craftsman cordless chainsaw manual

The Craftsman Cordless Chainsaw is a battery-powered cutting tool designed for light to medium-duty yard work, featuring brushless motor technology, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, safety chain brake, and compatibility with the Craftsman V20 battery platform. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operating Instructions 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Battery & Charging 9. Storage & Care 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Brushless motor, Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, tool-free tensioning, safety chain brake, battery fuel gauge, wrap-around handle.

FeatureDescription
Brushless MotorProvides longer runtime and increased power efficiency
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation for smoother cutting
Tool-Free Chain TensioningAllows quick chain adjustment without tools
Safety Chain BrakeStops chain immediately upon kickback or activation
Battery Fuel GaugeDisplays remaining battery charge on pack
Wrap-Around HandleProvides secure grip and control from multiple angles
Chain CatcherHelps reduce risk if chain breaks or derails
Bar LengthAvailable in 12-inch and 16-inch models
Battery CompatibilityWorks with Craftsman V20 Lithium-Ion battery system
WeightLightweight design for reduced user fatigue

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
  2. Keep hands and feet away from cutting area and chain when operating.
  3. Ensure chain brake is functioning properly before each use.
  4. Inspect chainsaw for damage before operation.
  5. Maintain secure footing and balance during use.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from kickback, electric shock, or improper use. Do not operate in wet conditions or with damaged components.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly required for bar and chain installation.

  1. Install battery: Insert V20 battery into battery compartment until it clicks.
  2. Attach bar and chain: Remove bar cover, align chain on bar sprocket, place bar onto mounting studs, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  3. Adjust chain tension: Use tool-free tensioning knob to achieve proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled from bar).
  4. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil; fill to MAX line.
  5. Final check: Ensure all fasteners are secure, chain moves freely, and safety features are operational.

CAUTION! Ensure chainsaw is powered off and battery removed during assembly. Keep fingers away from sharp chain.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Power trigger, safety trigger, chain brake lever, battery release button, oil filler cap.

Front/Rear Handle: Contains power trigger with safety interlock. Must depress safety trigger before pulling power trigger.

Chain Brake: Manual activation via front hand guard; inertial activation during kickback. Battery Compartment: Located at rear; includes fuel gauge LEDs. Oiler: Automatic system with manual override button (if equipped). Tensioning Knob: Located on side for tool-free chain adjustment.

Operating Instructions

For cutting branches, logs, and pruning. Not for felling large trees.

  1. Power on: Insert fully charged battery; ensure chain brake is disengaged.
  2. Starting cut: Position chainsaw securely; depress safety trigger, then squeeze power trigger.
  3. During cut: Let chain do the work; avoid forcing. Maintain firm grip with both hands.
  4. Stopping: Release power trigger; engage chain brake when not cutting.
  5. Kickback response: If kickback occurs, chain brake should activate automatically; release triggers immediately.

Tip: Plan cut path before starting. Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain sharpening: Use round file and guide; maintain 30° cutting angle. Sharpen when chips become fine dust.
  2. Chain tensioning: Check frequently during use; adjust with tensioning knob when chain sags.
  3. Bar maintenance: Clean bar groove; flip bar periodically for even wear.
  4. Lubrication: Refill oil reservoir before each use; use only recommended bar and chain oil.
  5. Chain replacement: Replace when teeth are worn beyond sharpening or damaged.

WARNING! Always remove battery before performing maintenance. Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling chain.

Battery & Charging

Use only Craftsman V20 batteries and charger.

  1. Charging: Insert battery into charger; LED indicates charging status (red=charging, green=fully charged).
  2. Storage: Store battery at room temperature; avoid extreme heat or cold.
  3. Runtime: Varies by load; typical 12" model provides 30-45 minutes of intermittent cutting per 4Ah battery.
  4. Battery care: Do not disassemble; keep terminals clean; recycle properly at end of life.

CAUTION! Do not charge damaged batteries. Charge in well-ventilated area away from flammable materials.

Storage & Care

Clean after each use. Store in dry, secure location.

  1. Clean exterior: Use dry cloth; remove sawdust from air vents and bar.
  2. Empty oil reservoir: If storing for extended period, drain oil to prevent leakage.
  3. Chain protection: Apply light oil to chain to prevent rust.
  4. Storage location: Keep in original case or protective cover; out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents for cleaning. Store battery separately if not used for 30+ days.

Warranty Information

Craftsman Cordless Chainsaw includes limited 3-year warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Battery: 2-year limited warranty. Warranty requires proof of purchase from authorized retailer. This warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Chainsaw won't startDead battery, safety triggers not engagedCharge battery; ensure both safety and power triggers are fully depressed.
Chain doesn't moveChain brake engaged, chain jammedDisengage chain brake; clear debris from chain/bar area.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tension, low oilSharpen chain; adjust tension; refill oil reservoir.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, damaged chainTighten bar nuts; inspect chain for damage or uneven wear.
Battery not chargingFaulty charger, dirty terminalsClean battery terminals; try different outlet; contact support if issue persists.
Chain oil not dispensingEmpty reservoir, clogged oil portRefill oil; clean oil ports on bar; check oiler mechanism.

Reset: Remove battery for 30 seconds to reset electronic protection circuits.

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

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