Makita 5012B Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Makita 5012B is a 12-inch electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. It features a powerful 9.6 Amp motor, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, and a lightweight design for ease of use. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 9.6 Amp electric motor, 12-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger switch, and oil level window.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate safety gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
2. Work Area Safety: Ensure clear area, secure footing, and no bystanders.
3. Electrical Safety: Use grounded outlet; keep cord away from cutting area.
4. Chain Safety: Keep chain sharp; ensure proper tension; engage chain brake when not cutting.
5. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly; avoid tip contact; use low-kickback chain.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Do not operate without proper training and safety gear. Keep hands away from chain.

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain before first use.

1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, aligning adjustment pin.
2. Install Chain: Fit chain over bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top.
3. Tighten Bar Nut: Hand-tighten bar nuts; leave slightly loose for tensioning.
4. Adjust Chain Tension: Use side knob to tension chain; chain should snap back when pulled.
5. Final Tightening: Tighten bar nuts securely after tension is set.
6. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use recommended bar and chain oil; check level via window.
7. Power Connection: Plug into 120V grounded outlet.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly installed and tensioned before operation to prevent damage or injury.

Specifications

• Model: Makita 5012B
• Motor: 9.6 Amp, 120V AC, 60Hz
• Bar Length: 12 inches (30 cm)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.2 fl oz (125 ml)
• Weight: 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
• Sound Pressure: 95 dB(A)
• Vibration: Front handle: 2.5 m/s², Rear handle: 4.5 m/s²
• Recommended Oil: Makita bar and chain oil or equivalent

Controls and Components

Front Components: Guide bar, chain, chain brake, hand guard, oil filler cap. Rear Handle: Trigger switch, lock-off button, power cord.

Controls: Trigger switch (press to operate), Lock-off button (must be depressed to press trigger), Chain brake (manual engagement via hand guard), Tensioning knob (tool-less adjustment), Oil level window (visual check).

Operation: Ensure chain brake is disengaged before starting. Hold rear handle firmly, depress lock-off button, then squeeze trigger. Release trigger to stop chain. Engage chain brake when not in use.

Operation Guide

For cutting logs, branches, and pruning.

1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and chain sharpness.
2. Starting: Plug in, ensure clear area, disengage chain brake, hold saw firmly.
3. Cutting Technique: Let chain reach full speed before contact; use steady pressure; avoid forcing.
4. Kickback Prevention: Do not cut with tip; be aware of pinch points; maintain secure grip.
5. Stopping: Release trigger; engage chain brake; unplug when not in use.
6. Automatic Oiling: System operates during use; check oil level periodically.

Tip: For longer bar life, avoid cutting into dirt or metal. Clean bar groove regularly.

Chain Maintenance

Proper chain care ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Sharpening: Use round file (7/32 inch) and file guide; maintain 30° cutting angle.
2. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges with flat file to maintain proper height (0.025 inch).
3. Tension Adjustment: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely; adjust when cool.
4. Inspection: Check for damaged or worn cutters, loose rivets, and bar wear.
5. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn beyond repair or damaged.
6. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove; flip bar periodically for even wear.

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

Lubrication System

Automatic oiler delivers oil to bar and chain during operation.

Oil Type: Use only recommended bar and chain oil for proper lubrication and adhesion.

Filling: Unscrew oil cap, fill reservoir, replace cap securely. Check level via window before each use.

Flow Check: Run saw briefly over cardboard; fine oil line should appear.

CAUTION! Do not run saw without oil. Using improper oil may damage oiler system.

Storage & Care

Unplug and clean after each use. Store in dry, secure location.

1. Cleaning: Wipe exterior with dry cloth; clean bar groove and oil ports.
2. Chain: Apply light oil to prevent rust during storage.
3. Bar: Remove, clean, and inspect for wear; store separately if long-term.
4. Power Cord: Inspect for damage; coil loosely; avoid kinks.
5. Storage Location: Keep in case or covered area away from moisture and extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents for cleaning. Store out of reach of children.

Warranty Information

Makita 5012B includes a 1-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized Makita service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.makitatools.com or contact 1-800-4-MAKITA.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Makita service center. Do not attempt to repair motor or electrical components.

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