How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman model 358797270 gas line trimmer, we remove the spool (or bump head), wind new line in the correct direction, then reinstall the spool so the line feeds smoothly without crossing or overlapping.
- Shut the engine off and let it cool completely.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire so the trimmer cannot start accidentally.
- Work on a flat surface and wear gloves and eye protection.
- Use the correct line diameter for your trimmer head (most bump heads use common sizes like 0.080 in or 0.095 in).
- Remove the bump knob: Hold the head and unscrew the bump knob (many heads loosen counterclockwise).
- Lift out the spool: Note how the spring and spool sit so you can reinstall them the same way.
- Clean the head: Remove packed grass and dirt; debris causes poor feeding.
- Cut two equal lengths of line (common is 10 to 20 ft total, depending on head size).
- Wind the line onto the spool following the arrow on the spool (or wind so it matches the original direction).
- Keep the wraps tight and even.
- Do not cross the line over itself; overlapping leads to tangles and feed problems.
- Lock the ends in the spool notches (if your spool has them).
- Reinstall the spool and spring, thread the line ends through the eyelets, then reinstall the bump knob.
- Pull both line ends to release them from the notches and confirm the spool turns freely.
- Line is too thick or wound the wrong direction.
- Line is crossed or packed too tight on the spool.
- Eyelets are dirty or damaged.
- Spool spring is missing or installed incorrectly.
| Symptom | Most common cause | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| Line tangles inside head | Overlapping wraps | Rewind with tight, parallel wraps |
| Line feeds too fast | Too little tension or worn spool | Rewind tighter; inspect spool |
| Line will not advance | Wrong line size or debris | Use correct size; clean head |
Correct winding and the right line size reduce tangles, improve cutting performance, and prevent premature wear on the trimmer head and flex shaft.
For tune-up performance while you are servicing the trimmer, replacing a dirty filter helps starting and throttle response; use the exact-fit air filter 530027530.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is the fuel line on a Craftsman trimmer?
On the Craftsman gas line trimmer model 358797270, the fuel line size most commonly used is 9/64 inch outside diameter (OD) with an 0.080 inch inside diameter (ID). When you replace it, match both OD and ID so the line seals tightly on the tank and carburetor fittings.
- Measure the inside diameter (ID) first; it must grip the fitting without leaking.
- Check the outside diameter (OD) to be sure it routes correctly through the grommet and passages.
- Compare the old line for hardening, cracking, or swelling; those signs mean replacement is due.
- If the old line is missing, use the fitting size as your guide; the line should slide on with firm resistance.
- Replace the fuel line if you also replace the fuel cap or service the fuel tank to prevent air leaks.
| Spec | What it affects | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| ID (0.080 in) | Seal on fittings | Too large leaks; too small will not install |
| OD (9/64 in) | Routing through openings | Too large binds; too small can kink |
If the trimmer runs lean, stalls, or will not stay running, a restricted air path or tank venting issue can look like a fuel line problem.
- Air filter 530027530: A clogged filter can make starting and running inconsistent.
- Fuel cap 530014347: A bad vent can create vacuum in the tank and starve fuel.
- Fuel tank assembly 530095646: Cracks or a failing pickup setup can cause intermittent fuel delivery.
Using the correct fuel line size helps prevent air leaks, fuel seepage, and hard starting. On a 2-cycle Craftsman trimmer like model 358797270, even a small leak can make the carburetor mixture too lean and cause stalling.
Last updated: February 2026
What size string does a Craftsman 358797270 use?
For the Craftsman 358797270 gas line trimmer, the correct trimmer line diameter is the size specified on the cutting head or spool (it is usually molded into the head or printed on the spool). Use that exact diameter to prevent poor feeding, breakage, and drive wear.
- Look for a molded marking on the bump head (often near the eyelets)
- Check the spool label if your head uses a removable spool
- Measure the old line with a caliper if the marking is worn off
- Match the line shape to your use (round for general trimming, twisted for heavier weeds)
- Replace brittle line; old line snaps and feeds poorly
These are the most common diameters used on gas trimmers; your 358797270 should use one of these sizes as indicated on the head/spool.
| Line diameter | Typical use | What happens if you go thicker than rated |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 in. | light trimming | jams, weak feed |
| 0.080 in. | general trimming | overloads head, poor feed |
| 0.095 in. | heavier weeds | stalls, clutch/drive strain |
- Rewind evenly and in the correct direction; crossed wraps bind up
- Do not overfill the spool; leave space for expansion
- Clean grass and grit from the head and eyelets
- Inspect the line limiter for damage; it controls cut length and affects load (see limiter 530094570)
Using the exact line diameter your cutting head is designed for keeps RPM up, improves cutting, and prevents extra strain on the flexible drive, clutch, and bump-feed parts.
Last updated: February 2026
Where can I get Craftsman replacement parts?
For Craftsman model 358797270 gas line trimmer replacement parts, we recommend shopping by the exact model number so you get the right fit for your engine and trimmer head. You can order parts from the parts list for model 358797270 on Sears PartsDirect.
Use the model number 358797270 first, then match the part name and part ID. For common maintenance items, starting with the air filter and fuel system parts usually gets the trimmer running reliably again.
- Confirm the model number on the trimmer’s ID tag before ordering
- Match the part by function (air, fuel, starter, drive)
- Replace wear items as a set when symptoms overlap (for example, fuel cap plus fuel tank components)
- For engine performance issues, service the air filter before carburetor work
- Keep a spare starter rope kit on hand for seasonal use
These are model-matched examples that we stock for this trimmer:
| What you’re fixing | Part to check first | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Hard starting, poor power | Air filter 530027530 | Airflow and fuel mixture |
| Fuel smell, leaks, won’t stay primed | Fuel cap 530014347 | Tank sealing and venting |
| Pull cord broken or frayed | Rope kit 530069232 | Recoil starter operation |
| Loss of drive to cutting head | Flex shaft 530094566 | Power transfer to trimmer head |
Craftsman outdoor power equipment often has multiple engine and component variations across similar-looking units. Ordering by model 358797270 reduces returns and helps you get the correct gaskets, fuel parts, and drive components the first time.
Last updated: March 2026
Why does my Craftsman trimmer die when I give gas?
When your Craftsman gas line trimmer model 358797270 dies as you squeeze the throttle, the engine is usually running too rich or starving for fuel under load. The most common quick fix is servicing the intake side (especially the air filter) and then checking the fuel cap vent and fuel delivery.
- Inspect and replace a dirty or oil-soaked air filter 530027530.
- Try loosening the fuel cap slightly; if it runs better, replace the fuel cap 530014347 (a plugged cap vent can cause vacuum lock).
- Drain old fuel and refill with fresh, properly mixed 2-cycle fuel.
- Warm the engine for 1 to 2 minutes before heavy throttle.
- Check for cracked or loose fuel lines and a loose fuel pickup in the tank.
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Idles OK, dies when throttled | Clogged air filter | Replace air filter 530027530 |
| Dies after a few seconds at WOT | Fuel tank not venting | Test/replace fuel cap 530014347 |
| Bogging, surging, won’t accelerate | Carburetor metering issue | Inspect gaskets; consider repair kit 530035185 |
| Starts, then stalls randomly | Air leak at carb/cylinder | Check carburetor gasket 530019156 and cylinder gasket 530019267 |
If the air filter and fuel cap checks do not change anything, the next most common cause is a carburetor that cannot meter fuel correctly when you open the throttle. On model 358797270, these parts are often involved:
- Carburetor gasket 530019156 (air leak at carb mounting)
- Cylinder gasket 530019267 (air leak affecting crankcase pulse)
- Repair kit 530035185 (carburetor rebuild components)
A trimmer that stalls on acceleration is telling you the air-fuel mix is wrong. Fixing it early prevents hard starting, plug fouling, and lean running that can overheat and damage the engine.
Last updated: February 2026
