Craftsman Chainsaw Instruction Manual

The Craftsman Chainsaw is a powerful gasoline-powered cutting tool designed for professional and home use. It features a high-performance engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, safety chain brake, easy-start technology, and ergonomic handles. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, guide bar, cutting chain, chain brake, throttle trigger, choke control, primer bulb, oil tank, fuel tank, and safety features.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Wear proper safety equipment.

1. Always wear: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and close-fitting clothing.
2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards and keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.
3. Inspect chainsaw: Check for loose parts, chain tension, and damage before each use.
4. Proper stance: Stand firmly with feet shoulder-width apart.
5. Never operate: When tired, under influence, or in poor weather conditions.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause serious injury. Always maintain proper grip and position.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar on mounting studs, align chain, install clutch cover, tighten nuts.
2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
3. Adjust chain tension: Loosen nuts, turn adjustment screw until chain snaps back when pulled.
4. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil only.
5. Mix fuel: 50:1 gasoline to 2-cycle oil ratio (consult manual for specific model).

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged during assembly. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine.
• Displacement: 45cc to 55cc (varies by model).
• Fuel Capacity: 14.9 fl oz (440 ml).
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml).
• Chain Pitch: 3/8" low-profile.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050".
• Weight: 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg) without fuel.
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Less than 5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control. Rear Handle: Start/stop switch, primer bulb.

Main Components: Chain brake handle, chain catcher, front hand guard, muffler, spark plug, air filter, fuel cap, oil cap, decompression valve (if equipped).

Operation Controls: Choke (cold start), throttle trigger (speed control), chain brake (safety stop), stop switch (engine off). Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, spark plug access, chain tension adjustment, oil fill port.

Fuel & Oil Preparation

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle engine oil.

1. Fuel mixture: 50:1 ratio (2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline) for most models.
2. Mix in approved container: Shake well before filling.
3. Bar and chain oil: Use all-season viscosity for automatic oiler system.
4. Fill tanks: Fuel tank first, then oil reservoir to proper levels.

Tip: Never use automotive oil, diesel fuel, or old gasoline. Store mixed fuel for maximum 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure varies for cold and warm engines.

1. Cold start: Set chain brake, move choke to FULL, press primer bulb 5 times, pull starter cord until engine fires.
2. Warm start: Choke at OFF position, no priming needed.
3. Cutting technique: Let chain do the work; avoid forcing or twisting.
4. Kickback prevention: Keep nose of bar away from objects; use lower quadrant of bar.
5. Shut down: Release throttle, engage chain brake, move stop switch to OFF.
6. Transport: Always engage chain brake and install scabbard.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Always engage chain brake when not cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Weekly: Clean air filter, check spark plug. Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check fuel filter.

Chain Sharpening

Sharp chain improves cutting efficiency and safety.

1. Secure chainsaw: Use vise or clamping system.
2. File size: Use 5/32" round file for 3/8" pitch chain.
3. Filing angle: Maintain 30-degree angle on cutting teeth.
4. File direction: Push file forward only; maintain consistent strokes.
5. Depth gauges: File to 0.025" below cutting edge using depth gauge tool.
6. Equal sharpening: Sharpen all teeth to same length.

CAUTION! Wear cut-resistant gloves. File away from body. Replace chain when worn beyond repair.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare chainsaw for storage exceeding 30 days.

1. Drain fuel: Run engine until tank is empty or use fuel stabilizer.
2. Clean thoroughly: Remove sawdust from cooling fins, air intake, and exterior.
3. Oil chain: Apply light oil to prevent rust.
4. Remove spark plug: Add teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter slowly.
5. Store properly: In dry location, covered, out of children's reach.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing with fuel. Store bar and chain separately in oiled paper.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Craftsman service center at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.