Earthwise 14 Chainsaw Manual

The Earthwise 14 Chainsaw is a 14-inch electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks around the home. It features a powerful motor, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioning, low-kickback safety bar and chain, and a lightweight design for easy handling. 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. Operation Instructions 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14-inch Oregon-style bar and chain, Electric motor, Automatic oiling system, Front hand guard, Rear handle with trigger, Chain tensioning knob, Oil fill cap.

FeatureDescription
14-inch Guide BarLow-kickback design for safer cutting
Electric MotorPowerful 12-amp motor for reliable performance
Automatic OilingContinuous lubrication system for bar and chain
Tool-Free TensioningEasy chain adjustment with side knob
Safety FeaturesHand guard, chain brake, safety trigger lockout
Lightweight DesignWeighs under 10 lbs for reduced user fatigue
Oil Level WindowVisual indicator for chain oil level
Ergonomic HandleComfort-grip rear handle with vibration reduction

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear proper safety equipment.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use only with GFCI-protected outlet. Keep cord away from cutting area.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Never cut with tip.
  5. Proper Handling: Hold with both hands. Do not operate above shoulder height.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from chain at all times.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires minimal tools.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
  2. Tension chain: Pull bar tip up, turn tensioning knob clockwise until chain is snug against bar (should move freely by hand).
  3. Final tighten: Tighten bar nuts securely with wrench (included).
  4. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to level indicated in window.
  5. Check chain direction: Cutting teeth should face forward on top of bar.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use. Loose chain can derail or break.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components located on saw body.

Front: Guide bar, chain, hand guard, chain brake (if equipped). Top: Oil fill cap, tensioning knob. Rear: Motor housing, rear handle with trigger, safety lockout button, cord strain relief.

Operation Controls: Press safety lockout button with thumb, then squeeze trigger to start chain. Release trigger to stop chain. Chain brake activates if hand guard is pushed forward during kickback.

Operation Instructions

For cutting logs, branches, and pruning.

  1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and chain sharpness. Ensure work area is clear.
  2. Starting: Plug into GFCI outlet. Hold saw firmly on ground, press lockout, squeeze trigger.
  3. Cutting Technique: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Use steady, even pressure. Do not force.
  4. Bucking Logs: Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of pinch points.
  5. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom of tree working toward top. Keep saw body clear of debris.
  6. After Use: Release trigger, wait for chain to stop, then unplug. Clean saw and check chain.

Tip: For best results, keep chain sharp and properly oiled. Dull chains increase effort and risk.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32-inch) and file guide. Maintain original cutting angle (30°). File each cutter evenly.
  2. Tensioning: Chain stretches with use. Check tension frequently. Adjust when chain sags from bar.
  3. Depth Gauge Setting: Maintain proper raker height (0.025-inch) with depth gauge tool.
  4. Chain Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn short or damaged. Use Earthwise 14-inch replacement chain.
  5. Oiling System Check: Run saw briefly over cardboard. Look for oil spray pattern to confirm oil flow.

WARNING! Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance. Wear gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow to cool before cleaning.

  1. Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Remove sawdust from air vents and oil ports.
  2. Clean guide bar groove and oil holes with wire or brush.
  3. Store in dry location, away from children. Hang or place in protective case.
  4. For long-term storage: Empty oil reservoir, clean thoroughly, lightly oil bar and chain.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean motor housing. Do not store with fuel or flammable materials.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Saw will not startNo power, safety lockout not engagedCheck outlet and cord; ensure lockout button is pressed while pulling trigger.
Chain does not moveChain brake engaged, loose drive sprocketPull back hand guard to disengage brake; check sprocket and clutch.
Chain oil not flowingEmpty reservoir, clogged oil portFill oil tank; clean oil holes in bar; check oil pump function.
Chain comes off barLoose chain tension, worn bar or sprocketRetension chain; inspect bar rails and sprocket for wear; replace if needed.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper filing, low oilSharpen chain; check filing angle; ensure adequate oil supply.
Overheating or smokingDull chain, insufficient oil, forcing cutSharpen chain; fill oil; use lighter cutting pressure; allow motor to cool.

Service: For electrical or mechanical issues not resolved above, contact authorized service center.

Warranty Information

Earthwise 14 Chainsaw is covered by a limited 2-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Earthwise Customer Service at 1-800-555-TOOL or visit www.earthwisertools.com.

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