Homelite 360 Automatic Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite 360 Automatic is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a 36cc 2-cycle engine, automatic oiling system, 16-inch bar and chain, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 36cc 2-cycle engine, Automatic chain oiler, Inertia-activated chain brake, Anti-vibration handles, Quick-stop chain brake, Transparent fuel tank.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
3. Chain Brake Test: Test chain brake before each use by engaging with front hand guard.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use fresh gasoline and 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio.

WARNING! Kickback can cause severe injury. Keep saw sharp, maintain firm grip, and do not cut with tip of bar.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar over studs, align chain tensioning pin.
2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
3. Tighten bar nuts: Hand-tighten, then adjust chain tension.
4. Chain tension: Adjust so chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
5. Fill fluids: Add fuel mix to fuel tank and bar/chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 36 cc (2.2 cu in).
• Power Output: 2.1 HP at 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane min) with 2-cycle oil at 50:1 ratio.
• Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm).
• Chain Pitch: 0.325 inches.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches.
• Drive Links: 55.
• Sound Pressure: 108 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle 4.2 m/s², rear handle 6.1 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, Rear handle with throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Choke control, Primer bulb, Stop switch, Chain tensioner, Oil filler cap, Fuel filler cap.

Controls: Throttle trigger (requires throttle lockout to be pressed), Choke lever (for cold starts), Stop switch (O=Run, I=Stop), Chain brake lever (forward to engage, pull back to disengage), Primer bulb (press 5 times for cold start).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, Spark plug, Chain tension adjustment screw, Bar nuts.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engines.

1. Cold start: Set chain brake. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE. Press primer bulb 5 times. Pull starter rope until engine fires. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter rope to start.
2. Warm start: Set chain brake. Choke in RUN position. Pull starter rope.
3. Operation: Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle lockout and trigger to increase RPM. Allow chain to reach full speed before cutting.
4. Cutting techniques: Use lower part of bar. Do not cut with tip. Let saw do the work.

Tip: Always engage chain brake when carrying saw or not actively cutting.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 0.325"). File at 30° angle.
2. Depth gauges: File depth gauges to 0.025" below cutting edge.
3. Tension: Check frequently when new. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
4. Lubrication: Check oil level before each use. Use quality bar and chain oil.
5. Rotation: Rotate bar regularly to ensure even wear.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures long engine life.

Fuel Mix: 50:1 ratio - 2.6 fl oz (77 ml) of 2-cycle oil per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of gasoline.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

1. Short-term (under 30 days): Add fuel stabilizer to tank, run engine 2 minutes.
2. Long-term: Drain fuel tank and carburetor. Run engine until it stops.
3. Remove chain: Clean and soak in oil. Store separately.
4. Clean saw: Remove debris from cooling fins, air intake, and exterior.
5. Storage location: Cool, dry place away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Homelite 360 Automatic comes with a 2-year consumer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact Homelite customer service at 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com. Keep this manual as proof of purchase date.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Homelite service center.

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