Homelite EZ Automatic Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite EZ Automatic is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowners and occasional users. It features an automatic oiling system, a 14-inch or 16-inch guide bar, a 2-stroke engine, a primer bulb for easy starting, a chain brake for safety, and a tool-free chain tensioning system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Setup 3. Safety Information 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil 7. Starting & Operation 8. Maintenance 9. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 10. Storage 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke gasoline engine, Automatic chain oiler, Primer bulb, Chain brake, Tool-free chain tensioner, Front and rear hand guards.

FeatureDescription
Automatic OilerLubricates chain and bar during operation
Primer BulbPumps fuel into carburetor for easier starting
Chain BrakeStops chain rotation instantly if kickback occurs
Tool-Free TensionerAdjust chain tension without tools
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces user fatigue during extended use
Safety Throttle LockPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces fire risk from exhaust sparks
Clear Fuel TankAllows easy fuel level monitoring
Chain CatcherPrevents broken chain from hitting operator
Decompression ValveReduces starting effort (on some models)

Assembly & Setup

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

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain around bar sprocket, align with drive links.
  2. Install Bar Nut & Cover: Place cover over bar, hand-tighten nuts, then use wrench to secure.
  3. Adjust Chain Tension: Use tool-free dial to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  4. Fill with Fuel & Oil: Use proper 2-stroke fuel mix and bar & chain oil.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear proper PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of people, pets, and obstacles. Have a first aid kit nearby.
  3. Operating Safety: Keep both hands on saw, maintain secure footing, never cut above shoulder height.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Use reduced-kickback chain, keep chain sharp, avoid tip contact.

CAUTION! Never operate a chainsaw while tired, under influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Chain brake lever, Primer bulb, Choke lever, On/Off switch.

Components: Fuel tank, Oil tank, Air filter cover, Spark plug, Muffler, Rear handle, Front handle, Chain catcher, Bar cover.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5-6 times, set throttle lock, pull starter cord. Release choke once engine fires. Engage chain brake before carrying or setting down saw.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with 2-stroke engine oil (ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD).

  1. Fuel Mix: 40:1 ratio. Add 3.2 oz of oil to 1 gallon of gas. Mix thoroughly in separate container.
  2. Bar & Chain Oil: Use high-quality, non-detergent oil specifically for chainsaws.
  3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Fill fuel and oil tanks before each use. Do not overfill.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, diesel fuel, or old gasoline. Store fuel mix for no more than 30 days.

Starting & Operation

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

  1. Pre-Start Check: Ensure chain brake is engaged, area is clear, chain is properly tensioned and lubricated.
  2. Cold Start: Set On/Off to ON, engage choke, press primer bulb 5-6 times, pull starter cord 3-5 times until engine pops.
  3. Warm Start: Disengage choke, press primer once, pull starter cord.
  4. Cutting: Disengage chain brake, apply light throttle, let chain reach full speed before contacting wood.
  5. Kickback Response: If kickback occurs, chain brake should engage automatically; release throttle immediately.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start saw while holding it with one hand. Always keep firm grip.

Maintenance

Clean air filter regularly, check spark plug, clean cooling fins, inspect bar for wear.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck chain tension, fuel/oil levels, general condition
Every 5 hoursClean air filter, check bar for straightness
Every 10 hoursClean spark plug, check fuel filter
Every 20 hoursClean cooling fins, check all fasteners
SeasonallyReplace fuel filter, inspect clutch and sprocket

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

Use round file and file guide matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 3/16").

  1. Secure Bar: Clamp bar in vise.
  2. File Angle: Maintain 30° cutting angle, file each cutter evenly.
  3. Depth Gauges: File rakers to proper height (0.025" below cutter).
  4. Replacement: When cutters are worn to service limit marks, replace chain.
  5. Bar Care: Flip bar periodically for even wear; clean oil holes.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is off and spark plug disconnected.

Storage

Prepare saw for storage if not used for more than 30 days.

  1. Drain all fuel from tank and carburetor.
  2. Run engine until it stalls to clear fuel lines.
  3. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Clean entire saw.
  4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

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

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, clogged filter, flooded engineUse fresh fuel mix, clean air filter, wait 10 mins if flooded.
Engine starts then diesFuel line issue, dirty carburetorCheck fuel filter and lines; clean carburetor.
Chain doesn't turnChain brake engaged, clutch wornDisengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket.
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tank, wrong oil typeDrain excess oil; use proper bar & chain oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; sharpen or balance chain.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper filingSharpen chain correctly; check depth gauges.

Service: For technical support or parts, contact Homelite at 1-800-242-4672 or visit www.homelite.com.

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