Craftman 7145247 Chainsaw Manual

The Craftman 7145247 is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a high-performance 2-stroke engine, automatic chain oiling system, anti-vibration handles, inertia-activated chain brake, quick-start technology, and a durable Oregon bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Initial Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil Preparation 7. Starting & Operation 8. Chain Maintenance 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, chain brake, decompression valve, anti-vibration system, and quick-start primer bulb.

FeatureDescription
Engine Displacement45cc 2-stroke air-cooled engine
Bar Length18-inch Oregon guide bar
Chain Type.325-inch pitch, 72-drive link low-kickback chain
Automatic OilerProvides continuous chain lubrication during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety brake to stop chain instantly
Anti-VibrationReduced vibration handles for operator comfort
Decompression ValveReduces starting effort by releasing cylinder pressure
Quick-Start SystemPrimer bulb and choke for easier cold starts
Fuel Tank Capacity14.9 fl oz (440 ml)
Oil Tank Capacity8.5 fl oz (250 ml)

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Avoid contact with bar nose.
  4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Store in approved container away from ignition sources.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause severe injury or death. Always use proper grip and cutting techniques.

Assembly & Initial Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, fit chain onto sprocket and bar groove, tension properly.
  2. Install chain brake: Ensure brake handle moves freely between ON and OFF positions.
  3. Fill oil tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Check for leaks.
  4. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned—should snap back when pulled from bar. Overtightening can damage bar and chain.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on top and rear handle. Front Handle: Chain brake lever, throttle trigger lockout, throttle trigger. Rear Handle: Start/stop switch, choke control, primer bulb, decompression valve.

Additional Components: Front hand guard, rear handle guard, muffler, spark arrestor, fuel cap, oil cap, bar nuts, chain tensioner screw.

Operation: Press throttle lockout before squeezing throttle trigger. Chain brake engaged by pushing brake lever forward. Choke used for cold starts only. Decompression valve reduces starting compression.

Fuel & Oil Preparation

Fuel: Mix fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane, ethanol content under 10%) with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio. Bar & Chain Oil: Use only oils labeled for chainsaw use.

  1. Use clean, approved fuel container.
  2. Add correct amount of 2-cycle oil to gasoline.
  3. Close container tightly and shake for 30 seconds.
  4. Fill fuel tank before operation. Wipe any spills immediately.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, diesel fuel, or premixed fuel older than 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engine.

  1. Cold Start: Place saw on flat ground. Engage chain brake. Set choke to FULL. Press decompression valve. Pump primer bulb 5-6 times. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move choke to HALF. Pull again to start. Let run 10 seconds then squeeze throttle to disengage choke.
  2. Warm Start: Follow cold start but omit choke and primer steps.
  3. Cutting Technique: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work—don't force. Plan cut to avoid pinching bar. For bucking, use sawhorse when possible.
  4. Shutdown: Allow engine to idle 30 seconds. Move stop switch to OFF position.

WARNING! Never drop-start chainsaw. Always engage chain brake when starting or carrying.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for .325 chain). Maintain 30° filing angle. File all cutters evenly.
  2. Chain Tension: Check frequently when warm. Proper tension: chain snug against bar but pulls freely by hand.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Replace if groove depth exceeds 0.025".
  4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace drive sprocket if worn or damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage.

  1. Drain fuel tank completely.
  2. Run engine until it stalls to clear carburetor.
  3. Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil and store separately.
  4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  5. Store in dry place, covered, with bar and chain protected.

Tip: For storage over 30 days, use fuel stabilizer in final tank before draining.

Warranty Information

Craftman 7145247 includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship when used for personal, family, or household purposes. Commercial use limited to 90-day warranty. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Craftman Customer Support at 1-800-832-8665 or visit www.craftman.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, flooded engine, spark plugUse fresh fuel mix; wait 15 minutes if flooded; check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, air filter, carburetorReplace fuel filter; clean air filter; have carburetor serviced.
Chain won't turnBrake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage chain brake; check clutch springs; inspect drive sprocket.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oil typeDrain to proper level; use correct bar and chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; sharpen chain evenly; check anti-vibration mounts.
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, improper filingAvoid ground contact; sharpen at correct angle; check bar groove.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftman service center. Always use genuine Craftman replacement parts.

Support: 1-800-832-8665; www.craftman.com

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