Eager Beaver 2.1 Chainsaw Manual

The Eager Beaver 2.1 is a lightweight, high-performance gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It features a 2.1 cubic inch (34cc) engine, an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling, an anti-vibration system, a quick-stop chain brake, and a tool-free chain tensioner. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Precautions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping Procedure 7. Basic Operation & Cutting Techniques 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 34cc 2-stroke engine, 18" guide bar, Oregon low-kickback chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, translucent fuel tank.

FeatureDescription
Engine Displacement2.1 cu. in. (34cc) 2-stroke gasoline engine
Guide Bar Length18 inches (45 cm)
Chain TypeOregon 91VXL low-kickback safety chain
Chain BrakeInertia-activated quick-stop safety brake
Chain OilingAutomatic (with manual override)
Vibration DampeningIntegrated anti-vibration system in handles
Chain TensioningTool-free side-access adjustment
Fuel Tank Capacity14.9 fl oz (440 ml)
Oil Tank Capacity8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
Weight (dry)10.8 lbs (4.9 kg)

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, loop chain onto sprocket and bar groove, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
  2. Install bar nut and adjust tension: Hand-tighten nuts, use side lever to tension chain (should snap back lightly from bar), then fully tighten nuts.
  3. Fill with fuel: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline/oil mix (89 octane minimum).
  4. Fill chain oil: Use SAE 30 bar & chain oil.
  5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function smoothly.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Never force components.

Safety Precautions

Always operate with proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

  1. Wear safety gear: Helmet with face shield, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves, steel-toe boots, snug-fitting clothing.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards, ensure bystanders are at least 15 feet away.
  3. Inspect saw: Check for loose parts, chain sharpness, proper tension, and leaks before each use.
  4. Hold firmly: Use both hands, right on rear handle, left on front handle, thumbs wrapped.
  5. Avoid kickback: Do not cut with tip of bar; be aware of pinch points and binding.

CAUTION! Never operate a chainsaw from a ladder, in poor lighting, or when fatigued.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle, Rear Handle, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Lever, Stop Switch, Choke Lever, Primer Bulb, Decompression Valve (if equipped).

Right Side: Chain Brake Lever (forward=engaged, back=disengaged), Muffler, Spark Plug. Left Side: Chain Tensioner Knob, Fuel Tank Cap, Oil Tank Cap. Top: Stop Switch (I=Run, O=Stop), Throttle Trigger/Lockout, Choke/Primer.

Operation: Depress throttle lockout to allow throttle trigger movement. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward (inertia will engage it during kickback).

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Cold Start:

  1. Place saw on firm, flat ground. Engage chain brake.
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
  5. Pull starter cord briskly 2-3 times until engine 'pops'.
  6. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull cord until engine starts.
  7. Allow to idle for 10 seconds, then squeeze throttle to disengage choke.

Warm Start: Choke off. Pull cord 1-3 times.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow idle, push STOP switch to "O". Engage chain brake.

Basic Operation & Cutting Techniques

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

  1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut (1/3 tree diameter), then back cut leaving hinge.
  2. Limbing: Stand uphill, cut from trunk outward, support limb if needed.
  3. Bucking: Support log, cut from top down, avoid pinching chain.
  4. Pruning: Use bottom of bar, light pressure.

Tip: Let the chain do the work; do not force. Maintain steady throttle in cut.

WARNING! Beware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Always cut below shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

Perform daily checks before operation.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, sharpness, bar condition, fluid levels, fasteners.
Every 5 hoursClean air filter, check spark plug, clean cooling fins.
Every 20 hoursReplace spark plug, clean fuel filter, inspect clutch and sprocket.
SeasonallyReplace air filter, fuel filter, inspect anti-vibration mounts.
AnnuallyClean carburetor (or as needed), check all safety devices.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Use round file and filing guide for consistent angles.

  1. Secure bar: Clamp bar in vise.
  2. File angle: Hold file at 30° to cutter, follow existing angle.
  3. File cutters: Use equal strokes on each cutter until sharp burr forms.
  4. File depth gauges: Use depth gauge tool to lower rakers to 0.025" below cutter.
  5. Replace chain: When cutters are worn to service limit line, or if damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves. Sharpen frequently for best performance and safety.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage longer than 30 days.

  1. Drain fuel: Run carburetor dry or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Remove chain: Clean and soak in oil; store separately.
  3. Clean saw: Wipe down, remove sawdust from cooling fins and air intake.
  4. Store: In dry, cool place, covered, out of reach of children.

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, old fuel, flooded engineCheck spark plug; use fresh 50:1 mix; move choke to off, open throttle, pull cord 10 times.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filterReplace fuel filter; clean/replace air filter.
Chain doesn't turnChain brake engaged, low idle, worn clutchDisengage brake; adjust idle screw; inspect clutch springs/shoes.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oil typeDrain to correct level; use SAE 30 bar & chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged anti-vibration mountsTighten all fasteners; inspect and replace mounts if cracked.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tension, worn barSharpen chain; adjust tension; inspect bar for wear and dress if needed.

Reset: For electronic ignition models, disconnect spark plug wire for 1 minute to reset module.

Service: For technical support, contact 1-800-EAGER-21 or visit www.eagerbeaver-tools.com

Eager Beaver 2.1 Chainsaw Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025