20 Craftsman Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 20-inch chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a robust engine, 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling system, chain brake for safety, anti-vibration handles, and easy-start technology. This manual covers essential safety guidelines, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure safe and efficient use.

Safety Warnings & Symbols

Critical safety information to prevent serious injury or death. Understand all symbols and warnings before operation.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw alone. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away. Do not operate when fatigued or under influence.

Parts Identification

Key components of the Craftsman 20-inch chainsaw.

1. Front Handle: With throttle trigger and safety trigger.
2. Rear Handle: With start/stop switch.
3. Chain Brake Lever: Stops chain instantly if kickback occurs.
4. Chain Catcher: Prevents broken chain from striking operator.
5. Guide Bar: 20-inch Oregon bar.
6. Chain: .325-inch pitch, low-kickback safety chain.
7. Clutch Cover: Protects clutch and sprocket.
8. Oil Tank Cap: For chain lubrication oil.
9. Fuel Tank Cap: For gasoline/oil mixture.
10. Air Filter Cover: Houses air filter.
11. Muffler: Reduces exhaust noise.
12. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces operator fatigue.

Assembly Instructions

Assembling your chainsaw from the box.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Remove clutch cover. Place bar over studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove. Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top. Replace cover and tighten nuts.
2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use SAE 30 weight bar oil. Fill oil tank to marked line.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane min.) mixed with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Shake well.
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Pour mixture into fuel tank. Avoid spills; wipe clean.
5. Check Controls: Ensure throttle, chain brake, and stop switch move freely.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Keep chain sharp and tensioned properly.

Fuel & Oil Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 42cc.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 40:1 (Gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Recommended Gasoline: Fresh unleaded, 89 octane minimum. Do not use ethanol blends over 10%.
• Recommended 2-Cycle Oil: JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD certified.
• Bar & Chain Oil: SAE 30 weight or manufacturer-approved biodegradable oil.
• Oil Tank Capacity: 8.5 fl oz.
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.9 fl oz.

WARNING! Never use straight gasoline or automotive motor oil. Store fuel mix in approved container for no more than 30 days.

Starting & Stopping Procedures

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on flat, clear ground.
2. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
3. Press primer bulb 5 times.
4. Set choke lever to FULL CHOKE.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine "pops".
6. Move choke to HALF CHOKE.
7. Pull rope again until engine starts.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then disengage chain brake.

Warm Start: Skip primer and choke steps; start at half choke or run position.

Stopping: Release throttle, press stop switch to OFF. Engage chain brake after stopping.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques for safety and efficiency.

1. Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
2. Grip: Hold front handle with left hand, rear handle with right. Thumbs wrapped underneath.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid cutting with upper quadrant of bar tip.
4. Basic Cut: Let saw do the work; apply light downward pressure.
5. Bucking: Cut fallen logs from top side. Support log off ground.
6. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom side of tree. Watch for springback.
7. Felling: Notch facing desired fall direction. Back cut 2 inches above notch hinge.

WARNING! Always plan escape path when felling. Never cut above shoulder height.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Cleaning & Storage

Proper cleaning and storage prolongs tool life.

1. After Use: Wipe saw clean of sap, dirt, and oil.
2. Air Filter: Clean every 5 hours. Tap out debris or wash in soapy water if foam.
3. Spark Plug: Check every 25 hours. Clean electrode, gap at 0.025".
4. Long-Term Storage: Drain fuel tank. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store in dry, locked area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer if needed.

Troubleshooting Guide

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 20-inch chainsaw is backed by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal use. Not covered: damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs. Proof of purchase required.

For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support: 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Recall Notices: Check website regularly for safety recalls.