How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace the cutting line on your Craftsman line trimmer model 316790111, we install new trimmer line into the bump head (or replace the pre-cut line) and then feed equal lengths out of the head so it advances smoothly when you bump-feed.
- Shut the engine off and let the muffler cool completely.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Wear gloves and eye protection; trimmer line ends can whip back.
- Clean grass and debris off the trimmer head so the spool seats correctly.
Most Craftsman bump heads reload in a similar way:
- Remove the spool cap (usually by pressing tabs or unscrewing the cap).
- Pull out the spool and note the winding direction arrow on the spool.
- Cut two equal lengths of line (many heads use two lines; some use one). Use the diameter specified for your head.
- Anchor the line ends in the spool holes/slots, then wind tightly and evenly in the direction of the arrow.
- Leave about 4 to 6 inches of line free on each side.
- Thread the line ends through the eyelets in the head, reinstall the spool, then reinstall the cap.
| What to match | What to use | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | 0.095-in | Too thick can jam; too thin wears fast |
| Line condition | Fresh, flexible line | Brittle line breaks and won’t feed |
For the correct diameter line sold for this model, use Craftsman line trimmer cutting line, 0.095-in 85614.
- Make sure the line is wound tight and not crossing over itself.
- Confirm the line ends are routed through the eyelets and not trapped under the spool.
- Do not overfill the spool; it causes binding.
- Tap the bump knob on a hard surface at operating speed (light bumps work best).
Correct line diameter and neat winding prevent tangles inside the head, which is the most common reason a bump-feed trimmer stops advancing line and starts breaking it off short.
Last updated: February 2026
Is the .095 trimmer line good?
Yes; .095-inch cutting line is a strong, all-around choice for the Craftsman 316790111 line trimmer because it balances durability with cutting power for thicker grass and weeds. It is especially useful when you want fewer line breaks and better edging performance.
- You trim heavier grass, weeds, or light brush and want more durability
- You edge along sidewalks and curbs and need a line that holds up
- You frequently hit abrasive surfaces (fence lines, rocks, hard soil)
- You prefer fewer stops to bump-feed or re-string
A reliable option for this model is Craftsman line trimmer cutting line, 0.095-in 85614.
If your trimmer head supports multiple line sizes, thinner line can feel smoother and use less power, while thicker line can cut tougher growth but may reduce runtime on some units.
| Line diameter | Best for | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 to 0.080 in | Light grass, detail trimming | Breaks more easily in tough weeds |
| 0.095 in | General purpose, edging, tougher weeds | Slightly more drag than thin line |
| 0.105 in (if supported) | Very heavy weeds | More load, can feed less smoothly |
Using the right trimmer line diameter helps your Craftsman brush wacker cut cleanly without overloading the cutting head. The right match reduces line waste, improves cut quality, and makes bump-feed more consistent.
- Use clean, fresh line; old line gets brittle and snaps more
- Wind the spool evenly to prevent tangles and feed issues
- Keep the line length correct; overly long line increases drag
- Avoid “sawing” into chain link fence; tap and trim instead
Last updated: February 2026
What size line for walk behind trimmer?
For the Craftsman 316790111 line trimmer, we recommend using 0.095-inch cutting line. That diameter feeds reliably for typical trimming and edging, and it matches the replacement line we list for this model: Craftsman line trimmer cutting line, 0.095-in 85614.
Using the correct diameter helps the trimmer head feed smoothly and prevents bogging down the engine.
- Match the diameter: use 0.095 in for this model.
- Use the right shape: round line is best for general grass; twisted or serrated cuts thicker weeds faster.
- Avoid oversizing: thicker line can reduce RPM and cause poor cutting.
- Replace brittle line: old line snaps easily and can jam the head.
- Wind it evenly: uneven spooling causes feed problems and vibration.
| Line diameter | Best for | What you may notice |
|---|---|---|
| 0.065 to 0.080 in | Light grass, small trimmers | Smooth cutting, less power needed |
| 0.095 in | General trimming, heavier grass | Strong balance of cut and feed |
| 0.105 to 0.130 in | Thick weeds, high-power units | More load on engine, slower RPM |
Correct line size protects the trimmer head and drive system, improves cut quality, and reduces frustration from constant breakage or line-feed issues.
Last updated: February 2026
Which is better, .080 or .095 trimmer line?
For a Craftsman line trimmer like model 316790111, 0.095-inch line is the better choice for tougher weeds and longer wear, while 0.080-inch line is better for lighter grass and easier feeding. The best pick is the thickest line your trimmer head is designed to feed smoothly.
- Choose 0.080-inch for light grass, routine edging, and maximum ease of feeding
- Choose 0.095-inch for thicker grass, weeds, and trimming along fences and hard edges
- If the head jams or won’t advance line reliably, go thinner
- If line breaks quickly on stems or wears down fast, go thicker
- Always match the diameter range specified for your trimmer head and spool
| Feature | 0.080-inch line | 0.095-inch line |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Light trimming, edging | Heavier trimming, weeds |
| Durability | Good | Better |
| Cutting feel | More precise | More aggressive |
| Feeding | Typically easier | Can be tighter in some heads |
| Load on trimmer | Lower | Higher |
Line diameter affects cutting power, run time, and how hard the engine has to work. Using line that’s too thick for the head can cause poor feeding, bogging, and extra wear on the spool and drive components.
If your 316790111 cutting head supports 0.095-inch line, a common replacement is the Craftsman line trimmer cutting line, 0.095-in 85614.
Last updated: February 2026


