Homelite Chainsaw XL2 Manual

The Homelite XL2 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, and simplified controls for ease of use. 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, inertia-activated chain brake, front and rear hand guards, throttle trigger with lockout, choke control, and primer bulb.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, fit chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Check for leaks.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) with 2-stroke oil at 40:1 ratio. Shake well.
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Add mixed fuel to tank, avoiding spills.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before use.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, chainsaw chaps.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove obstacles, ensure stable footing, keep bystanders away.
3. Hold Saw Properly: Firm grip with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
4. Kickback Awareness: Avoid nose of bar contacting objects; use reduced-kickback chain.
5. Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: Maintain control at all times.

CAUTION! Chain brake must be tested before each use. Do not operate if tired or impaired.

Specifications

• Model: Homelite XL2
• Engine: 33 cc 2-stroke
• Bar Length: 16 inches
• Fuel Mix: 40:1 (gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Oil Type: SAE 30 or dedicated bar & chain oil
• Spark Plug: Champion RCJ-6Y or equivalent
• Chain Speed: Approx. 55 ft/sec at full throttle
• Sound Level: Approx. 106 dB(A) at operator's ear
• Vibration Level: Below 2.5 m/s² (front/rear handle)

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke lever, primer bulb, stop switch, chain brake lever.

Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and lockout. Rear Handle: Houses stop switch and trigger lock. Top Cover: Choke, primer, and decompression valve (if equipped). Right Side: Chain brake lever and manual oiler button.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer 3-5 times, set stop switch to "I", pull starter cord. Release choke once engine fires.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at 40:1 ratio.

1. Mix in approved container: 3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gasoline.
2. Shake mixture thoroughly before filling.
3. Use SAE 30 or better bar & chain oil in oil tank.
4. Never use motor oil, waste oil, or diesel in oil tank.

Tip: Store mixed fuel no longer than 30 days. Always clean fuel cap area before opening.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
2. Engage chain brake by pushing lever forward.
3. Set choke to full position, press primer bulb 3-5 times.
4. Set stop switch to "I" (On).
5. Hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle.
6. Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires (usually 3-5 pulls).
7. Move choke to half position, pull again to start.
8. Allow engine to warm up 30 seconds before releasing brake.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Keep hands clear of chain.

Maintenance

Daily/Pre-Use Checks:

1. Chain Tension: Adjust so chain snaps back when lifted from bar.
2. Chain Sharpness: Sharpen when saw produces fine dust instead of chips.
3. Air Filter: Clean with soapy water, dry thoroughly before reinstalling.
4. Bar & Sprocket: Clean oil holes, check for wear, rotate bar regularly.
5. Fasteners: Tighten all nuts and bolts.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Use only Homelite-approved parts.

Chain Sharpening

Use round file matching chain pitch (.325"). Maintain correct filing angle (usually 30°).

1. Secure bar in vise.
2. Match file diameter to chain specifications.
3. File each cutter from inside out, maintaining consistent strokes.
4. Check depth gauges with gauge tool; file down if above limit.
5. Sharpen all cutters to same length.

Tip: Sharpen chain at first sign of dullness. A sharp chain reduces kickback risk and operator fatigue.

Storage

For long-term storage (over 30 days):

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp oil through hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Remove chain, clean in solvent, coat with oil and store in sealed bag.
5. Store in dry, cool place away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Homelite service center. Use genuine parts only.

Support: 1-800-242-4672 (US) or visit www.homelite.com