Homelite 16 Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite 16 Gas Chainsaw is a lightweight, professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 16-inch guide bar, 2-stroke gasoline engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Designed for cutting firewood, pruning trees, and general property maintenance. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 16-inch guide bar and chain, 2-stroke gasoline engine, Automatic chain oiler, Chain brake, Anti-vibration handles, Quick-start system, Side-access chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.
4. Chain Brake: Test before each use by pushing forward on front hand guard.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources, with engine off and cool.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Fill to marked level.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (check oil bottle).
4. Prime & Start: Press primer bulb 5-10 times, set choke, pull starter cord.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—should snap back when pulled from bar. Loose chain can derail.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite 16 Gas Chainsaw
• Engine Displacement: 42 cc
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Speed: Approx. 18 m/s at max RPM
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline : 2-Stroke Oil)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A) - Hearing protection required
• Vibration Level: < 2.5 m/s² (front/rear handle)
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty for home use

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Stop switch, Choke lever, Primer bulb, Chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, Rear handle with throttle, Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Muffler, Spark plug cover, Side-access chain tensioner knob.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout and throttle to engage chain. Release to idle. Push chain brake forward to engage brake (chain stops). Pull toward you to disengage.

Fuel & Oil Requirements

Fuel: Fresh unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane). Do not use gasoline older than 60 days. Oil: 2-stroke engine oil meeting JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD standards for air-cooled engines.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, close, shake thoroughly.
2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use all-season, tacky oil for proper lubrication.
3. Storage: Store fuel mix in labeled, sealed container away from heat/sunlight.

Tip: Never use straight gasoline or motor oil. This will cause severe engine damage.

Starting & Operating Procedures

Starting (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
2. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
3. Set choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter cord briskly 2-3 times until engine "pops".
6. Move choke to HALF CHOKE, pull until engine starts.
7. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then disengage chain brake.

WARNING! Always start with chain brake engaged. Keep hands away from chain during starting.

Chain Maintenance & Sharpening

Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot/cold. Adjust via side tensioner—tighten until chain snaps back, then loosen slightly. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 4.0mm). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.

Storage & Winterization

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp of 2-stroke oil into cylinder, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel in tank can cause gumming in carburetor, requiring repair.

Warranty Information

Homelite 16 Gas Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials/workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or visit www.homelite.com. Keep this manual as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use only Homelite authorized parts. Contact customer service: 1-800-242-4672; www.homelite.com