Craftsman Chainsaw 35098 Owners Manual

The Craftsman Chainsaw Model 35098 is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and limbing tasks. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, and a guide bar of specified length. This manual covers essential safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure safe and efficient use.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Parts & Assembly 3. Specifications 4. Controls & Features 5. Fuel & Oil 6. Starting & Operation 7. Chain & Bar Maintenance 8. General Maintenance 9. Storage 10. Troubleshooting 11. Warranty & Support

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before operating. Failure to follow warnings can result in serious injury or death.

Hazard	Precaution
Kickback	Always hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.
Contact with chain	Keep hands and feet away from moving chain; wear protective gloves and boots.
Flying debris	Wear safety glasses, face shield, and hearing protection.
Fuel hazards	Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool; no smoking.
Electrical hazards	Do not operate near power lines.
Unstable footing	Ensure secure footing before cutting; do not operate on ladders.

WARNING! This chainsaw can be dangerous. Always use proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

Parts & Assembly

Unpack all components. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

Attach guide bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain, adjust tension.
Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
Attach side cover: Secure with nuts; ensure chain moves freely.
Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
Mix fuel: Use fresh gasoline and 2-stroke oil at specified ratio (e.g., 50:1).

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—snug but able to be pulled around bar by hand.

Specifications

Model: Craftsman 35098
Engine Type: 2-stroke, air-cooled
Displacement: [e.g., 42cc]
Guide Bar Length: [e.g., 18 inches]
Chain Pitch/Gauge: [e.g., 0.325” / 0.063”]
Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
Oil Capacity: [e.g., 8.5 oz]
Weight: [e.g., 12.5 lbs]
Sound Level: [e.g., 105 dB(A)]

Controls & Features

Front Handle: Includes throttle trigger and throttle lockout. Rear Handle: Includes main grip and stop switch. Other Controls: Chain brake (manual/inertial), choke, primer bulb, decompression valve (if equipped), oiler button (manual override).

Features: Anti-vibration system, automatic chain oiling, side-access chain tensioner, spark arrestor muffler.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio. For bar and chain oil, use specified viscosity for expected temperature.

Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
Fill fuel tank: Clean area around cap; use funnel.
Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil only.

WARNING! Never use automotive oil, dirty oil, or straight gasoline. Store fuel mix for no longer than 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Starting (Cold Engine):

Place on clear, level ground.
Engage chain brake.
Set choke to FULL, press primer bulb 5 times.
Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires.
Move choke to HALF, pull until engine starts.
Allow to warm up, then disengage chain brake.

Cutting Techniques: Plan cut path; use full throttle when cutting; let chain do the work; be aware of kickback zone.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Chain sharpening: Use round file and guide; maintain correct filing angle (e.g., 30°).
Chain tension: Check when cold; adjust via side tensioner.
Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove; flip bar periodically for even wear.
Oiling system: Check output; clean oil ports.

Tip: A sharp chain reduces effort and improves safety.

General Maintenance

Air filter: Clean regularly; replace if damaged. Spark plug: Check gap; replace annually. Fuel filter: Replace yearly. Cooling fins: Keep clean. Exhaust: Check spark arrestor screen.

CAUTION! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.

Storage

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp oil, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder.
Clean entire saw; apply oil to bar and chain.
Store in dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, bad spark	Check fuel, spark plug, choke setting.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air/fuel filter, carb adjustment	Clean/replace filters; adjust carburetor.
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged, low oil, worn sprocket	Disengage brake; check oil; inspect sprocket.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged AV mounts	Tighten bolts; inspect anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oil	Over-oiling, wrong oil viscosity	Check oiler setting; use correct oil.

Warranty & Support

Craftsman Chainsaw Model 35098 is covered by a limited warranty. For service, contact Craftsman customer support or an authorized service center. Always use genuine Craftsman parts.

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