Owner’s manual
Should I use 40 1 or 50 1 fuel for a chainsaw?
For the Craftsman chainsaw model 358352160, use a 40:1 fuel mix (unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil). The manual specifies 40:1, which equals 3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of gas; that is the correct mix to protect the engine.
Correct mix and what it means
Use this ratio every time you mix fuel:
- 40:1 = 3.2 oz 2-cycle oil + 1 gallon unleaded gasoline
- Use 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil (Craftsman-brand oil is recommended)
- Do not use automotive oil or marine (boat) oil
- Mix fuel in an approved container and shake to fully blend
| Mix ratio | Oil per 1 gallon gas | Typical result |
|---|---|---|
| 40:1 (recommended for 358352160) | 3.2 oz | Proper lubrication and normal performance |
| 50:1 | 2.6 oz | Leaner oil mix; can increase wear on saws designed for 40:1 |
Why 40:1 matters on this model
Running 50:1 in a saw designed for 40:1 reduces lubrication. Over time, that can contribute to hotter operation, faster piston and cylinder wear, and harder starting. Following the specified ratio keeps the air-fuel-oil mixture where the carburetor and engine were designed to run.
Fuel handling and quick safety checks
Before fueling or troubleshooting a running issue, we follow the safety steps in the owner's manual.
- Mix and pour fuel outdoors, away from sparks or flames
- Wipe up spills and move at least 10 feet away before starting
- Let the saw cool before refueling
- Tighten the fuel cap securely; replace it if it will not seal
- If the saw leaks fuel, stop using it until the leak is corrected
If the saw is hard to start after mixing fuel
If you are using fresh 40:1 mix and it still will not start or runs rough, common causes include stale fuel, cracked fuel lines, or carburetor issues.
- Inspect fuel lines; replace if brittle or leaking (see line kit 530069216)
- Check the primer bulb and fuel cap seal
- Consider carburetor service if it surges or will not idle (see tips for a hard to start chainsaw)
Last updated: January 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 358352160 chainsaw?
The model number for this Craftsman gas chainsaw is 358352160. Use this exact number when ordering parts like a fuel cap, fuel line kit, or carburetor kit, and when matching diagrams and specifications in the 358352160 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the saw
On most Craftsman gas chainsaws, the model number is printed on a data label on the saw body. Common label locations include:
- Near the rear handle or trigger area
- On the starter housing (recoil cover) side
- Around the fuel tank housing
- Near the bar mount area (clutch cover side)
Why the manual may show a slightly different number
Some Craftsman chainsaws have closely related model numbers that share many parts (for example, a different last digit or a dot format like 358.XXXXXX). Always match parts to 358352160 for the best fit.
| What you’re checking | What should match | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number on the label | 358352160 | Ensures correct parts lookup |
| Manual cover/model listing | 358352160 (preferred) | Confirms procedures and specs |
| Part listing/diagram match | 358352160 | Prevents wrong-order returns |
Parts that commonly depend on the exact model number
Even small model-number differences can change fuel and ignition components. These are common examples:
- Fuel system parts (fuel lines, fuel cap, primer)
- Carburetor and carburetor repair parts
- Ignition module/coil and flywheel hardware
- Clutch and clutch cover components
Helpful related DIY content
For common chainsaw ownership and repair questions, we recommend starting with chainsaw common questions.
Last updated: January 2026
Where is the model number on a chainsaw?
On a Craftsman gas chainsaw like model 358352160, the model number is typically printed on the product identification label or ID tag on the saw body (often near the rear handle, starter housing, or fuel tank area). Use the model number to match the correct parts list and service instructions in the 358352160 operator’s manual.
Where to look on the saw
Check these common label locations first (wipe off oil and sawdust so the print is readable):
- Near the rear handle or trigger area
- On the starter (recoil) housing side
- On or near the fuel tank housing
- Along the crankcase area behind the clutch cover
- On an ID tag plate or sticker on the main chassis
Tips to read a worn or dirty label
If the label is faded or covered in residue, these steps usually help:
- Clean the area with a rag and mild degreaser; avoid soaking decals
- Use a flashlight at an angle to make stamped or embossed text stand out
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in to read small characters
- Compare what you find to the model format shown in the 358352160 operator’s manual
Model number vs. other numbers (quick guide)
| What you see | What it usually means | What to use for parts |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (example: 358352160) | Identifies the exact chainsaw version | Use this first |
| Engine size (example: 36cc) | General engine displacement | Not enough by itself |
| Bar length (example: 16 in.) | Guide bar size | Helps narrow bar/chain |
| Part numbers on components | Identifies a specific part | Use when ordering that part |
Why it matters
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong bar, chain, fuel system parts, or ignition components. For example, fuel delivery issues often trace back to cracked lines or a leaking cap; parts like the line kit 530069216 are model-matched, so the model number is the key starting point.
Last updated: January 2026
