Homelite Chainsaw Manual 43120

The Homelite Chainsaw Model 43120 is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake, and a guide bar typically ranging from 14 to 18 inches. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, guide bar, cutting chain, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, throttle trigger lockout, and primer bulb.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Pre-Operation Check: Inspect chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Ensure all fasteners are tight.
3. Clear Work Area: Remove tripping hazards and ensure no bystanders are within 15 feet.
4. Safe Handling: Hold firmly with both hands. Do not operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
5. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the nose/tip of the bar; avoid contact to prevent dangerous kickback.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety rules can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when fatigued or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly typically requires attaching the guide bar and chain, and filling fluids.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Position chain on bar with cutters facing forward. Fit bar onto studs and align chain drive links with sprocket. Adjust tension and tighten nuts.
2. Fill Chain Oil Tank: Use recommended bar & chain oil. Fill to marked level.
3. Prepare Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio (check manual for specific ratio). Shake well.
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Add fuel mix to tank. Wipe up any spills immediately.

CAUTION! Always perform assembly on a stable surface with the engine off and spark plug wire disconnected.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite 43120
• Engine Displacement: Approximately 42cc (confirm with specific model plate)
• Fuel: Gasoline & 2-stroke oil mix (50:1 typical)
• Bar Length: 14", 16", or 18" (as equipped)
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325" pitch, .050" gauge (common)
• Oil Tank Capacity: Approximately 8.5 fl oz (250ml)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approximately 16.9 fl oz (500ml)
• Weight (Powerhead): ~10.5 lbs (4.8 kg) without bar & chain
• Ignition: Electronic
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ-6Y or equivalent, gap 0.025" (0.63mm)

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls:
Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Release to idle.
Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged.
Stop Switch (On/Off): Stops engine.
Choke Control: Used for cold starts.
Primer Bulb: Press 5-6 times to draw fuel into carburetor.
Chain Brake Lever/Hand Guard: Push forward to engage brake, pull back toward handle to disengage.
Master Control Lever: Combines choke, start, and run positions on some models.

Maintenance Points: Chain Tensioning Screw, Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Muffler, Fuel & Oil Caps.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Using the correct fuel/oil mix is critical for engine life.

1. Ratio: Typically 50:1. This means 2.6 fl oz (77ml) of 2-stroke oil per 1 US gallon (3.8L) of fresh unleaded gasoline.
2. Products: Use high-quality 2-stroke engine oil labeled for air-cooled engines. Do not use automotive motor oil or old gasoline.
3. Mixing: Add oil to an approved fuel can, then add gasoline. Close cap and shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
4. Storage: Use fuel within 30 days. For longer storage, use fuel stabilizer.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Mix outdoors away from sparks or flames. Do not smoke.

Starting & Operation

Follow these steps for safe starting and operation.

1. Cold Start:
   • Place saw on clear, level ground.
   • Engage chain brake.
   • Set Master Control to CHOKE (or set choke ON, switch ON).
   • Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
   • Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
   • Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine 'pops'.
   • Move Master Control to RUN (or set choke OFF).
   • Pull starter rope until engine starts.
2. Warm Start: Master Control to RUN. No choke or primer needed. Pull to start.
3. Running & Cutting:
   • Disengage chain brake by pulling hand guard toward you.
   • Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds.
   • Squeeze throttle trigger to increase RPM before contacting wood.
   • Let the chain do the cutting; do not force it.
   • Release throttle to idle when not actively cutting.
4. Stopping: Release throttle, allow to idle, then press STOP switch to OFF.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures safety and performance.

1. Tension Check: Chain should be snug against the bar but pull freely by hand. Check when cold and after first few minutes of use.
2. Tension Adjustment: Loosen bar nuts. Turn tensioning screw clockwise to tighten, counter-clockwise to loosen. Retighten bar nuts securely.
3. Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide matching chain pitch. File all cutters to the same length at the recommended angle (typically 30°). Maintain correct depth gauge height.
4. Lubrication: Ensure oil tank is filled. Check oil flow by running saw at high RPM (in a safe direction) and looking for oil sling on a piece of cardboard.

Tip: A sharp chain cuts faster, is safer, and reduces wear on the saw.

Storage & Cleaning

Prepare the saw for storage to prevent damage.

1. Short-Term (under 30 days): Run engine to use up fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer to tank and run for 2 minutes.
2. Long-Term:
   • Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
   • Run engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
   • Drain bar & chain oil.
   • Remove, clean, and oil the chain. Clean air filter and cooling fins.
   • Store in a dry, secure place, away from children.
3. Cleaning: Wipe exterior with a damp cloth. Use a brush to clean air intake and cooling fins. Never use water or pressure washer.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel in the carburetor can cause varnish buildup and starting problems.

Regulatory Information

This chainsaw complies with applicable ANSI/OPEI safety standards. It is equipped with a spark arrestor muffler meeting USDA Forest Service 5100-1c requirements for use in fire-prone areas. The chain meets low-kickback requirements. Homelite is a trademark. For technical support or to locate a service dealer, visit www.homelite.com or contact customer service at 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

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

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