Earthwise Chainsaw Manual

The Earthwise Chainsaw is a versatile and powerful tool designed for various cutting tasks, featuring a reliable gasoline or electric engine, safety chain brake, automatic oiler, ergonomic handles, and a durable cutting bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine (gasoline/electric), Cutting Bar and Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Safety Lockout, Chain Oiler, Hand Guard, and Ergonomic Front and Rear Handles.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	Gasoline 2-stroke or Electric motor (model dependent)
Guide Bar Length	Available in various lengths (e.g., 14", 16", 18")
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated safety feature to stop chain rapidly
Automatic Oiler	Lubricates bar and chain during operation
Safety Lockout	Prevents accidental throttle engagement
Vibration Dampening	Reduces user fatigue during extended use
Tool-less Chain Tensioning	Allows easy chain adjustment without tools
Weight	Lightweight design for improved maneuverability
Kickback Reduction	Low-kickback chain and bar design
Warranty	Limited warranty as per model

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and close-fitting clothing.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chainsaw for damage, ensure chain is sharp and properly tensioned, check oil and fuel levels.
3. Clear Work Area: Remove obstacles, ensure stable footing, and keep bystanders at a safe distance.
4. Safe Starting: Place on ground, engage chain brake, hold firmly, and pull starter cord (gas models) or connect to power (electric).
5. During Operation: Keep both hands on handles, do not overreach, cut at waist level or below, be aware of kickback.

WARNING! Kickback can cause serious injury. Avoid contact with bar tip. Never operate with one hand.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble according to instructions.

1. Attach Guide Bar and Chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar, fit chain with cutting teeth facing forward, adjust tension, tighten nuts.
2. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Check for leaks.
3. Fuel Mix (Gas Models): Use fresh gasoline and 2-stroke oil at specified ratio (e.g., 50:1). Mix thoroughly.
4. Electric Models: Ensure power cord is undamaged and outlet is GFCI protected.
5. Final Check: Verify all fasteners are tight, chain moves freely, safety features function.

CAUTION! Do not force parts during assembly. Use only Earthwise-approved accessories.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement (Gas): Varies by model (e.g., 40cc, 45cc).
• Power Source (Electric): 120V AC, 60Hz, corded or battery (model dependent).
• Guide Bar Length: Typically 14" to 18".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .050" gauge (common).
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approximately 6-8 oz.
• Fuel Tank Capacity (Gas): Approximately 10-12 oz.
• Weight: 8-12 lbs (without fuel/battery).
• Sound Level: Varies; use hearing protection.
• Vibration Level: Reduced through anti-vibration system.
• Warranty: Limited 2-year warranty for residential use.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Main Controls: Throttle Trigger, Safety Lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Chain Brake Lever/Hand Guard (front push to engage), On/Off Switch (electric), Choke (gas), Primer Bulb (gas), Decompression Valve (if equipped).

Components: Front Handle with Hand Guard, Rear Handle, Muffler, Spark Arrestor (gas), Air Filter Cover, Fuel Cap, Oil Cap, Chain Tensioning Screw, Bar Nuts.

Adjustments: Chain Tension (via side screw), Idle Speed (gas, via screw), Oil Flow Rate (adjustable on some models).

Operation Guide

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Starting (Gas): Engage chain brake. Set choke. Press primer 5x. Pull starter cord until engine fires. Disengage choke. Allow warm-up.
2. Starting (Electric): Connect to power. Engage chain brake. Press safety lockout and throttle trigger.
3. Basic Cutting: Use full throttle before contacting wood. Let chain do the work; do not force. Support log off-ground.
4. Bucking (cutting felled logs): Cut from top, avoid pinching chain. Use wedges for large logs.
5. Limbing (removing branches): Cut from trunk outward. Beware of spring-loaded branches.
6. Shutting Down: Release throttle. Engage chain brake. Turn off engine/switch. For gas, let cool before storage.

Tip: Plan cuts to avoid binding. Always cut at full power.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

1. Daily/Pre-Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Fill fuel and oil. Clean air filter (gas). Inspect for loose parts.
2. Weekly/After Use: Clean sawdust from cooling fins, guide bar groove, and clutch area. Wipe exterior with dry cloth.
3. Monthly: Check spark plug (gas), replace if fouled. Clean spark arrestor screen (gas). Inspect fuel lines.
4. Seasonal/Storage: Drain fuel (gas) or run dry. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Store in dry place.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire (gas) or unplug (electric) before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is critical for performance and safety.

Chain Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Turn tensioning screw until chain is snug against bar bottom but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension after a few cuts.

Sharpening: Use correct round file size (e.g., 5/32"). File each cutter at specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters. File depth gauges with flat file as needed.

Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn beyond repair or damaged. Match pitch, gauge, and drive link count.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents deterioration and safety hazards.

1. Short-Term (under 30 days): For gas models, add fuel stabilizer to tank and run for 2 minutes. Clean exterior.
2. Long-Term: Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops. Remove chain, clean and oil it. Store in original box or case in a cool, dry place.
3. Battery Models: Remove battery. Store battery at 40-80% charge in a cool, dry location.

WARNING! Never store chainsaw with fuel in tank in an enclosed area. Fuel vapors are flammable.

Warranty Information

Earthwise Chainsaws are covered by a limited warranty for residential use. The warranty period is typically 2 years from the date of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, commercial use, improper maintenance, or normal wear (e.g., chain, bar, spark plug). For warranty service, contact Earthwise customer support or an authorized service center. Keep this manual as proof of model information.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start (Gas)	No fuel, flooded, bad spark plug, stale fuel, choke setting	Check fuel, use fresh mix, clean/replace spark plug, adjust choke, avoid over-priming.
Motor won't start (Electric)	No power, tripped GFCI, faulty switch/cord	Check outlet, reset GFCI, inspect cord for damage, ensure switch is on.
Chain does not turn	Chain brake engaged, drive sprocket worn, clutch issues	Disengage chain brake, inspect sprocket and clutch, consult service center.
Chain oils poorly	Empty oil tank, clogged oil port, wrong oil	Fill tank, clean oil holes and bar groove, use recommended oil.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain, damaged bar	Tighten all fasteners, sharpen chain evenly, inspect/replace bar.
Chain dulls quickly	Cutting dirty wood, hitting ground/rocks, improper filing	Avoid contact with soil, sharpen correctly, check depth gauges.
Engine runs poorly/stalls	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carburetor adjustment	Clean/replace air and fuel filters, adjust carburetor (H/L screws).

Service: For repairs not covered here, contact Earthwise Customer Service at 1-800-XXX-XXXX or visit www.earthwiseproducts.com.