Homelite Ranger 33cc Chainsaw Manual

The Homelite Ranger 33cc is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general homeowner use, featuring a 33cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 33cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch Oregon® bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, decompression valve for easier starting, anti-vibration handles, tool-free chain tensioning, and translucent fuel tank.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear proper PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.

1. Keep bystanders and pets at least 30 feet away.
2. Operate with both hands on handles, firm footing.
3. Do not operate above shoulder height or on a ladder.
4. Be aware of kickback zone; use reduced-kickback chain.
5. Shut off engine before adjusting or transporting.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources, with engine cool. Do not smoke.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly requires attaching guide bar and chain, filling fluids.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain around sprocket, align with bar groove. Install clutch cover and hand-tighten nuts.
2. Tension chain: Use side-mounted tensioning screw (no tools needed). Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill fuel: Use fresh 50:1 gas/oil mix (89 octane minimum, 2-cycle oil).
4. Fill bar & chain oil: Use quality bar oil (not motor oil).
5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Chain must be properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar or engine.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 33 cc (2.0 cu in).
• Power Output: Approx. 1.8 HP.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: .325” / .058”.
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM (factory set).
• Max Engine Speed: 12,500 RPM.
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s²; Rear handle: 6.2 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty for home use.

Controls and Components

Front Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout (safety), choke lever, primer bulb. Rear Handle: Master control lever (combines stop switch and choke), decompression valve, chain brake lever.

Right Side: Chain tensioning screw, clutch cover nuts. Left Side: Fuel cap, oil cap.

Chain Brake: Engages manually (forward push) or automatically (inertia). Stop Switch: Move to “I” for run, “O” for stop. Decompression Valve: Press before starting to reduce cylinder pressure.

Starting & Operating

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Place on flat, clear surface. Engage chain brake.
2. Move master control lever to choke position (full up).
3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
4. Pump primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter rope briskly 2-3 times until engine “pops.”
6. Move master control lever to half-throttle position.
7. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then squeeze throttle to disengage fast idle.

Tip: For warm restart, skip choke and primer; set master control to run position.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures cutting performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32” or 4.0mm) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle, 10° top plate angle. File each cutter equally.
2. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Re-tension when cool after first few minutes of use.
3. Lubrication: Check oil level before each use. Adjust oil flow (if adjustable) for cutting conditions—more for hardwoods, less for softwoods.
4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Replace if groove is deeply worn or rails are uneven.

WARNING! Always wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Stop engine and allow chain to cool before maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean every 10 hours of use. Remove, tap out debris, wash in soapy water if very dirty. Replace if torn or damaged.

Spark Plug: Check every 25 hours. Clean electrode, set gap to 0.025” (0.63mm). Replace annually or if worn.

Fuel System: Use fresh fuel mix; do not store over 30 days. Drain tank and run dry for long-term storage.

Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set; only adjust if necessary (high altitude or performance issues). Use tachometer for precise RPM setting.

Storage

For storage over 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air intake.
4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil. Store bar and chain in oiled cloth.
5. Store in dry, cool place, out of reach of children.

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

Warranty Information

Homelite Ranger 33cc is covered by a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty does not cover commercial use, neglect, misuse, improper fuel, or normal wear items (chain, bar, spark plug, air filter). Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-800-242-4672. Visit www.homelite.com for more information.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized service centers only. Do not attempt to repair ignition or carburetor unless qualified.

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