Owner’s manual
Do you use 40 1 or 50 1 gas in a chainsaw?
For the Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358351901, we use a 40:1 fuel mix (gasoline to 2-cycle oil). That means 3.2 fl oz of synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline; this ratio is specified in the 358351901 owner's manual.
Quick mix chart (40:1)
Use a quality synthetic 2-cycle oil made for air-cooled engines.
| Gasoline amount | Oil needed (40:1) |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 fl oz |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 fl oz |
| 1 quart | 0.8 fl oz |
What happens if you run 50:1 in this model?
We follow the manufacturer ratio because it protects the engine and keeps the carburetor tuning in the expected range.
- Less oil (50:1) reduces lubrication compared to 40:1
- Higher wear risk shows up first in the piston, rings, and cylinder
- Lean lubrication can also increase heat under heavy cutting
- If you already mixed 50:1, do not keep running it; drain and refill with the correct 40:1 mix
Fuel and oil rules we follow for 358351901
These points prevent the most common no-start and damage issues:
- Use fresh unleaded gasoline mixed with synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled oil
- Never run straight gasoline (no oil)
- Do not use automotive oil or marine (boat) oil
- Mix fuel in an approved container; shake to fully blend before filling
- For storage longer than about 30 days, drain the tank and run the engine until it stops (fuel system empty)
Why it matters
Two-stroke engines rely on the oil in the fuel for lubrication. Using the correct 40:1 mix helps prevent premature scoring and overheating, and it supports consistent starting and cutting performance.
Last updated: February 2026
Does a Craftsman chainsaw have a fuel filter?
Yes. The Craftsman 358351901 gas chainsaw has a fuel filter inside the fuel tank; it can even rattle when the tank is empty, which is normal. If the saw is hard to start or runs rough, a clogged fuel filter is a common cause.
Where the fuel filter is and what it does
The fuel filter sits on the end of the fuel pickup line inside the fuel tank. Its job is to keep debris from reaching the carburetor and causing poor starting, surging, or stalling.
Common signs the fuel filter needs attention
- Hard starting, especially after sitting
- Engine starts but dies when you squeeze the throttle
- Loss of power under load
- Saw runs lean or “hunts” at idle
- Fuel line looks brittle or cracked (often found during filter service)
Quick check and replacement overview
We recommend following the steps and safety notes in the 358351901 owner’s manual before servicing the fuel system.
- Turn the ON/STOP switch to OFF and let the saw cool completely
- Work outdoors, away from sparks or flames; wipe up any fuel spills
- Drain the fuel tank into an approved container
- Pull the filter and fuel line up through the filler neck (use a clean wire hook if needed)
- Replace the filter, then push it back into the tank so it can move freely
Parts that are commonly replaced at the same time
| If you find this issue | What to replace | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Cracked or soft fuel line | Ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216 | Prevents air leaks that cause hard starting and stalling |
| Loose or leaking fuel line connection | Ayp chainsaw fuel line fitting 530023877 | Restores a tight seal at the tank or carb connection |
| Fuel smell or wetness around cap | Fuel tank cap 580940901 | Helps stop vapor leaks and fuel seepage |
Why it matters
A restricted fuel filter can starve the carburetor, making the 358351901 difficult to start and unreliable under load. Keeping the filter and fuel lines in good shape also helps protect the carburetor from contamination.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is a Craftsman 16 36cc chainsaw?
Many Craftsman 16-inch, 36cc gas chainsaws are identified by a 358.xxxxxx model number on the data plate; for example, Craftsman model 358.350460 is a known 16-inch/36cc configuration. Your Craftsman 358351901 chainsaw is a different model (it is listed as an 18-inch bar, 42cc saw in the 358351901 operator's manual).
How to find the correct model number on your saw
Use the model number from the saw itself, not the bar length or engine size description.
- Look for a label on the starter housing, rear handle area, or near the fuel tank
- Write down the full number exactly as shown (including dots if present)
- Match the model number to the parts list before ordering a chain, bar, carburetor, or fuel line
- If the label is worn, compare your saw’s features to the diagrams in the manual
Quick comparison: 16-inch/36cc vs model 358351901
| Item | 16-inch/36cc example | Craftsman 358351901 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical model format | 358.XXXXXX | 358.351901 |
| Bar length | 16 in. | 18 in. |
| Engine size | 36cc | 42cc |
Why it matters
The model number controls the exact fit for high-wear parts like the chain, guide bar, fuel system parts, and starter components. Ordering by “16-inch 36cc” alone often leads to the wrong pitch, gauge, or mounting pattern.
Parts that commonly differ by model
If you are matching parts for Craftsman 358351901 specifically, these are examples of model-specific items that must fit correctly:
- Chain 91PX062G (chain fit depends on pitch, gauge, and drive link count)
- Chainsaw bar, 18-in 180SDET041 (bar mount and length must match)
- Ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216 (fuel line diameter and routing vary)
Last updated: February 2026
