Homelite Chainsaw UT10901 Manual

The Homelite UT10901 is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration system, and safety features like a chain catcher and throttle lockout. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation 7. Maintenance 8. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 9. Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, guide bar, cutting chain, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, anti-vibration handles, safety throttle lock, primer bulb, and choke control.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type2-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine
Displacement40cc (approximate)
Guide Bar Length16 inches (standard)
Chain Pitch/Gauge.325" pitch, .050" gauge (check manual)
Automatic OilerLubricates chain during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety brake
Anti-VibrationReduces operator fatigue
Safety FeaturesChain catcher, right-hand guard, throttle lockout
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 0.5 liters (check manual)
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. 0.25 liters (check manual)

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear proper 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: chain tension, sharpness, loose parts.
  3. Use two hands: grip front handle and rear handle firmly.
  4. Do not operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
  5. Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip).

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Avoid sparks or flames.

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, align chain groove.
  2. Install chain: Place chain over sprocket and bar, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
  3. Adjust chain tension: Tighten bar nuts hand-tight, adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  4. Final tighten: Hold bar tip up, tighten bar nuts securely.
  5. Fill fluids: Use fresh unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio unless specified). Fill chain oil reservoir with bar and chain oil.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is installed correctly. Incorrect installation can cause kickback or damage.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main controls: On/Off switch, choke lever, primer bulb, throttle trigger, throttle lockout, chain brake lever.

Handles: Front handle with chain brake lever; rear handle with throttle trigger and lockout.

Other components: Muffler, spark plug, air filter, fuel cap, oil cap, bar nuts, tension adjustment screw. Chain brake: Manual engagement via front hand guard; inertia-activated if kickback occurs. Throttle lockout: Must be depressed before throttle trigger can be engaged.

Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

  1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
  2. Set On/Off switch to ON.
  3. Pull choke lever to FULL position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
  5. Hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter cord sharply until engine fires.
  6. Push choke to HALF position, pull starter until engine runs.
  7. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Tip: Allow engine to warm up at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

  1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter.
  2. Weekly: Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler. Check all nuts/bolts for tightness.
  3. Monthly: Clean fuel filter in tank. Replace spark plug annually or after 100 hours.
  4. Chain oil: Use only recommended bar and chain oil. Check oil flow before each use.
  5. Fuel: Use fresh mix (less than 30 days old). Drain fuel for storage over 30 days.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire for safety.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Sharp chain reduces kickback risk and improves cutting.

  1. Secure bar: Use vise or clamp.
  2. File size: Use round file matching chain pitch (e.g., 5/32" for .325" pitch).
  3. File angle: Maintain 30° angle (check manual). File each cutter evenly.
  4. Depth gauges: Use flat file to maintain proper depth gauge clearance (0.025" typical).
  5. Replace chain: When cutters are worn beyond repair or damaged. Match pitch, gauge, and drive link count.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure proper tension after sharpening or replacement.

Storage

For storage over 30 days:

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
  2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
  3. Clean entire chainsaw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Loosen chain tension slightly. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Fuel vapors are explosive.

Warranty Information

Homelite UT10901 carries a limited warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship for a specified period (check retailer). Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, lack of maintenance, or use of improper fuel/oil. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.homelite.com or contact customer service at 1-800-242-4672.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, flooded, spark plugCheck fuel mix, choke setting. Dry plug, check spark, clean air filter.
Engine runs then diesFuel filter, carburetor, ventClean/replace fuel filter. Check tank vent. Carburetor may need adjustment.
Chain doesn't turnChain brake engaged, clutch, sprocketDisengage chain brake. Check clutch drum/sprocket for wear.
Chain throws oilOiler adjustment, oil typeAdjust oiler flow (screw near oil tank). Use correct bar/chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all nuts/bolts. Check chain for damage, sharpen evenly.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, low chain speedSharpen chain. Check engine RPM, carburetor adjustment.

Reset: For electronic ignition models, ensure On/Off switch is functioning.

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

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