The Homelite UT43100 is a gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and limbing tasks. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, chain brake, anti-vibration handles, and a 16-inch guide bar. This manual covers essential safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use.
Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Kickback | Hold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar. |
| Contact with chain | Engage chain brake when not cutting; keep hands away from moving chain. |
| Fuel handling | Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. |
| Electrical hazards | Keep away from power lines. |
| Falling branches | Be aware of your surroundings; clear work area. |
Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.
WARNING! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not operate with loose components.
Key components: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle, chain brake lever, throttle lockout, choke control, primer bulb, ON/OFF switch, fuel cap, oil cap.
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Throttle trigger | Controls engine speed; releases chain brake when squeezed. |
| Chain brake lever | Stops chain rotation when engaged manually or by kickback. |
| Throttle lockout | Must be depressed to allow throttle operation. |
| Choke control | Enriches fuel mixture for cold starts. |
| Primer bulb | Pumps fuel into carburetor for easier starting. |
| ON/OFF switch | Stops engine when moved to OFF position. |
Use fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. Mix with high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at a 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas).
Fuel Mix Procedure:
Bar & Chain Oil: Use a quality lubricant with good adhesion characteristics. Check oil level before each use.
CAUTION! Never use automotive oil, dirty oil, or straight gasoline. Store fuel mix in a labeled, sealed container away from heat and sparks.
Ensure chain brake is engaged (lever pulled back toward front handle).
WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of chain. Start at least 10 feet from fueling area.
| Interval | Task |
|---|---|
| Before each use | Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners. |
| Every 5 hours | Clean air filter. Check spark plug. |
| Every 10 hours | Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). |
| Every 20 hours | Clean cooling fins. Inspect fuel filter. |
| End of season | Drain fuel system for storage. Perform full inspection. |
Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (e.g., 5/32" for 0.325" pitch). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintaining equal length on all cutters. Depth gauges must be filed to maintain proper height (use a depth gauge tool).
Tensioning: Loosen bar nuts. Adjust tensioning screw until chain fits snugly against bar but can be pulled around by hand. Tighten bar nuts. Re-check tension after a few minutes of operation.
CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. A dull or loose chain increases risk of kickback and reduces efficiency.
WARNING! Storing with fuel in the system can cause carburetor damage and starting problems.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No spark, old fuel, flooded engine, clogged air filter | Check spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; wait if flooded; clean/replace air filter. |
| Engine starts then dies | Clogged fuel filter, carburetor issues | Replace fuel filter; clean carburetor. |
| Chain does not turn | Chain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damaged | Disengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket. |
| Chain throws oil excessively | Oil pump setting too high | Adjust oil flow screw (if adjustable). |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull chain, improper tension, low chain speed | Sharpen chain; adjust tension; check engine power. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose components, unbalanced chain | Tighten all fasteners; check chain for damaged/worn cutters. |
Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Homelite service center.