Homelite CS 50 Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite CS 50 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general homeowner use, featuring a 50cc 2-stroke engine, automatic oiling system, 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar options, anti-vibration handles, inertia chain brake, and easy-start technology. 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 & Stopping Procedure 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Chain Maintenance 9. Engine Maintenance 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 50cc 2-stroke engine, Guide Bar, Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Choke Control, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, Anti-Vibration System.

Feature	Description
Engine	50cc 2-stroke, air-cooled
Guide Bar	16-inch or 18-inch optional
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated for safety
Automatic Oiling	Lubricates chain during operation
Anti-Vibration	Reduces user fatigue
Fuel Mix	50:1 (Gasoline to 2-cycle oil)
Weight	Approx. 10.5 lbs (without bar & chain)
Ignition	Electronic
Throttle Lock	Prevents accidental throttle engagement
Chain Tensioner	Side-mounted for easy adjustment

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate PPE.

Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
Ensure chain brake is functional before each use.
Clear work area of obstacles and bystanders.
Never operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.

WARNING! Kickback can occur; always grip firmly with both hands. Keep chain sharp and properly tensioned.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

Attach guide bar: Place bar over studs, align chain around sprocket and bar groove.
Tension chain: Adjust side tensioner until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
Fill fuel: Mix 50:1 gasoline and 2-cycle oil in separate can, then fill fuel tank.
Fill bar oil: Use recommended bar & chain oil in oil tank.

CAUTION! Fuel is flammable; fill outdoors away from ignition sources.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 50cc.
Power Output: 2.5 HP.
Fuel Capacity: 14.8 fl oz (0.44 L).
Oil Capacity: 8.5 fl oz (0.25 L).
Bar Length Options: 16" or 18".
Chain Pitch: 3/8".
Chain Gauge: 0.050".
Ignition System: Electronic.
Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear.
Vibration Level: < 2.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lock, Choke, Stop Switch, Chain Brake Lever.

Components: Front Hand Guard, Rear Handle, Fuel Tank Cap, Oil Tank Cap, Decompression Valve (if equipped), Spark Plug Cover.

Operation: Set choke for cold start, pull starter cord. Engage throttle lock before pulling trigger. Activate chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.

Starting & Stopping Procedure

Starting: Place on flat, clear surface. Engage chain brake.

Move choke lever to FULL position.
Press decompression valve (if equipped) 3-4 times.
Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires.
Move choke to HALF, pull again until engine runs.
Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Stopping: Release throttle, press STOP switch. For emergency stop, activate chain brake.

Tip: Never drop-start the chainsaw.

Operation Guidelines

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

Felling: Plan escape path, make notch cut, then back cut.
Limbing: Work from trunk outward, keep saw stable.
Bucking: Support log, cut from top down, avoid pinching.
Pruning: Use light touch, let chain do the work.
Always cut at full throttle for best performance.
Allow saw to cool after extended use.

WARNING! Beware of kickback zone (upper tip of bar). Never cut with tip.

Chain Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32"). File each cutter at 30° angle. Check depth gauges.

Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts after adjustment.

Lubrication: Ensure oil tank is filled. Check oil flow by pointing bar at light surface—oil streak should appear.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean weekly. Remove filter, tap out debris, wash in soapy water if very dirty.

Spark Plug: Check gap (0.025"), clean or replace if fouled.

Fuel System: Use fresh fuel mix. Drain tank for storage over 30 days.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Storage

Long-term storage: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Drain bar oil tank. Remove chain, clean, and oil. Store in dry place.

CAUTION! Store fuel mix in approved container away from living areas.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Old fuel, clogged filter, no spark	Use fresh mix; clean air filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty carburetor, improper fuel	Clean carburetor; ensure 50:1 mix.
Chain doesn't turn	Brake engaged, clutch worn	Disengage brake; inspect clutch drum.
Chain throws oil	Overfilled tank, wrong oil	Check oil level; use correct bar oil.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain	Tighten bar nuts; sharpen chain evenly.

Reset: Allow engine to cool if overheated.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Homelite service center.