Makita 20 Chainsaw Manual

The Makita 20 Chainsaw is a professional-grade 20-inch electric chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful motor, automatic oiling system, tool-less chain tensioning, safety chain brake, ergonomic handles, and low-noise operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 20-inch Oregon bar and chain, electric motor with overload protection, automatic oiler, safety chain brake, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger, side-mounted chain tensioner.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Always wear safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Keep hands away from chain and bar during operation.
3. Ensure chain brake is functional before each use.
4. Never operate in wet conditions or with damaged cord.
5. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause serious injury. Always maintain firm grip and proper stance.

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach bar and chain: Place chain on bar, align with sprocket, secure bar nuts finger-tight.
2. Adjust chain tension: Use side tensioner to achieve proper tension (chain should snap back when pulled).
3. Fill oil reservoir: Use only chainsaw bar oil; fill to MAX line.
4. Connect power: Plug into grounded 120V outlet.
5. Test safety features: Verify chain brake activates when hand guard is pushed forward.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned - too loose may derail; too tight may damage motor.

Specifications

• Model: Makita UC4051A
• Bar Length: 20 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Motor: 15 AMP brushless
• Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Oil Capacity: 6.8 fl oz
• Sound Pressure: 84 dB(A)
• Vibration: Front handle 2.5 m/s², rear handle 3.5 m/s²
• Recommended Chain: Oregon 91PX062G

Controls and Components

Main controls located on rear handle and body.

Handle Area: Trigger switch, safety lock button, hand guard/chain brake.

Body: Oil filler cap, tension adjustment knob, bar nuts, motor housing.

Safety Features: Chain brake (inertia-activated), safety lock (prevents accidental start), front hand guard.

Maintenance Points: Chain tensioner, oil reservoir, air filter, brush access.

Operation Instructions

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Starting: Press safety lock, then squeeze trigger.
2. Basic cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood.
3. Bucking: Cut fallen logs from top side, support log properly.
4. Limbing: Work from trunk outward, keep saw stable.
5. Plunge cutting: Not recommended for this model.
6. Stopping: Release trigger, wait for chain to stop completely.

Tip: Cut at full throttle for clean cuts and reduced chain wear.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Check chain tension, sharpen chain, clean air filter.
2. Weekly: Clean bar groove, check oiler function, inspect power cord.
3. Monthly: Clean motor vents, check brush wear, lubricate adjustment points.
4. Seasonal: Replace chain, bar rotation, thorough cleaning.

WARNING! Always unplug chainsaw before performing any maintenance.

Chain Sharpening

Sharp chain reduces effort and improves safety.

1. Secure bar: Clamp bar in vise.
2. File size: Use 5/32 inch round file for 3/8 pitch chain.
3. Filing angle: Maintain 30-degree angle on cutters.
4. Depth gauges: File to 0.025 inch below cutter height.
5. Equal strokes: Same number of strokes on each cutter.
6. Test: Chain should pull smoothly through wood.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain; cutters are extremely sharp.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and corrosion.

1. Clean thoroughly: Remove all sawdust and resin.
2. Drain oil: Empty oil reservoir for long-term storage.
3. Chain protection: Coat chain with light oil.
4. Bar care: Hang bar or store flat to prevent warping.
5. Cord storage: Loosely coil cord, avoid sharp bends.
6. Location: Store in dry, cool place away from children.

Warranty Information

Makita 20 Chainsaw comes with 3-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Makita service center with proof of purchase. Register product online at www.makitatools.com for extended support.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support: 1-800-4-MAKITA or www.makitatools.com