Homelite Chainsaw Super 2 User Manual

The Homelite Chainsaw Super 2 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, safety chain brake, and a durable guide bar. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Operating 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Fuel & Lubrication 9. Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Choke Control, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, Anti-Vibration System.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type2-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine
Guide Bar LengthTypically 14" to 16" (model dependent)
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety feature to stop chain
Automatic OilingPumps bar & chain oil during operation
Anti-VibrationReduces operator fatigue
Fuel Mix Ratio40:1 (Gasoline to 2-cycle oil)
Throttle LockoutPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Chain TensionerSide-access adjustment for proper chain tension
Decompression ValveEasier starting (if equipped)
Spark ArrestorReduces fire risk from exhaust sparks

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
  2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
  3. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Hold saw firmly with both hands.
  4. Chain Brake Check: Test chain brake function before each use.
  5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, engine off and cool. Wipe spills immediately.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly typically involves attaching the guide bar and chain.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on sprocket, loop chain around bar with cutting teeth facing forward on top. Ensure chain fits into bar groove.
  2. Adjust Chain Tension: Use side tensioner screw to achieve proper tension. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
  3. Fill Fuel Tank: Mix fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) with 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio. Shake well before filling.
  4. Fill Bar & Chain Oil Tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Do not use waste oil.
  5. Check All Fasteners: Ensure bar nuts, covers, and handles are secure.

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

Specifications

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: On/Off Switch, Choke Lever, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Primer Bulb (if equipped), Chain Brake Lever (front handguard).

Components: Rear Handle, Front Handle, Muffler, Spark Arrestor Screen, Fuel Cap, Oil Cap, Chain Catcher, Right-Hand Guard.

Starting Procedure: Place saw on firm, flat ground. Engage chain brake. Set choke. Pull starter rope until engine 'pops', then disengage choke and pull again to start.

Starting & Operating

Follow these steps for safe and effective operation.

  1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Set switch to ON. Pull choke to full position. Press primer bulb 5 times (if equipped). Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Push choke in halfway. Pull starter rope again until engine starts. Let engine warm up at idle for 30 seconds.
  2. Warm Start: No choke needed. Follow steps without choke.
  3. Making a Cut: Disengage chain brake. Hold saw firmly. Apply light pressure, letting the chain do the work. Do not force the saw.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with the tip. Be aware of wood tension and binding.
  5. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Move switch to OFF position.

Tip: Always cut at full throttle for best performance and to reduce chain wear.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care is critical for safety and performance.

  1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (typically 3/8" LP). File each cutter at the recommended angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
  2. Tensioning: Check tension frequently, especially when new. Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust when engine is OFF and cool.
  3. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges (rakers) periodically with a flat file to maintain proper height relative to cutters.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove. Flip bar periodically for even wear. Check for burrs and file smooth.

WARNING! A dull or loose chain increases kickback risk and operator fatigue. Always stop engine before performing maintenance.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only high-quality, fresh ingredients.

Fuel Mix: 40:1 ratio. Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline and a high-quality 2-cycle engine oil certified for air-cooled engines (e.g., JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD).

Bar & Chain Oil: Use a tacky, specially formulated bar and chain oil for proper adhesion. In cold weather, use a winter-grade oil.

Storage: For storage over 30 days, drain all fuel from tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Or, add fuel stabilizer to fresh fuel mix, run for 5 minutes, then store.

Storage

Store in a dry, secure location out of reach of children.

  1. Clean saw thoroughly of all sawdust and debris.
  2. Perform long-term fuel preparation (see section 9).
  3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Wipe bar clean and coat with oil.
  4. Store with chain brake disengaged to relieve spring tension.
  5. Cover saw to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Store fuel mix in an approved container, away from heat sources and open flame.

Regulatory Information

This chainsaw complies with applicable ANSI/OPEI safety standards (e.g., B175.1). It is equipped with a USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestor muffler. The engine meets EPA Phase 2 emission standards. Homelite is a trademark of Techtronic Industries. For genuine parts and accessories, visit www.homelite.com or contact customer service at 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo fuel, flooded, bad spark plug, switch offCheck fuel, dry plug, new spark plug, ensure switch is ON.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustmentReplace fuel filter. Clean air filter. May require carb adjustment.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket wornDisengage brake. Inspect clutch drum and sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oil but doesn't cutDull chain, backward chain, improper tensionSharpen chain. Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top. Adjust tension.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chain, damaged barTighten all fasteners. Sharpen chain evenly. Inspect bar for damage.
Automatic oiler not workingEmpty oil tank, clogged oil passage, faulty pumpFill tank. Clean oil holes in bar. Check oiler pump.

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

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

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