Homelite Chainsaw Model 240 Manual

The Homelite Chainsaw Model 240 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and trimming. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, 16-inch guide bar, chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, 16-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, throttle trigger lockout, and easy-start mechanism.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.

1. Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
2. Inspect chainsaw before each use for damage or loose parts.
3. Ensure chain brake is functional.
4. Always hold chainsaw with both hands.
5. Never operate above shoulder height.
6. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

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

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, align chain drive links with sprocket.
2. Install chain: Place chain over bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top of bar.
3. Tension chain: Adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
4. Tighten bar nuts: Secure bar nuts while lifting bar tip to maintain tension.
5. Fill tanks: Add fuel mix to fuel tank and bar & chain oil to oil tank.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar or engine.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite 240
• Engine: 40cc 2-stroke
• Power Output: 2.0 HP
• Fuel: Gasoline/oil mix (50:1 ratio - use 2-stroke oil)
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at full throttle
• Weight: 10.5 lbs (without fuel/oil)
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Vibration Level: Less than 5 m/s²
• Warranty: 2 years limited

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle with throttle lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, chain brake lever, and decompression valve (if equipped).

Controls: Throttle trigger (accelerates engine), throttle lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), choke (for cold starts), primer bulb (pumps fuel to carburetor), stop switch (stops engine), chain brake lever (manual engagement).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioning screw, bar nuts, fuel cap, oil cap.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake thoroughly.
2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.
3. Fill oil tank: Use quality bar & chain oil (not motor oil).
4. Check oil flow: Run chainsaw at high idle over light-colored surface; look for oil splatter.

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Stale fuel causes starting and performance issues.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Place on flat, clear surface.
2. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
3. Set choke to full position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
5. Pull starter rope briskly until engine "pops".
6. Move choke to half position.
7. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting. Let chain do the work; don't force. Be aware of pinch points when cutting logs under tension.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners. Clean air filter. Check fuel and oil levels.

Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen. Check bar for wear and evenness. Clean cooling fins.

Monthly: Replace spark plug. Clean fuel filter. Check anti-vibration mounts.

Seasonally: Replace air filter. Clean carburetor. Inspect fuel lines.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" pitch). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.

Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. When cool, adjust so drive links are not pulled out of bar groove. Re-tension when chain heats up during use.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Disconnect spark plug wire before maintenance.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to distribute.
3. Clean entire chainsaw, especially cooling fins.
4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil.
5. Store in dry, protected area.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel deteriorates and damages carburetor.

Troubleshooting

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

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