Owner’s manual
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman 316711020 gas line trimmer, we remove the cutting head cover, load the correct diameter line evenly onto the spool (no overlaps), then reinstall the cover and test the bump-feed. This prevents tangles and improves cutting performance.
Before you start
- Shut the engine off and let the muffler and cutting head cool completely.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Wear gloves and eye protection; trimmer line ends can be sharp.
Steps to replace the trimmer line
- Remove the cutting head cover: Press the tabs or release points on the head and lift off the cover.
- Remove the spool: Note how the old line is routed before pulling it out.
- Cut new line: Use the line size and length specified in the 316711020 owner's manual.
- Wind the line correctly:
- Feed the line into the spool anchor hole/slot.
- Wind in the direction of the arrow on the spool.
- Keep the wraps tight and do not overlap; overlapping causes jams.
- Leave equal lengths of line on both sides (if it is a dual-line head).
- Reassemble: Thread the line ends through the eyelets, seat the spool, and snap the cover back on.
- Test feed: Start the trimmer and tap the bump knob on a flat surface to verify smooth line advance.
Quick troubleshooting if the line will not feed
- Line wound backwards; rewind in the spool arrow direction.
- Line overlapped or loose; rewind with tight, even layers.
- Line too thick; switch to the manual-specified diameter.
- Spool or cover damaged; replace the line trimmer cutting head cover 753-06765 if it will not latch securely.
- Line fused from heat; avoid running the head against hard surfaces continuously.
Common line-loading checks
| What to check | What “good” looks like | What happens if it is wrong |
|---|---|---|
| Wrap pattern | Tight, even layers | Tangling and no feed |
| Line diameter | Matches manual spec | Binding or rapid wear |
| Line length | Balanced ends | Vibration, uneven cutting |
Why it matters
Correctly loading cutting line keeps the bump-feed working, reduces spool jams, and helps your Craftsman trimmer cut cleanly without excessive vibration or premature wear on the cutting head.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the fuel mixture for a Craftsman trimmer?
For the Craftsman 316711020 gas line trimmer, use a 40:1 gasoline-to-2-cycle oil fuel mix (40 parts fresh unleaded gas to 1 part 2-cycle engine oil). This ratio helps the engine lubricate properly and prevents hard starting, overheating, and premature wear; see the 316711020 operator's manual for fuel and oil details.
How to mix 40:1 fuel correctly
- Use fresh unleaded gasoline (stale fuel is a top cause of no-start issues).
- Use 2-cycle engine oil intended for air-cooled small engines.
- Mix fuel in an approved fuel container, not in the trimmer tank.
- Add about half the gas first, add the measured oil, then add the remaining gas.
- Cap and shake to blend before fueling.
Quick mix chart (40:1)
| Gasoline amount | 2-cycle oil needed |
|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 fl oz |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 fl oz |
| 1 quart | 0.8 fl oz |
| 1 liter | 25 ml |
If the trimmer runs poorly after mixing
A correct 40:1 mix will not fix problems caused by restricted airflow or fuel delivery. Check these common items:
- Dirty or oil-soaked air filter (consider mtd line trimmer air filter 753-06417)
- Old fuel or water-contaminated fuel
- Cracked fuel lines or a leaking tank
- Carburetor issues (consider mtd line trimmer carburetor 753-06190)
- Spark arrestor screen or muffler restriction
Why it matters
Two-cycle engines rely on the oil in the fuel for lubrication. A lean-oil mix can score the cylinder and piston; too much oil can foul the spark plug, smoke excessively, and reduce power.
Last updated: January 2026
How to unflood a string trimmer?
If your Craftsman 316711020 gas line trimmer is flooded, clear the excess fuel by stopping fuel flow, drying the spark plug area, and cranking the engine with the throttle held open so extra fuel can purge from the cylinder and exhaust.
Quick steps to unflood it
- Move the switch to OFF and let the trimmer sit 5 to 10 minutes.
- Set the choke to RUN/OFF (no choke) and do not press the primer bulb.
- Hold the throttle wide open (this adds air and helps clear fuel).
- Pull the starter rope in short, steady pulls until it tries to fire.
- If it still will not start, remove and dry the spark plug; reinstall and try again.
- Once it starts, keep it running at a fast idle for 20 to 30 seconds to clear the remaining fuel.
If it keeps flooding, check these common causes
Flooding usually happens from too much priming, too much choke time, or restricted airflow.
- Dirty air filter restricting air (clean or replace as needed); consider mtd line trimmer air filter 753-06417.
- Over-priming (pressing the primer too many times).
- Choke left on too long after the engine pops.
- Old fuel or wrong mix (use fresh, properly mixed 2-cycle fuel).
- Carburetor issue such as a sticking needle or metering problem; mtd line trimmer carburetor 753-06190 is a common fix when tuning and cleaning do not help.
What to do differently on the next start
| Situation | Best starting approach |
|---|---|
| Cold start | Prime only as directed, choke ON until it pops, then choke OFF and start |
| Warm restart | No choke, little to no priming |
| After storage | Fresh fuel mix, inspect air filter, then normal cold-start routine |
Why it matters
A flooded 2-cycle engine can wet-foul the spark plug and load the muffler with raw fuel, which makes starting harder and can cause rough running until the extra fuel burns off.
For model-specific starting and choke positions, follow the Craftsman 316711020 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
