Owner’s manual
Where is the model number on a chainsaw?
On the Craftsman gas chainsaw model 358381600, the model number is found on the product and serial number plate. On this saw, that plate is identified in the diagram as item (12), and it’s typically mounted on the saw body near the handles and fuel or oil tank area (not on the bar or chain).
Common places to check on a chainsaw
We recommend looking for a paper sticker or metal plate in these spots:
- On the crankcase or main housing under the cylinder cover
- Near the rear handle or front handle area
- Close to the fuel tank or chain oil tank
- On the side of the saw body behind the clutch cover
- Near the starter housing (recoil starter area)
How to find it quickly on model 358381600
Use the labeled parts diagram in the owner's manual and match the callout:
| What you’re looking for | What it may say | Where it is on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Product and serial number plate | Model number and serial number | Diagram item (12) on the saw body |
Why it matters
We use the model number to match the correct parts and specifications for your exact chainsaw, including fuel system parts, starter components, and chain brake parts.
Last updated: February 2026
What model number is the Craftsman 358381600 chainsaw?
The model number for this Craftsman gas chainsaw is 358.381600 (often written without the dot as 358381600). You can confirm it on the identification label and in the first pages of the 358381600 owner's manual.
Where to find the model number on the saw
Check these common locations on Craftsman chainsaws:
- On the housing near the starter/recoil cover
- On a label near the rear handle or fuel tank area
- In the operator documentation that came with the saw
- On the parts list pages in the manual
Why you might see it written two different ways
Both formats refer to the same model; the dot is just a formatting style used in manuals and labels.
| Format you see | What it means | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| 358.381600 | Same model number with a dot | Matching the operator manual and some labels |
| 358381600 | Same model number without a dot | Searching parts lists and ordering parts |
Why it matters
Using the exact model number helps us match the correct parts and diagrams for your chainsaw, especially for fuel system and starter components where small design changes can affect fit.
If you are ordering parts, match your symptom to the correct diagram and part listing first; for example, fuel line issues often point to items like the line kit 530069216.
Last updated: February 2026
Will an Oregon chain fit a Craftsman chainsaw?
Yes, an Oregon chain can fit a Craftsman chainsaw, but it must match the exact cutting-system specs for your Craftsman model 358381600: chain pitch, drive link (gauge) width, and the number of drive links for your guide bar. Use the specs listed in the owner's manual and compare them to the Oregon chain package.
What to match (this is what determines fit)
To get the right Oregon replacement chain for a Craftsman 358381600, match these items exactly:
- Chain pitch (for example, 3/8 in low profile vs standard 3/8)
- Drive link width (gauge) (must match the bar groove width)
- Number of drive links (depends on bar length and bar tip sprocket)
- Bar oil hole and tensioner hole alignment (the bar must match the saw design)
- Sprocket type and condition (a worn drive sprocket can cause poor fit and rapid wear)
Quick fit checklist
Before ordering a chain, we use this checklist because it prevents most “wrong chain” returns:
- Read pitch, gauge, and drive link count from the chain packaging or bar stamp (if present)
- Count drive links on your current chain if markings are missing
- Inspect the guide bar groove for heavy wear or burrs
- Confirm the bar tip sprocket turns freely
- Check the clutch drum sprocket for wear; replace it when you replace the chain if wear is excessive
Oregon chain fit: what “fits” means
“Fits Craftsman” on an Oregon package usually means it fits some Craftsman saw setups, not every bar and chain combination. For model 358381600, the chain fits only when pitch, gauge, and drive link count match your current setup.
Common symptoms of the wrong chain
| Symptom | Most likely mismatch |
|---|---|
| Chain will not sit in the bar groove | Gauge too wide or too narrow |
| Chain rides high or binds | Wrong pitch or worn sprocket |
| Chain is too short or too long to tension | Wrong drive link count |
| Excessive vibration or fast wear | Wrong pitch, worn bar, or worn sprocket |
Why it matters
A correctly matched chain helps the saw cut efficiently and reduces premature wear on the guide bar and drive sprocket. A mismatched chain can bind, derail, or damage cutting equipment.
Last updated: February 2026
How to look up chainsaw serial number?
On the Craftsman 358381600 gas chainsaw, we look up the serial number by first finding the product and serial number plate on the saw. The manual’s parts identification diagram shows this plate as a labeled component, so you can match what you see on your saw to the diagram in the owner's manual.
Where to find the serial number on this model
The serial number is typically on a plate or decal attached to the saw body, not on the guide bar or chain.
Check these common spots:
- On the product and serial number plate (often on the main housing)
- Near the cylinder cover area
- Around the rear handle or fuel tank area
- On the side of the saw body near the muffler
- On a flat area of the crankcase or engine housing
How to read it and record it correctly
Once you find the plate, write the serial number down exactly as shown.
Tips that prevent mistakes:
- Copy all digits and letters in order (do not skip leading zeros)
- Note any extra codes on the same plate (they can help with parts lookup)
- Take a clear photo before the label gets dirty or scratched
Serial number vs. model number (quick comparison)
| Item | What it identifies | Where you use it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (358381600) | The chainsaw design and parts list | Ordering the correct parts for this model |
| Serial number | Your specific unit’s production run | Verifying exact version, service history, and some part changes |
Why it matters
Using the correct serial number helps narrow down the exact version of your Craftsman chainsaw, which is important when you are matching fuel system parts, ignition parts, or starter components to your specific unit.
Last updated: February 2026
Is 40 1 or 50 1 better for chainsaws?
For the Craftsman 358381600 gas chainsaw, 50:1 (2%) is the correct and better mix because it matches the factory fuel requirement for this engine. Using 40:1 adds extra oil that can increase smoke and carbon buildup; using leaner than 50:1 risks poor lubrication and engine damage. See the 358381600 owner's manual for the exact mixing chart.
What to use for model 358381600
Use these basics every time you mix fuel:
- Mix 50 parts fresh gasoline to 1 part 2-stroke oil (50:1).
- Use synthetic 2-stroke oil for air-cooled engines.
- Do not use outboard oil (TCW) or 4-stroke engine oil.
- Mix in a clean, approved fuel container, then shake thoroughly.
- Only mix about one month’s supply at a time.
Quick comparison: 40:1 vs 50:1
| Mix ratio | Oil amount | Typical result in a 50:1 saw | Best choice for 358381600? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40:1 | More oil | More smoke, more deposits, can foul spark arrestor/muffler over time | No |
| 50:1 | Less oil (correct spec) | Cleaner running, correct lubrication for this engine design | Yes |
Why it matters
The fuel-oil ratio controls lubrication for the piston, cylinder, and crank bearings in a 2-stroke engine. On the 358381600, the manual specifies 50:1 for all engines, so that ratio delivers the intended protection and performance without excess carbon buildup.
If your saw is hard to start or runs rough after fuel changes
Fuel mix issues often show up as hard starting, poor idle, or bogging. Check these common items:
- Dump old fuel and refill with fresh 50:1 mix
- Inspect fuel lines and fittings for cracks or leaks
- Clean or replace the air filter
- Check for a clogged fuel pickup or oiling issues
- Consider carburetor service if it still surges or stalls
If you’re replacing deteriorated fuel tubing, use the model-matched line kit 530069216. For step-by-step troubleshooting, follow tips for a hard to start chainsaw.
Last updated: February 2026
