How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman 358795521 gas line trimmer, remove the spool from the trimmer head, wind in two equal lengths of 0.065 in (1.65 mm) line, then feed the ends through the hub exit holes and reinstall the spool. For the exact spool steps and diagrams, use the owner's manual.
Before you start (safety and setup)
- Push and release the engine ON/STOP switch to shut the unit off.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire before working near the trimmer head.
- Work on a flat surface so the spool and spring do not pop out and get lost.
- Use only 0.065 in (1.65 mm) trimmer line; never use wire, rope, or string.
Replacing the line (rewind your spool)
- Pull the spool out by firmly pulling on the tap button.
- Clean the hub and spool surfaces so the line feeds smoothly.
- Cut two lengths of 12-1/2 ft (3.8 m) of 0.065 in line.
- Insert each line end about 1/2 in (1 cm) into the small holes inside the spool.
- Wind the line evenly and tightly in the direction of the arrow on the spool.
- Seat the lines in the spool notches, leaving 3 to 5 in (7 to 12 cm) unwound.
- Feed the line ends through the hub exit holes, align notches with exit holes, and reinstall the spool.
Quick specs for this model
| Item | What to use on model 358795521 |
|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.065 in (1.65 mm) |
| Line length (rewind) | Two pieces, 12-1/2 ft (3.8 m) each |
| Line type | Nylon trimmer line only |
Why it matters
Correct line diameter and even winding prevent poor bump-feed, tangles inside the head, and excessive vibration. Using the specified 0.065 in line also helps protect the trimmer head and keeps cutting performance consistent.
Ordering parts and supplies
If you also need fuel system parts while servicing the trimmer, we stock common items for this model such as the ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216. You can order parts from the list for model 358795521 or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Which is better, .080 or .095 trimmer line?
For the Craftsman 358795521 gas line trimmer, neither .080 nor .095 is better because this model is designed to use 0.065 inch (1.65 mm) round trimmer line. Using thicker line can prevent proper line advance, overload the trimmer head, and increase the risk of injury. See the owner's manual for the specified line size.
What to use on model 358795521
We recommend sticking to the factory spec so the bump-feed head advances line correctly and the line limiter can trim it to the proper length.
- Use 0.065 inch round line (Craftsman brand line is specified)
- Do not use wire, rope, string, or non-round line
- Keep the shield installed; it supports safe operation and proper line limiting
- Advance line by tapping the head on grass with the engine at full throttle
- Avoid tapping on concrete or asphalt; it causes excessive trimmer head wear
.080 vs .095: quick comparison (general guidance)
If you are comparing line sizes for other trimmers, thicker line usually lasts longer in heavy weeds, but it also needs a trimmer head and engine designed for it.
| Line diameter | Typical use | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| .080 in | Light to medium trimming | Easier to spin, less load |
| .095 in | Heavier weeds, thicker grass | More load; can reduce line advance if not designed for it |
Why it matters
Your 358795521 advances line in small increments when you bump the head; the manual warns that other sizes and shapes may not advance properly and can lead to improper cutting head function. Correct diameter also helps reduce vibration and prevents premature wear of the spool and head.
If you need parts or tune-up help
If line feed problems started after switching line, return to 0.065 inch round line and inspect the trimmer head and fuel system. For fuel delivery issues that can mimic “weak cutting” (bogging, surging), common fixes include replacing cracked fuel line or a leaking tank cap.
- DIY help: solving common problems with line trimmer cutting lines
- Common fuel-related parts for this model include the ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216 and the line trimmer fuel tank cap 530014347
- You can order replacement parts from the parts list for model 358795521, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect
Last updated: February 2026
What is the gas mix for a string trimmer?
For the Craftsman gas line trimmer model 358795521, the correct fuel mix is 40:1 (unleaded gasoline to synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil). That equals 3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of gas; the procedure is shown in the owner's manual.
Correct 40:1 mix amounts (quick chart)
Use this table to measure oil accurately before you fill the tank.
| Gasoline amount | 40:1 oil amount |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 oz |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 oz |
| 1 quart | 0.8 oz |
How we recommend mixing fuel
Mixing correctly prevents hard starting, rough running, and piston or cylinder damage.
- Use a clean, approved fuel container (not the trimmer’s fuel tank)
- Add about half the gasoline first
- Add the measured 2-cycle oil
- Cap and shake to blend
- Add the remaining gasoline, then shake again
- Mix and pour fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flames
Oil type and what to avoid
This model is designed for synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil.
- Use a good-quality synthetic 2-cycle oil intended for air-cooled engines
- Do not use automotive oil
- Do not use marine or boat oil
- If the trimmer has been stored with old fuel, drain and remix fresh fuel before troubleshooting starting issues
Why it matters
A 2-cycle engine relies on the oil mixed into the gasoline for lubrication. Too little oil can score the piston and cylinder; too much oil can foul the spark plug and make the trimmer smoke and run poorly.
Parts that often get attention when fuel problems show up
If the mix is correct but the trimmer still runs rough, won’t start, or leaks fuel, these parts are common suspects on a gas line trimmer:
- Cracked or soft fuel line (replace with ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216)
- Loose or damaged fuel cap (see line trimmer fuel tank cap 530014347)
- Fuel tank damage or grommet issues (see fuel tank 545103802)
- Carburetor mounting or air leak at the adapter (see leaf blower carburetor adapter 530057634)
You can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 358795521 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What size is the fuel line on a Craftsman trimmer?
For the Craftsman 358795521 gas line trimmer, fuel line size depends on which section you’re replacing (tank pickup line versus carburetor return/vent). We match the correct fuel line by model and routing; use the illustrated parts information in the owner's manual and order by the listed part ID to ensure proper fit.
How we identify the correct fuel line size for model 358795521
Fuel line sizing on small 2-cycle trimmers is typically based on inside diameter (ID) and outside diameter (OD), plus how the line seals at the fuel tank grommet and carburetor fittings.
Use these checks before ordering:
- Confirm whether you need the larger tank line (often the main supply line) or a smaller return/vent line.
- Compare the old line’s fit on the tank and carburetor nipples; it should slide on snugly without clamps in most cases.
- Inspect for cracking, soft spots, or swelling; ethanol-blended fuel commonly accelerates deterioration.
- Replace any loose or damaged clamps at the same time.
- Follow the routing shown in the parts diagrams so the pickup filter stays at the bottom of the tank.
Recommended replacement part for the “large” fuel line
For this model’s large fuel line, we offer the ayp lawn & garden equipment fuel line, large 530069216. This is the safest way to get the correct diameter and wall thickness without guessing measurements.
Quick comparison: measure vs. match by model
| Approach | What you do | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Match by model/part ID | Order the listed fuel line for 358795521 | Most repairs, best fit |
| Measure ID/OD | Measure old line with calipers | When the old line is intact and you’re cross-checking |
Why it matters
A fuel line that is slightly too large can pull air and cause hard starting or surging; a line that is too small can restrict fuel flow and make the trimmer run lean, which risks engine damage.
Ordering tip
Order replacement parts from the parts list for Craftsman 358795521, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect if you’re also replacing related items like the fuel tank cap or clamps.
Last updated: February 2026





