Haynes Chainsaw Manual

The Haynes Chainsaw Manual is a comprehensive guide for the safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of a wide range of chainsaws. It covers essential safety procedures, engine operation (2-stroke and 4-stroke), chain and bar maintenance, fuel mixing, starting procedures, cutting techniques, common repairs, and storage. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Safety First

Essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and safe operating practices to prevent serious injury.

WARNING! Always operate the chainsaw with both hands. Never operate above shoulder height. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

Chainsaw Components

Key parts of a typical gasoline-powered chainsaw.

1. Engine: 2-stroke or 4-stroke power source.
2. Guide Bar: The metal blade the chain runs around.
3. Cutting Chain: Series of cutting teeth and drive links.
4. Chain Brake/Hand Guard: Stops the chain instantly if kickback occurs.
5. Throttle Trigger & Lockout: Controls engine speed; lockout prevents accidental activation.
6. Fuel & Oil Tanks: For gasoline/oil mix and bar/chain oil.
7. Master Control Lever: Combines choke, stop switch, and throttle lock.

Pre-Operation Checks

Inspect your chainsaw before every use.

1. Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against the bar but pull freely by hand.
2. Chain Sharpness: Check for dull or damaged cutters.
3. Bar Condition: Look for wear, especially in the groove and sprocket nose.
4. Lubrication: Ensure bar and chain oil reservoir is full.
5. Fuel: Check for correct fuel/oil mix (typically 50:1 for 2-stroke).
6. Air Filter: Inspect and clean if dirty.
7. All Fasteners: Ensure nuts, bolts, and handles are tight.

CAUTION! Never start a chainsaw with a loose or damaged chain.

Starting Procedure

Cold Start (Typical Sequence):

1. Place saw on firm, level ground.
2. Engage the chain brake.
3. Press the fuel primer bulb (if equipped) 5-6 times.
4. Set master control lever to CHOKE/START position.
5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot through rear handle.
6. Pull starter cord sharply until engine 'pops' (fires briefly).
7. Move control lever to HALF-CHOKE/RUN position.
8. Pull starter cord again until engine starts and runs.
9. Squeeze throttle trigger to disengage fast idle. Release chain brake to operate.

Basic Cutting Techniques

• Felling (Cutting Down a Tree): Plan escape path. Make notch cut on fall side, then back cut. Never cut completely through.
• Limbing (Removing Branches): Work from trunk outward. Let the saw do the work; avoid forcing the bar.
• Bucking (Cutting Logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down, avoiding contact with dirt.
• Kickback Prevention: Always grip firmly with both hands. Be aware of bar tip contact. Use a reduced-kickback chain.

Maintenance Schedule

Access OSD via TV MENU or SETUP (DVD). Front Panel: POWER, OPEN/CLOSE, AUTO/DPMS, MUTE.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain maintenance is critical for performance and safety.

1. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain is snug but can be rotated by hand. Retighten bar nuts.
2. Sharpening: Use correct size round file and guide. File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal file strokes per cutter. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.

Tip: A sharp chain produces fine wood chips, not sawdust. It cuts faster with less effort.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh, high-quality fuels and oils.

1. Fuel Mix (2-Stroke): Use unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum) mixed with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at the ratio specified in your manual (e.g., 50:1). Shake well.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use specially formulated chainsaw bar oil. Check level before each use. The oiler should leave a light line of oil on a piece of wood held against a running chain.
3. Never Use: Old gasoline (over 30 days), automotive motor oil in the fuel, or used oil on the bar and chain.

WARNING! Fuel is highly flammable. Mix and refuel outdoors, away from sparks or flame. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove, clean, and sharpen the chain. Coat it and the bar with oil.
3. Clean the entire saw of dirt, sap, and wood chips.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Storing a saw with fuel in the tank can lead to gummed carburetor jets and starting difficulties.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For electronic ignition models, consult manual for reset procedure.

Service: For complex repairs (carburetor, ignition, crankshaft), consult a qualified technician.