craftsman 20 inch chainsaw manual

The Craftsman 20-inch chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a robust engine, 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioning, and inertia-activated chain brake for safety. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 55cc 2-cycle engine, 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-less chain tensioner, and primer bulb.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar, fit chain with drive links in bar groove, tension correctly.
2. Fill bar and chain oil: Use recommended bar oil; fill reservoir to marked level.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
4. Fill fuel tank: Add mixed fuel to tank; avoid spills.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward on top of bar.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, review all safety instructions. Operate in a well-ventilated area.

1. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand.
2. Prime engine: Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
3. Set choke: Move to FULL CHOKE position for cold start.
4. Start engine: Place on ground, hold front handle with left hand, pull starter rope briskly.
5. Warm up: After engine starts, move choke to RUN position and allow 30-second warm-up.

CAUTION! Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away. Clear work area of debris. Always engage chain brake when not cutting.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 55cc 2-cycle.
• Bar Length: 20 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 0.325 inches.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches.
• Fuel Capacity: 16.9 fl oz (500 ml).
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml).
• Weight (dry): 12.8 lbs (5.8 kg).
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front/Back: 4.5 m/s²; Left/Right: 3.2 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, ON/OFF switch, chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug cover, muffler, and chain catcher.

Operation: Pull chain brake back toward front handle to ENGAGE (safe position). Push forward to DISENGAGE for cutting. Throttle lockout must be depressed before throttle can be engaged. Choke has three positions: RUN, HALF CHOKE, FULL CHOKE.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel: 50:1 gas/oil mix (2.6 oz of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon of fresh unleaded gasoline). Bar & Chain Oil: Use high-quality, tacky bar oil for best lubrication.

1. Always mix fuel in approved container; never in chainsaw tank.
2. Fill fuel tank on level surface; wipe any spills immediately.
3. Check oil level before each use; refill as needed.
4. Adjust oil flow: Turn screw near oil tank for more/less lubrication (clockwise reduces).

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing for more than 30 days. Never use old or stale fuel.

Cutting Techniques

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

1. Felling (cutting down trees): Plan escape path. Make notch cut on falling side, then back cut.
2. Limbing (removing branches): Work from trunk outward. Keep saw stable; avoid tip contact.
3. Bucking (cutting felled trees): Support log off ground. Cut from top side; beware of pinch points.
4. Pruning: Use light touch; let chain do the work.
5. Kickback prevention: Maintain firm grip, avoid cutting with tip of bar, keep chain sharp.
6. Pushing/Pulling: If chain binds, stop engine and use wedge to open cut.

WARNING! Always cut at full throttle. Never cut above shoulder height. Be aware of reactive forces.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs or manually activated. Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle squeeze. Right-Hand Guard: Protects from broken chain. Anti-Vibration: Reduces fatigue and improves control. Spark Arrestor: Meets USDA Forest Service standards.

Maintenance & Storage

After each use: Clean air filter, check chain tension, sharpen chain as needed, wipe down saw.

Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen, check bar for wear, inspect fuel lines.

Storage: Empty fuel tank, run engine dry, remove chain and clean, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Use only genuine Craftsman replacement parts.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 20-inch chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For electronic ignition models, disconnect spark plug for 30 seconds to reset.

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