Owner’s manual
Does a Craftsman chainsaw have a fuel filter?
Yes. The Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358351191 uses an in-tank fuel filter (part of the fuel pickup assembly) to keep debris out of the carburetor so the engine can maintain a steady 40:1 fuel mix and run smoothly. See the 358351191 owner's manual for fuel system and maintenance details.
How to tell if the fuel filter is causing a problem
A restricted fuel filter commonly shows up as fuel starvation, especially under load.
- Starts, then dies when you squeeze the throttle
- Runs only with partial choke
- Surges at high speed or bogs in the cut
- Loses power after a few minutes of running
- Won’t restart until it sits briefly
Quick checks before you replace anything
Disconnect the spark plug lead before inspecting or servicing the saw.
- Confirm you are using fresh 40:1 gasoline and 2-cycle (air-cooled) oil mix
- Make sure the fuel cap vent is not blocked (a vacuum in the tank can mimic a clogged filter)
- Inspect the fuel line in the tank for cracks, hardening, or loose fit at the filter
- Check the air intake; a dirty filter can also cause poor running (use the air filter 545057701 if yours is damaged or won’t clean up)
What typically gets replaced (and when)
| Symptom | Most likely cause | Common fix |
|---|---|---|
| Dies on throttle | Restricted fuel filter | Replace fuel filter or fuel pickup assembly |
| Runs rich, loads up | Dirty air filter | Clean or replace air filter |
| Won’t idle steadily | Carburetor metering issue | Rebuild carburetor (kit) |
Why it matters
A clean fuel filter protects the carburetor from grit and varnish. That helps prevent hard starting, lean running (overheating risk), and repeated carburetor adjustments.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of gas goes into a Craftsman chainsaw?
For the Craftsman 358351191 gas chainsaw, we use regular unleaded gasoline premixed with high-quality 2-cycle (air-cooled) engine oil at a 40:1 ratio. Mix the fuel in an approved gas can (not in the saw’s tank), and fill bar and chain oil separately.
Fuel type and mix ratio (what to use)
Use this fuel setup to protect the 2-cycle engine and keep starting and cutting performance consistent:
- Regular unleaded gasoline
- 2-cycle engine oil for air-cooled engines (40:1 mix)
- Mix fuel in a clean, approved gasoline container
- Fill the bar and chain oil tank every time you fill the fuel tank
- Avoid old fuel; mix only what you will use soon
For model-specific operating and fueling notes, follow the 358351191 owner’s manual.
40:1 mix chart (quick reference)
| Gasoline amount | 40:1 2-cycle oil to add | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 gallon | 3.2 oz | Shake container to blend |
| 1/2 gallon | 1.6 oz | Use accurate measuring bottle |
| 1 quart | 0.8 oz | Good for small batches |
Oils to avoid (prevents engine damage)
We stick with air-cooled 2-cycle oil and avoid these common mistakes:
- Automotive motor oil
- Marine or boat 2-cycle oils (NMMA/TC-W3 types)
- Mixing gas and oil directly in the chainsaw fuel tank
- Running straight gas (no oil)
Why it matters
This Craftsman chainsaw uses a 2-cycle engine, so the oil in the fuel mix lubricates internal bearings and moving parts. The correct 40:1 mix helps prevent overheating, poor performance, and engine seizure. Separately, bar and chain oil reduces wear on the guide bar and chain.
Related maintenance tip
A restricted air filter can make fueling and tuning seem “off.” If the saw runs rich, bogs, or won’t rev cleanly, inspect and replace the air filter 545057701 as needed.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the air filter on a Craftsman chainsaw?
On the Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358351191, the air filter sits under the cylinder and air filter cover on the engine housing. Remove that cover to access the filter for cleaning or replacement; the location is shown in the 358351191 owner's manual.
How to access the air filter
- Turn the ON/STOP switch to STOP and let the engine cool.
- Set the saw on a flat surface.
- Remove the cylinder and air filter cover.
- Lift out the air filter.
- Reinstall the filter, then refit the cover securely.
What to check while you are in there
- Tap or brush off loose sawdust and debris around the filter area.
- Inspect the filter for tears, heavy oil saturation, or a collapsed shape.
- Make sure the cover seats evenly so unfiltered air cannot bypass the filter.
- Clean debris from the bar clamp area while the saw is on the bench.
- Confirm the throttle linkage and choke/fast idle control move freely.
Replacement part that fits this model
If the filter is damaged or will not clean up well, replace it with the correct model-matched part.
| Item | What it does | Sears PartsDirect part ID |
|---|---|---|
| Air filter | Traps dust so the carburetor and cylinder get clean air | Air filter 545057701 |
Why it matters
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which can cause hard starting, poor acceleration, reduced power, and plug fouling. Keeping the air filter clean helps your Craftsman 358351191 run smoother and protects the engine from abrasive sawdust.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on my Craftsman chainsaw?
On the Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358351191, the model number is printed on the product identification label attached to the saw. Once you find it, record the full model number and the date code or serial number exactly as shown for accurate parts matching.
Where to look on the saw
Check these common label locations on a Craftsman chainsaw body:
- Side of the engine or motor housing (near the starter cover)
- Rear handle area or the back of the housing
- Bottom of the saw body (underside of the chassis)
- Near the fuel and bar oil caps (on the tank housing)
- Under the top cover (near the air filter area)
For the exact identification details and what to record, use the 358351191 owner's manual.
What to write down (and why)
The manual indicates the saw includes both a model number and a date code or serial number on the product label. Recording all of it helps us match the correct Craftsman parts and diagrams.
| Label item | Example for this saw | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 358351191 | Identifies the correct parts list |
| Date code/serial number | Varies by unit | Helps confirm the right version/run |
| Date of purchase | Your date | Useful for service history and reference |
Quick tips to make the label easier to read
- Wipe off oil and sawdust with a rag before reading
- Use a flashlight at a low angle to highlight stamped or faded print
- Take a clear photo and zoom in instead of guessing characters
- Copy letters and numbers in order; do not skip dashes or spaces
Why it matters
Craftsman chainsaws often have multiple versions that look similar. Using the exact model number (and the date code or serial number) prevents ordering the wrong chain, bar, fuel parts, or ignition components.
Last updated: February 2026
