Craftsman 20 Chainsaw Owners Manual

The Craftsman 20 Chainsaw is a powerful 20-inch gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a 50cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, inertia chain brake, tool-less chain tensioning, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 50cc 2-stroke engine, 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, and primer bulb.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach guide bar: Remove bar cover nuts, position bar over studs, align chain.
2. Install chain: Place chain over bar sprocket, ensure cutting teeth face forward.
3. Tension chain: Use side-access tensioner to adjust until snug but movable.
4. Fill fluids: Add 50:1 fuel/oil mix to fuel tank; fill bar oil reservoir.
5. Check controls: Verify throttle trigger, choke, and chain brake function.

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

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear personal protective equipment.

1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove debris, ensure stable footing, keep bystanders away.
3. Pre-Start Check: Verify chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication.
4. Operation: Hold firmly with both hands, do not cut above shoulder height.
5. Chain Brake: Test before each use; engage when carrying or not cutting.

CAUTION! Kickback can occur without warning. Always grip handle firmly and avoid tip contact.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 50cc (3.0 cu in)
• Power Output: 2.8 HP @ 9000 RPM
• Fuel Type: 50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil mix
• Bar Type: Oregon 20" laminated sprocket nose
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .058"
• Ignition: Electronic CDI
• Carburetor: Walbro diaphragm with adjustable H/L jets
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

Controls and Components

Main controls located on top and rear handle. Right Side: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout. Left Side: Choke control, primer bulb. Top: Chain brake lever, ignition switch.

Components: Front handle, rear handle, muffler, spark arrestor, fuel cap, oil cap, chain catcher, bar cover nuts.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer 5x, engage throttle lockout before pulling starter. Chain brake engages automatically during kickback or manually by pushing lever forward.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Use fresh 89+ octane gasoline mixed with 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

1. Mix in approved container: Add 2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline.
2. Shake well before filling fuel tank.
3. Bar & Chain Oil: Use SAE 30 or specially formulated chainsaw oil.
4. Never use automotive motor oil or old gasoline.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days. Always clean fuel cap area before opening.

Starting & Operation

Supports both cold and warm starting procedures.

1. Cold Start: Set chain brake ON, move choke to FULL, press primer 5 times.
2. Pull starter rope slowly until resistance, then pull briskly 3-5 times.
3. When engine fires, move choke to HALF, pull until running.
4. Warm Start: Choke OFF, throttle lockout engaged, pull 1-2 times.
5. Cutting: Disengage chain brake, apply light pressure, let chain do the work.
6. Stop: Release throttle, engage chain brake, press ignition switch to OFF.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start on unstable surface. Keep hands clear of chain at all times.

Chain Maintenance

Chain sharpness and tension critical for performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use 5/32" round file at 30° angle, file each tooth equally.
2. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioner until chain snaps back when pulled.
3. Lubrication: Check oil flow by pointing at light surface; adjust oiler screw if needed.
4. Depth Gauges: File to 0.025" below cutting edge using depth gauge tool.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Replace chain when stretched beyond adjuster range.

Storage & Care

Prepare chainsaw for storage to prevent fuel system damage.

1. Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
2. Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil.
3. Clean air filter, spark plug, and cooling fins.
4. Store in dry place with bar cover installed.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank over 30 days. Keep away from open flames.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 20 Chainsaw includes 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Warranty void if used commercially, modified, or improperly maintained. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep this manual for reference.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Allow engine to cool completely before troubleshooting.

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