Homelite Electric Chainsaw User Manual

The Homelite Electric Chainsaw is a powerful, corded electric chainsaw designed for residential cutting tasks such as pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood. It features a high-efficiency motor, automatic oiling system, low-kickback bar and chain, tool-free chain tensioning, and a lightweight design for ease of use. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, guide bar, cutting chain, automatic oiler, chain tensioning knob, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and close-fitting clothing.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure stable footing.
3. Electrical Safety: Use a grounded outlet. Keep cord away from cutting area and sharp objects.
4. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Be aware of pinch points.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Loosen bar nuts, position chain on bar with cutting edges facing forward, align bar on saw, then tighten nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension the chain: Use the side tensioning knob to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten bar nuts securely.
3. Fill oil reservoir: Use only recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to level indicated in window.
4. Plug in and test: Connect to a 120V grounded outlet. Press safety lock-off and trigger to ensure smooth operation (no cutting).

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned before each use. A loose chain can derail; an overtightened chain can damage the saw.

Specifications

• Motor: 12 Amp, 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches.
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8" LP, .043".
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 6.8 fl oz.
• Weight (without cord): 10.1 lbs.
• Sound Pressure Level: 100 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: <2.5 m/s².
• Recommended Oil: Homelite Bar & Chain Oil or equivalent.
• Power Cord: 16-gauge, 2-wire with ground.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Trigger switch with lock-off button, front hand guard, rear handle, tensioning knob, oil filler cap.

Component Guide:

Front Handle/Guard: Provides grip and protects hand. Trigger Switch: Must depress lock-off button first, then squeeze trigger to operate. Tensioning Knob: Located on side; turn clockwise to tighten chain, counterclockwise to loosen. Bar Nuts: Secure guide bar; require wrench for final tightening. Oil Window: Shows oil level; refill when low. Chain Brake (if equipped): Stops chain rapidly in kickback event.

Operation Guide

Starting and basic cutting techniques.

1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and bar/chain condition. Clear work area.
2. Starting: Place saw on ground, foot in rear handle. Press lock-off, then squeeze trigger.
3. Basic Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Use lower quadrant of bar for cutting; avoid tip. Let saw do the work; do not force.
4. Limbing: Cut branches from bottom to top, supporting limb if possible.
5. Bucking (cutting logs): Support log off ground. Make top cut first, then bottom cut to avoid pinching.
6. Shut Down: Release trigger, wait for chain to stop, then unplug from outlet.

Tip: Periodically check oil level during extended use. A smoking bar indicates insufficient lubrication.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" LP). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintaining equal length on all cutters.
2. Tensioning: Chain stretches when new and during use. Adjust tension frequently when cold. Chain should snug against bar but pull freely.
3. Replacing Chain/Bar: When teeth are too short to sharpen or bar is worn unevenly, replace with genuine Homelite parts.
4. Oiling System Check: Run saw over cardboard; fine oil mist should appear. If not, check oil ports and pump.

WARNING! Always unplug saw before performing any maintenance. Wear heavy gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow to cool. Clean saw body with dry cloth; remove sawdust from air vents and oil ports.

Storage: Empty oil reservoir or use stabilizer if storing long-term. Store in dry place, out of reach of children. Cover bar and chain to prevent rust.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean motor housing. Never store with fuel (if applicable) in tank.

Warranty Information

Homelite Electric Chainsaws are covered by a limited 2-year consumer warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover wear items (chain, bar, guide), damage from misuse, lack of maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact Homelite Customer Service at 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs not covered here, contact authorized Homelite service center. Do not attempt to disassemble motor.

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