Homelite 45cc Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite 45cc Chainsaw is a professional-grade gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 45cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, and a 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar (model dependent). Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 45cc 2-stroke engine, Chain Brake, Automatic Oiling System, Anti-Vibration Handle, Decompression Valve (if equipped), Air Filter, Spark Plug, Guide Bar, and Saw Chain.

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
2. Work Area: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quarter of the guide bar tip.
4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use fresh fuel mix.
5. Carrying: Engage chain brake and carry with bar pointing rearward.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Kickback can occur suddenly and is a major cause of chainsaw injury.

Assembly & Preparation

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

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 evenly.
2. Adjust Chain Tension: Loosen bar nuts. Turn tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Retighten bar nuts.
3. Fill Fuel Tank: Use a clean fuel mix of unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) and 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio (unless specified otherwise). Shake container before filling.
4. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Do not use waste oil.
5. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling the chain. The chain is extremely sharp.

Specifications

• Engine: 45cc, 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Power Output: Approx. 2.5 HP.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Unleaded Gasoline to 2-Cycle Oil).
• Bar Length Options: 16 inches or 18 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .058" gauge (common).
• Dry Weight: Approx. 11.5 lbs (without bar & chain).
• Sound Power Level: Typically 110 dB(A). Wear hearing protection.
• Vibration Level: Reduced via anti-vibration system.
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ7Y or equivalent.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Main Controls: On/Off Switch (Stop Control), Choke Lever, Primer Bulb, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Lever (Front Hand Guard), Decompression Valve Button (if equipped).

Components: Rear Handle, Front Handle, Fuel Tank Cap, Oil Tank Cap, Muffler, Air Filter Cover, Chain Catcher, Right/Left Hand Guard.

Adjustments: Chain Tensioning Screw, Idle Speed Screw (marked 'I'), High-Speed Mixture Screw (marked 'H'). Do not adjust carburetor unless necessary.

Starting & Operating

Ensure chain brake is engaged before starting.

1. Cold Start: Place saw on firm ground. Engage chain brake. Set On/Off switch to 'I' (On). Pull choke lever out fully. Press primer bulb 5-6 times. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops'. Push choke lever halfway in. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Let run for 10 seconds, then push choke fully in.
2. Warm Start: Follow steps above but do not use choke.
3. Operating: Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle lockout and throttle trigger to increase RPM. Always cut at full throttle. Let the saw do the work; do not force it.
4. Stopping: Release throttle trigger. Set On/Off switch to 'O' (Off).

Tip: Never drop-start or start the saw above waist height.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide matching chain pitch. File each cutter at the recommended angle (usually 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters.
2. Depth Gauge Setting: Use a flat file and depth gauge tool to maintain proper clearance (raker height).
3. Cleaning Bar Groove: Remove bar and clean out wood chips and debris from the oil hole and groove.
4. Checking Sprocket: Inspect drive sprocket for wear. Replace if teeth are hooked or excessively worn.
5. Chain Tension: Check frequently, especially when new. A properly tensioned chain will not sag from the bar but will pull freely by hand.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling or sharpening the chain. Ensure the saw is off and cool before performing maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Perform maintenance in a clean area with the engine off and cool.

• Air Filter: Clean weekly or more often in dusty conditions. Remove, tap clean, or wash in warm soapy water. Dry completely before reinstalling.
• Spark Plug: Check gap (0.025") and clean electrode monthly. Replace if worn or fouled.
• Fuel Filter: Replace annually or if fuel flow is restricted.
• Carburetor: Factory pre-set. Adjust only if necessary (poor performance, excessive smoke). Refer to service manual for adjustment procedure.
• Muffler & Spark Arrestor Screen: Clean screen monthly to prevent carbon buildup and fire hazard.
• External Cleaning: Keep cooling fins and exterior free of sawdust and debris.

Storage

Prepare the saw for storage if it will not be used for more than 30 days.

1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
2. Remove the chain and bar. Clean, oil, and store separately.
3. Clean the entire saw thoroughly.
4. Store in a dry, locked place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.

Warranty Information

Homelite 45cc Chainsaws are covered by a limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, commercial use, or normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug). For warranty service, contact an authorized Homelite service center. For more information, visit www.homelite.com or contact customer service at 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For electronic ignition issues, disconnect spark plug wire for 1 minute to reset module.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Homelite service center: 1-800-242-4672; www.homelite.com