David Bradley Chainsaw Manual

The David Bradley Chainsaw is a powerful outdoor power tool designed for cutting wood, featuring a gasoline-powered engine, automatic chain oiling system, safety chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and a durable cutting bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Precautions 3. Assembly Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Operating 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Gasoline engine, Cutting bar and chain, Chain brake, Throttle trigger, Choke control, Chain oil reservoir, Anti-vibration handle system.

FeatureDescription
Engine DisplacementPowerful 2-stroke gasoline engine for cutting performance
Chain BrakeSafety feature to stop chain rotation in kickback situations
Automatic OilingLubricates chain during operation for reduced wear
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces user fatigue during extended use
Bar LengthAvailable in various cutting bar lengths
Fuel Tank CapacityDetermines runtime between refueling
Chain Tension AdjustmentEasy-access side knob for proper chain tension
Safety Throttle LockPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Spark ArrestorReduces fire risk from exhaust sparks
Carrying CaseProtective storage for chainsaw and accessories

Safety Precautions

Always wear proper safety equipment and follow safe operating procedures.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles, ensure secure footing, keep bystanders away.
  3. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources, with engine off and cool.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause serious injury. Always maintain proper grip and stance. Never operate above shoulder height.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all components before assembly.

  1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar on mounting studs, align chain groove with drive sprocket.
  2. Install Chain: Position chain on bar with cutting teeth facing forward, engage drive links.
  3. Install Bar Nut: Secure bar with bar nuts, but do not fully tighten.
  4. Tension Chain: Adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  5. Final Tightening: Tighten bar nuts while maintaining proper chain tension.
  6. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
  7. Fuel Mix: Prepare proper gasoline/oil mixture as specified in manual.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain is properly installed with cutting teeth facing correct direction.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on top and rear handle assemblies.

Top Handle: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Choke control, Stop switch.

Rear Handle: Front hand guard/chain brake, Rear handle with anti-vibration mounts.

Side Components: Chain tensioning knob, Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Spark plug access.

Safety Features: Chain brake activates manually or automatically during kickback, Throttle lockout prevents accidental throttle engagement, Right-hand guard protects from debris.

Starting & Operating

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Place chainsaw on clear, level surface.
  2. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.
  3. Move choke lever to closed position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times (if equipped).
  5. Set stop switch to "ON" position.
  6. Place foot in rear handle, pull starter rope until engine fires.
  7. Move choke to half-open position, pull starter until engine starts.
  8. Allow to warm up, then disengage chain brake.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting, Maintain secure grip with both hands, Let saw do the work without forcing, Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

IntervalMaintenance Task
Before each useCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication
DailyClean air filter, check for loose fasteners
WeeklyClean spark arrestor, check spark plug
MonthlyClean fuel filter, check fuel lines
SeasonallyReplace spark plug, clean cylinder fins
AnnuallyProfessional inspection of critical components

Tip: Always use genuine David Bradley replacement parts for optimal performance and safety.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance is essential for safe, efficient cutting.

  1. Chain Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar, retighten bar nuts.
  2. Sharpening: Use correct size round file, maintain proper filing angle (typically 30°), file all cutters to equal length.
  3. Depth Gauge Setting: File depth gauges to proper height using depth gauge tool.
  4. Inspection: Check for damaged or broken cutters, replace chain if necessary.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chainsaw is off and cool before maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and ensures ready operation.

  1. Fuel System: Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer for long-term storage.
  2. Run Dry: Start engine and run until it stops to clear carburetor of fuel.
  3. Chain: Clean and oil chain to prevent rust.
  4. Storage Location: Store in dry, secure location away from children.
  5. Bar and Chain: Remove and store separately if storing long-term.

CAUTION! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank in enclosed spaces due to fire risk and fume accumulation.

Warranty Information

David Bradley chainsaws come with a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period varies by model and region. Proof of purchase required for warranty service. Damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs voids warranty. For warranty claims, contact authorized David Bradley service centers or visit www.davidbradley.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel issues, spark plug, flooded engineCheck fuel mixture, spark plug, air filter; wait if flooded.
Engine starts then diesFuel filter, carburetor, ventClean/replace fuel filter; check tank vent; clean carburetor.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension; check lubrication.
Chain won't turnBrake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage chain brake; check clutch and drive sprocket.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, damaged mountsTighten all fasteners; check anti-vibration mounts.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oil typeAdjust oil flow; use recommended bar and chain oil.
OverheatingDull chain, dirty cooling finsSharpen chain; clean cylinder cooling fins.

Service: For technical support, contact 1-800-DAVID-BR or visit www.davidbradley.com

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