CS-440 Chainsaw Owners Manual

The CS-440 Chainsaw is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw featuring a 44cc engine, 18-inch guide bar, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, easy-start technology, and safety features including a throttle lockout and rear hand guard. Designed for demanding cutting tasks, it requires proper assembly, fueling, operation, and maintenance. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Starting & Operation 7. Chain & Bar Maintenance 8. Engine Maintenance 9. Storage & Transport 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 44cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, decompression valve for easy starting, side-access chain tensioner, translucent fuel tank.

FeatureDescription
Engine44cc 2-stroke air-cooled gasoline engine
Guide Bar18-inch professional-grade sprocket-nose bar
Chain.325-inch pitch, 72-drive link safety chain
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Automatic OilerDelivers oil to bar and chain during operation
Anti-VibrationReduced vibration handles for operator comfort
Decompression ValveReduces pulling resistance for easier starting
Throttle LockoutPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Chain TensionerSide-mounted for easy chain adjustment
Fuel TankTranslucent 14.2 fl oz (420 ml) capacity

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
  2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
  3. Kickback Awareness: Maintain secure grip; avoid contact with bar nose.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources; allow engine to cool.
  5. Carrying: Engage chain brake; carry with bar pointing rearward.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts, position chain on bar with cutters facing forward, fit bar onto studs, adjust tension, tighten nuts.
  2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use recommended bar oil; fill reservoir until full.
  3. Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well before filling.
  4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, lockout, and chain brake function smoothly.

CAUTION! Chain is extremely sharp. Wear heavy gloves during assembly. Never start the saw unless the bar and chain are properly installed and tensioned.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Front Handle with chain brake, Rear Handle with throttle trigger, Throttle Lockout, Choke/Stop Control, Decompression Valve, Master Control Lever (combines choke/stop/run), Chain Tensioner, Fuel Cap, Oil Cap.

Operation: Master Control Lever positions: STOP (•), RUN (I), CHOKE (O). Chain Brake: Push forward to engage (brake on), pull back to disengage (brake off). Throttle Lockout: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake.
  2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  3. Set Master Control Lever to CHOKE (O).
  4. Pump primer bulb 5-7 times (if equipped).
  5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops'.
  6. Move lever to RUN (I). Pull starter rope to start.
  7. Allow 30-second warm-up at idle before cutting.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Plan escape path. Beware of pinch, kickback, and pull-in. For bucking and felling, refer to specialized guides.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, move Master Control Lever to STOP (•).

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use correct round file and guide. File at 30° angle, maintaining consistent depth gauge height. Sharpen frequently for efficient cutting.
  2. Chain Tension: Check when cold. Correct tension: snug against bar but pullable by hand. Re-tighten after initial use.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Replace if worn, bent, or damaged.
  4. Oiler Check: Ensure oiler port is clear. Adjust oil flow rate if adjustable.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. A dull chain is dangerous and increases kickback risk.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean weekly (more often in dusty conditions). Remove, tap clean, or wash in soapy water. Dry completely before reinstalling.

Spark Plug: Check gap (0.020 inch / 0.5 mm) monthly. Clean electrode with wire brush. Replace annually or if worn.

Fuel System: Use fresh fuel mix. Empty tank and run carburetor dry for storage over 30 days.

Carburetor Adjustment: Factory pre-set. Only adjust (H, L, T screws) if necessary and by qualified personnel.

Storage & Transport

Short-Term (under 30 days): Clean saw, empty fuel tank, run engine until it stops, engage chain brake, store in dry place.

Long-Term (over 30 days): Perform above steps. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil them. Store chain in oil. Fog engine through spark plug hole.

Transport: Secure in vehicle with bar guard installed. Fuel and oil tanks must be empty or securely closed.

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Store fuel mix in approved container away from living areas.

Warranty Information

The CS-440 Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year consumer warranty for defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Warranty does not cover wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, air filter), damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized modification. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service centers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo fuel, flooded, bad spark, choke settingCheck fuel; move lever to RUN; pull with throttle open; check spark plug.
Engine starts then diesClogged filter, fuel line, carburetorClean/replace air filter; check fuel line; clean carburetor.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch/drive issueDisengage chain brake; check clutch drum and sprocket.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOiler setting too highAdjust oil flow to lower setting (if adjustable).
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, hitting ground, improper filingAvoid cutting into dirt; sharpen correctly with proper file.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chain, damaged barTighten all nuts/bolts; check chain balance; inspect bar.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized service dealer. Use only genuine replacement parts.

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