Homelite 42cc Chainsaw Owners Manual

The Homelite 42cc Chainsaw is a powerful, gas-powered cutting tool designed for a variety of tasks, from limbing and pruning to felling small trees and cutting firewood. This manual covers essential safety information, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and effective use. Always read and understand this manual before operating the chainsaw.

Safety Information & Warnings

Operating a chainsaw is inherently dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

WARNING! This product emits chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects. Operate with proper ventilation.

Features & Components

Key components of the Homelite 42cc Chainsaw for identification and operation.

Assembly & Preparation

Assembling your chainsaw from the box for first-time use.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain over sprocket and onto bar groove, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Install clutch cover and tighten nuts securely.
2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use recommended bar & chain oil. Fill reservoir to marked level.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline (89 octane minimum) mixed with 2-cycle engine oil at a 40:1 ratio (see Section 6).
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Add mixed fuel to tank. Avoid spills and wipe clean.
5. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust tensioning screw as needed.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed correctly to prevent derailment.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 42 cc
• Engine Type: 2-Cycle, Air-Cooled
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 40:1 (Gasoline to 2-Cycle Oil)
• Guide Bar Length: 16" or 18" (model dependent)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" / .058" or 3/8" / .050"
• Fuel Tank Capacity: ~0.5 US gal (1.9 L)
• Oil Tank Capacity: ~0.26 US qt (0.25 L)
• Dry Weight: Approximately 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg)
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A) (Wear hearing protection!)
• Vibration Level: <2.5 m/s²

Controls & Operation

Understanding and using the controls to start and operate the chainsaw safely.

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on firm, flat ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
3. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
4. Pull starter rope briskly 3-5 times until engine 'pops'.
5. Move choke lever to HALF CHOKE position.
6. Pull starter rope until engine starts. Let run for 10 seconds.
7. Squeeze throttle trigger to disengage choke and return to idle.
8. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Basic Cutting Technique: Use the bottom of the guide bar for cutting. Let the chain do the work; do not force it. Maintain a firm grip and stable stance.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Proper fuel mixture is critical for engine performance and longevity.

1. Fuel: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum 89 octane rating. Do not use fuel older than 60 days.
2. Oil: Use a high-quality, air-cooled, 2-cycle engine oil certified for use at a 40:1 ratio (e.g., JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD).
3. Mixing: In a clean, approved container, mix 3.2 US gallons of gasoline with 1 US gallon of 2-cycle oil to achieve a 40:1 ratio. Shake well.
4. Storage: Clearly label fuel mix container. Store in a cool, dry place away from sparks, flames, and children.

WARNING! Never use straight gasoline or automotive motor oil. This will cause severe engine damage and void the warranty.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the cutting system ensures safety and performance.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide matching chain pitch. File each cutter at the recommended angle (typically 30°). Keep all cutters uniform in length.
2. Chain Tension: Check frequently, especially when new. Chain should be snug but pull freely from the bar. Adjust when engine is OFF and cool.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Check for wear, especially at the nose.
4. Lubrication: Always run saw with bar & chain oil reservoir filled. Check oil flow by pointing bar tip at a light surface and running at high speed; a line of oil should appear.

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance tasks to keep your chainsaw running reliably.

CAUTION! Perform all maintenance with engine OFF, spark plug wire disconnected, and chain brake engaged.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

1. Short-Term (Under 30 days): Run engine until fuel tank is empty.
2. Long-Term (Over 30 days):
   • Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
   • Start and run engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
   • Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
   • Clean entire saw. Loosen chain tension.
   • Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

Troubleshooting

Warranty & Support

Homelite 42cc Chainsaws are backed by a limited warranty. Proof of purchase is required.

• Consumer Warranty: 2 years from date of purchase for defects in materials or workmanship.
• Commercial Warranty: 90 days from date of purchase.
• What is Not Covered: Damage from misuse, improper maintenance, use of incorrect fuel/oil, normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, filters).
• Support: For technical assistance, parts diagrams, or to locate a service center:
  • Website: www.homelite.com
  • Customer Service: 1-800-242-4672

Always reference your model number (e.g., UT10546) when seeking support.