Makita 16 Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Makita 16 Electric Chainsaw is a powerful and efficient corded electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. It features a 16-inch guide bar, an electric motor for consistent power, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, and safety features including a chain brake and hand guard. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, 16-inch guide bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, front hand guard, chain brake, tool-less chain tensioner, and ergonomic rear handle with trigger switch.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow warnings can result in serious injury.

1. Personal Safety: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip boots, and close-fitting clothing.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep work area clean, well-lit, and free of bystanders, especially children.
3. Electrical Safety: Ensure power cord is in good condition. Use a GFCI-protected outlet. Do not use in wet conditions.
4. Chainsaw Handling: Hold with both hands. Keep chain away from body. Do not operate above shoulder height.
5. Kickback Warning: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quarter of bar tip). Use reduced-kickback chain and maintain sharp chain.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw with one hand. Always engage chain brake when not cutting.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble before first use.

1. Attach guide bar and chain: Place chain over sprocket, align bar with mounting studs, tighten bar nuts finger-tight.
2. Tension chain: Use tool-less tensioner knob to adjust until chain fits snug against bar but pulls freely by hand.
3. Fill oil tank: Use only recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line.
4. Connect power: Ensure switch is OFF. Plug into appropriate outlet.
5. Test chain brake: Pull hand guard toward bar to engage; release to disengage.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned. Loose chain can derail; overtightened chain can damage bar.

Specifications

• Model: Makita UC4051A (example)
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Motor: 14.5 Amp electric
• Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
• No Load Chain Speed: Approx. 2900 ft/min
• Oil Tank Capacity: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)
• Weight (without cord): 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 2.5 m/s², Rear handle: 4.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main components: Rear handle with trigger switch and lock-off button, front hand guard/chain brake, guide bar, chain, automatic oiler, tension adjustment knob, oil filler cap.

Operation: Press lock-off button, then squeeze trigger to start chain. Release trigger to stop chain. Engage chain brake by pushing hand guard forward.

Oiler Adjustment: Turn oil flow screw (near oil cap) to adjust oil delivery rate for cutting conditions.

Operation Guide

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Starting: Place on stable surface, ensure chain is clear. Press lock-off, squeeze trigger.
2. Basic Cutting: Use middle of bar for cutting. Let chain do the work; avoid forcing.
3. Bucking (cutting fallen logs): Support log off ground. Cut from top down. Beware of pinch points.
4. Limbing (removing branches): Stand uphill. Cut from trunk outward. Watch for spring-back.
5. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with bar tip. Maintain firm grip. Keep chain sharp and tensioned.
6. Stopping: Release trigger. Engage chain brake before setting down.

Tip: Periodically check oil level and chain tension during extended use.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use correct round file and guide. File each cutter at recommended angle (typically 30°). Maintain equal length on all cutters.
2. Tensioning: Chain stretches when new and when hot. Adjust tension frequently when new, and before each use. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
3. Lubrication: Always use recommended bar and chain oil. Check oil flow before cutting (hold tip over light surface and run briefly to see oil line). Adjust oiler as needed.
4. Bar Care: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar periodically for even wear.
5. Chain Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn, damaged, or cannot be sharpened effectively. Match pitch, gauge, and drive link count.

WARNING! Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance. Wear heavy gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug chainsaw. Allow to cool. Clean sawdust and debris from housing, bar, chain, and air vents using a brush or compressed air. Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Empty oil tank for long-term storage. Store in a dry, locked place out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents for cleaning. Store chain loosely to prevent deformation.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable UL standards for electric chainsaws. The chain saw is intended for consumer use. Copyright © Makita Corporation. Makita is a registered trademark. For technical support or to locate a service center, visit www.makitatools.com or contact 1-800-4-MAKITA.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use only identical Makita replacement parts. Contact authorized service center.

Support: 1-800-4-MAKITA; www.makitatools.com