craftsman chainsaw 18 manual

The Craftsman 18-inch Chainsaw is a gas-powered tool designed for cutting, pruning, and felling trees. It features an 18-inch guide bar, a 42cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-cycle engine, 18-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, primer bulb, and decompression valve.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain with sprocket, tension correctly.
2. Fill with fuel: Use fresh 2-cycle engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio).
3. Fill chain oil: Use bar and chain oil in separate oil tank.
4. Check chain tension: Ensure proper slack (pull chain away from bar, should see drive links).

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps) during assembly and operation.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow safety rules may cause serious injury.

1. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
2. Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away.
3. Operate with both hands on the handles.
4. Do not operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
5. Be aware of kickback; keep chain sharp and tensioned.
6. Never cut near power lines or in wet conditions.
7. Shut off engine before adjusting or transporting.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled, single cylinder.
• Displacement: 42cc.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches.
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at max RPM.
• Weight (dry): Approx. 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg).
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 5.2 m/s², Rear handle: 8.7 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, decompression valve, fuel cap, oil cap.

Controls: STOP switch (O=Run, I=Stop), Choke (for cold start), Throttle trigger (with lockout), Chain brake lever (forward to engage, pull back to disengage).

Operation: Always engage chain brake when starting or carrying. Use throttle lockout to prevent accidental acceleration.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Move STOP switch to "O" (Run).
3. Pull choke lever to full choke position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
5. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
6. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
7. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (usually 3-5 pulls).
8. Move choke to half position, pull until engine starts.
9. Warm up for 30 seconds, then disengage chain brake.

Stopping: Release throttle, move STOP switch to "I".

Cutting Techniques

Basic Cutting:

1. Plan your cut and escape path.
2. Hold saw firmly with both hands, thumbs wrapped around handles.
3. Let chain do the work; avoid forcing the bar.
4. For felling: Use notch cut and back cut techniques.
5. For limbing: Cut from top of log, watch for springback.
6. For bucking: Support log properly, cut from top down.

Kickback Zone: Avoid contacting with upper tip of bar, as this can cause sudden kickback toward operator.

Chain Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. Sharpen when chips become dust-like.

Chain Tensioning: Check when cold. Loosen bar nuts, adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts securely.

Lubrication: Check oil level before each use. Chain should throw a fine line of oil during operation.

Storage & Care

Long-term Storage:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
3. Clean air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in dry, secure location away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer if needed.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 18-inch Chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or 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

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

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