go wrong if incorrect |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.080 in (2 mm) | Poor feed, head wear, vibration |
| Line shape | Round | Jamming or inconsistent advance |
| Material | Trimmer line only | Breakage and injury risk |
- Keep the cutting line at the proper length (let the line limiter do its job).
- Advance line by tapping the trimmer head on grass with the engine at full throttle.
- Avoid tapping on concrete or asphalt; it wears the trimmer head quickly.
- For delicate areas (trees, shrubs, fences), shorten line to about 4 to 5 inches and use less than full throttle.
- Let the tip of the line do the cutting; do not force the head into heavy growth.
Correct line size is a safety and performance item on a gas trimmer. With the right 0.080-inch line, the bump-feed advances consistently, the engine runs smoother under load, and you avoid premature trimmer head wear.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman 358791620 gas line trimmer, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, remove the spool from the bump head, then wind two 12-1/2 ft lengths of 0.080 in (2 mm) round line evenly onto the spool and reinstall it. See the 358791620 owner's manual for the exact spool routing and notch alignment.
- Push and release the STOP switch; let the engine fully stop.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire (prevents accidental starting).
- Pull the spool straight out by firmly pulling on the tap button.
- Clean the hub and spool surfaces (dirt causes feeding problems).
- Cut two pieces of line: 12-1/2 feet each; use 0.080 in round line only.
- Insert each line end about 1/2 inch into the small holes inside the spool.
- Wind the line evenly and tightly in the direction of the arrow on the spool.
- Seat the line into the spool notches, leaving 3 to 5 inches unwound.
- Feed the line through the hub exit holes, align notches with exit holes, then push the spool in until it snaps.
- Pull the line ends to release them from the notches.
| Item | What to use | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.080 in (2 mm) round | Advances properly and cuts safely |
| Line length | Two pieces, 12-1/2 ft each | Fills the spool correctly |
| Unsafe substitutes | Wire, rope, string | Can break and become a projectile |
Correct line size and even winding prevent tangles, poor line advance, and premature wear on the bump head. Using the specified 0.080-inch round line also keeps cutting performance consistent and reduces the chance of the line “welding” to the spool.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is the fuel line on a Craftsman lawn tractor?
For a Craftsman 358791620 gas line trimmer, the fuel system typically uses two different fuel line sizes (a small line and a large line), not a single “1/4-inch ID” hose like many lawn tractors. Use the parts list and the 358791620 owner's manual to match the correct routing and line type for your trimmer.
These are the model-matched fuel line options we list for this Craftsman trimmer:
- Fuel line, small 530069247 (small diameter line used in the fuel pickup/return circuit)
- Fuel line, large 530069216 (larger diameter line used for the main feed/connection points)
- Replace the fuel filter at the same time if it is restricted or brittle: engine fuel filter 530095646
- Replace lines as a set if they are stiff, cracked, or swollen
- Route lines exactly as originally installed to prevent kinks and air leaks
Fuel line sizing is based on inside diameter (ID) and outside diameter (OD) so it seals on the tank grommet and carburetor fittings. For small 2-cycle trimmers, “small” and “large” lines are commonly different IDs to fit different ports.
| What you’re working on | What matters most | Best match for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Line through the fuel tank/grommet | OD fit and flexibility | Fuel line, small (530069247) |
| Line to carburetor fittings | ID fit on the barb | Fuel line, large (530069216) |
| Hard starting, surging, stalling | Air leaks or restriction | Replace both lines plus fuel filter |
Using the wrong ID/OD can cause air leaks, fuel starvation, or a line that slips off under vibration. That shows up as hard starting, poor acceleration, or the engine dying when you open the throttle.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most reliable string trimmer?
If you want the most reliable string trimmer, we recommend choosing a proven, serviceable design with easy-to-find replacement parts and straightforward maintenance. For owners of the Craftsman 358791620 gas line trimmer, reliability comes from using the correct cutting line, keeping the unit leak-free, and replacing wear items before they fail (details in the owner's manual).
Reliability is less about one “best” brand and more about how consistently the trimmer starts, runs, and feeds line over time.
- Starts easily hot and cold
- Idles smoothly and accelerates without bogging
- Advances line consistently without jamming
- Does not develop fuel leaks or cracked fuel lines
- Has readily available service parts (fuel line, fuel filter, carburetor)
The manual calls out a few items that directly affect long-term dependability and safe operation.
- Use only 0.080 inch (2 mm) round line; other sizes and materials can feed poorly and increase head wear
- Keep the shield installed; it helps maintain correct line length and reduces head damage
- Tap the head on grass (not concrete/asphalt) to reduce excessive wear
- Inspect for loose or damaged parts before each use; repair fuel leaks before running
- Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug before maintenance (except carburetor adjustments)
Fuel delivery issues are one of the most common causes of hard starting, stalling, and poor throttle response on gas trimmers.
| Symptom | Most common fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Starts then dies | Restricted fuel flow | Craftsman lawn & garden equipment engine fuel filter 530095646 |
| Won’t stay running, surges | Cracked or soft fuel line | Poulan lawn & garden equipment fuel line, small 530069247 or ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216 |
| Runs only with choke | Fuel metering problem | Line trimmer carburetor 530071822 |
A “reliable” trimmer is one that feeds line correctly and runs consistently at the right throttle setting. Using the specified 0.080-inch line and preventing fuel leaks reduces downtime, protects the trimmer head, and helps the engine run cooler and steadier.
Last updated: February 2026





