Gasoline Chainsaw Manual

The gasoline chainsaw is a powerful outdoor power tool designed for cutting wood, pruning trees, and felling small to medium-sized trees. It features a two-stroke gasoline engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and a durable cutting chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Instructions 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil Preparation 7. Starting & Operation 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stroke gasoline engine, Guide bar, Cutting chain, Chain brake, Throttle trigger, Choke control, Fuel tank, Chain oil tank.

FeatureDescription
Engine displacementTypically 40cc-60cc for medium-duty cutting
Guide bar length14-20 inches depending on model
Automatic chain oilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain brakeStops chain instantly upon kickback or manual activation
Anti-vibration systemReduces operator fatigue
Safety throttle lockPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Decompression valveEasier starting by reducing compression
Air filtration systemPrevents debris from entering engine
Spark arrestorPrevents sparks from exiting muffler
Tool-less chain tensioningQuick chain adjustment without tools

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain around bar with cutting teeth facing forward, adjust tension.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use proper gasoline/oil mixture (see section 6).
  3. Fill chain oil tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
  4. Check all fasteners: Ensure nuts and bolts are tight.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear during assembly. Keep hands away from sharp chain.

Safety Instructions

Gasoline chainsaws are dangerous tools. Follow all safety precautions.

  1. Always wear: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, chainsaw chaps.
  2. Clear work area: Remove tripping hazards, keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.
  3. Check chain brake: Test before each use.
  4. Never operate: On a ladder, above shoulder height, or when fatigued.
  5. Carry properly: With engine off, guide bar pointed backward.

CAUTION! Kickback can occur suddenly. Always grip firmly with both hands.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body.

Rear Handle: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Chain brake lever, Front hand guard.

Top/body: Choke lever, Primer bulb, Ignition switch (On/Off), Decompression valve (if equipped), Fuel cap, Oil cap.

Operation: Pull starter handle to start engine. Use choke for cold starts. Engage throttle to increase chain speed. Activate chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.

Fuel & Oil Preparation

Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with minimum 89 octane. Mix with two-stroke engine oil at specified ratio.

  1. Fuel mixture: Typically 50:1 (check manual). Example: 2.6 oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline.
  2. Use only two-stroke oil: Do not use automotive motor oil.
  3. Chain oil: Use proper bar and chain oil for lubrication.
  4. Storage: Mix only enough fuel for 30 days. Old fuel can cause starting problems.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing over 30 days. Never use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engines.

  1. Cold start: Place on flat ground. Set ignition to ON. Engage chain brake. Set choke to FULL. Press primer bulb 5 times. Pull starter cord until engine fires. Move choke to HALF. Pull again to start. Let idle for 30 seconds.
  2. Warm start: No choke needed. Follow same steps without choke.
  3. Cutting techniques: Use lower part of bar for cutting. Let chain do the work - don't force. Be aware of pinch points.
  4. Shutting down: Release throttle, let idle for 30 seconds, turn ignition OFF.

WARNING! Never drop start or start while holding chainsaw in the air. Always engage chain brake when starting.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, test chain brake, inspect for damage
Every 5 hoursClean air filter, check spark plug
Every 10 hoursClean spark arrestor, check all fasteners
Every 20 hoursReplace fuel filter, clean cooling fins
SeasonallyReplace spark plug, clean carburetor
As neededSharpen chain, replace worn bar

Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain cuts efficiently and safely.

  1. Secure chainsaw: Use vise or clamp.
  2. File size: Match file diameter to chain specifications (typically 5/32" or 3/16").
  3. Filing angle: Maintain 30-degree angle on cutting teeth.
  4. File direction: Push file away from body, maintain consistent strokes.
  5. Depth gauges: File down to proper height using depth gauge tool.
  6. Equal strokes: Apply same number of strokes to each tooth.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before sharpening.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and starting issues.

  1. Empty fuel tank: Run engine until it stops from fuel starvation.
  2. Drain chain oil: Empty oil tank to prevent leaks.
  3. Clean thoroughly: Remove sawdust, dirt, and debris.
  4. Remove chain: Clean and oil chain, store separately.
  5. Store properly: In dry place, protected from moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, flooded engine, no sparkUse fresh fuel mix, wait 10 minutes if flooded, check spark plug.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filterReplace fuel filter, clean air filter.
Chain won't turnChain brake engaged, clutch problemDisengage chain brake, inspect clutch assembly.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oil typeDrain excess oil, use proper bar and chain oil.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain, adjust tension correctly.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners, balance chain or replace.

Service: For professional repairs, contact authorized service center. Do not attempt major engine repairs unless qualified.

Support: Contact manufacturer at 1-800-CHAINSAW or visit www.chainsawmanual.com

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