Craftsman 14 Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 14 Gas Chainsaw is a powerful and reliable tool designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. This 14-inch gas-powered chainsaw features a robust engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, and low-kickback chain for secure operation. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and effective use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14-inch guide bar and chain, 2-stroke gas engine, Automatic chain oiler, Safety chain brake, Anti-vibration handles, Throttle trigger lockout, Primer bulb, Fuel tank, Oil tank.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain with drive sprocket, ensure cutting teeth face forward.
2. Install Bar Nuts: Hand-tighten nuts, then use wrench to secure (do not overtighten).
3. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio).
4. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
5. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug but pull freely around bar.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy boots) during assembly and operation.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Failure to follow safety rules may result in serious injury.

1. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
2. Clear work area of debris, bystanders, and pets.
3. Check chain tension and sharpness before each use.
4. Hold chainsaw firmly with both hands.
5. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
6. Shut off engine before adjusting or transporting.
7. Use chain brake when not cutting or when moving between cuts.
8. Beware of kickback; keep nose of bar away from obstructions.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 32 cc
• Guide Bar Length: 14 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml)
• Oil Tank Capacity: 5.1 fl oz (150 ml)
• Weight (dry): Approx. 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s²; Rear handle: 5.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Chain brake lever, Stop switch, Choke lever, Primer bulb.

Components: Front handle, Rear handle, Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Spark plug, Air filter cover, Muffler, Guide bar, Chain, Chain tensioning screw.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout before pressing throttle. Activate chain brake by pushing lever forward. Use choke for cold starts. Stop engine by moving stop switch to "OFF".

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place chainsaw on flat, clear ground.
2. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (usually 2-3 pulls).
7. Move choke to HALF CHOKE, pull starter rope until engine starts.
8. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds, then disengage chain brake.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, move stop switch to "OFF".

Tip: For warm restart, use HALF CHOKE or no choke.

Cutting Techniques

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

1. Felling (Cutting down a tree): Plan escape path (45° behind tree). Make notch cut on falling side, then back cut.
2. Limbing (Removing branches): Stand on left side of trunk. Cut downward from top of branch.
3. Bucking (Cutting felled tree): Support log off ground. Cut from top down, avoid pinching bar.
4. Pruning: Use light touch, let chain do the work.

WARNING! Beware of kickback. Do not let nose of bar contact any object. Always cut at full throttle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Perform after each use and as scheduled.

• Clean air filter: Remove cover, tap out debris, wash in soapy water if needed.
• Check spark plug: Clean electrode, gap at 0.025 inch (0.63 mm).
• Clean cooling fins and muffler area.
• Inspect fuel filter and lines for cracks.
• Clean guide bar groove and oil holes.

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before maintenance. Use only genuine Craftsman parts.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (usually 5/32 inch). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintain equal length on all cutters. Check depth gauges with gauge tool.

Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar but pulls freely. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check after first few cuts.

Note: A sharp chain reduces effort and kickback risk. Tension correctly to prevent derailment.

Storage Guidelines

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Drain bar and chain oil tank.
3. Remove chain, clean in kerosene, coat with oil.
4. Clean entire saw, especially air intake and cooling fins.
5. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank to avoid gum formation.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. User-serviceable parts: air filter, spark plug, chain, bar.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com