Craftsman Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman Gas Chainsaw is a powerful, professional-grade tool designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a high-performance gas engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and a durable Oregon bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque 2-stroke gas engine, Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, fit chain around sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh 50:1 gas/oil mixture (89 octane minimum).
3. Fill oil tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
4. Check chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain brake is engaged when not cutting.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-operation checks before starting.

1. Check chain tension and sharpness.
2. Ensure fuel and oil tanks are filled.
3. Place chainsaw on ground, engage chain brake.
4. Set choke to COLD START position, pull starter cord until engine fires.
5. Move choke to RUN, pull cord to start.
6. Allow 30-second warm-up before cutting.

CAUTION! Never drop-start the chainsaw. Always maintain firm footing and grip.

Specifications

• Engine: 45cc 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Power Output: 2.8 HP at 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel: 50:1 gas/oil mix (89 octane unleaded).
• Bar Length: 18 inches (45.7 cm).
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Sound Level: 112 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.2 m/s², Rear handle: 5.1 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Chain brake lever, Choke lever, Primer bulb, Stop switch.

Operation: Hold rear handle with right hand, front handle with left. Press throttle lockout while squeezing throttle trigger. Release to idle.

Adjustments: Chain tension knob (turn clockwise to tighten), Oil flow adjustment screw (clockwise decreases flow).

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel Mix: 50:1 ratio (2.6 oz of 2-stroke oil per 1 gallon of gasoline).

1. Use fresh fuel (mixed within 30 days).
2. Fill fuel tank on level surface, avoid spills.
3. Use bar and chain oil specifically for chainsaws.
4. Check oil flow by running chainsaw over light surface; oil line should appear.

Tip: Store fuel in approved container. Never use automotive motor oil.

Cutting Techniques

Basic cutting positions and safety practices.

1. Felling: Plan escape path, make notch cut, then felling cut.
2. Limbing: Work from trunk outward, keep saw below shoulder height.
3. Bucking: Support log properly, cut from top down.
4. Always cut at full throttle, let chain do the work.
5. Avoid kickback by not touching tip of bar to wood.

WARNING! Never cut above shoulder height. Beware of pinch points and spring poles.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if kickback occurs. Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Right-Hand Guard: Protects from broken chain. Anti-Vibration: Reduces fatigue and improves control.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, fuel/oil levels. Weekly: Clean air filter, check spark plug. Monthly: Clean cooling fins, check bar for wear. Seasonally: Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance. Use only Craftsman replacement parts.

Regulatory Information

EPA Phase III compliant. Meets ANSI B175.1 safety standards. CARB certified for sale in California. Copyright © 2025 Craftsman. For support, visit www.craftsman.com or contact 1-888-331-4569.

Troubleshooting

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