Craftsman 42cc 18 Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 42cc 18-inch Gas Chainsaw is a powerful, professional-grade tool designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 42cc 2-cycle engine, an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, easy-start technology, chain brake for safety, and a tool-free chain tensioning system. 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, chain brake, decompression valve, easy-start pulley, tool-free chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear proper safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.
4. Chain Brake: Test before each use. Know how to engage manually.
5. Fuel Safety: Mix and refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Wipe spills immediately.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires minimal tools.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar with cutting teeth facing forward. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Fill to indicated level.
3. Fuel Mixture: Prepare 50:1 gas/oil mixture (see Section 6). Fill fuel tank.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly installed and tensioned before starting. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage saw.

Specifications

• Engine: 42cc 2-cycle air-cooled gasoline engine.
• Bar Length: 18 inches (45.7 cm).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325-inch / .058-inch.
• Drive Links: 72.
• Fuel Capacity: 14.9 fl oz (440 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 handle: 4.2 m/s², Rear handle: 5.1 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, decompression valve, primer bulb, master control lever.

Controls: Master Control Lever (combines choke/start/run positions), Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Chain Brake Lever (front handle), Decompression Valve Button, Primer Bulb, Stop Switch.

Operation: Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting. Ensure chain brake is disengaged (pulled back toward front handle) for cutting.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Use fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Mix with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at a 50:1 ratio.

1. Gasoline: 1 gallon.
2. 2-Cycle Oil: 2.6 fl oz (for 50:1 ratio).
3. Mix in approved container. Shake well.
4. Fill fuel tank. Use fuel within 30 days.
5. Bar & Chain Oil: Use dedicated bar and chain oil for proper lubrication, especially in cold weather.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil or old gasoline. Stale fuel is a common cause of starting and performance problems.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on clear, flat ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Move master control lever to 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 master control lever to FAST IDLE position.
7. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
8. Briefly squeeze throttle to return to idle.
9. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

WARNING! Always start with chain brake engaged. Keep hands away from chain. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Chain Maintenance

Sharp Chain: A sharp chain cuts faster and safer. Use round file and guide to maintain 30° cutting angle. Check depth gauges.

Chain Tension: Check frequently when new. Proper tension: snug against bar but pullable by hand. Adjust via side knob (tool-free). Chain should not sag from bar.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Lubricate sprocket tip.

Storage & Care

Long-Term Storage:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store in dry place.
5. Cover saw or store in case.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Old fuel will gum up carburetor.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 42cc Gas Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal use. Not covered: damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, commercial use, or normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, air filter). 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 beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Use only genuine Craftsman parts.

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