Makita 20 Inch Chainsaw Manual

The Makita 20 Inch Chainsaw is a powerful gasoline-powered tool designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a 20-inch guide bar, professional-grade engine, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, and safety features including a chain brake and throttle lockout. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Professional 2-stroke engine, 20-inch guide bar and chain, automatic oiler, anti-vibration handles, safety chain brake, and decompression valve.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and chainsaw chaps.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of obstacles and ensure secure footing. Keep bystanders at least 15 feet away.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Use approved fuel containers.
4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Be aware of kickback zone.
5. Carrying & Transport: Engage chain brake when carrying. Use scabbard on guide bar.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Chainsaws are dangerous tools.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Position chain on bar with cutting edges facing forward. Fit bar onto studs. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use high-quality bar and chain oil. Fill to marked level.
3. Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (unless specified otherwise). Shake well.
4. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, lockout, and chain brake function smoothly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—should snap back when pulled from bar. Loose chain can derail.

Specifications

• Guide Bar Length: 20 inches.
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, air-cooled gasoline engine.
• Displacement: [e.g., 50.2 cc] (Refer to specific model).
• Fuel Tank Capacity: [e.g., 0.55 US qt].
• Oil Tank Capacity: [e.g., 0.42 US qt].
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: [e.g., 3/8" LP, 0.050 gauge].
• Weight: [e.g., 12.1 lbs] (without bar & chain).
• Sound Power Level: Complies with applicable standards.
• Vibration Level: Reduced via anti-vibration system.

Controls and Components

Main components: Front Handle with throttle trigger, Rear Handle, Chain Brake lever, Throttle Lockout, Decompression Valve, Choke, Primer Bulb, ON/OFF Switch.

Operation Controls: Throttle Trigger (for speed), Throttle Lockout (must be depressed to engage throttle), Chain Brake Lever (front hand guard – push forward to engage brake), Choke (for cold starts), Primer Bulb (press 5-10 times for cold start), Decompression Valve (press to reduce compression for starting).

Maintenance Points: Chain Tensioning Screw, Bar Nuts, Oil Filler Cap, Fuel Filler Cap, Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug.

Operation

Starting, cutting, and stopping procedures.

1. Starting (Cold Engine): Engage chain brake. Move ON/OFF switch to ON. Press decompression valve. Set choke to FULL. Press primer bulb 5-10 times. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move choke to HALF. Pull again until engine starts. Warm up for 30 seconds.
2. Starting (Warm Engine): Follow above but with choke OFF.
3. Cutting: Disengage chain brake. Hold saw firmly. Apply light pressure. Let the chain do the work. Avoid pinching bar.
4. Stopping: Release throttle. Move ON/OFF switch to OFF.

Tip: For felling trees, plan escape path. Use wedges for large cuts.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use correct round file and guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.
2. Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot and cold. Adjust via side tensioner until chain snaps back against bar. Tighten bar nuts.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove. Flip bar periodically for even wear. Dress bar rails if burred.
4. Oiler Check: Ensure oiler is working – look for oil line on bar.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. A sharp chain is safer and more efficient.

Engine Maintenance

Air Filter: Clean regularly. Replace if damaged. Spark Plug: Clean and gap to 0.025 inch. Replace annually. Fuel Filter: Replace yearly or if clogged. Carburetor: Adjust only if necessary (refer to service manual).

CAUTION! Perform maintenance with engine off and cool. Use genuine Makita parts.

Storage

For long-term storage: Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Drain bar oil tank. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store in dry place. Cover to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel can cause carburetor damage. Use fuel stabilizer if not draining.

Regulatory Information

This chainsaw meets applicable ANSI/OPEI safety standards and EPA emissions requirements. Contains parts that can emit chemicals known to cause cancer. For support, visit www.makitatools.com or contact Makita customer service at 1-800-4-MAKITA.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Makita service center. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

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