Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Craftsman 32cc Weadeater, 17 cut, wheel bearing grease, clutch assembly

Question
My weedeater starts and runs but the trimmer head doesn't spin when I pull the trigger. Flex drive shaft or throttle cable problem? If so could you talk me thru disassembly steps?  Don't want to just start blindly taking it apart. MDL#358.797150.   Thx.

Answer
Hello Jim:

I Think a Breakdown of the Trimmer will Assist you in the Disassembly  and Reassembling the Trimmer. They are Simple to Work on. Go to this Site Addy, http://www3.sears.com/ and Enter the Model Numbers in the Upper Left Search Box and Click Go. Then Visually Verify the Equipment and Click Continue. From this Page you can View Diagrams or Parts Lists for you Equipment. Remove the Vertical Screws in the Clutch Housing (Diagram #60) and Remove the Shaft from the Housing. Remove the Cable from the Shaft. If the Ends Appear Rounded or the Cable is Broken, then Replace the Cable or the Cable and Shaft. I Usually Suggest Replacing Both the Shaft and the Cable at the Same Time. I have Found the Usually the Cable has Broken Due to the Bearing in the End of the Shaft Binding and Creating Extra Torque on the Cable. If the Cable is Good, then Re-Insert the Cable and Lightly Apply Wheel Bearing Grease to the Cable. Once the Cable is Re-Inserted, Hole the cable and Turn the Trimmer Head. If the Trimmer Head is Trying to Turn the Cable, then the Problem is the Clutch Bell is Worn or the Clutch Assembly (throw clutches) are Bad. Usually the Cable being Rounded is the Primary cause for you Problem. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John