Craftsman 358.797251 - User Manual

The Craftsman Model 358.797251 is a versatile 2-cycle gasoline-powered tool designed for both blowing and vacuuming tasks. As a blower, it can clear debris with a powerful air stream. When configured as a vacuum, it collects debris into a bag and features mulching blades that automatically reduce debris at a ratio of up to 16:1, making it efficient for yard and garden cleanup.

Important Technical Specifications:

Engine: 1.9 cu.in. / 32cc 2-Cycle gasoline engine.
Performance (Blower): 175 MPH / 370 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute).
Mulching Ratio (Vacuum): Up to 16:1.
Fuel: Requires unleaded gasoline mixed with good quality 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil at a 40:1 ratio (3.2 ounces of oil per 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline). Craftsman brand oil is recommended. Automotive or boat oil should not be used.
Spark Plug: Champion RCJ-8Y, with a gap of 0.025 inches.
Spark Arrestor: Not factory equipped, but available as an optional part if required by local regulations.

Usage Features:

Safety First: Emphasizes reading and following all safety rules and operating instructions before use. This includes wearing eye and foot protection, a respirator/face mask in dusty conditions, securing hair, and removing jewelry/loose clothing. It warns against operating when tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Children, bystanders, and animals must be kept at least 30 feet (10 meters) away. The work area should be inspected for debris and hard objects before starting.
Fuel Handling: Stresses caution due to high flammability. Fuel should be mixed and poured outdoors in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area using an approved container. Smoking, open flames, or spark-causing work must be avoided near fuel. The fuel tank should not be filled when the engine is hot or running, and spills must be wiped up. The unit should be moved at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the fueling site before starting.
Blower Configuration: In blower mode, the blower tube and nozzle are assembled by placing tabs in grooves and turning clockwise to lock. A shoulder strap can be attached to the top handle for comfortable use.
Vacuum Configuration: To convert to vacuum mode, the blower tube, nozzle, and shoulder strap are removed. The elbow tube is inserted into the vacuum bag, and the bag's zipper is closed. The upper vacuum tube is then attached to the vacuum inlet, followed by the lower vacuum tube. The shoulder strap is adjusted for proper balance and to ensure air flows freely into the bag.
Controls:
- ON/STOP Switch: Used to stop the engine by holding it in the STOP position.
- Primer Bulb: Removes air from the carburetor and fuel lines, filling them with fuel for easier starting. Press and allow to return to its original form.
- Throttle Lock: Holds the throttle in run and starting positions. Activated by squeezing and holding the throttle trigger, then pressing and holding the throttle lock, and releasing the trigger.
- Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed; fully squeezing provides full speed.
- Choke: Aids in cold starting. Moved to FULL CHOKE, then HALF CHOKE after the engine attempts to start, and finally OFF CHOKE once the engine runs.
Starting Procedures: Detailed instructions are provided for starting a cold engine (or warm engine after running out of fuel) and a warm engine. This involves activating the throttle lock, setting the choke, pressing the primer bulb multiple times, and pulling the starter rope sharply. Specific steps are outlined for starting a flooded engine, which involves placing the choke lever in the OFF CHOKE position and activating the throttle lock before pulling the rope.
Operating Tips: Recommends hearing protection, stopping the engine before installing/removing attachments, operating during reasonable hours (e.g., 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Saturday), using rakes/brooms to loosen debris, dampening surfaces in dusty conditions, conserving water by using the blower instead of hoses, being mindful of children, pets, windows, and cars, and directing the air stream safely. It also advises using the full blower nozzle extension to work close to the ground and cleaning up after use.
Carburetor Adjustment: This is a critical procedure that, if done improperly, can permanently damage the engine. It's recommended to contact Sears Service if unsure. Initial settings involve turning the mixture screw counterclockwise until it stops, then turning the idle speed screw clockwise until it stops, and then counterclockwise 4 1/2 turns. After starting, adjustments are made for idle speed (using the IDLE screw) and mixture (using the MIX screw) to ensure smooth acceleration and prevent stalling or bogging down.

Maintenance Features:

Customer Responsibilities (When to Perform):
- Check for loose fasteners and parts: Before each use.
- Check for damaged or worn parts: Before each use.
- Clean unit and labels: After each use.
- Clean air filter: Every 5 hours of operation.
- Replace spark plug: Yearly.
General Recommendations: Emphasizes that warranty coverage requires proper maintenance as instructed in the manual.
Checking for Loose/Damaged Parts: Regularly inspect the spark plug boot, air filter, housing screws, ON/STOP switch, fuel tank, and vacuum bag. Any damaged or worn parts should be replaced by a Sears Service Center.
Cleaning the Unit: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent, then wipe dry.
Clean Air Filter: A dirty air filter reduces engine performance and increases fuel consumption. It should be cleaned every 5 hours of operation. This involves cleaning the cover and surrounding area, removing the filter, washing it with soap and water, allowing it to dry, applying a few drops of oil, and then squeezing to distribute the oil before reassembling. Gasoline or flammable solvents should not be used for cleaning.
Replace Spark Plug: Replace yearly for easier starting and better running. Set the gap to 0.025 inches. This involves removing the boot, unscrewing the old plug, installing a new Champion RCJ-8Y plug, and tightening with a 3/4 inch socket wrench (10-12 ft.-lbs).
Replace Fuel Filter: Drain the unit of fuel, remove the fuel cap/retainer assembly, pull the filter from the tank, remove it from the fuel line, and install a new filter.
Storage:
- Safety: Allow the engine to cool, secure the unit, and store in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or open flames. Store with all guards in place, ensuring no sharp objects can cause injury, and out of reach of children.
- External Surfaces: Clean thoroughly before storing in a clean, dry area.
- Fuel System: Refer to the "FUELING ENGINE" section for information on gasohol. Fuel stabilizer is recommended to minimize gum deposits. Craftsman 40:1, 2-cycle engine oil already contains stabilizer. Run the engine for at least 5 minutes after adding stabilizer.
- Internal Engine: Remove the spark plug, pour 1 teaspoon of 40:1, 2-cycle engine oil into the opening, slowly pull the starter rope 8-10 times to distribute oil, and then replace the spark plug with a new one of the recommended type and heat range.
- Other: Do not store gasoline from one season to another. Replace the gasoline can if it starts to rust.
Troubleshooting Table: Provides a guide for common issues like the engine not starting, idling improperly, accelerating poorly, smoking excessively, or running hot. It lists potential causes and remedies, advising when to contact Sears Service.
Emissions Control Warranty Statement: Details the owner's warranty rights and obligations regarding the emissions control system. Sears warrants the system for two years, covering parts like the carburetor and ignition system (spark plug and ignition module). It emphasizes the owner's responsibility for maintenance and warns that abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or unauthorized modifications can void the warranty.