craftsman 16 chainsaw manual 358.360101

The Craftsman 16-inch Chainsaw (Model 358.360101) is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 16-inch Oregon® bar and chain, a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, throttle interlock, and easy-start system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 16-inch Oregon® bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, throttle interlock safety, primer bulb, and easy-start system.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, tension correctly, tighten nuts.
2. Fill oil tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil; fill to marked level.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).
4. Fill fuel tank: Pour mixed fuel into tank; avoid spills.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before use.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards; keep bystanders at least 20 feet away.
3. Hold firmly: Use both hands on handles; maintain secure footing.
4. Kickback zone: Avoid contact with upper tip of guide bar.
5. Chain brake: Test before each use by pushing forward on front hand guard.

CAUTION! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or on a ladder. Do not operate when fatigued or under influence.

Specifications

• Model: 358.360101
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled
• Displacement: 42 cc
• Fuel: Gasoline/oil mix (40:1)
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Weight (dry): Approx. 10.5 lbs
• Sound Pressure: 108 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Vibration: Front handle: 4.2 m/s²; Rear handle: 5.8 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle interlock, choke, ON/OFF switch, primer bulb, fuel cap, oil cap.

Controls: Throttle trigger (squeeze to increase engine speed), Throttle interlock (must be depressed to engage throttle), Choke lever (for cold starts), ON/OFF switch (stop engine), Chain brake lever (manual activation).

Operation: Start with chain brake engaged. Use both hands. Let engine warm up at idle. Engage chain by squeezing throttle. Release throttle to idle chain.

Fuel & Oil

Fuel mix: 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of fresh unleaded gasoline). Use high-quality bar and chain oil in oil tank.

1. Mix fuel in approved container; shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank on level surface; wipe spills immediately.
3. Check oil level before each use; refill as needed.
4. Never use motor oil, used oil, or diesel in oil tank.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days. Dispose of old fuel properly.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place on clear, level ground; engage chain brake.
2. Move ON/OFF switch to ON (I) position.
3. Pull choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
5. Hold rear handle with right hand, place left foot through front handle.
6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
7. Move choke to HALF position; pull until engine starts.
8. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds; squeeze throttle to disengage choke.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Keep hands clear of chain.

Chain Maintenance

Chain tension: Check before each use. Proper tension: snug against bar but pullable by hand.

Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File each cutter equally.

Lubrication: Ensure automatic oiler is working; chain should throw light oil mist during operation.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug; add 1 tsp of oil into cylinder; pull starter slowly to distribute; reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw; check for damage.
4. Store in dry, secure location away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 16 Chainsaw (Model 358.360101) includes a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Not covered: damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Spark Plug: NGK BPMR7A, gap 0.025 inch.

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