Craftsman 2.1 14 Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 2.1 14 Chainsaw is a gas-powered chainsaw featuring a 2.1 cubic inch engine, a 14-inch guide bar and chain, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks such as pruning, limbing, and felling small trees. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil 7. Cutting Operation 8. Safety Features 9. Maintenance & Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2.1 cu in engine, 14-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioning, and primer bulb.

FeatureDescription
Engine Displacement2.1 cubic inches (34cc)
Guide Bar Length14 inches
Chain Pitch/Gauge.325" pitch, .050" gauge
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety brake
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces user fatigue
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 10.1 fl oz (300 ml)
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)
Ignition SystemElectronic ignition
Starting SystemEasy-pull recoil starter

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar onto sprocket, loop chain around bar, adjust tension.
  2. Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil; check for leaks.
  3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-cycle oil (50:1 ratio).
  4. Fill fuel tank: Use fuel mix; avoid spills.

WARNING! Wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before use.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before operating.

  1. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug but pull freely.
  2. Check oil and fuel levels: Top up if necessary.
  3. Start engine: Set choke, pull starter cord until engine fires, then set to run position.
  4. Test chain brake: Engage and disengage to ensure proper function.

CAUTION! Always start chainsaw on ground or firm surface. Keep bystanders away.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb.

Safety Features: Chain brake, right-hand guard, anti-vibration handles.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5-10 times, set stop switch to "on", pull starter cord. Adjust chain tension via side knob (tool-less). Check oil flow by pointing bar at light surface; oil line should appear.

Fuel & Oil

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

  1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.
  3. Use bar and chain oil: Fill oil tank before each use.

Tip: Never use old fuel (over 30 days). Dispose of fuel mix properly.

Cutting Operation

Supports bucking, limbing, and felling of small trees.

  1. Starting cut: Apply light throttle, let chain reach speed before contacting wood.
  2. Bucking: Cut fallen logs from top, avoid ground contact.
  3. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom to top, keep saw stable.
  4. Felling: Plan escape path, use notch and back cut techniques.
  5. Kickback prevention: Hold firmly, avoid tip contact, use chain brake if needed.
  6. Shut down: Allow engine to idle briefly, then move stop switch to "off".

WARNING! Always wear PPE: eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Right-Hand Guard: Protects hand from debris. Anti-Vibration: Reduces fatigue for safer operation.

Maintenance & Storage

Clean after each use. Check chain sharpness and tension regularly.

Storage: Empty fuel tank, run engine dry, clean air filter, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Use only genuine Craftsman parts.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 2.1 14 Chainsaw includes a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Not covered: damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized repairs.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, clogged filter, no sparkUse fresh fuel mix; clean air filter; check spark plug.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, low oil, worn sprocketDisengage chain brake; refill oil tank; inspect sprocket.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tankDrain excess oil; fill to proper level.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, damaged barTighten all bolts; inspect guide bar for damage.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen or replace chain; adjust tension.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center.

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

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