Where can I get Craftsman replacement parts?
For your Craftsman chipper/shredder model 247795940, we recommend buying replacement parts using the exact model number so you get the right fit for your machine and its specific parts list. Start with the parts diagram and part numbers in the 247795940 owner's manual.
Best places to buy Craftsman replacement parts
- Sears PartsDirect (model-based lookup and diagrams)
- Craftsman-authorized retailers (often carry common maintenance items)
- Local small-engine and outdoor power equipment repair shops (helpful for cross-referencing)
- Online marketplaces (verify the exact part number before ordering)
Use the model number and part number (this prevents wrong-part returns)
The manual for this unit identifies the model as 247.795940 and shows where the model and serial label is located (on the frame). Matching by model number is the fastest way to confirm compatibility.
When you shop, match these details:
- Model number: 247795940
- Part number: the manufacturer number listed in the parts list (example: 742-0571)
- Part description: name from the parts list (example: blade)
Common parts customers replace on this model
These are typical wear items for a 5-HP chipper/shredder and are listed as expendable items in the manual:
- Blades and chipper blades
- Air cleaner (air filter)
- Spark plug
- Catcher bag
Quick examples (from the parts list)
| Part type | Example part number | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Blade | 742-0571 | Cuts and shreds material |
| Screen | 781-0457 | Controls discharge size and helps finish shredding |
| Bag | 764-0199A | Collects shredded output |
Why it matters
Chipper/shredder parts are often model-specific (blade patterns, screen fit, housing clearances). Using the exact 247795940 parts list helps protect performance and reduces vibration, clogging, and premature wear.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my wood chipper not starting?
If your Craftsman 247795940 chipper/shredder will not start, the most common causes are stale fuel, incorrect choke and throttle settings for a cold start, or an ignition issue (spark plug, plug wire, or coil). Follow the starting steps in the 247795940 owner's manual first, then check spark and fuel delivery.
Quick no-start checklist (in order)
- Move the choke lever to CHOKE for a cold engine; set throttle to a run/start position.
- Confirm the fuel is fresh; old fuel causes hard starting and fuel-system problems.
- Make sure the spark plug wire is firmly seated on the spark plug.
- Check for spark at the plug (strong, consistent spark).
- If spark is good, suspect fuel delivery (carburetor varnish or clogged passages).
- If it starts briefly on primed fuel but dies, the carburetor is the likely issue.
Safe troubleshooting steps we recommend
Before inspecting anything near moving parts, stop the machine, let it cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire (the manual calls this out for safety).
- Fuel check: Drain old fuel and refill with fresh gasoline. If the unit sat 30 days or longer, treat fuel with stabilizer before storage.
- Starting procedure: Use the choke lever correctly; pull the starter rope slowly until you feel compression, then pull to start.
- Spark test: Remove the spark plug, reconnect the wire, ground the plug to metal, and pull the starter. No spark points to the plug, wire, or ignition coil.
- Air and exhaust: A heavily restricted air path or spark arrester screen can contribute to no-start or poor running; clean per the manual’s maintenance intervals.
Parts that commonly relate to no-start symptoms
| Symptom | Most likely area | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| No pop, no sputter | Ignition | Replace spark plug; inspect plug wire/coil |
| Starts then dies | Fuel system | Clean/rebuild carburetor; refresh fuel |
| Hard pull, won’t fire | Flooded engine | Open choke, pull to clear; check plug condition |
Why it matters
A no-start condition is usually fuel or spark. Fixing it early prevents repeated pull-starting, reduces plug fouling, and helps protect the carburetor from damage caused by old, acidic fuel during storage.
Last updated: February 2026
How much oil does a wood chipper take?
For the Craftsman 247795940 5-hp chipper/shredder, the engine oil capacity is approximately 1-1/4 pints (about 20 fl oz). Fill to the FULL mark on the dipstick with the machine level, and avoid overfilling; see the 247795940 owner's manual.
Oil capacity and what to pour
Use the dipstick as the final “measurement” because the correct level matters more than an exact pour amount.
- Capacity: ~1-1/4 pints
- Fill point: FULL mark on the oil dipstick
- Position: chipper/shredder level when checking
- Recheck after filling; top off only if needed
Recommended oil type and viscosity
The manual calls for high quality detergent oil with API service classification SG, and viscosity based on temperature.
| Outdoor temperature | Typical oil viscosity to use |
|---|---|
| Below 32°F | 5W30 |
| Above 32°F | SAE 30 |
How we fill and verify the oil level
These steps match the manual’s process and help prevent low-oil damage.
- Remove the oil fill dipstick.
- With the unit level, use a funnel and add oil until it reaches the FULL mark.
- If needed, briefly tilt the chipper/shredder toward the left (from behind the hopper), then re-level.
- Recheck the dipstick and add small amounts to reach FULL.
- Reinstall and tighten the dipstick.
Why it matters
Running low on oil can damage the engine, and overfilling can cause smoking and poor operation. This model can also consume some oil during normal use, so checking the level regularly keeps the chipper/shredder reliable.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the difference between a wood chipper and a chipper shredder?
A wood chipper is designed mainly to turn branches into chips, while a chipper/shredder (like the Craftsman 247795940) also breaks down lighter yard debris such as leaves and small twigs into finer mulch. For safe feed methods and limits, use the 247795940 owner's manual.
How the two machines work
A chipper focuses on cutting woody material; a chipper/shredder combines chipping with shredding so you can reduce a wider mix of yard waste.
- Wood chipper: best for branches and woody limbs; produces larger, more uniform chips.
- Chipper/shredder: handles branches plus leafy debris; produces a finer, mixed mulch.
- Chipper/shredder hopper: commonly used for leaves, small twigs, and small branches.
- Volume reduction: shredding typically reduces bagged material volume more than chipping alone.
- Maintenance impact: sharp cutting edges and tight fasteners help reduce vibration and improve throughput.
Craftsman 247795940: practical operating limits
The manual for this model describes feeding leaves and small twigs into the hopper and gives branch-size guidance for hopper feeding.
| Material you feed | Wood chipper | Craftsman 247795940 chipper/shredder |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves and small twigs | Not the main purpose | Designed to shred through the hopper |
| Small branches | Yes | Yes, through the hopper within limits |
| Finished material | Chips | Finer, mixed mulch |
Hopper branch-size guidance
- Up to 1/2-inch diameter recommended
- Up to 1-inch diameter maximum
- If you must push material, use a small stick, not your hands
Why it matters
Choosing the right machine affects safety, cleanup speed, and what you get at the discharge. If you want mulch-like output for composting or bagging, a chipper/shredder fits better; for mostly limbs and chips, a dedicated chipper is usually more efficient.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with chipper machines?
Common problems on the Craftsman 247795940 chipper/shredder include jamming or slow discharge from overfeeding, poor chipping from dull cutting edges or a restricted screen, hard starting from fuel or spark issues, overheating under heavy load, and excessive vibration from loose hardware. Use the 247795940 owner's manual for model-specific operating limits and troubleshooting.
Most common symptoms and what they usually mean
- Jams or no discharge: material too large, wet, or packed against the screen
- Discharge rate slows: screen is clogged or the unit is being overfed
- Poor chipping or shredding: blade edge is dull or damaged
- Engine won’t start: empty or stale fuel, spark plug wire disconnected, faulty spark plug
- Loss of power or erratic running: choke left on, blocked fuel line, contaminated fuel
- Overheating: heavy load, dirty cooling fins, maintenance overdue
Feeding limits that prevent clogs (model-specific)
Staying within the 247795940 feed limits prevents most “it keeps clogging” complaints.
| Feed location | Recommended max | Absolute max | Typical issue when exceeded |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hopper (shredding) | 1/2 in. diameter | 1 in. diameter | Screen plugs, discharge slows |
| Chipper chute (chipping) | 3 in. diameter | 3 in. diameter | Jams, engine bogs, kickback risk |
Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts
- Shut the unit off, let it cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire before inspecting.
- Confirm you are feeding the right size material into the hopper vs. chipper chute.
- Clear packed debris at the screen and discharge area.
- Inspect cutting edges for rounding, nicks, or cracks.
- Tighten visible fasteners; replace missing washers or lock washers.
Why it matters
Most chipper/shredder problems start as a performance issue that quickly becomes a safety issue. Overfeeding and restricted discharge increase load, which leads to stalling, overheating, and vibration. Correct feed size and routine cleaning keep the impeller and cutting system working efficiently.
Last updated: February 2026
Are homeowner wood chippers worth it?
Yes; a homeowner chipper like the Craftsman 247795940 is worth it when you do regular yard cleanup and want to turn branches and leaves into manageable mulch without repeated rental trips. The value comes from frequent use, safe operation, and routine upkeep listed in the 247795940 owner's manual.
When a homeowner chipper is the right buy
A 5-hp chipper/shredder is a strong fit for typical residential brush and seasonal leaf cleanup.
- You have ongoing pruning, storm debris, or fall leaf volume
- You want mulch for beds or easier bagging and disposal
- You have space to store a gas-powered machine safely (away from flames or sparks)
- You are comfortable doing tune-ups (oil, air filter, spark plug) and periodic inspections
- You prefer convenience over scheduling rentals and hauling equipment
When renting makes more sense
Renting is the better value when the job is rare or oversized.
- One-time cleanup after a major removal project
- Very large diameter limbs (beyond what homeowner units are designed to handle)
- You do not want to store gasoline or maintain an engine
- You only need chipping a few hours per year
Cost and effort comparison
| Option | Best for | Typical ongoing costs | Time tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buy a homeowner chipper/shredder | Regular seasonal cleanup | Fuel, tune-up items, wear parts | Fast access anytime |
| Rent a larger chipper | Big, occasional jobs | Rental fees, transport | Scheduling and pickup/return |
| Haul debris away | Small volumes | Dump fees, bags | Repeated trips |
Why maintenance and wear parts matter
Your long-term value depends on keeping the machine tuned and replacing normal wear items. The manual calls out common wear items such as blades, air cleaners, spark plugs, and catcher bags. If performance drops or vibration increases, inspect the cutting system and fasteners; a worn or damaged cutting blade is a common cause.
Common wear items to plan for
- Cutting blade(s)
- Air filter
- Spark plug
- Catcher bag
- Hardware that loosens over time (washers, lock washers, nuts)
Why it matters
Matching the chipper/shredder capacity to your typical debris volume keeps the machine safer to use, reduces clogs, and lowers your cost per season compared with repeated rentals.
Last updated: February 2026
Why won't my wood chipper stay running?
On the Craftsman 247795940 5-hp chipper/shredder, an engine that starts but will not stay running is caused by fuel quality or fuel flow problems, incorrect choke use, or an ignition issue like a loose spark plug wire. We use the starting and troubleshooting steps in the 247795940 owner's manual to correct the basics first.
Quick checks that fix most stalling
- Drain old gas and refill with fresh gasoline.
- Make sure the fuel cap is secure and do not overfill the tank (leave headspace for expansion).
- Start on CHOKE, then move the choke toward RUN as the engine warms.
- Reseat the spark plug wire firmly on the plug.
- If equipped, clean the spark arrester screen on the recommended interval.
Fuel system problems (most common)
Alcohol-blended fuels can attract moisture and cause rough, erratic operation after storage. If the unit sat for 30 days or more, treat it as a fuel contamination issue.
What to do (in order):
- Drain the tank; refill with fresh fuel.
- Check for a blocked fuel line or debris in the tank.
- If it still stalls or only runs with choke, clean the carburetor bowl and jets.
Airflow and load-related stalling
A chipper/shredder can bog down if discharge is restricted or if you feed material too quickly.
- Stop the machine, let it cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire before clearing a jam.
- If discharge slows or the material changes, remove and clean the flail screen.
Symptoms and what they usually mean
| Symptom | Most likely cause | Best first step |
|---|---|---|
| Runs only with choke on | Restricted fuel flow or dirty carburetor | Fresh fuel, then carb clean |
| Runs a few minutes then dies | Fuel cap venting issue, debris in fuel | Check cap, drain/refill |
| Loses power under load | Discharge restriction or feeding too fast | Clear restriction, reduce feed |
Why it matters
Stalling increases clogging risk and repeated hard-starting. Fixing fuel quality, choke use, and airflow keeps engine speed stable so the impeller and blade system can process material smoothly.
Last updated: February 2026
What wood chipper can handle 5 inch capacity?
A true 5-inch-capacity wood chipper is a heavy-duty unit built to chip branches up to 5 inches in diameter. The Craftsman 247795940 5-HP chipper/shredder is designed for smaller material; it chips up to 3 inches in the chipper chute. Confirm safe feed limits in the 247795940 owner's manual.
Capacity limits for Craftsman 247795940
These limits keep the impeller, housing, and blades from jamming or getting damaged:
- Hopper: 1/2-inch diameter recommended
- Hopper: 1-inch diameter maximum
- Chipper chute: up to 3-inch maximum diameter
- Use a small stick to help feed material if needed (never hands)
- Keep the chipper chute door closed when not in use
How to shop for a 5-inch-capacity chipper
Look for specs that match real-world branch size, especially if you chip hardwood:
- Rated chipping capacity: 5 inches (not “up to” under ideal conditions)
- Engine output: higher torque class than typical 5-HP homeowner units
- Cutting system: heavy flywheel/impeller with serviceable knives
- Feed chute: wide, straight chute that accepts crooked limbs
- Maintenance access: easy knife and screen access for cleaning and sharpening
| Branch size you need to chip | Best match | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1 inch | Hopper shredding | Fast reduction of twigs and yard waste |
| Up to 3 inches | 247795940-CLASS chipper chute | Works when fed correctly and blades are sharp |
| Up to 5 inches | True 5-inch-capacity chipper | Fewer jams, safer feed, better throughput |
If your 247795940 struggles even under 3 inches
This is usually a maintenance or material issue:
- Keep cutting edges sharp and hardware tight
- Clear discharge restrictions; a clogged screen reduces output
- Feed dry, straight branches first; avoid wet, stringy vines
Why it matters
Staying within the rated diameter limits prevents jams and protects the cutting system and engine so the chipper/shredder runs consistently.
Last updated: February 2026





