Do trimmer plus attachments work with Craftsman?
Some TrimmerPlus attachments work with Craftsman powerheads, but compatibility depends on the attachment connection style. For the Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773708, we recommend using only manufacturer-approved accessories and following the attachment guidance in the 917773708 owner's manual.
Use these checks before buying or installing any attachment:
- Connection type: TrimmerPlus systems typically require a specific coupler interface; your 917773708 is a walk-behind trimmer, not a straight-shaft attachment-capable powerhead.
- Approved accessories: Use only accessories approved by the manufacturer to reduce injury risk.
- Guarding and shielding: Never operate without proper guards, plates, or protective devices installed.
- Cutting method: This unit is designed for line trimmer use only; do not use blades, wire, or flailing devices.
- Operating conditions: Stop the rotating trimmer head when crossing gravel, walks, or roads.
Many TrimmerPlus products are marketed as compatible with certain Craftsman string trimmer powerheads that accept TrimmerPlus attachments. A high wheel line trimmer like model 917773708 is a different machine category, so “Craftsman compatible” on the package does not automatically apply.
| Item type | Typical TrimmerPlus fit? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment-capable string trimmer powerhead | Yes | Uses a coupler system designed for attachments |
| High wheel line trimmer (Craftsman 917773708) | No | Built for line trimming with its own trimmer head design |
Using an unapproved attachment can increase vibration, reduce control, and raise the risk of injury. It can also interfere with shields and safe line-trimming operation, which is why the manual emphasizes approved accessories and proper guarding.
Last updated: January 2026
How to replace trimmer line on Craftsman Weedwacker?
On the Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773708, we replace the cutting line by installing two equal-length pieces of .155-inch trimmer line into the carrier plate and seating each one under its retainer clip. Follow the steps in the 917773708 owner's manual to match the correct line length and installation method.
- .155-inch diameter trimmer line
- Line cut to the correct length (see table below)
- Work gloves and eye protection
- A clean, flat work area
- Spark plug wire access (for safe disconnection)
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and move it where it cannot contact the spark plug.
- Remove the worn line from the line carrier plate.
- Cut two new lines to the correct length.
- Fold one line in half and insert the folded end through the carrier plate opening to the back side of the retainer clip.
- With the folded end behind the retainer clip, pull the line outward until it is fully seated under the retainer clip.
- Repeat on the other side of the carrier plate.
- Verify both lines match in length to keep the trimmer head balanced and reduce vibration.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
| Item | Specification | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch | Prevents poor cutting and line retention issues |
| Cut length (each piece) | 18-3/4 inches | Helps maintain proper reach and balance |
| Length match between lines | Within 1 inch | Reduces vibration and uneven trimming |
Using the specified .155-inch line and keeping both pieces the same length helps the trimmer head stay balanced, improves trimming performance, and reduces premature wear on the trimmer head components.
- Line is worn to less than half its original length
- Trimming takes noticeably longer than normal
- The trimmer head vibrates more than usual
- Line breaks frequently (often caused by using the wrong material)
Last updated: January 2026
How to start a Craftsman trimmer?
To start the Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773708, prime a cold engine 3 times, set the throttle to FAST, then hold the upper handle firmly and pull the starter rope quickly until the engine starts (do not let the rope snap back). See the 917773708 owner's manual for the exact control locations.
- Place the trimmer on level ground.
- Push the primer bulb 3 firm times.
- Move the throttle lever to FAST (FAST is used for starting and normal trimming).
- Stand behind the handle (operating position) and hold the upper handle firmly.
- Pull the starter handle quickly; let the rope return gently.
Priming is usually not needed for a warm restart. Use this sequence:
- Throttle to FAST
- Pull the starter handle quickly
- If it does not start after a few pulls, prime once and try again
These items prevent most starting problems on the 917773708:
- Oil level: this trimmer ships without oil; fill and check oil before each use.
- Throttle position: starting is done in FAST, not SLOW or STOP.
- Primer use: over-priming can flood the engine; if you smell fuel, wait a few minutes and try again with no priming.
- Spark plug wire: make sure it is fully seated on the spark plug.
- Airflow: keep the top of the engine around the starter clear of grass and chaff.
| Control | Where it is | What to use for starting |
|---|---|---|
| Throttle lever | Upper handle area | FAST |
| Primer bulb | On the engine | 3 pushes (cold) |
| Starter handle/rope | On the engine | Pull quickly |
Correct priming and using the FAST throttle position reduces pull-start effort, helps prevent flooding, and gets the engine up to a stable speed for trimming.
Last updated: January 2026
Can I use .080 trimmer line?
No. For the Craftsman 917773708 high wheel line trimmer, we use .155 inch diameter trimmer line cut to 18-3/4 inches for proper cutting and to keep the trimmer head balanced. Using .080 line is too small and commonly causes poor trimming and line-retention problems; see the 917773708 owner's manual.
For best results on this model:
- Use .155 inch diameter trimmer line
- Cut each piece to 18-3/4 inches
- Replace lines when they wear to half their original length
- Keep all installed lines within 1 inch of each other in length to prevent vibration
| Item | Specification for Craftsman 917773708 | What happens if you use .080 |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch | Too thin; slips, breaks, or won’t stay seated |
| Line length | 18-3/4 inches | Incorrect length can unbalance the head |
| Head balance | Lines should be nearly equal | Vibration and rough operation |
Before replacing trimmer line, we follow these basics:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the plug
- Remove the worn line from the carrier plate
- Fold the new line in half and install it through the carrier plate opening
- Confirm guards and shields are installed before operating
- Never substitute wire, rope, or other materials for trimmer line
If the line keeps coming out or won’t stay in place:
- Confirm you are using .155 diameter line (not .080)
- Recheck the installation steps in the 917773708 owner's manual
- Inspect the carrier plate for wear; the line trimmer carrier plate 594935003 is the model-matched part when replacement is needed
This trimmer is designed around a specific line diameter and length. Correct line size improves cutting performance, reduces vibration, and helps prevent line from ejecting during operation.
Last updated: January 2026





