Craftsman 14in. 34cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 14in. 34cc Chainsaw is a gas-powered tool designed for cutting and pruning trees, branches, and logs. It features a 34cc 2-cycle engine, 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, inertia chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil Mixture 7. Starting & Operation 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 34cc 2-cycle engine, 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioning, and easy-start system.

FeatureDescription
Engine34cc 2-cycle gasoline engine
Bar Length14 inches (Oregon brand)
Chain OilAutomatic oiler with manual override
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for safety
Anti-VibrationReduces user fatigue
Chain TensioningTool-less adjustment system
Starting SystemEasy-start technology
WeightApprox. 10.5 lbs (without fuel)
Fuel Tank10.1 fl oz capacity
Oil Tank5.1 fl oz capacity

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach the bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, loop chain around bar with cutting teeth facing forward, adjust tension.
  2. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil).
  3. Mix fuel: Use 50:1 gas-to-oil ratio with 2-cycle engine oil and unleaded gasoline.
  4. Check all fasteners: Ensure screws and nuts are tight before operation.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, goggles, ear protection) during assembly and use.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow safety rules may cause serious injury.

  1. Always wear safety gear: goggles, gloves, hearing protection, steel-toe boots.
  2. Clear work area of debris, bystanders, and pets.
  3. Hold chainsaw firmly with both hands.
  4. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
  5. Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.
  6. Use chain brake when not cutting or when carrying saw.
  7. Shut off engine before adjusting or maintaining.

CAUTION! Kickback can occur; always grip saw firmly and avoid tip contact.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, choke control, stop switch, primer bulb, fuel cap, oil cap, chain brake lever, front handguard, rear handle, and spark plug cover.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5-6 times, set stop switch to ON, pull starter rope. Throttle trigger controls engine speed; lockout prevents accidental activation.

Chain brake: Engages automatically upon kickback or manually by pushing handguard forward.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

  1. Mix in approved container: Add 2.6 fl oz of oil to 1 gallon of gas.
  2. Shake well before filling fuel tank.
  3. Use bar and chain oil in oil reservoir (do not use motor oil).
  4. Never use fuel older than 30 days.

Tip: Add fuel stabilizer if storing for more than 2 weeks.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold engine:

  1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
  2. Engage chain brake by pushing handguard forward.
  3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  5. Set stop switch to ON.
  6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  7. Move choke to HALF CHOKE, pull until engine starts.
  8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Keep firm footing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. After each use: Clean air filter, check chain tension, wipe saw clean.
  2. Weekly: Inspect spark plug, clean cooling fins, check all fasteners.
  3. Monthly: Replace air filter if dirty, clean fuel filter, inspect bar for wear.
  4. Annually: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor (if needed), inspect anti-vibration mounts.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Sharp chain improves cutting efficiency and safety.

  1. Remove spark plug wire for safety.
  2. Secure bar in vise or clamp.
  3. Use round file (5/32”) matching chain pitch.
  4. File each cutter at 30° angle, maintaining equal strokes.
  5. Check depth gauges with flat file.
  6. Replace chain when cutters are worn below 0.25 inches.

Chain tension: Should be snug but pull freely by hand. Adjust via tool-less tensioner when chain sags.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Drain fuel tank or add stabilizer.
  2. Run engine until carburetor is dry.
  3. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil.
  4. Clean entire saw, apply light oil to metal surfaces.
  5. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, clogged filter, spark plugUse fresh fuel mix; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug gap.
Engine runs then stallsFuel line clogged, carburetor issueClean fuel filter; adjust carburetor screws (H/L).
Chain won't turnBrake engaged, chain too tightDisengage chain brake; loosen chain tension.
Excessive vibrationLoose fasteners, worn mountsTighten all nuts/bolts; replace anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tankDrain excess oil; check oiler adjustment.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper filingSharpen or replace chain; check depth gauges.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

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