Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw Owner's Manual

The Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for cutting firewood, pruning trees, and general yard maintenance. It features an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, tool-free chain tensioning, and a safety chain brake. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, inertia-activated chain brake, side-access chain tensioner, and ergonomic rear handle with trigger.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching the bar and chain, and filling fluids.

1. Attach the bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
2. Tension the chain: Use side tensioner knob to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill bar and chain oil: Use recommended bar and chain oil in oil tank.
4. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gal gas).

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling the chain. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before use.

First-Time Use & Starting

Before first start, ensure proper fuel mix and chain lubrication.

1. Place on clear, flat ground. Engage chain brake by pushing handle forward.
2. Set choke to FULL position (cold start).
3. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
4. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires, then move choke to HALF.
5. Pull again to start. Allow 30-second warm-up at idle.
6. Disengage chain brake by pulling handle back towards rear grip.

CAUTION! Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away. Never drop-start the chainsaw.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle air-cooled gasoline
• Displacement: 42 cc
• Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" low-profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050"
• Fuel Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml)
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A) (wear hearing protection)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.2 m/s²; Rear handle: 6.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body.

Rear Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, hand guard/chain brake, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch.

Body: Fuel cap, oil cap, side tensioner knob, decompression valve (if equipped), spark plug cover, air filter cover.

Safety Features: Chain brake (inertia-activated), throttle trigger lockout, right-hand guard, anti-vibration system, spark arrestor muffler.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always wear PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and chainsaw chaps.

1. Clear work area of debris and bystanders.
2. Check chain tension and lubrication before each use.
3. Hold saw firmly: left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle.
4. Use proper cutting techniques: let saw do the work, avoid twisting bar.
5. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
6. Shut off engine when carrying more than a few steps.

Tip: Plan escape path from falling tree or limb. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication; inspect for loose parts.
2. Every 10 Hours: Clean air filter; check spark plug.
3. Every 20 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen; inspect fuel filter.
4. Every Season: Replace fuel filter; clean cooling fins; inspect bar for wear.
5. As Needed: Sharpen chain; replace worn bar; clean clutch drum.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Use only Craftsman-approved parts.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Sharp chain improves cutting and safety.

1. Secure bar in vise. Identify correct file size (typically 5/32" for 3/8" low-profile chain).
2. File each cutter from inside out, maintaining factory angle (usually 30°).
3. File all cutters to same length. Check depth gauges with gauge tool.
4. To replace chain: Remove bar nuts, lift off bar, remove old chain. Install new chain with cutters facing forward on top.
5. Retension chain after replacement.

CAUTION! Wear gloves. Ensure chain is cool before handling.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage.

1. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run for 2 minutes.
2. Run carburetor dry by disconnecting fuel line and letting engine stall.
3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean entire saw.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman 18 Inch Chainsaw is covered by 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 maintenance, commercial use, 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

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt major engine repairs.

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