Homelite 200 Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite 200 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and limbing tasks. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, safety chain brake, and anti-vibration handles. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, 16-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, manual chain tensioner, safety chain brake, anti-vibration system, and primer bulb.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position bar, fit chain with cutting teeth facing forward, tension properly.
2. Install chain brake: Ensure brake band is positioned correctly around clutch drum.
3. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (see specifications).
4. Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws.
5. Check all fasteners: Ensure nuts, bolts, and screws are tight.

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

First-Time Operation

Before starting, ensure chainsaw is on level ground and clear of obstructions.

1. Prime engine: Press primer bulb 5-7 times until fuel is visible.
2. Set choke: Move choke lever to FULL position for cold start.
3. Engage chain brake: Pull brake handle forward until it clicks (safety position).
4. Pull starter cord: Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot through rear handle, pull starter cord briskly until engine fires.
5. Disengage choke: After engine fires, move choke to RUN position.
6. Release chain brake: Pull brake handle back toward rear handle.
7. Warm up: Allow engine to run at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from chain at all times. Maintain secure footing.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite 200
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder
• Displacement: 40 cc
• Power Output: 2.2 HP
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio
• Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM
• Max Power Speed: 9,500 RPM
• Sound Pressure Level: 105 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls located on top and rear of saw.

Top Handle Area: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch.

Rear Handle Area: Chain brake handle, rear hand guard, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap.

Right Side: Decompression valve (press to reduce starting effort), spark plug access.

Left Side: Bar nuts, chain tensioner screw, muffler.

Fuel & Lubrication

Proper fuel mix and lubrication are critical for performance and engine life.

1. Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. For 1 gallon (3.8L) gasoline, add 2.6 fl oz (77 ml) of oil.
2. Chain Oil: Use only bar and chain oil (not motor oil or waste oil). Check oil level before each use.
3. Storage: For long-term storage (over 30 days), drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.

Tip: Always shake fuel container before refueling to ensure proper oil mixture.

Cutting Techniques

Proper technique ensures safety and efficiency.

1. Basic Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
2. Grip: Left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle with thumb wrapped underneath.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid cutting with upper quadrant of bar tip (12 to 3 o'clock position).
4. Bucking: For felled logs, cut from top side, support log properly, avoid cutting into ground.
5. Limbing: Work from trunk outward, cut downward on top side of branches.
6. Pruning: Make undercut first, then top cut to prevent bark tearing.

WARNING! Always plan escape path. Never cut above shoulder height. Be aware of falling branches.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops chain within milliseconds if activated manually or by kickback. Inertia-activated during sudden upward movement. Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle engagement. Must be depressed simultaneously with throttle trigger. Rear Hand Guard: Protects right hand from broken chain. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces operator fatigue through rubber-mounted handles.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Clean air filter, check chain tension, sharpen chain, clean cooling fins, inspect bar for wear.

Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen, check fuel filter, inspect all fasteners.

Monthly: Clean carburetor, check spark plug gap (0.025 inch), replace fuel filter if clogged.

Seasonal: Replace spark plug, clean exhaust port, inspect anti-vibration mounts.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Regulatory Information

EPA Phase III compliant: Meets emission standards for handheld engines. CARB certified for sale in California. ANSI B175.1: Complies with safety standards for gasoline-powered chain saws. For support, visit www.homelite.com or contact 1-800-242-4672. Copyright © 2025 Homelite; trademarks of Techtronic Industries.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized service center at 1-800-242-4672.