How to start a gas line trimmer?
To start your Craftsman gas line trimmer model 358795920, mix fresh fuel at 40:1 (3.2 oz 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon unleaded gas), move the start lever to START, and do not squeeze the throttle until the engine fires; after it starts, let it warm up about 5 seconds, then squeeze the throttle to return to RUN (see the owner's manual).
Step-by-step starting procedure
- Fill with properly mixed 40:1 fuel (fresh, well-mixed).
- Set the trimmer on the ground with the cutting head clear of debris.
- Move the start lever to START.
- Pull the starter rope until the engine starts.
- Let the engine warm up about 5 seconds.
- Fully squeeze the throttle trigger once to deactivate the starting system (lever returns to RUN).
Fuel mix and starting controls (quick reference)
| Item | What to use/do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel | Unleaded gasoline + synthetic 2-cycle oil | Prevents engine damage and hard starting |
| Mix ratio | 40:1 (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas) | Correct lubrication for this engine type |
| Start lever | START for starting, then RUN after warm-up | Enriches fuel for easier starts |
| Throttle trigger | Do not squeeze until it starts | Avoids flooding and starting difficulty |
If it will not start (most common checks)
- Confirm the fuel is 40:1 and not old or separated.
- Make sure the ON/STOP switch is in the ON position (if equipped).
- Check the spark plug condition and gap; replace with Champion RCJ-6Y if needed.
- Inspect the primer bulb for cracks or stiffness; a leaking bulb can prevent proper priming (see ayp lawn & garden equipment engine carburetor primer bulb 530047721).
- Look for cracked or loose fuel line connections; air leaks can cause no-start or stalling (see ayp chainsaw fuel line fitting 530023877).
Why it matters
Correct fuel mix and using the start lever properly prevents flooding, reduces pull-start effort, and protects the 2-cycle engine from premature wear. When starting issues persist, fuel delivery parts (primer bulb, fuel line fittings) are the first items we check.
You can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 358795920 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What trimmer line does Craftsman use?
For the Craftsman 358795920 gas line trimmer, we recommend using Craftsman replacement trimmer line in the line size specified for your trimmer head. Using the correct line (and only line, not wire or blades) helps the head feed properly and reduces wear; see the owner's manual.
Recommended line types for this model
The manual calls out two common line types by color and what they are best for:
- Red line: cutting grass and small weeds
- Black line: cutting larger weeds and light brush
- Use the line size best suited for the job and your trimmer head’s line glide plate hole selection
How to choose the right diameter (quick guide)
Your trimmer head uses a line glide plate with different hole positions depending on line diameter. Match the hole selection on the glide plate to the line you install.
| What you are cutting | Typical line choice | What you will notice |
|---|---|---|
| Grass, light trimming | Smaller or “medium” line | Longer line life, smoother cutting |
| Heavy weeds, light brush | Larger line | Faster cutting, more line wear |
Tips that make line last longer
The manual’s technique guidance matters as much as the line itself:
- Cut with the tip of the line, not the full length
- Hold the trimmer head about 3 inches (8 cm) above the ground when trimming
- Avoid “crowding” the line into the cutting area
- Use less than full throttle for light-duty trimming and near fences, posts, and trees
Why it matters
Using the specified trimmer head and recommended line helps prevent unsafe kickback and reduces damage to the trimmer head, line glide plate, and nearby objects (like fence wire that can grab and snap line).
Buying the right line and related parts
We stock model-compatible parts for the Craftsman 358795920 on the parts list for this model; for broader part and model searches, use Sears PartsDirect. If your line will not feed or the engine is hard to start after storage, common maintenance items to check include the fuel system and primer components such as the ayp lawn & garden equipment engine carburetor primer bulb 530047721.
Last updated: February 2026
Which is better, .080 or .095 trimmer line?
For a Craftsman 358795920 gas line trimmer, .095 line is better for thicker weeds and light brush because it’s stronger and typically lasts longer, while .080 line is better for lighter trimming and edging because it’s easier on the trimmer head and uses less power. Use the line size and routing shown in the owner's manual.
How to choose the right line for the job
- Choose .080 for routine edging, thin grass, and detail work around beds.
- Choose .095 for heavier grass, thicker weeds, and tougher growth.
- Use lighter line near hard objects (rocks, fence posts, edging) to reduce head wear.
- Let the tip of the line do the cutting; don’t “crowd” the line into the material.
- Run less than full throttle for light trimming to extend line life and reduce vibration.
Performance comparison
| Feature | .080 trimmer line | .095 trimmer line |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Light trimming and edging | Heavy trimming and tougher weeds |
| Durability | Good | Better |
| Load on engine | Lower | Higher |
| Line consumption | Typically lower | Typically higher in dense growth |
What the manual emphasizes (and why it matters)
Your trimmer is designed to use the specified trimmer head and recommended trimmer line, and the manual warns against using wire, rope, string, blades, or flailing devices. Using the correct line diameter helps prevent excessive vibration, poor cutting, and premature wear to the trimmer head and gearbox.
Tips to make either size cut better (and last longer)
- Hold the trimmer head about 3 inches above the ground and cut with the line tip.
- For scalping, expect faster line wear because the line contacts the ground.
- If the engine bogs down with .095, switch to .080 for that task.
- If you’re replacing worn fuel system parts while tuning performance, check the ayp lawn & garden equipment engine carburetor primer bulb 530047721 and fuel line connections.
Ordering the right parts and supplies
We list model-matched replacement parts for the Craftsman 358795920 on this parts page; you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is the fuel line on a Craftsman trimmer?
For the Craftsman 358795920 gas line trimmer, the fuel line size is typically 9/64 inch outside diameter (OD) with an 0.080 inch inside diameter (ID). Use the routing and connection points shown in the owner's manual so the line seals correctly at the tank and carburetor.
How to confirm you have the right fuel line
- Measure the ID (the hole) and OD (the outside) with a caliper for accuracy.
- Match the line to the tank grommet/fitting and the carburetor inlet so it fits snugly.
- Replace fuel line that is hard, cracked, swollen, or loose on fittings.
- If the trimmer has a primer bulb, check it for cracks because it can mimic a fuel line leak.
- Route the line exactly like the diagram so it does not kink when the handle is moved.
Common symptoms of the wrong size line
| Symptom | What it usually means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Primer bulb will not fill | Air leak at line or fitting | Recheck ID/OD and connections |
| Starts then dies | Fuel starvation | Inspect tank pickup and line routing |
| Fuel seepage near tank | Line too large or hardened | Replace with correct size line |
| Line kinks when assembled | Line too stiff or routed wrong | Reroute per manual, use correct line |
Parts that often get replaced with the fuel line
If you are already opening the fuel system on model 358795920, these parts are commonly replaced at the same time:
- Ayp chainsaw fuel line fitting 530023877 (helps restore a tight connection)
- Ayp lawn & garden equipment engine carburetor primer bulb 530047721 (fixes poor priming and air leaks)
- Fuel filter (if equipped) and fresh 2-cycle fuel mix
Why it matters
A fuel line that is even slightly too small can restrict fuel flow; a line that is too large can pull air and cause hard starting, stalling, and poor acceleration. Correct sizing and routing keeps the carburetor supplied with fuel consistently.
To order model-matched replacement parts, use the parts list for Craftsman 358795920 or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman 358795920 gas line trimmer, remove the old line, remove and reinstall the line glide plate, then feed a new length of Craftsman replacement line through the correct holes and pull both ends until they’re equal. Follow the owner's manual for the exact hole selection and routing.
Before you start (safety and setup)
- Stop the engine and let all moving parts fully stop.
- Disconnect the spark plug boot before maintenance.
- Use only Craftsman brand replacement line (never wire, rope, or string).
- Confirm the correct shield is installed for line trimming.
- Inspect the trimmer head for cracks or damage and replace damaged parts before use.
Line replacement steps (manual-based)
- Remove the old line from the trimmer head.
- Remove the line glide plate (it’s held in place by the cutting line).
- Clean the trimmer head so the plate seats correctly.
- Reinstall the line glide plate and align it as indicated on the plate (the plate shows which holes to use for different line diameters).
- Insert both ends of the new line through the proper holes on the side of the trimmer head.
- Pull the line through the positioning tunnels until the line sits against the hub and extends fully.
- Equalize the ends; correctly installed line is the same length on both sides.
Quick checks after reloading
- The line feeds smoothly when you bump the head.
- The line ends are even and not crossed inside the head.
- The head is secure and not wobbling.
- The line is at a practical cutting length (not excessively long).
Common symptoms and what they usually mean
| Symptom | Most common cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Line won’t feed | Line routed in wrong holes or not seated in tunnels | Re-thread using the glide plate directions |
| Line breaks too fast | Wrong line type for the job | Use heavier line for weeds/light brush |
| Excess vibration | Damaged head parts | Inspect and replace cracked/chipped parts |
Why it matters
Correct line routing and glide plate alignment prevent binding, uneven feed, and premature line breakage; they also help keep the trimmer operating safely and smoothly.
You can also order replacement parts for your Craftsman 358795920 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





