Makita 16 Chainsaw Manual

The Makita 16 Chainsaw is a professional-grade electric chainsaw featuring a 16-inch guide bar, brushless motor technology for increased efficiency and runtime, tool-less chain tensioning, automatic oiler, ergonomic design with rubberized grips, safety features including a chain brake and low kickback chain, and compatibility with Makita 18V LXT batteries. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Brushless motor, 16-inch guide bar and chain, Automatic oiler, Tool-less chain tensioner, Chain brake, Ergonomic rear handle with trigger, Battery compartment, Oil tank and fill cap.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Before Starting: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Ensure chain brake functions properly.
4. During Operation: Hold chainsaw firmly with both hands. Do not overreach. Cut at waist level or below.
5. Kickback Prevention: Do not let bar nose contact wood. Use reduced kickback chain and low-kickback bar.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous tools. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate when tired or under the influence.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble before first use.

1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain with sprocket, adjust tension.
2. Install Chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Use tool-less tensioner to tighten.
3. Fill Oil Tank: Use only Makita bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line through oil fill cap.
4. Install Battery: Insert fully charged 18V LXT battery until it clicks. Check battery indicator.
5. Test Safety Features: Verify chain brake activates when front hand guard is pushed forward.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—too loose can derail, too tight can damage bar and motor.

Specifications

• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low profile.
• Motor Type: Brushless.
• Power Source: Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Battery (not included).
• Oil Tank Capacity: 5.1 fl oz.
• Weight (without battery): 8.8 lbs.
• Sound Pressure: 95 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 2.5 m/s², Rear handle: 3.5 m/s².
• Recommended Battery: 18V LXT 5.0Ah or higher.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Safety trigger lock, Trigger switch, Chain brake lever, Battery release button, Oil filler cap.

Front Handle: Includes chain brake lever. Pushing forward activates brake.

Rear Handle: Contains trigger switch and safety lock. Must depress safety lock to pull trigger.

Battery Compartment: Located at rear. Insert battery until click; press release buttons to remove.

Tool-less Chain Tensioner: Rotate knob clockwise to tighten, counterclockwise to loosen chain.

Automatic Oiler: Adjustable via screw near oil tank (factory set).

Operation Guide

Starting and basic cutting techniques.

1. Pre-Start Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, battery charge, and clear work area.
2. Starting: Depress safety lock with right hand, then squeeze trigger. Chain begins moving immediately.
3. Basic Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Apply light pressure; let chain do the work.
4. Plunge Cutting: Not recommended for beginners. Use extreme caution.
5. Stopping: Release trigger. Chain stops within seconds. Engage chain brake when not actively cutting.
6. Battery Monitoring: Watch battery indicator. Replace battery when one bar remains.

Tip: Avoid cutting with tip of bar to prevent kickback. Cut with section closest to saw body.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Daily Tension Check: Chain stretches with use. Adjust tension when chain sags from bottom of bar.
2. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" LP). Maintain 30° cutting angle.
3. Filing Depth Gauges: Use depth gauge tool to maintain proper height (0.025 inches).
4. Lubrication: Always use bar and chain oil. Check oil level frequently during use.
5. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
6. Chain Replacement: Replace when teeth are worn beyond sharpening or damaged.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing maintenance. Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Clean after each use for longevity.

1. Disconnect battery.
2. Remove debris from chain, bar, sprocket cover, and cooling vents using brush or compressed air.
3. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Do not use solvents or water spray.
4. For storage: Empty oil tank or use biodegradable oil to prevent gumming. Loosen chain tension.
5. Store in dry place, out of reach of children. Use bar guard if available.

CAUTION! Never store with battery installed. Store battery separately at 40-80% charge in cool, dry place.

Warranty Information

Makita 16 Chainsaw comes with a 3-year warranty on tool, 1-year on battery (if included), covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or commercial use. Register product online at www.makitatools.com. For service, contact Makita authorized service center. Keep receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Service: For issues not resolved above, contact Makita Customer Service: 1-800-4-MAKITA or visit www.makitatools.com.