Craftsman WEEDWACKER 358.796110 User manual

Operator's Manual
J€:RAFTSMA#°J
34cc/2.1 cu.in. 4-Cycle
GASOLINE WEEDWAOKER ®
Model No.
358.796110
• Safety
•Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•Parts List
•Espar_ol, p. 22
WARNING:
Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating
Instructions before first use of this product.
For answers to your questions about this product:
Call 7 am-7 pm, Mon.-Sat., or 10 am-7 pm, Sun.
1-800-235-5878 (Hours listed are Central Time)
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
545082937 9/12/06

Warranty Statement 2 Storage 14
Identification of Symbols 2 Troubleshooting Table 15
Safety Rules 3 Emissions Statement 16
Assembly 5
Operation 6 Parts List 19
Maintenance 11 Spanish 22
Service & Adjustments 13 Parts and Ordering Back Cover
TWO YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN ® GAS WEEDWACKER ®
When used and maintained according to the operator's manual, if this product fails
due to a defect in material orworkmanship within one year from the date of purchase,
return it to any Sears store, Sears Service Center, or other Craftsman outlet in the
United States for free repair (or replacement if repair proves impossible).
This warranty excludes cutting line, spark plug and air filter, which are expendable
parts that can wear out from normal use in less than two years.
This warranty applies for only 30 days from purchase date ifthis product is used for
commercial or rental purposes.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
WARNING! This trimmer
can be dangerous! Careless or
improper use can cause
serious or even fatal injury.
Read and understand the
operator's manual before
using the trimmer.
Always wear appropriate ear protection, eye protection and head protection.

,n,
dt_WARNING: When using gar-
dening appliances, basic safety pre-
cautions must always be followed to
reduce the risk of fire and serious
injury. Read and follow all instructions.
This power unit can be dangerous! Op-
erator is responsible for following
instructions and warnings on unit and in
manual. Read entire operator's manual
before using unit! Be thoroughly familiar
with the controls and the proper use of
the unit. Restrict the use of this unit to
persons who have read, understand,
and will follow the instructions and
warnings on the unit and in the manual.
Never allow children to operate this unit.
OPERATOR'S SAFETY INFORMATION
MANUAL ON THE UNIT
x,t
_, DANGER: Never use blades or
flailing devices. This unit is designed for
line trimmer use only. Use of any other
accessories with line trimmer attach-
ment will increase the risk of injury.
@00
A
AI_ WARNING: Trimmer line throws
objects violently. You and others can be
blinded/injured. Wear eye and leg
protection. Keep body parts clear of ro-
tating line.
lm4oots
_WARNING: Hazard zone for
thrown objects. Trimmer line can throw
objects violently. Others can be blinded
or injured. Keep children, bystanders,
and animals 50 feet (15 meters) away.
Stop unit immediately if approached.
If situations occur which are not cov-
ered in this manual, use care and
good judgment. If you need assis-
tance, contact your Sears Service
Center or call 1-800-235-5878.
OPERATOR SAFETY
• Dress properly. Always wear safety
glasses or similar eye protection
when operating, or performing main-
tenance, on your unit (safety glasses
are available). Eye protection should
be marked Z87.
• Always wear face or dust mask if op-
eration is dusty.
• Always wear heavy, long pants, long
sleeves, boots, and gloves. Wearing
safety leg guards is recommended.
• Always wear foot protection. Do not
go barefoot or wear sandals. Stay
clear of spinning line.
• Secure hair above shoulder length.
Secure or remove loose clothing or
clothing with loosely hanging ties,
straps, tassels, etc. They can be
caught in moving parts.
• Being fully covered also helps protect
you from debris and pieces of toxic
plants thrown by spinning line.
• Stay Alert. Do not operate this unit
when you are tired, ill, upset or under
the influence of alcohol, drugs, or
medication. Watch what you are do-
ing; use common sense.
• Wear hearing protection.
• Never start or run inside a closed
room or building. Breathing exhaust
fumes can kill.
• Keep handles free of oil and fuel.
UNIT /MAINTENANCE SAFETY
• Disconnect the spark plug before per-
forming maintenance except carbure-
tor adjustments.
• Look for and replace damaged or
loose parts before each use. Look for
and repair fuel leaks before use. Keep
in good working condition.
• Replace trimmer head parts that are
chipped, cracked, broken, or damaged
in any other way before using the unit.
• Maintain unit according to recom-
mended procedures. Keep cutting
line at proper length.
• Use only CraftsmanCR_ brand line.
Never use wire, rope, string, etc.
• Install required shield properly before
using the unit. Use only specified trim-
mer head; make sure it is properly
installed and securely fastened.
• Make sure unit is assembled correctly
as shown in this manual.
• Make carburetor adjustments with
lower end supported to prevent line
from contacting any object.
3

• Keepothersawaywhenmakingcar-
buretoradjustments.
• UseonlyrecommendedCraftsman
accessoriesandreplacementparts.
• Haveallmaintenanceandservicenot
explainedinthismanualperformed
byaSearsServiceCenter.
FUEL SAFETY
• Pour fuel outdoors.
• Keep away from sparks or flames.
• Use a container approved for fuel.
• Do not smoke or allow smoking near
fuel or the unit.
• Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up all
fuel spills.
• Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away
from fueling site before starting engine.
Stop engine and allow to cool before
removing fuel cap.
• Empty the fuel tank before storing or
transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in
the carburetor by starting the engine
and letting it run until it stops.
• Store unit and fuel in area where fuel
vapors cannot reach sparks or open
flames from water heaters, electric mo-
tors or switches, furnaces, etc.
• Always store gasoline in a container
approved for flammable liquids.
CUTTING SAFETY
WARNING: Inspect the area be-
fore each use. Remove objects
(rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, etc.)
which can be thrown by or become
entangled in line. Hard objects can
damage the trimmer head and be
thrown causing serious injury.
• Use only for trimming, scalping, mow-
ing and sweeping. Do not use for edg-
ing, pruning or hedge trimming.
• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not
overreach.
• Keep all parts of your body away from
muffler and spinning line. Keep engine
below waist level. A hot muffler can
cause serious burns.
• Cut only from your right to your left.
Cutting on left side of the shield will
throw debris away from the operator.
• Use only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Use only for jobs explained in this
manual.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
• Stop the unit before carrying.
• Allow engine to cool before storing or
transporting in vehicle.
• Empty the fuel tank before storing or
transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in
the carburetor by starting the engine
and letting it run until it stops.
• Store or transport unit with spark plug
facing up.
• Do not store or transport unit with spark
plug facing down (see STORAGE sec-
tion for additional information).
• Store unit and fuel in area where fuel
vapors cannot reach sparks or open
flames from water heaters, electric mo-
tors or switches, furnaces, etc.
• Store unit so line limiter blade cannot
accidentally cause injury.
• Store unit out of reach of children.
This unit is not equipped with an anti-
vibration system and is intended for
occasional use only.
SAFETY NOTICE: Exposure to vibra-
tions through prolonged use of gasoline
powered hand tools could cause blood
vessel or nerve damage in the fingers,
hands, and joints of people prone to cir-
culation disorders or abnormal swell-
ings. Prolonged use in cold weather
has been linked to blood vessel dam-
age in otherwise healthy people. If
symptoms occur such as numbness,
pain, loss of strength, change in skin
color or texture, or loss of feeling in the
fingers, hands, or joints, discontinue the
use of this tool and seek medical atten-
tion. An anti-vibration system does not
guarantee the avoidance of these prob-
lems. Users who operate power tools
on a continual and regular basis must
monitor closely their physical condition
and the condition of this tool.
SPECIAL NOTICE: This unit is
equipped with a temperature limiting
muffler and spark arresting screen
which meets the requirements of Cali-
fornia Codes 4442 and 4443. All U.S.
forest land and the states of California,
Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey,
Oregon, and Washington require by law
that many internal combustion engines
be equipped with a spark arresting
screen. If you operate in a locale where
such regulations exist, you are legally
responsible for maintaining the operat-
ing condition of these parts. Failure to
do so is a violation of the law. For nor-
mal homeowner use, the muffler and
spark arresting screen will not require
any service. After 50 hours of use, we
recommend that your muffler be ser-
viced or replaced by a Sears Service
Center=
AO&WARNING: The engine exhaust
from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.

CARTONCONTENTS
Checkcartoncontentsagainstthefol-
lowinglist.
Model358.796110
• Trimmer
• Shield
• WingNut(screwedontoshield)
• Shoulderstrap
• Containerofline
• Containerofoil
Examinepartsfordamage.Donot
usedamagedparts.
NOTE:Ifyouneedassistanceorfind
partsmissingordamaged,call
1-800-235-5878.
Itisnormalforthefuelfiltertorattlein
theemptyfueltank.
Findingfueloroilresidueonmuffleris
normalduetocarburetoradjustments
andtestingdonebythemanufacturer.
ASSEMBLY
,_WARNING: Always stop unit
and disconnect spark plug before per-
forming any assembly procedures.
,it
all.WARNING: If received as-
sembled, read and use this ASSEMBLY
section to verify that your unit is properly
assembled and that all fasteners are
tightened securely.
ATTACHING SHIELD
'_WARNING: The shield must be
properly installed, The shield provides
partial protection to the operator and
others from the risk of thrown objects,
and is equipped with a line limiter blade
which cuts excess line to the proper
length, The line limiter blade (on under-
side of shield) is sharp and can cut you.
For proper orientation of shield, see
KNOWYOUR TRIMMER illustration in OP-
ERATION section,
1. Remove wing nut from shield,
2. Insert bracket into slot as shown.
3. Pivot shield until bolt passes
through hole in bracket.
4. Securely tighten wing nut onto
bolt.
Shield _,///,Slot
_ _..,.._-._/\ \ Bracket
ATTACHING THE SHOULDER
STRAP
_WARNING: Proper shoulder
strap adjustments must be made with
the engine completely stopped before
using unit.
1. Insert your right arm and head
through the shoulder strap and al-
low it to rest on your left shoulder.
NOTE: A one-half twist is built in the
shoulder strap to allow the strap to rest
flat on the shoulder.
2. Adjust the strap, allowing the hook
to be about 6 inches below the
waist.
3. Fasten the strap hook to the shoul-
der strap attachment hole located
on the trigger handle and lift the tool
to the operating position.
_houider strap
attachment
hole
4. Try on shoulder strap and adjust
for fit and balance before starting
the engine or beginning a cutting
operation.
ADJUSTING THE ASSIST HANDLE
_'WARNING: When adjusting the
assist handle, be sure it remains
above the safety label and below the
mark or arrow on the shaft,
1, Loosen wing nut on handle,
2. Rotate the handle on the shaft to an
upright position; retighten wing nut,

KNOW YOUR TRIMMER
READ THIS OPERATOR'S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR
UNIT. Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location
of the various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.
Assist Handle
Trimmer Head
Shield
Shaft
"1 I
'\*,_. ON/OFF Switch
Line Limiter Blade___ Fuelfill
Throttle S Starter Handle
Trigger
ON/OFF SWITCH
Tile ON/OFF switch is used to stop the
engine. Move the switch to the OFF
position to stop the engine.
CHOKE
Tile CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the
engine to aid in cold starting. Activate the
choke by moving tile red choke lever to
the FULL CHOKE position.
Choke Spark Plug
Lever _/ _¢" Muffler
/
Primer Bulb Dipstick
PRIMER BULB
The PRIMER BULB removes air from
the carburetor and fuel lines and fills
them with fuel. This allows you to start
the engine with fewer pulls on the
starter rope. Activate the primer bulb
by pressing it and allowing it to return
to its original form.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
WARNING: Be sure to read
the fuel information in the safety rules
before you begin. If you do not under-
stand the safety rules, do not attempt
to fuel your unit. Call 1-800-235-5878.
OIL CAPACITY
The engine holds approximately 3
ounces of oil. Use only high quality
detergent oil rated with API service
classification SJ-SL. Select the oil's
SAE viscosity grade according to your
expected operating temperature. For
most applications, SAE-80 oil is rec-
ommended. Do not use special addi-
tives.
_:.,,,_>. NOTE: Synthetic oil meet-
ing ILSAO GF-2, API certifi-
_ cation mark and API ser-vice symbol (shown at left)
with "SJ/CF ENERGY CON-
SERVING" or higher, is an
acceptable oil at all temper-
atures. Use of synthetic
oil does not alter required
oil change intervals.
SAE Viscosity Grades
**1= k
S-ARI _G IEMPERATUR_ R_,_GE ANT ClPA El} B FOI_E _,FXT OIL CHANG_

CAUTION: Air cooled engines run
hotter than automotive engines. The
use of non-synthetic multi-viscosity
oils (5W30, 10W30, etc.) in tempera-
tures above 40"F (4"C) will result in
higher than normal oil consumption.
When using a multi-viscosity oil,
check oil level more frequently to
avoid possible engine damage from
running low on oil.
*CAUTION: Synthetic oil must be
used when operating engine under
40"F (4"C) or engine damage will oc-
cur.
**CAUTION: SAE 30 oil, if used be-
low 50°F (10°C), will result in hard
starting and possible engine damage
due to inadequate lubrication.
ADD OIL
Your trimmer is shipped without oil in
the engine. The engine holds approxi-
mately 3 fluid ounces (90 ml) of oil
when at the FULL mark on the oil dip-
stick. Included with this trimmer is a 3.4
ounce (90 ml) container of SAE 30 SJ-
SL oil for properly filling the engine with
oil for first time use only. Pour the entire
contents of this 3.4 ounce container of
oil into the oil fill spout.
NOTE: The dipstick will show slightly
above FULL. This is acceptable for
first time use only as the engine
breaks in. After the first time oil fill, sim-
ply refill the engine with oil to the FULL
mark on the dipstick as needed.
CAUTION: DO NOT overfill engine with
oil or it will smoke on start-up.
CAUTION: KEEP ENGINE LEVEL
---- r ------ ....
Engine must be level, with oil fill facing
up, to check oil. If engine is not level,
dipstick reading will not be accurate.
This will lead to possible over or under
filling causing damage to the engine.
Check oil level before starting the en-
gine.
• Check oil level before every use.
• Keep oil level at FULL.
• DO NOToverfill. Use a measure cup for
filling.
• Add only 1 ounce--0.5 ounce at atime.
1 ounce ---.,__
0.5 ounce __
1. Be sure engine is level and area
around oil fill is clean.
2. Remove oil dipstick from oil fill
spout.
3. Using a measure cup, pour oil
slowly down the oil fill spout into
the engine. Do not overfill.
NOTE: Engine holds approximately 3
ounces (90 ml) of oil.
Oilfill
4.
5.
Wait one minute to allow oil to settle.
Insert and hand tighten dipstick.
Remove dipstick and wipe clean
with cloth. Clear dipstick hole of oil.
Insert and hand tighten dipstick,
then remove it to check oil level.
\Dipstick.. f_-
%
6. Verify FULL level of oil by presence
of oil in hole on dipstick, or by
measure line.
FULL _._._
7. If needed, add 0.5 ounce of oil at a
time and recheck the dipstick until
oil reaches the FULL level.
8. Always be sure to retighten oil dip-
stick before starting engine.

Check oil level before each use. Add
oil if needed. Fill to FULL line on dip-
stick. Change oil after first 4 hours of
use, then every 8 hours of operation
or each season (see CHANGE ENGINE
OIL in the MAINTENANCE section).
Change oil every 4 hours when oper-
ating the engine under heavy load or
in high temperatures. You may need
to change the oil more often under
dusty, dirty conditions.
ADD GASOLINE
Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gas-
oline with a minimum of 87 octane. Do
not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase
fuel in quantities that can be used within
30 days to assure fuel freshness.
IMPORTANT
Alcohol blended fuels (called gaeohol
or using ethanol or methanol) can at-
tract moisture which leads to separa-
tion and formation of acids during stor-
age. Acidic gas can damage the fuel
system of an engine while in storage.
To avoid engine problems, empty the
fuel system before storage for 30 days
or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines
and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
See the STORAGE section for additional
information.
_WARNING: Fill to bottom of gas
tank filler neck. DO NOT overfill. Wipe
off any spilled fuel. Do not store, spill
or use gasoline near an open flame.
,AI_WARNING: Allow engine to cool
for 2 minutes before removing fuel cap
for refueling. Remove fuel cap slowly.
1. Tilt engine in angle shown to prop-
erly fill fuel tank.
_'F'FFuelfill
2. Remove fuel cap by turning coun-
terclockwise. Fill tank to bottom of
tank filler neck.
3. Replace fuel cap before starting.
HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT
• Release the throttle trigger.
• Move the ON/OFF switch to the OFF
position.
• If engine does not stop, move red
choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
ON/OFF SWITCH
HOW TO START YOUR UNIT
O f you are starting
your engine for the
FIRST time, follow
the steps listed in
the STARTING A
NEW ENGINE
section.
A _______
41_WARNING: Avoid any contact
with the muffler. A hot muffler can
cause serious burns.
Starting Position
Choke Lever Muffler
Throttle
Trigger
Prime
Bulb
STARTING ANEW ENGINE
NOTE: Add oil and fuel as instructed
in this manual prior to attempting to
start engine (see ADD OIL and ADD
GASOLINE sections),
1. Set unit on a flat surface.
2. Slowly press the primer bulb 15
times,
3. Move red choke lever to FULL
CHOKE position.
4. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and
hold through all remaining steps.
8

5. Pullstarterropehandlesharplyuntil
engineruns.
6. Oncetheenginestarts,allowitto
runamaximumof10secondsat
FULLCHOKE.Then,slowlymove
theredchokelevertotheHALF
CHOKEposition.
7. Allowtheunittorunaminimumof
20moresecondsatHALFCHOKE
(coldertemperaturesmayrequire
longerwarm-upperiodsbefore
theenginewillacceptaloadand
accelerateproperly).
8. MoveredchokelevertoOFF
CHOKEpositionandallowtheunitto
runaminimumof20moreseconds
atOFFCHOKE.Releasethethrottle
trigger.
STARTING ENGINE
NOTE: Check oil level before starting.
Oil level should be at the FULL mark
on the dipstick. If not, add oil (see
ADD OIL section).
1. Set unit on a flat surface.
2. Slowly press the primer bulb 8
times.
3. Move red choke lever to FULL
CHOKE position.
4. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and
hold through all remaining steps.
5. Pull starter rope handle sharply until
engine runs.
6. Once the engine starts, allow it to
run a maximum of 10 seconds at
FULL CHOKE. Then, slowly move
the red choke lever to the HALF
CHOKE position.
7. Allow the unit to run a minimum of
20 more seconds at HALF CHOKE
(colder temperatures may require
longer warm-up periods before
the engine will accept a load and
accelerate properly).
8. Move red choke lever to OFF
CHOKE position and allow the unit to
run a minimum of 20 more seconds
at OFF CHOKE. Release the throttle
trigger.
RESTARTING A WARM ENGINE
Follow steps listed in tile STARTING
ENGINE section without squeezing
throttle trigger.
If the unit will not start, refer to the
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call
1-800-235-5878.
OPERATING POSITION
ALWAYS WEAR: }"4----',_
,)_ lye protection
Shoulder strap
Long pa
4
Cut only from your right to your left.
_&WARNING: Always wear eye
protection. Never lean over the trimmer
head. Rocks or debris can ricochet or
be thrown into eyes and face and
cause blindness or other serious injury.
When operating unit, stand as shown
and check for the following:
• Wear eye protection and heavy
clothing.
• Hold trigger handle with right hand
and assist handle with left hand.
• Hold unit so that engine is below
waist level.
• Cut only from your right to your left to
ensure debris is thrown away from
you. Without bending over, keep line
near and parallel to the ground and
not crowded into material being cut.
Do not run the engine at a higher speed
than necessary. The cutting line will cut
efficiently when the engine is run at less
than full throttle. At lower speeds, there
is less engine noise and vibration.
Always release the throttle trigger and
allow the engine to return to idle
speed when not cutting.
HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT
• Release tile throttle trigger.
• Move the ON/OFF switch to the OFF
position.
CUTTING METHODS
_bWARNING: Use minimum
speed and do not crowd the line when
cutting around hard objects (rock,
gravel, fence posts, etc.), which can
damage the trimmer head, become
entangled in the line, or be thrown
causing a serious hazard.

• Thetipofthelinedoesthecutting.
Youwillachievethebestperform-
anceandminimumlinewearbynot
crowdingthelineintothecutting
area.Therightandwrongwaysare
showninthefollowingillustrations.
TipoftheLine LineCrowdedInto
DoesTheCuttingWorkArea
Right Wrong
• The line will easily remove grass
and weeds from around walls,
fences, trees and flower beds, but it
also can cut the tender bark of trees
or shrubs and scar fences.
• For trimming or scalping, use less
than full throttle to increase line life
and decrease head wear, especially:
• During light duty cutting.
• Near objects around which the line
can wrap such as small posts,
trees or fence wire.
• For mowing or sweeping, use full
throttle for a good clean job.
TRIMMING - Hold the bottom of the
trimmer head about 3 inches (8 cm)
above the ground and at an angle. Al-
low only the tip of the line to make
contact with vegetation. Do not force
trimmer line into work area.
Trimming
3 inches (8 cm)
above ground
SCALPING - The scalping technique
removes unwanted vegetation down
to the ground. Hold the bottom of the
trimmer head about 3 inches (8 cm)
above the ground and at an angle. Al-
low the tip of the line to strike the
ground around trees, posts, monu-
ments, etc. This technique increases
line wear.
Scalping 3inches(8 cm)
above ground
Jll.
MOWING - Your trimmer is ideal for
mowing in places conventional lawn
mowers cannot reach. In the mowing
position, keep the line parallel to the
ground. Avoid pressing the head into
the ground as this can scalp the
ground and damage the tool=
Mowing
SWEEPING - The fanning action of the
rotating line can be used to blow away
loose debris from an area. Keep the line
parallel to and above the area surface
and swing the tool from side to side=
Sweeping
lO

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
_IWARNING: Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance
except for carburetor adjustments.
CARE &MAINTENANCE TASK
Check for loose fasteners and parts
Check for damaged or worn parts
Check engine oil level
Inspect and clean unit and decals
Change engine oil
Service air filter
Inspect muffler and spark arresting screen
Replace spark plug
Replace fuel filter
Before After
Every Every
Use Use
8 Hours or
Every Season 50 Hours or Every Season
Change oil after first 4 hours of use, then every 8 hours or every season, Change oil
every 4 hours when operating the engine under heavy load or in high temperatures,
** Clean more often under dusty conditions or when airborne debris is present. Replace
air cleaner parts ifvery dirty.
GENERAL RECOMMEN DATIONS
The warranty on this unit does not
cover items that have been subjected
to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from the warranty,
the operator must maintain unit as
instructed in this manual. Various ad-
justments will need to be made peri-
odically to properly maintain your unit.
Some adjustments will need to be
made periodically to properly maintain
your unit. All adjustments in the SER-
VICE AND ADJUSTMENTS section of
this manual should be checked at
least once each season.
• Once each year, replace the spark
plug and air filter. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter assure proper
air-fuel mixture and help your engine
run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in
this manual.
CHECK FOR LOOSE
FASTENERS AND PARTS
• Spark Plug Boot
• Air Filter
• Housing Screws
• Assist Handle Screw
• Debris Shield
CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR
WORN PARTS
For replacement of damaged or worn
parts, contact Sears Service or call
1-800-235-5878.
• ON/OFF Switch - Ensure ON/OFF
switch functions properly by moving
the switch to the OFF position. Make
sure engine stops. Restart engine
and continue.
• Fuel System - Discontinue use of
unit if fuel lines, tank, or cap show
signs of damage or leaks.
• Debris Shield - Discontinue use of
unit if debris shield is damaged.
CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL
• See ADD OiL in the OPERATION sec-
tion.
INSPECT AND CLEAN UNIT AND DE-
CALS
• After each use, inspect complete
unit for loose or damaged parts.
Clean the unit and decals using a
damp cloth with a mild detergent.
• Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.
CHANGE ENGINE OIL
To prolong the useful life of your trim-
mer, change engine oil as recom-
mended in this section.
• Change oil after first 4 hours of
use, then every 8 hours or every
season. Change oil every 4 hours
when operating the engine under
heavy load or in high temperatures.
Change the oil after every 8 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
unit is not used for 25 hours in one
year. Check the crankcase oil level be-
fore each start. Tighten oil dipstick se-
curely each time you check the oil level.
11

CHANGINGOILANDCHECKING
LEVEL
CAUTION:Usedoilisahazardous
wasteproduct.Disposeofusedoil
properly.Donotdiscardwithhouse-
holdwaste.ContactSearsServicefor
informationregardingsafedisposal/re-
cyclingfacilities.
ChangeoilwhileengineisOFF,but
stillwarm.Ensurefuelcapistightened
securely.
1. Removeengine oil fill cap/dipstick;
lay aside on a clean surface.
2. Drain oil into a suitable container in
direction shown (see illustration).
into the carburetor chamber when
the cover is removed.
NOTE: Move red choke lever to FULL
CHOKE position before removing com-
ponents.
2. Remove parts by pressing button
to release air filter cover.
NOTE: To avoid creating a fire hazard
or producing harmful evaporative
emissions, do not clean filter in gaso-
line or other flammable solvent.
3. Wash the filter in soap and water.
4. Allow filter to dry.
5. Add a few drops of oil to the filter;
squeeze the filter to distribute oil.
6. Re-assemble parts.
Button Air Filter
3. Wipe off any spilled oil from trim-
mer.
4. Fill engine with oil (see ADD OIL in
the OPERATION section).
5. Replace engine oil fill cap/dipstick.
Tighten securely.
CLEAN AIR FILTER
A dirty air filter decreases engine per-
formance and increases fuel con-
sumption and harmful emissions. Al-
ways clean after every 8 hours of
operation. Clean more often under
dusty conditions or when airborne de-
bris is present. Replace air cleaner
parts if very dirty.
1. Clean the cover and the area
around it to keep dirt from falling
Cover
INSPECT MUFFLER AND SPARK
ARRESTING SCREEN
As the unit is used, carbon deposits
build up on the muffler and spark ar-
resting screen. For normal homeown-
er use, however, the muffler and spark
arresting screen will not require any
service. After 50 hours of use, we rec-
ommend that your muffler and spark
arresting screen be serviced or re-
placed by a Sears Service Center.
REPLACE SPARK PLUG
Replace the spark plug each year to
ensure the engine starts easier and
runs better. Set spark plug gap at
0.025 inch. Ignition timing is fixed and
nonadjustable.
1. Twist, then pull off spark plug boot.
2. Remove spark plug from cylinder
and discard.
3. Replace with Champion RDJ-7Y
spark plug and tighten securely with
a 5/8 inch socket wrench.
4. Reinstall the spark plug boot.
12

LINE REPLACEMENT
• Always use Craftsman replacement
line.
Choose the line size best suited for
the job at hand. Red line is designed
for cutting grass and small weeds.
The black colored line is designed for
cutting larger weeds and light brush.
NOTE: Before inserting new line into
the holes in the cutting head, identify
the proper holes. Follow directions as
shown on the line glide plate.
1. Remove the old line and line glide
plate from the cutting head.
2. Clean entire surface of cutting head.
3. Reinstall line glide plate (see il-
lustration). Align arrow with:
(_) when using medium (red) or
large (black) line
when using lines with diameter
f6_
WJ smaller than medium (red) line
(optional)
Line glide Arrow
Cutting head
NOTE: Line glide plate must be rein-
stalled in cutting head before inserting
new line=
4. Insert both ends of your line
through the proper holes in the
side of the cutting head. !
Positioning
Tunnel
5. Pull the line and make sure the
line is against the hub and ex-
tended full through the positioning
tunnels. Line against
the hub
Positioning
Tunnel \
6. Correctly installed line will be the
same length on both ends.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
Adjusting the carburetor is a compli-
cated task. Carburetor adjustment is
critical and if done improperly can per-
manently damage the engine as well as
the carburetor. We recommend that you
take your unit to a Sears Service Center
for any necessary adjustments.
13

dlI_WARNING: Perform the follow-
ing steps after each use:
• Allow engine to cool before storing
or transporting.
• Store unit and fuel in a well venti-
lated area where fuel vapors cannot
reach sparks or open flames from
water heaters, electric motors or
switches, furnaces, etc.
• Store unit with all guards in place.
Position unit so that any sharp ob-
ject cannot accidentally cause injury.
• Store unit and fuel well out of the
reach of children.
• Store the unit in a horizontal position
with the spark plug facing up.
• DO NOT store or transport the unit
with the spark plug facing down.
SEASONAL STORAGE
Prepare unit for storage at end of sea-
son or if it will not be used for 30 days
or more.
If your unit is to be stored for a period
of time:
• Clean the entire unit before lengthy
storage.
• Store in a clean dry area.
• Lightly oil external metal surfaces.
• We highly recommend that you drain
the fuel tank prior to lengthy storage
(30 days or more). Drain all fuel from
the fuel tank into the proper recep-
tacles for storage.
• Press purge bulb 15 times to remove
all fuel from carburetor and fuel line.
Drain this fuel into proper receptacles.
If fuel is to be disposed, please refer
to local rules for proper disposal.
• Remove spark plug.
• Place 5cc of oil into spark plug hole.
Do not overfill.
• Pull the starter rope slowly 8 - 10
times to properly coat the cylinder
bore and piston for storage. Replace
plug and tighten. Any residual oil
may burn off in subsequent starts
which may result in white smoke
from the muffler.
• Store the unit in a horizontal position
with the spark plug up. DO NOT store
or transport the unit with the spark
plug down.
CAUTION: Storing unit in
over 10 degrees
NOTE: Storing or transporting the unit
with the spark plug down may result in
white smoke coming from the muffler
or difficult starting.
• When removing the unit from stor-
age, only use fresh gasoline. Per-
form the routine operation checks as
described in this manual before any
start.
FUEL SYSTEM
Empty tile fuel system before storage
for 30 days or longer. Drain the gas
tank, start the engine and let it run un-
til the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Under ADD GASOLINE in the
OPERATION section of this manual,
see message labeled IMPORTANT
regarding the use of gasohol in your
engine.
• Never use engine or carburetor
cleaner products in the fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
ENGINE OIL
• Drain engine oil (with engine warm)
and replace with clean oil. See
CHANGE ENGINE OiL in the MAINTE-
NANCE section.
CYLINDER
• Replace spark plug with new one of
recommended type and heat range.
OTHER
• Clean air filter.
• Check entire unit for loose screws,
nuts, and bolts. Replace any dam-
aged, broken, or worn parts.
• Do not store gasoline from one sea-
son to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if it starts
to rust.
14

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE
_,WARNING: Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before perform-
ing all of the recommended remedies below except remedies that require
TROUBLE
Engine will not
start.
Engine will
not idle
properly.
Engine will not
accelerate,
lacks power.
or dies under
a load.
Engine
smokes
excessively.
Engine runs
hot.
unit to be operating.
CAUSE
1. ON/OFF switch in OFF
position.
2. Air filter dirty.
3. Fuel tank empty.
4. Stale fuel.
5. Water in fuel.
6. Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
7. Spark plug not firing.
8. Fuel not reaching
carburetor.
9. Air in fuel lines.
1. Choke lever in FULL
CHOKE position.
2. Carburetor requires 2.
adjustment.
3. Stale fuel. 3.
4. Crankshaft seals worn. 4.
5. Compression low. 5.
1. Air filter dirty. 1.
2. Spark plug fouled. 2.
3. Choke lever in FULL 3.
CHOKE position.
4. Stale fuel. 4.
5. Carburetor requires 5.
adjustment.
6. Carbon build-up on 6.
muffler outlet screen.
7. Too much oil in engine. 7.
8. Engine not warmed up in 8.
cooler temperature.
9. Cutting line assembled 9.
incorrectly or line length
incorrect.
1. Air filter dirty. 1.
2. Too much oil in engine. 2.
3. Oil migration from incorrect 3.
storage or transportation.
1. Spark plug incorrect. 1.
2. Carburetor requires 2.
adjustment.
3. Debris clogging starter 3.
housing.
4. Carbon build-up on 4.
muffler outlet screen.
REMEDY
1. Move ON/OFF switch to ON position,
2. Clean or replace air filter.
3. Fill fuel tank.
4. Drain tank and carburetor and refill
with fresh, clean fuel.
5. Drain tank and carburetor and refill
tank with fresh gasoline.
6. Connect wire to plug.
7. Install new spark plug.
8. Check for dirty fuel filter; replace.
Check for kinked or split fuel line;
repair or replace.
9. Press primer bulb to remove air from
fuel lines.
1. Move choke lever to OFF CHOKE.
See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.
Drain tank and carburetor and refill
with fresh, clean fuel.
Contact Sears Service (see back
cover).
Contact Sears Service (see back
cover).
Clean or replace air filter.
Clean or replace plug and regap.
Move choke lever to OFF CHOKE.
Drain tank and carburetor and refill
with fresh, clean fuel.
See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.
Contact Sears Service (see back
cover).
Check oil level. Drain to proper level.
Run unit for longer period.
Check line assembly and length.
Clean or replace air filter.
Check oil level. Drain to proper level.
Allow unit to sit 24 hours in correct
storage position, or remove spark
plug. pull rope 2 - 3 times, then re-
place spark plug. Pull rope until
engine starts.
Replace with correct spark plug.
See "Carburetor Adjustment" in
Service and Adjustments Section.
Clean starter housing area.
Contact Sears Service (see back
cover).
15

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OB-
LIGATIONS: EMISSION CONTROL
WARRANTY COVERAGE IS APPLI-
CABLE TO CERTIFIED ENGINES
PURCHASED IN CALIFORNIA IN 1995
AND THEREAFTER WHICH ARE
USED IN CALIFORNIA, AND TO CER-
TIFIED MODEL YEAR 1997 AND LAT-
ER ENGINES WHICH ARE PUR-
CHASED AND USED ELSEWHERE IN
THE UNITED STATES (AND AFTER
JANUARY 1,2001, IN CANADA).
CALIFORNIA AND UNITED STATES
EMISSION CONTROL DEFECTS
WARRANTY STATEMENT: The U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency/Cali-
fornia Air Resources Board and Sears,
Roebuck and Co., U.S.A., are pleased
to explain the emissions control system
warranty on your year 2000 and later
small off-road engine (SORE). In Cali-
fornia, all new small off-road engines
must be designed, built, and equipped
to meet the State's stringent anti-smog
standards. Elsewhere in the United
States, new non-road, spark-ignition
engines certified for model year 1997
and later, must meet similar standards
set forth by the U.S. EPA. Sears must
warrant the emission control system for
the periods of time listed below provided
there has been no abuse, neglect, or
improper maintenance of your small off-
road engine engine. Your emission con-
trol system includes parts such as the
carburetor, air cleaner, ignition system,
muffler and catalytic converter. Also in-
cluded may be connectors and other
emissions-related assemblies. Where a
warrantable condition exists, Sears will
repair your small off-road engine en-
gine at no cost to you. Expenses cov-
ered under warranty include diagnosis,
parts and labor. MANUFACTURER'S
EMISSION CONTROL DEFECTS
WARRANTY COVERAGE: Small off-
road engines are warranted relative to
emission control parts defects for a peri-
od of two years, subject to these provi-
sions. If any covered part on your en-
gine is defective, the part will be
repaired or replaced by Sears. OWN-
ER'S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILI-
TIES: As the small off-road engine en-
gine owner, you are responsible for the
performance of the required mainte-
nance listed in your operating and
maintenance instructions. Sears recom-
mends that you retain all receipts cover-
ing maintenance on your small off-road
engine, but Sears cannot deny warranty
solely for the lack of receipts or for your
failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance. As the small
off-road engine engine owner, however,
you should be aware that Sears may
deny you warranty coverage if your
small off-road engine or a part has
failed due to abuse, neglect, improper
maintenance or unapproved modifica-
tions. You are responsible for presenting
your small off-road engine to an ap-
proved Sears Service Center as soon
as a problem exists. The undisputed
warranty repairs should be completed in
a reasonable amount of time, not to ex-
ceed 30 days. If you have any ques-
tions regarding your warranty rights and
responsibilities, you should contact your
nearest approved service center or call
Sears Service at 1-800-469-4663. The
emission warranty is a defects warranty.
Defects are judged on normal engine
performance. The warranty is not re-
lated to an in-use emission test.
SEARS EMISSION CONTROL
DEFECTS WARRANTY PROVISIONS
The following are specific provisions
relative to your Emission Control De-
fects Warranty Coverage. It is in addi-
tion to the Sears engine warranty for
non-regulated engines found in the
operating and maintenance instruc-
tions.
1. Warranted Parts
Coverage under this warranty ex-
tends only to the parts listed below
(the emission control systems
parts) to the extent these parts
were present on the engine pur-
chased.
a. Fuel Metering System
• Cold start enrichment system
• Carburetor and internal parts
• Fuel pump
b. Air Induction System
• Air cleaner
• Intake manifold
c. Ignition System
• Spark plug(s)
• Magneto ignition system
d. Catalyst System
• Catalytic converter
• Exhaust manifold
• Air injection system or pulse
valve
16

e. Miscellaneous Items Used in
Above Systems
• Vacuum, temperature, posi-
tion, time sensitive valves
and switches
• Connectors and assemblies
2. Length of Coverage
Sears warrants to tile initial owner
and each subsequent purchaser
that the Warranted Parts shall be
free from defects in materials and
workmanship which caused the
failure of the Warranted Parts for a
period of two years from the date
the engine is delivered to a retail
purchaser.
3. No Charge
Repair or replacement of any War-
ranted Part will be performed at no
charge to the owner, including
diagnostic labor which leads to the
determination that a Warranted
Part is defective, if the diagnostic
work is performed at an approved
Sears Service Center.
4. Claims and Coverage Exclusions
Warranty claims shall be filed in
accordance with the provisions of
the Sears warranty policy. Warran-
ty coverage shall be excluded for
failures of warranted parts which
are not original Sears parts or be-
cause of abuse, neglect or improp-
er maintenance as set forth in the
Sears Engine Warranty Policy.
Sears is not liable to cover failures
of Warranted Parts caused by the
use of add-on, non-original, or
modified parts.
5. Maintenance
Any Warranted Part which is not
scheduled for replacement as re-
quired maintenance or which is
scheduled only for regular inspec-
tion to the effect of "repair or re-
place as necessary" shall be war-
ranted as to defects for the
warranty period. Any Warranted
Part which is scheduled for re-
placement as required mainte-
nance shall be warranted as to de-
fects only for the period of time up
to the first scheduled replacement
for that part. Any replacement part
that is equivalent in performance
and durability may be used in the
performance of any maintenance
or repairs. The owner is responsi-
ble for the performance of all re-
quired maintenance, as defined in
the operating and maintenance in-
structions.
6. Consequential Coverage
Coverage hereunder shall extend to
the failure of any engine compo-
nents caused by the failure of any
Warranted Part still under warranty.
In the U.S.A. and Canada, a 24-hour
hot line, 1-800-469-4663, has a
menu of pre-recorded messages of-
fering you engine maintenance infor-
mation=
17

LOOK FOR RELEVANT EMISSIONS DURABILITY PERIOD AND AIR INDEX
INFORMATION ON YOUR ENGINE EMISSIONS LABEL
Engines that are certified to meet the
California Air Resources Board
(CARB) Tier 2 Emissions Standards
must display information regarding the
Emissions Durability Period and Air
index. Sears makes this information
available to the consumer on our
emission labels and hang tags.
The Emissions Durability Period de-
scribes the number of hours of actual
running time for which the engine is
certified to be emissions compliant,
assuming proper maintenance in ac-
cordance with the operating and main-
tenance instructions. The following
categories are used:
Moderate: Engine is certified to be
emission compliant for 50 hours of ac-
tual engine running time.
Intermediate: Engine is certified to
be emission compliant for 125 hours
of actual engine running time.
Extended: Engine is certified to be
emission compliant for 300 hours of
actual engine running time.
For example, a typical consumer
string trimmer is used 5 to 10 hours
per year. Therefore, the Emissions
Durability Period of an engine with
an moderate rating would equate to 5
to 6 years.
The Air Index is a calculated number
describing the relative level of emis-
sions for specific engine family. The
lower the Air Index, the cleaner the
engine. This information is displayed
in graphical form on the emissions la-
bel or hang tag.
AFTER JULY 1, 2000, LOOK FOR
EMISSIONS COMPLIANCE PERIOD
ON ENGINE EMISSIONS COM-
PLIANCE LABEL
After July 1, 2000, certain Craftsman
engines will be certified to meet the
United States Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (U.S. EPA) Phase 2 Class
IV emissions standards. For Phase 2
Class IV certified engines, the Emis-
sions Compliance Period referred to
on the emissions compliance label in-
dicates the number of operating hours
for which the engine has been shown
to meet federal emission require-
ments. For engines equal to or great-
er than 20 cc, and less than 50 cc dis-
placement, Category C = 50 hours, B
= 125 hours, and A = 300 hours.
The displacement of Model Series
21000 engines is 34 cc, 21100 en-
gines is 40 cc.
This is a generic represen-
tation of the emissions
compliance label typically
found on a certified engine:
This engine is certified to be emissions compliant for the following use:
[] Moderate (50 hours)
[] Intermediate (125 hours)
[] Extended (300 hours)
18