Owner’s manual
How to replace line on Craftsman gas trimmer?
To replace trimmer line on your Craftsman high wheel line trimmer model 917773704, cut two new lines to the correct length, remove the worn lines from the carrier plate, then fold and seat each new line under the retainer clip so both sides match in length (see the 917773704 owner's manual).
Step-by-step: replace the trimmer line
- Disconnect the spark plug wire so the engine cannot start.
- Remove the worn trimmer line from the line carrier plate.
- If you bought bulk line, cut each piece to 18-3/4 inches.
- Fold one piece of line in half.
- Insert the folded end through the carrier plate opening to the back side of the retainer clip.
- Pull the line outward until it is fully seated under the retainer clip.
- Repeat for the other side; confirm both lines are the same length.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
Quick checklist (to prevent tangles and uneven cutting)
- Cut both pieces to the same length (18-3/4 inches for bulk line).
- Seat the line fully under the retainer clip.
- Replace line when it wears to less than half its original length.
- Use the ends of the line to do the cutting (do not force the head into heavy growth).
- Avoid letting the trimmer head ride on concrete or asphalt (it wears the ball quickly).
Correct line size and length
The manual calls for .155 diameter trimmer line and specifies the cut length for bulk line.
| What you need | Spec for model 917773704 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 in | Helps the head retain the line properly |
| Bulk line cut length | 18-3/4 in | Keeps both sides balanced and cutting evenly |
If the head will not hold the line
If the line keeps coming out, the most common causes are incorrect installation, incorrect line size, or a damaged retainer clip. If the carrier plate is worn or damaged, replacing it often restores proper line retention; match your parts by model 917773704 and consider the line trimmer carrier plate 594935003 if it fits your diagram.
Why it matters
Correctly sized and evenly installed trimmer line reduces vibration, improves cut quality, and helps prevent premature wear to the trimmer head components.
Last updated: January 2026
Can I use .095 trimmer line?
No. For the Craftsman 917773704 high wheel line trimmer, we use .155-inch diameter trimmer line; .095-inch line is too thin for the carrier plate and typically slips, wears fast, and cuts poorly. Follow the line specs in the 917773704 owner's manual.
Correct line size for this model
The manual for model 917773704 specifies the line diameter and provides guidance for keeping the head balanced.
- Use .155-inch diameter trimmer line
- Replace the line when it wears to half its original length
- Keep both cutting lines close in length (within about 1 inch) to reduce vibration
- Use trimmer line only (no wire, rope, or similar materials)
What happens if you run .095 line
Thinner line usually does not anchor securely in a high-wheel trimmer carrier plate designed for heavier line.
- Line can pull out or slip during trimming
- Reduced cutting power in thick grass and weeds
- Faster wear, so you replace line more often
- More vibration if the two lines end up uneven
Quick spec check
| Spec item | Craftsman 917773704 guidance |
|---|---|
| Line diameter | .155 inch |
| Line length | Use the built-in length gauge on the debris shield (per manual) |
| Allowed materials | Trimmer line only (no wire, rope, etc.) |
Why it matters
Using the specified diameter helps the trimmer head stay balanced and reduces abnormal vibration; it also delivers the cutting performance this Craftsman high wheel line trimmer is designed to provide.
Last updated: January 2026
What type of oil and gas for Craftsman 2 cycle 25cc 17 trimmer?
For the Craftsman 917773704 high wheel line trimmer, use unleaded regular gasoline in the fuel tank and engine oil in a separate oil-fill/dipstick (not mixed into the gas). Use SAE 30 above 32°F or SAE 5W-30 below 32°F; see the 917773704 owner's manual for the fill procedure.
What to use (model 917773704 specs)
- Gasoline type: Unleaded regular gasoline
- Fuel capacity: 1.6 quarts
- Engine oil type (above 32°F): SAE 30 (API SF-SJ)
- Engine oil type (below 32°F): SAE 5W-30
- Engine oil capacity: 20 oz
Quick setup and filling steps
- Set the trimmer on a level surface and let the engine cool.
- Add engine oil first; this trimmer ships without oil or gasoline.
- Pour oil slowly, wait about 1 minute, then recheck the dipstick.
- Fill the fuel tank with fresh unleaded regular gasoline.
- Before each use, check oil level and tighten any loose fasteners.
If you meant a 25cc 2-cycle handheld trimmer
A true 2-cycle trimmer uses premixed fuel (gasoline plus 2-cycle oil) and has no separate crankcase oil fill. If your unit has an oil dipstick, it is the walk-behind style like model 917773704.
| What you have | Oil goes here | Fuel in tank |
|---|---|---|
| Craftsman 917773704 high wheel line trimmer | Separate oil fill with dipstick | Straight unleaded gas |
| 25cc 2-cycle handheld trimmer | Mixed into gas can | Gas + 2-cycle oil mix |
Why it matters
Using premixed 2-cycle fuel in an engine designed for separate crankcase oil can cause heavy smoke and plug fouling. Running low on engine oil can quickly damage internal engine parts.
Last updated: January 2026
