Homelite Ranger Chainsaw 33cc Manual

The Homelite Ranger is a 33cc gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, limbing, and pruning. It features a 2-stroke engine, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, chain brake, and a 16-inch bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Lubrication 7. Cutting Techniques 8. Chain Maintenance 9. Storage & Care 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 33cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, primer bulb, choke control, and safety throttle lock.

FeatureDescription
Engine33cc, 2-stroke, air-cooled
Guide Bar Length16 inches
Chain Pitch3/8 inch low-profile
Automatic OilerDelivers oil to bar and chain during operation
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 14.9 fl oz (440 ml)
Oil Tank CapacityApprox. 8.5 fl oz (250 ml)
Ignition SystemElectronic ignition (CDI)
StarterRecoil starter with rope

Assembly & Preparation

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

  1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place bar over studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar, adjust tension.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1 ratio).
  3. Fill oil tank: Use bar and chain oil only.
  4. Check chain tension: Chain should be snug but pull freely around bar.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear: gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps. Ensure chain brake is functional before starting.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks and start in a clear area.

  1. Set chain brake to ON (forward position).
  2. Move ON/OFF switch to ON.
  3. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  4. Set choke lever to FULL CHOKE.
  5. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  6. Move choke to HALF position, pull again to start.
  7. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before releasing chain brake.

CAUTION! Never start the saw in contact with wood. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke lever, ON/OFF switch, primer bulb, chain brake lever.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug cover, muffler, guide bar, chain catcher, and anti-vibration mounts.

Operation: Squeeze throttle lockout and trigger to accelerate. Push chain brake lever forward to engage brake (stops chain). Pull toward you to disengage. Choke has three positions: RUN, HALF CHOKE, FULL CHOKE.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel: Use 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil (50:1). Do not use fuel older than 60 days.

  1. Mix fuel in separate container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
  2. Fill fuel tank to 80% capacity to allow for expansion.
  3. Bar & Chain Oil: Use only oils labeled for chainsaw use. Fill oil tank before each use.
  4. Check oil flow: Hold saw over light-colored surface and run at high speed; look for oil splatter.

Tip: Store fuel mix in approved container away from heat and sparks.

Cutting Techniques

Supports felling, limbing, bucking, and pruning.

  1. Felling: Plan escape path. Make notch cut 1/3 into tree, then back cut leaving hinge.
  2. Limbing: Stand uphill, cut from top of log, use bar near heel to avoid kickback.
  3. Bucking: Support log off ground. Cut from top down for tension wood, bottom up for compression.
  4. Pruning: Cut small branches with one smooth cut. Do not cut above shoulder height.
  5. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly, avoid tip contact, keep chain sharp and tensioned.

WARNING! Always cut at full throttle. Never cut with the upper tip of the bar. Be aware of kickback zone.

Chain Maintenance

Chain Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.

Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar. Loosen bar nuts, turn tension screw until chain is snug, retighten nuts. Check tension frequently when new.

Storage & Care

Long-term storage: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp oil through spark plug hole, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder. Clean air filter, bar, and chain. Store in dry place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Safety Information

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, chainsaw chaps, hard hat if felling. Keep bystanders away. Do not operate when tired or under influence. Be aware of surroundings for falling limbs. Always hold saw with both hands.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, no spark, floodedUse fresh fuel mix; check spark plug; wait 10 min if flooded.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, air leakReplace fuel filter; check fuel lines and carburetor gaskets.
Chain doesn't turnClutch worn, chain brake engagedDisengage chain brake; inspect clutch drum and springs.
Chain throws oilOil port cloggedClean oil port on bar; check oil pump operation.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all bolts and nuts; sharpen chain evenly.
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, improper filingAvoid soil contact; sharpen at correct angle with proper file.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Homelite service center.

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

Homelite Ranger Chainsaw 33cc Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025