Craftsman 38cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 38cc Chainsaw is a gas-powered, professional-grade tool designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 38cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake for safety, and a 16-inch Oregon bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 38cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioner, and primer bulb.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure bystanders and pets are at least 15 feet away.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quadrant of the bar tip.
4. Chain Brake Test: Test before each use by engaging brake with wrist.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Allow engine to cool.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from moving chain.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension with tool-less knob.
2. Fill chain oil reservoir: Use SAE 30 or special bar and chain oil. Do not use motor oil.
3. Mix fuel: Use 50:1 ratio of 87 octane gasoline and 2-cycle oil. Shake well.
4. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned (should snap back when pulled from bar).

Specifications

• Engine: 38cc 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Power Output: 2.1 HP @ 9000 RPM.
• Fuel System: Diaphragm carburetor with primer bulb.
• Ignition: Electronic, CDI.
• Bar Type: Oregon 16-inch, .325 pitch, .050 gauge.
• Chain: 66 drive links, low-kickback safety chain.
• Starting System: Recoil with decompression valve.
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear (wear hearing protection).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 3.2 m/s²; Rear handle: 4.1 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, chain brake lever, decompression valve.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug cover, muffler, guide bar, chain catcher, and anti-vibration mounts.

Operation: Engage chain brake before starting. Pull choke for cold starts. Press decompression valve to reduce pulling effort. Throttle lockout must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh 87 octane gasoline and high-quality 2-cycle engine oil (ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD rated).

1. Mix in approved fuel container: 2.6 US fl oz of oil per 1 gallon of gasoline (50:1 ratio).
2. Shake container vigorously for 30 seconds.
3. Fill fuel tank, using a funnel. Wipe any spills immediately.
4. Use fuel within 30 days. Add fuel stabilizer for longer storage.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, diesel fuel, or E85 ethanol blend. Do not mix directly in chainsaw tank.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine 'pops'.
6. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter until engine starts.
7. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then move choke to RUN.
8. Disengage chain brake by pulling back toward front handle.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Beware of pinch points and kickback.

WARNING! Always operate with both hands. Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file (5/32" or 4.0mm) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters to equal length. Check depth gauges with flat file.

Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. With engine off and cool, loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension after first few cuts.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain brake is engaged during maintenance.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days:

1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
2. Run engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
3. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
4. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
5. Remove chain, clean in solvent, oil, and store separately.
6. Store in dry, cool place, away from ignition sources.

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

Troubleshooting

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

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