Black Decker 12 Inch Chainsaw Manual

The Black Decker 12 Inch Chainsaw is a lightweight, corded electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks around the home and garden. It features a 12-inch Oregon low-kickback bar and chain, tool-free chain tensioning, an automatic oiler, and a wraparound handle for improved control. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, 12-inch Oregon bar and chain, Automatic oiler, Tool-free chain tensioning system, Wraparound front handle, Rear handle with trigger lockout.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow warnings can result in serious injury.

1. Personal Safety: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip footwear, and close-fitting clothing. Do not operate while tired or under the influence.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep work area clean, well-lit, and free of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Electrical Safety: Use a GFCI-protected outlet. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, and the cutting path. Do not abuse the cord.
4. Chainsaw Safety: Keep both hands on handles. Do not overreach. Be aware of kickback. Let the chain do the work; do not force it.
5. Service Safety: Unplug chainsaw before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or chain-related tasks.

WARNING! Kickback can cause loss of control and serious injury. Use proper grip, do not let the bar nose contact any object, and use a low-kickback chain.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all parts. Assembly requires attaching the bar and chain, and filling the oil reservoir.

1. Attach Bar & Chain: Unplug saw. Place chain over drive sprocket and onto bar groove. Align bar mounting holes with saw body. Install bar nuts and tighten finger-tight.
2. Tension Chain: Use the tool-free tensioning knob to adjust until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts fully after tensioning.
3. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use only chainsaw bar and chain oil. Fill through oil cap until full. Wipe away any spills.
4. Check Chain Direction: Ensure cutting teeth on top of bar point toward the bar tip.
5. Plug In: Connect to a GFCI-protected 120V outlet. The saw is now ready for a test run.

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves when handling the chain. The chain is sharp.

Specifications

• Model Series: Black Decker 12 Inch Electric Chainsaw (e.g., CS1240)
• Motor: 12 Amp Electric
• Bar Length: 12 inches
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" LP, .043" (Check your specific model)
• Oil Capacity: ~4.0 fl oz (120 ml)
• Weight: Approx. 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)
• Cord Length: Varies by model (e.g., 6 ft)
• Sound Pressure: < 90 dB(A)
• Vibration: < 2.5 m/s²
• Recommended Oil: Black & Decker Chainsaw Bar & Chain Oil or equivalent

Controls and Parts

Main parts: Motor housing, Rear handle with trigger and lockout, Front wraparound handle, Bar cover, Chain, Bar, Oil tank cap, Tensioning knob, Cord.

Operation Controls:

• Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed before the trigger can be squeezed. Prevents accidental start.
• Trigger: Squeeze to start the motor and engage the chain.
• Front Hand Guard: Protects hand from debris and can act as a chain brake on some models.
• Tensioning Knob: Located on side. Turn to adjust chain tension without tools.
• Oil Cap: For filling the automatic oiler reservoir.

Operation Guide

For cutting branches, logs, and pruning.

1. Pre-Operation Check: Ensure chain is properly tensioned and sharp. Oil reservoir is full. Cord is undamaged and clear of cutting area.
2. Starting: Place chainsaw on firm ground. Hold rear handle with right hand, front handle with left. Depress trigger lockout with right thumb, then squeeze trigger.
3. Cutting: Allow chain to reach full speed before contacting wood. Use the underside of the bar for cutting. Do not force the saw; apply light pressure.
4. Kickback Prevention: Do not let the tip (nose) of the bar contact wood, the ground, or any object. Be especially cautious near wire fences or nails.
5. Stopping: Release the trigger. The chain will stop. Unplug the saw when not in use, even for short periods.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path. Always cut at waist level or below for best control.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. After Each Use: Clean sawdust and debris from bar groove, chain, air vents, and housing using a brush or compressed air.
2. Check Chain Tension: A new chain stretches. Check and adjust tension frequently during first uses and periodically thereafter.
3. Check Oil Flow: Run saw over a piece of scrap wood or cardboard. A thin line of oil should appear along the bar. If not, check oil level and oiler port for clogs.
4. Inspect Cord: Look for cuts, frays, or damage. Replace damaged cord immediately.
5. General Inspection: Check for loose nuts, bolts, or screws. Ensure all guards are in place and functional.

WARNING! Always disconnect from power before any cleaning or maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient operation.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching your chain's pitch (e.g., 5/32"). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to the same length. Use a filing guide for consistency.
2. Depth Gauge Check: After several sharpenings, check depth gauges (rakers) with a depth gauge tool. File them down if they are too high to maintain proper chip size.
3. Replacement: When cutters are worn down past the wear line or damaged, replace the chain. Ensure new chain matches bar length, pitch, and gauge.
4. Bar Care: Periodically flip the bar over to promote even wear. Check bar groove for wear and clean it regularly.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves. A chain is extremely sharp even when dull.

Storage

Store in a dry, secure place out of reach of children.

1. Clean the chainsaw thoroughly.
2. Empty the oil reservoir or fill it completely to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Loosen the chain tension slightly to relieve pressure on the bar.
4. Store the saw with the bar cover on.
5. Coil the power cord loosely; do not kink.

Tip: Apply a light coat of oil to the bar and chain to prevent rust during long-term storage.

Warranty Information

This Black & Decker product is backed by a limited warranty. Refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms and duration (e.g., 2-year limited warranty). Proof of purchase is required. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, commercial use, or unauthorized repair.

For warranty service: Visit www.blackanddecker.com or contact Customer Service at 1-800-544-6986.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact an authorized Black & Decker service center. Do not attempt to repair the motor yourself.

Support: 1-800-544-6986; www.blackanddecker.com