Craftsman 46cc Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 46cc Chainsaw is a powerful gas-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a 46cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, 18-inch guide bar, chain brake for safety, anti-vibration handles, 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: 46cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioner, and easy-start pull cord.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove.
2. Adjust chain tension: Use tool-less adjuster to set proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled).
3. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh gasoline mixed with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio (see Fuel section).
4. Fill oil tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear during assembly and operation. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before use.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure bystanders are at least 15 feet away.
3. Check chain brake: Test before each use by pushing forward on front hand guard.
4. Proper stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, firm grip with both hands.
5. Kickback zone: Avoid contact with upper quadrant of guide bar tip.

CAUTION! Never operate chainsaw above shoulder height or with one hand. Always shut off engine before adjusting or transporting.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 46cc (2.8 cu in)
• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil)
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch: .325 inch
• Chain Gauge: .050 inch
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.2 fl oz (420 ml)
• Oil Tank 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: 6.1 m/s²

Controls and Components

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

Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and lockout. Rear Handle: Contains stop switch and choke. Top Cover: Houses air filter and spark plug. Right Side: Chain brake lever, primer bulb, fuel and oil caps.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5-6 times, set stop switch to "I", pull starter cord. For warm start, leave choke open.

Fuel & Oil

Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 89 octane. Mix with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 50:1 ratio (2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).

1. Shake fuel container thoroughly before filling.
2. Use funnel to avoid spills.
3. Fill fuel tank on level surface, leaving space for expansion.
4. Bar & Chain Oil: Use specially formulated chainsaw oil for proper lubrication.
5. Check oil level before each use and refill as needed.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, diesel fuel, or old gasoline. Discard fuel mix after 30 days.

Operation

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

1. Starting: Place on ground, engage chain brake, set choke, prime, pull starter cord until engine fires, then disengage choke.
2. Warm-up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before cutting.
3. Cutting: Apply light pressure, let chain do the work. Avoid forcing or twisting.
4. Kickback prevention: Maintain firm grip, be aware of bar tip contact.
5. Shut down: Release throttle, engage chain brake, move stop switch to "O".

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw when fatigued or under influence of medication/alcohol. Always plan escape path when felling trees.

Maintenance

Daily: Clean air filter, check chain tension and sharpness, inspect bar for wear, clean cooling fins.

Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen, check spark plug gap (.025 inch), clean fuel filter.

Monthly: Replace air filter, inspect anti-vibration mounts, check all fasteners for tightness.

Chain Sharpening: Use round file and guide to maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil.
3. Clean entire chainsaw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Store chain and bar separately.
5. Store in dry, cool place away from children.

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

Warranty Information

Craftsman 46cc Chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or use of incorrect fuel/oil. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, call 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Authorized service centers available nationwide.