Homelite Chainsaw UT43100 Owners Manual

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.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Parts & Controls 4. Specifications 5. Fuel & Oil 6. Starting Procedure 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Tensioning 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Safety Instructions

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

HazardPrecaution
KickbackHold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar.
Contact with chainEngage chain brake when not cutting; keep hands away from moving chain.
Fuel handlingRefuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.
Electrical hazardsKeep away from power lines.
Falling branchesBe aware of your surroundings; clear work area.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, align chain on sprocket and bar groove, tighten nuts.
  2. Fill oil reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil.
  3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-stroke oil at 40:1 ratio.
  4. Adjust chain tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.

WARNING! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not operate with loose components.

Parts & Controls

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.

ControlFunction
Throttle triggerControls engine speed; releases chain brake when squeezed.
Chain brake leverStops chain rotation when engaged manually or by kickback.
Throttle lockoutMust be depressed to allow throttle operation.
Choke controlEnriches fuel mixture for cold starts.
Primer bulbPumps fuel into carburetor for easier starting.
ON/OFF switchStops engine when moved to OFF position.

Specifications

Fuel & Oil

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:

  1. Add half the gasoline to an approved fuel container.
  2. Add the full amount of oil, close container, and shake thoroughly.
  3. Add remaining gasoline and shake again.

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.

Starting Procedure

Ensure chain brake is engaged (lever pulled back toward front handle).

  1. Cold Start: Move ON/OFF switch to ON. Set choke to FULL CHOKE position. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible. Place saw on firm ground, hold rear handle with right foot, pull starter rope briskly until engine 'pops'. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter rope until engine starts. Allow to idle for 10 seconds, then squeeze throttle to disengage choke.
  2. Warm Start: ON/OFF switch ON, choke OFF. Pull starter rope.

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of chain. Start at least 10 feet from fueling area.

Operating Instructions

  1. Pre-Cut Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and that area is clear.
  2. Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Plan cut to avoid pinching bar.
  3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands, thumbs wrapped. Do not cut above shoulder height. Be aware of the "kickback zone" (upper quadrant of bar tip).
  4. Carrying: Engage chain brake when moving between cuts. Carry with bar pointing rearward.
  5. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, move ON/OFF switch to OFF.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose fasteners.
Every 5 hoursClean air filter. Check spark plug.
Every 10 hoursClean spark arrestor screen (if equipped).
Every 20 hoursClean cooling fins. Inspect fuel filter.
End of seasonDrain fuel system for storage. Perform full inspection.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

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.

Storage

  1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor by running engine until it stops.
  2. Remove chain, clean in solvent, dry, and coat with oil.
  3. Clean entire saw, especially air intake and cooling fins.
  4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

WARNING! Storing with fuel in the system can cause carburetor damage and starting problems.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, old fuel, flooded engine, clogged air filterCheck spark plug; use fresh fuel mix; wait if flooded; clean/replace air filter.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, carburetor issuesReplace fuel filter; clean carburetor.
Chain does not turnChain brake engaged, clutch worn, sprocket damagedDisengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOil pump setting too highAdjust oil flow screw (if adjustable).
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tension, low chain speedSharpen chain; adjust tension; check engine power.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; check chain for damaged/worn cutters.

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

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