Homelite 18 Inch Chainsaw Owner's Manual

The Homelite 18 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gasoline-powered tool designed for cutting, pruning, and felling trees. It features an 18-inch guide bar and chain, a 2-stroke engine requiring a gas/oil mixture, automatic oiler, chain brake, throttle trigger lockout, and anti-vibration system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18-inch guide bar and chain, 2-stroke gasoline engine, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger with Lockout, Automatic Chain Oiler, Anti-Vibration Handles, On/Off Switch, Choke Control, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach Guide Bar and Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel Tank: Mix fresh unleaded gasoline with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Fill tank to indicated level.
3. Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Fill separate oil reservoir.
4. Check Chain Tension: Ensure chain snaps back when pulled from bar; adjust tension screw if loose.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and chainsaw chaps. Never operate without proper assembly.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks before first use.

1. Check Fuel and Oil: Ensure both tanks are filled with correct fluids.
2. Engage Chain Brake: Pull brake handle forward until it clicks (brake ON position).
3. Start Engine: Place on ground, set choke, pull starter cord firmly until engine fires.
4. Warm Up: Allow engine to run at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.
5. Test Chain Brake: With engine idling, engage brake to ensure chain stops immediately.

CAUTION! Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Clear work area of debris.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 45cc 2-stroke.
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 0.325” pitch, 0.050” gauge.
• Fuel Capacity: 14.9 fl oz (440 ml).
• Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml).
• Weight (dry): 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg).
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty for home use.

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: On/Off Switch, Choke Lever, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Handle, Primer Bulb.

Operation Sequence: 1. Engage chain brake. 2. Set choke (cold start). 3. Press primer bulb 5 times. 4. Pull starter cord. 5. Disengage choke after engine fires. 6. Release chain brake before cutting.

Chain Oiler: Automatic system lubricates chain during operation. Manual override available via button near front handle. Chain Tension: Adjust via side screw when engine is OFF and chain is cool. Chain should be snug but pull freely around bar.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always follow safe cutting practices to prevent injury.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Starting Position: Place saw on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot through rear handle.
3. Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting; avoid tip contact to prevent kickback.
4. Kickback Prevention: Maintain firm grip, do not cut with tip, keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.
5. Shut Down: Engage chain brake, turn off engine, allow to cool before storage.

Tip: Plan escape path before felling trees. Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter. Inspect for loose parts.
2. Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen. Check fuel filter. Inspect guide bar for wear and grooves.
3. Monthly: Replace spark plug (recommended gap: 0.025”). Clean cooling fins. Check anti-vibration mounts.
4. Seasonally: Replace fuel line if cracked. Clean carburetor. Drain fuel for long-term storage.
5. Annually: Have professional service for engine tune-up and safety inspection.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when engine is OFF and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

A sharp, properly tensioned chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (0.325”). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.
2. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges with flat file to maintain proper height (0.025” below cutter).
3. Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts, adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts.
4. Lubrication: Always use recommended bar and chain oil. Check oil flow by pointing tip at light surface—oil should fling off chain.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Replace chain if damaged or excessively worn.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel deterioration and corrosion.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Fill fuel tank to prevent condensation. Run engine dry of carburetor fuel.
2. Long-term (over 30 days): Drain fuel tank and carburetor completely. Run engine until it stops.
3. Chain Care: Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil, and store in sealed bag.
4. General: Store in dry, cool place away from children. Cover to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods. Gasoline can degrade and damage engine components.

Warranty Information

Homelite 18 Inch Chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: commercial use, neglect, improper fuel, unauthorized repairs, normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug). For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.homelite.com or call 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

Safety First: If problem persists, stop using saw and contact authorized service center.

Service: 1-800-242-4672; www.homelite.com