Homelite Chainsaw 18 Inch Manual

The Homelite 18-inch Chainsaw is a gas-powered cutting tool designed for demanding yard work, including limbing, pruning, and felling small to medium trees. It features an 18-inch guide bar, a powerful 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, 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: 18-inch guide bar and chain, 2-stroke gasoline engine, Chain brake, Automatic chain oiler, Anti-vibration handles, Quick-start system, Throttle lockout, Chain tensioning adjustment.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Check Chain Brake: Verify chain brake functions before each use.
4. Secure Workpiece: Never cut while holding the saw with one hand or above shoulder height.
5. Beware of Kickback: Keep firm grip; do not let bar nose contact wood.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Do not smoke.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use recommended bar & chain oil; fill to oil tank mark.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (check manual).
4. Prime & Choke: Press primer bulb 5-10 times; set choke to cold start position.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—should snap back when pulled from bar.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 45 cc (approx.)
• Guide Bar Length: 18 inches
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 0.325” / 0.050” (verify with model)
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Ignition System: Electronic
• Weight (dry): Approx. 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg)
• Sound Power Level: Typically 105-110 dB(A) – wear hearing protection.
• Vibration Level: Reduced via anti-vibration mounts.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Chain brake lever, Choke lever, Primer bulb, Stop switch.

Handles: Front handle with chain brake lever; rear handle with throttle trigger. Other Components: Muffler, Spark arrestor, Air filter cover, Fuel cap, Oil cap, Chain tensioner knob.

Operation: Squeeze throttle lockout and trigger to engage throttle. Push chain brake forward to engage brake; pull toward you to disengage. Use choke for cold starts.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (max. 10% ethanol) and high-quality 2-stroke engine oil.

1. Mix in approved container: For 50:1 ratio, add 2.6 fl oz (77 ml) of oil to 1 gallon of gasoline.
2. Shake gently to blend.
3. Fill fuel tank to 80% capacity to allow for expansion.
4. Use separate, labeled container for mixed fuel; do not store over 30 days.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil or diesel fuel. Always mix fuel outdoors.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear surface. Engage chain brake.
2. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
3. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
4. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine “pops.”
5. Move choke to HALF CHOKE; pull until engine starts.
6. Allow to warm up 30 seconds; squeeze throttle to disengage choke.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting. Let saw do the work; avoid forcing. For felling, plan escape path. For limbing, cut from top side of branch.

WARNING! Always shut off engine before setting saw down. Keep hands away from moving chain.

Chain Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32” or 4.0 mm). File at 30° angle, equal strokes per cutter. Check depth gauges with gauge tool.

Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar. Loosen bar nuts, turn tensioner until chain snaps back, tighten nuts. Chain should move freely by hand.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly; flip bar monthly for even wear.

Cleaning & Storage

After each use: Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Clean air filter (tap or wash with soapy water). Check for loose fasteners.

Long-term Storage: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp oil through hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug. Store in dry, cool place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for over 30 days; old fuel can damage engine.

Warranty Information

Homelite offers a limited warranty for residential use. Warranty does not cover commercial use, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty claims, contact Homelite Customer Service at 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com. Keep dated sales receipt.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers. User should not adjust carburetor except as directed.

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