Craftsman 25 cc Trimmer Manual

The Craftsman 25 cc Trimmer is a gas-powered, 2-cycle engine string trimmer designed for residential lawn and garden maintenance. It features a 25cc engine, straight shaft design, adjustable handle, dual-line cutting head, and easy-start system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 25cc 2-cycle engine, Straight shaft, Adjustable auxiliary handle, Dual-line bump-feed cutting head, Easy-start system, Fuel tank, Primer bulb, Throttle trigger lockout.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

1. Attach the shaft: Insert lower shaft into engine housing and secure with provided bolts.
2. Install the cutting head: Thread the cutting head onto the drive shaft and tighten securely.
3. Attach the handle: Slide the adjustable auxiliary handle onto the shaft and tighten at desired height.
4. Install the guard: Attach the debris shield to the shaft above the cutting head.
5. Add fuel: Prepare proper fuel/oil mixture (see Section 7) and fill tank.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves and safety glasses during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, read all safety instructions. Operate outdoors only.

1. Check fuel: Ensure proper 50:1 fuel/oil mixture is in tank.
2. Priming: Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
3. Choke: Set choke to "ON" (closed) position for cold start.
4. Starting: Place trimmer on ground, hold handle securely, pull starter cord briskly.
5. Warm-up: After engine starts, move choke to "OFF" (open) and allow 30-second warm-up.
6. Adjust handle: Set auxiliary handle to comfortable working position.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from cutting head at all times. Never operate indoors or in enclosed spaces.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 25cc, 2-cycle, air-cooled.
• Fuel: Gasoline with 2-cycle oil mix (50:1 ratio).
• Fuel Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml).
• Cutting Swath: 16 inches.
• Line Diameter: 0.080 inches (2.0 mm).
• Shaft Type: Straight steel shaft.
• Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg) dry.
• Sound Rating: 96 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration: <2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited.

Controls and Adjustments

Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Choke Lever: ON for cold start, OFF for warm operation. Primer Bulb: Press to draw fuel into carburetor. Handle Adjustment: Loosen knob, slide to desired position, retighten.

Cutting Head: Bump-feed - tap head on ground while engine runs to advance line. Line Replacement: Remove spool, wind new line following directional arrows, reassemble.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline. Mix with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

1. Use clean, approved fuel container.
2. Add 2.6 fl oz (77 ml) of 2-cycle oil to 1 gallon (3.8 L) of gasoline.
3. Shake container thoroughly to mix.
4. Fill fuel tank, avoiding spills.
5. Use fuel within 30 days; add fuel stabilizer for longer storage.

DANGER! Never use straight gasoline or automotive oil. This will cause engine damage. No ethanol-blended fuel above 10% recommended.

Cutting Techniques

For optimal performance and safety.

1. Hold trimmer at comfortable height, cutting head parallel to ground.
2. Use sweeping motion from side to side, advancing slowly.
3. Cut weeds at 3/4 throttle; use full throttle for thicker grass.
4. For edging, tilt trimmer 90 degrees and guide along sidewalk edge.
5. Avoid hitting hard objects (rocks, fences, trees) to prevent line breakage.
6. Tap cutting head on ground to advance line when needed.
7. Allow trimmer to do the work; don't force into dense vegetation.

WARNING! Always cut away from yourself and others. Keep cutting head below waist level. Never use for hedge trimming or brush cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Air Filter: Clean with soapy water, dry, re-oil lightly with 2-cycle oil. Spark Plug: Gap 0.025 inches (0.63 mm).

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Drain fuel tank completely.
2. Start engine and run until it stops to clear carburetor.
3. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter cord slowly to distribute, reinstall plug.
4. Clean entire unit, especially cooling fins and air filter.
5. Store in dry, covered area away from ignition sources.
6. Hang vertically or lay flat to protect shaft.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel degradation can damage carburetor.

Safety Information

Required PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy shoes, gloves. Operation Area: Clear of people (especially children) and pets by 50 feet. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, engine cool, no smoking. Clean spills immediately. Hot Surfaces: Muffler and engine remain hot after operation. Carbon Monoxide: Engine exhaust contains poisonous gas; never operate in enclosed spaces.

EMERGENCY SHUTOFF: Release throttle trigger immediately if loss of control occurs.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.