Homelite 360 Chainsaw Manual PDF

The Homelite 360 is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. This manual covers essential safety warnings, operational procedures, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Safety Warnings & Precautions

Critical safety information to prevent serious injury or death during operation.

Features & Components

Key components of the Homelite 360 chainsaw.

1. Engine: 2-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine.
2. Guide Bar: Available in 16-inch or 18-inch lengths.
3. Chain: Low-kickback, .325-inch pitch, semi-chisel chain.
4. Chain Brake: Inertia-activated front hand guard.
5. Throttle Trigger: With safety interlock to prevent accidental engagement.
6. Chain Tensioner: Side-mounted tool-less adjustment.
7. Fuel Tank: Capacity approximately 0.5 liters (16.9 fl oz).
8. Oil Tank: Automatic chain oiling system with manual override.
9. Air Filter: Foam element for debris protection.
10. Spark Arrestor: Muffler with integrated spark arrestor screen.

WARNING! Always inspect components for damage before use. Do not operate with missing or damaged parts.

Assembly & Initial Setup

Unpack and assemble your chainsaw following these steps.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill Fuel: Mix gasoline and 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (see Section 6). Fill tank to marked line.
3. Fill Chain Oil: Use bar and chain oil only; fill separate oil reservoir.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, chain brake, and stop switch function properly.
5. Prime & Start: Press primer bulb 5-10 times, set choke, pull starter cord until engine fires.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—should snap back when lifted from bar, not sag.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 36 cc (2.2 cu in).
• Power Output: Approximately 2.0 HP.
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-stroke oil.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (2.6 fl oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline).
• Bar Length Options: 16" or 18".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .058".
• Dry Weight: Approximately 10.5 lbs (without bar & chain).
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Front/rear handle: 5.2/4.8 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty for home use.

Controls & Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before starting the engine.

Controls: On/Off Switch, Choke Lever, Primer Bulb, Throttle Trigger with Lockout, Chain Brake Lever, Chain Tensioner, Fuel Cap, Oil Cap.

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Engage chain brake by pushing front hand guard forward.
2. Move On/Off switch to "I" (On) position.
3. Set choke lever to full choke position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Place saw on firm ground, hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter cord briskly 3-5 times until engine "pops."
6. Move choke to half-throttle position, pull starter cord until engine starts.
7. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Stopping: Release throttle, move On/Off switch to "O" (Off) position.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Proper fuel mixture is critical for engine performance and longevity.

1. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane. Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol.
2. Oil: Use high-quality 2-stroke engine oil certified for air-cooled engines (ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD).
3. Mixing Ratio: 50:1 (2.6 fl oz oil per 1 US gallon of gasoline).
4. Mixing Procedure: Add oil to approved fuel container first, then add gasoline. Close container and shake thoroughly.
5. Storage: Use fuel within 30 days. Add fuel stabilizer if storing longer than 30 days.

WARNING! Never use straight gasoline or motor oil. Incorrect mixture will cause engine damage.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal cutting performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (.325"). File at 30° angle, maintaining equal tooth length.
2. Chain Tension: Check tension frequently when chain is cold. Adjust via side tensioner until chain snaps back.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly; flip bar monthly for even wear; check for straightness.
4. Chain Oil: Check oil flow before each use. Adjust oiler screw if equipped.
5. Sprocket Inspection: Replace drive sprocket if teeth are worn or hooked.

CAUTION! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool.

Engine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance for reliable operation.

Note: More frequent maintenance may be required under dusty or heavy-use conditions.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-stroke oil through spark plug hole, pull starter cord slowly to coat cylinder, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially air filter and cooling fins.
4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil; store separately.
5. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.

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

Parts Diagram

Reference diagram for part identification and ordering.

Major Components:

1. Cylinder & Piston Assembly
2. Carburetor (Zama C1U)
3. Ignition Coil
4. Starter Assembly
5. Fuel Tank Assembly
6. Oil Pump Assembly
7. Chain Brake Assembly
8. Guide Bar (16" / 18")
9. Chain (.325", 62 drive links for 16" bar)
10. Air Filter Cover & Element

For genuine Homelite parts, visit www.homelite.com or contact 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, call 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com.