Homelite Gas Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite Gas Chainsaw is a powerful, portable chainsaw designed for cutting firewood, pruning trees, and general yard maintenance. It features a two-stroke gasoline engine, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, chain brake for safety, and a durable guide bar. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two-stroke gasoline engine, Guide Bar, Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Choke Control, Fuel Tank, Oil Tank, Anti-Vibration Handles, Spark Plug, Air Filter.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings before operation.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps or pants.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Secure Workpiece: Never cut while holding the saw in one hand or above shoulder height.
4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper tip of the guide bar; this is the primary kickback zone.
5. Chain Brake: Test chain brake function before each use.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from the chain at all times.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly typically involves attaching the guide bar and chain.

1. Install Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain around bar sprocket and guide bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil. Do not use waste oil.
3. Mix Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at the specified ratio (e.g., 40:1). Shake well.
4. Fill Fuel Tank: Add mixed fuel to the fuel tank.

CAUTION! Fuel is highly flammable. Mix and fill outdoors, away from sparks or flames. Tighten all caps securely.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 30cc to 45cc (model dependent).
• Power Output: Varies by model.
• Fuel Capacity: Approximately 0.5 - 0.7 liters.
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 0.2 - 0.3 liters.
• Guide Bar Options: 14", 16", 18".
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: Typically .325" pitch, .050" or .058" gauge.
• Weight: 10 - 15 lbs (without fuel).
• Sound Level: Exceeds 100 dB(A); hearing protection required.
• Vibration Level: Reduced by anti-vibration system.

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: ON/OFF Switch, Choke Lever, Throttle Trigger, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Lever (front handguard), Primer Bulb (on some models), Decompression Valve (on some models).

Maintenance Points: Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Muffler, Chain Tensioner Screw, Oil Filler Cap, Fuel Filler Cap.

Operation: Engage chain brake before starting. Hold saw firmly with both hands. Use full throttle when cutting. Let the chain do the work; do not force it.

Fuel & Oil

Using the correct fuel and oil is critical for performance and engine life.

1. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Avoid fuel older than 30 days.
2. 2-Cycle Oil: Use a high-quality oil certified for air-cooled 2-stroke engines (e.g., JASO FD, ISO-L-EGD).
3. Mix Ratio: Follow manual specification (e.g., 40:1 = 3.2 oz oil per 1 gallon gas). Use a measuring cup. Mix in a separate approved container.
4. Bar & Chain Oil: Use a dedicated, tacky bar and chain oil for proper lubrication, especially in cold weather.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil or dirty/waste oil in the fuel mix or bar oil tank.

Starting & Operation

Follow these steps for a cold start. For a warm start, omit the choke step.

1. Pre-Start Check: Ensure chain brake is engaged. Check fuel and oil levels. Clear area.
2. Position: Place saw on firm, level ground. Grip rear handle with right hand, place left foot through front handle to secure it.
3. Controls: Move ON/OFF switch to ON. Pull choke lever out to FULL CHOKE. Press primer bulb 5-10 times (if equipped).
4. Starting: Pull starter cord briskly until engine 'pops' (usually 1-3 pulls). Push choke lever in to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter cord again until engine starts. Let engine run for 10 seconds, then push choke lever fully in.
5. Cutting: Disengage chain brake. Squeeze throttle trigger to begin cutting. Use smooth, steady pressure.

WARNING! Always start the chainsaw on the ground. Never "drop start" or start it while holding it in the air. Be aware of kickback.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures safe operation and long life.

1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check fuel and oil levels. Inspect for loose nuts/bolts. Clean air filter.
2. Weekly/10 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler. Check spark plug condition and gap.
3. Monthly/Seasonal: Clean fuel filter in tank. Clean cooling fins on cylinder. Inspect guide bar for wear and grooves; turn bar over periodically for even wear.
4. Chain & Sprocket: Replace drive sprocket when worn. Replace chain when it no longer holds an edge or is damaged.

CAUTION! Perform all maintenance with the engine OFF, spark plug wire disconnected, and the chain brake engaged.

Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain cuts faster, safer, and reduces strain on the engine.

1. Secure the bar in a vise. Identify the cutter that is most worn; this will be your starting reference.
2. Use a round file of the correct diameter for your chain pitch. Maintain the specified filing angle (typically 30°-35°).
3. File each cutter from the inside out, using smooth, even strokes. Apply equal pressure and the same number of strokes to each cutter.
4. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and depth gauge tool to maintain proper height difference between gauge and cutter.

Tip: Sharpen chain frequently—after every 1-2 hours of cutting—to avoid removing excessive metal.

Storage

Proper storage prevents fuel system problems and corrosion.

1. Short Term (under 30 days): Simply run the engine dry of fuel.
2. Long Term (over 30 days):
   • Drain all fuel from the tank and carburetor.
   • Start and run the engine until it stops to clear fuel lines.
   • Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into the cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to coat internals, reinstall plug.
   • Clean entire saw. Loosen chain tension. Store in a dry, cool place.

CAUTION! Never store the chainsaw with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Stale fuel will gum up the carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Homelite service center. Use only genuine Homelite parts.

Support: For additional help, visit the manufacturer's website or contact customer service.