John Deere CS52 Chainsaw Manual

The John Deere CS52 is a professional-grade, gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a 52cc 2-stroke engine, an 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, an anti-vibration system, an automatic oiler, a chain brake, and a decompression valve for easier starting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 52cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch guide bar, Oregon low-kickback chain, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, decompression valve, and translucent fuel tank.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all contents. Assemble on a clean, stable surface.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Place bar on sprocket, loop chain around bar, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
2. Install bar nuts and adjust tension: Use side-access tensioner to achieve proper chain slack.
3. Fill with fuel: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture (89 octane minimum).
4. Fill chain oil: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
5. Check all fasteners: Ensure all nuts, bolts, and handles are secure.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves during assembly. Never attempt to start the saw before assembly is complete.

First-Time Operation

Perform pre-start checks and follow safe starting procedure.

1. Clear work area: Ensure a 15-foot radius is free of obstacles and people.
2. Put on PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
3. Prime the engine: Press primer bulb 5-7 times until fuel is visible.
4. Set choke: Move lever to FULL CHOKE position.
5. Pull starter rope: With saw on ground, hold front handle and pull briskly until engine "pops".
6. Move to half choke: Pull again until engine starts, then move choke to RUN.
7. Allow warm-up: Let engine run at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Never drop-start or start the saw above waist height. Keep firm footing.

Specifications

• Engine: 52cc, 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Power Output: 3.2 HP @ 9,500 RPM.
• Fuel Mix: 50:1 (Unleaded gasoline to JASO FD/ISO-L-EGD certified 2-stroke oil).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 RPM.
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,500 RPM.
• Sound Pressure Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front Handle: 4.2 m/s²; Rear Handle: 5.1 m/s².
• Spark Plug: NGK BPMR7A (gap 0.020 in / 0.5 mm).
• Warranty: 2-year limited commercial warranty.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Front Handle with throttle trigger lockout, Rear Handle, Throttle Trigger, Chain Brake lever (front hand guard), Stop Switch, Choke Lever, Decompression Valve Button, Primer Bulb.

Safety Features: Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Right-Hand Guard, Anti-Vibration Mounts, Chain Catcher.

Adjustments: Side-access chain tensioner, idle speed screw (covered), bar oil flow adjustment screw.

Safe Operation Procedures

Always operate with two hands. Maintain secure footing and balance.

1. Starting: Place on ground, hold front handle with left hand, place right foot in rear handle, pull starter.
2. Cutting: Use full throttle when entering cut. Let saw do the work; do not force.
3. Kickback Prevention: Keep nose of bar away from objects. Be aware of pinch points.
4. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Wipe away spills.
5. Carrying: Engage chain brake. Carry with bar pointing rearward.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path before starting. Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance Schedule

Supports long life with regular maintenance.

1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Clean air filter. Inspect for loose parts.
2. Every 10 hours: Clean spark arrestor screen. Check spark plug condition.
3. Every 20 hours: Clean cooling fins. Check fuel filter.
4. Every 50 hours: Replace spark plug. Clean carburetor air passage.
5. Seasonally: Replace fuel filter. Clean/replace bar oil filter. Inspect clutch and sprocket.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Disconnect spark plug wire.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Proper chain condition is critical for safety and performance.

Sharpening: Use a 5/32" (4.0mm) round file and file guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle and 10° top plate angle. File all cutters to equal length.

Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Adjust via side knob when saw is cool. Re-check after first few cuts.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare saw for storage to prevent fuel system damage.

1. Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Clean bar groove.
3. Clean entire saw of dirt and sawdust.
4. Store in a dry, locked location, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer for short-term storage.

Warranty Information

John Deere CS52 Chainsaw: 2-year limited warranty for commercial use, 4-year limited warranty for non-commercial use from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or normal wear. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact an authorized John Deere dealer. For support, visit www.JohnDeere.com or contact 1-800-537-8233.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For electronic ignition issues, disconnect spark plug wire for 1 minute.

Service: 1-800-537-8233; www.JohnDeere.com. Always use genuine John Deere parts.