Owner’s manual
What size is the fuel line on a Craftsman trimmer?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358745501, fuel line size varies by routing (tank pickup vs. return/vent); the most reliable match is to replace it using the model-specified fuel line from the parts list and confirm the routing in the owner's manual.
We recommend matching by function and fit, not just diameter, because small-engine fuel systems often use different line sizes.
- Follow the line from the fuel tank grommet to the carburetor (supply line)
- Identify any second line returning to the tank (return line) or acting as a vent
- Check for common failure signs: cracking, hardening, loose fit at fittings, or wet spots
- Replace the fuel filter in-tank if it is attached to the pickup line (common on gas trimmers)
For this model page, the listed fuel line option is:
If your trimmer uses more than one line size, replace lines as a set and cut each new line to match the old length and routing.
Use these checks to confirm you have the right inside diameter (ID) and outside diameter (OD) for a leak-free seal.
- The line should slide onto the fitting with firm resistance
- It should not split when pushed onto the barb
- It should not spin freely once installed
- It should not kink when the handle is moved or the engine cover is installed
| Symptom | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Fuel seepage at tank or carb fitting | ID too large or line hardened |
| Line won’t go onto fitting | ID too small |
| Engine starts then dies | Air leak or restricted pickup line |
| Strong fuel smell when stored | Loose fit or cracked line |
Correct fuel line sizing on a 2-cycle Craftsman trimmer helps maintain proper fuel delivery and prevents air leaks that cause hard starting, rough running, and fuel leaks.
To order the correct replacement, use the parts list for model 358745501 on this page, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What size line does a Craftsman trimmer take?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358745501, we use 0.080-inch (2 mm) round trimmer line. This size feeds and advances correctly in the cutting head; thicker line can jam the spool and cause poor cutting performance. See the 358745501 owner's manual for the exact line and spooling instructions.
Use these specs to buy the right replacement cutting line:
- Diameter: 0.080 in. (2 mm)
- Shape: round
- Material: nylon trimmer line (do not use wire, rope, or string)
- Spool type: refill spool or pre-wound spool (both are supported)
- Typical refill length: about 25 ft per refill (then leave 4 to 6 in. out for threading)
| What you’re choosing | Use this on 358745501 | What happens if you don’t |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.080 in. (2 mm) | Line may not advance, may bind, or cut poorly |
| Line shape | Round | Non-round line can feed inconsistently |
| Substitute materials | None (no wire/rope/string) | Breakage risk and unsafe operation |
- Check the spool or trimmer head label for the printed line size.
- If the line will not bump-feed or keeps welding itself on the spool, the diameter is usually too large.
- If the line snaps constantly, it is often old, brittle, or stored in heat; replace with fresh 0.080-in round line.
- If you are refilling, wind in the direction shown on the spool and keep tension even.
The cutting head on model 358745501 is designed around 0.080-inch round line. Using the correct diameter helps the spool advance smoothly, reduces head wear, and keeps trimming consistent around fences, edging, and light brush.
If you also have fuel delivery issues while servicing the trimmer, common maintenance items for this model include the ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216. You can order model-specific parts from the parts list on this page or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the fuel mixture for a Craftsman trimmer?
For the Craftsman line trimmer model 358745501, we use a 40:1 fuel mix: unleaded gasoline blended with synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil. That ratio equals 3.2 fl oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of gas; mix it thoroughly before fueling (see the owner's manual).
| Gasoline amount | 2-cycle oil to add | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 fl oz | Shake the container to fully blend |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 fl oz | Mix in an approved fuel container |
| 1 quart | 0.8 fl oz | Measure carefully to avoid a lean mix |
- Use fresh unleaded gasoline.
- Use synthetic 2-cycle oil rated for air-cooled engines.
- Do not use automotive oil or marine (boat) oil.
- Mix fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flames.
- Wipe up spills and move the trimmer at least 10 feet away from the fueling spot before starting.
A correct 40:1 mix protects the 2-cycle engine by providing the lubrication it needs. Too little oil can score the piston and cylinder; too much oil can foul the spark plug and make the trimmer run rough.
If the trimmer is hard to start, runs rough, or leaks gas, we typically inspect the fuel delivery and ignition basics first:
- Fuel line condition and routing (see ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216)
- Fuel tank for cracks or a loose fitting (see fuel tank 545103802)
- Stop/kill switch operation (see lawn & garden equipment kill switch 530069572)
We list model-matched replacement parts for 358745501 on this page; you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect if you are building a larger parts list.
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace a gas trimmer head?
To replace the trimmer head on your Craftsman 358745501 gas line trimmer, shut the engine off, disconnect the spark plug, lock the shaft so it cannot spin, then unthread the head. The loosening direction depends on whether your head uses standard or left-hand threads; confirm the exact procedure in the 358745501 owner's manual.
- Move the ON/OFF switch to OFF and let the engine fully stop
- Disconnect the spark plug before maintenance
- Wear eye protection and gloves
- Work on a flat surface with the trimmer supported
- Replace trimmer head parts that are chipped, cracked, or broken before use
- Disable ignition: pull the spark plug wire off the plug.
- Lock the shaft/head: insert a screwdriver, pin, or nail into the head or gearbox locking hole (if equipped) to keep it from turning.
- Remove the head: unthread the head. Start by turning counterclockwise (standard thread). If it does not loosen, turn clockwise because many trimmer heads use left-hand (reverse) threads.
- Install the new head: thread it on by hand first to prevent cross-threading, then tighten securely while the shaft is locked.
- Final check: confirm the shield is installed and the head is securely fastened before starting.
| If the head loosens when you turn | The head is most likely |
|---|---|
| Counterclockwise | Standard (right-hand) thread |
| Clockwise | Left-hand (reverse) thread |
| Neither direction | Shaft not locked, debris jam, or overtightened threads |
A loose or damaged cutting head can break, fail to feed line correctly, and throw debris. The manual also specifies using 0.080 in (2 mm) diameter Craftsman cutting line for proper line advance and cutting performance.
If you are replacing the head because the trimmer is running poorly, these common issues are worth checking:
- Fuel leaks or cracked fuel lines; replace the ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216
- No shutoff or no spark due to a bad switch; replace the lawn & garden equipment kill switch 530069572
- Weak or intermittent spark; replace the ignition module 501092801
- For additional parts by model number, search on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman 358745501 gas line trimmer, we remove the trimmer head cap, pull out the spool, wind new line in tight, even wraps (no crossing), feed the ends through the eyelets, then reassemble and set the line length. Use the line size and loading method shown in the 358745501 owner's manual.
- Shut the engine off and let it cool
- Disconnect the spark plug wire before servicing the head
- Clean grass and dirt out of the trimmer head and eyelets
- Inspect the head for cracks or missing pieces before reusing it
- Remove the bump knob or cap (tabs or a screw, depending on the head).
- Lift out the spool and note the winding direction arrow.
- Cut the correct length of trimmer line for your head (the manual lists the length and routing).
- Anchor the line in the spool slot or hole.
- Wind the line tightly in the arrow direction in neat layers so there is no overlap.
- Feed the line end(s) through the eyelet(s), reinstall the spool, then reinstall the cap.
- Pull the line to equal lengths; start the trimmer and bump to verify smooth feed.
- Line wound the wrong direction; rewind to match the spool arrow
- Loose wraps or crossed wraps; rewind tight in clean layers
- Head packed with debris; clean the spool cavity and eyelets
- Line too thick for the spool; switch to the diameter specified in the manual
| What to match | Why it matters | What happens if wrong |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter listed for the head | Prevents binding and poor feed | Jams, won’t advance, breaks early |
| Correct winding direction | Keeps the spool feeding smoothly | Tangles and “welded” line |
| Proper line length | Prevents overfilling | Cap won’t close, line won’t feed |
Correct line diameter and neat, non-overlapping wraps reduce vibration, prevent spool jams, and keep bump-feed working so your Craftsman trimmer cuts consistently.
For more cutting and feed troubleshooting, see our solving common problems with line trimmer cutting lines article. You can also order replacement parts for your Craftsman 358745501 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
