Makita DCS 340 Chainsaw Manual

The Makita DCS 340 is a professional-grade, gas-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a powerful 34cc engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, safety chain brake, and a durable Oregon bar and chain. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 34cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, side-access chain tensioner, and decompression valve.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective equipment.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps/pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quarter of the bar tip.
4. Chain Brake: Test before each use by pushing forward on front hand guard.
5. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, with engine off and cool. Use fresh fuel mix.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Never operate a chainsaw while tired or under the influence.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

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

1. Attach the Guide Bar and Chain: Loosen bar nuts. Place chain over sprocket, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top of bar. Fit bar onto studs. Adjust tension, then tighten nuts.
2. Fill with Fuel and Oil: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil mix for fuel. Fill bar and chain oil reservoir with proper chainsaw oil.
3. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension after first few minutes of use.
4. Start the Engine: Place on ground, engage chain brake. Set choke, pull starter cord until engine fires, then set to run and pull again.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged when starting. Keep hands away from chain at all times.

Specifications

• Model: Makita DCS 340
• Engine Displacement: 34 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 HP)
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm)
• Chain Pitch: .325 inches
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inches
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.55 L
• Oil Tank Capacity: 0.26 L
• Dry Weight (without bar/chain): 4.7 kg (10.4 lbs)
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front Handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear Handle: 5.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, decompression valve, chain brake lever, primer bulb (if equipped).

Components: Front hand guard/chain brake, rear handle with anti-vibration, fuel cap, oil cap, air filter cover, spark plug, muffler, side-mounted chain tensioner.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout and trigger to engage. Push front hand guard forward to activate chain brake. Use decompression valve before starting cold engine.

Operation

Starting, cutting techniques, and shutdown.

1. Starting (Cold): Engage chain brake. Set choke to full. Press decompression valve. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires. Move choke to half, pull again. When running, squeeze throttle to disengage choke.
2. Starting (Warm): No choke needed. Follow steps without choke.
3. Basic Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; do not force. Be aware of pinch points, especially when cutting logs under tension.
4. Shutdown: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly. Press stop switch to OFF.

Tip: Plan your cut and escape path before starting. Never cut above shoulder height.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

1. Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension and sharpness. Check fuel and oil levels. Inspect for loose nuts/bolts. Clean air filter.
2. Weekly/After 10 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler. Check spark plug condition and gap (0.025 inches / 0.65 mm). Clean cooling fins.
3. Monthly/After 50 Hours: Clean fuel filter in tank. Check clutch and sprocket for wear.
4. Cleaning: Use a brush to remove sawdust and debris from bar groove, oil ports, air intake, and cooling fins. Never use water or pressure washer.

WARNING! Perform all maintenance with engine off, spark plug wire disconnected, and chain brake engaged.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient operation.

1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for .325"). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain consistent file height. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
2. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn down to the line marked on them, or if damaged. Replace drive sprocket when changing chain if signs of wear are present.
3. Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean bar groove. Flip bar weekly for even wear. Dress bar rails with a flat file if burred.

CAUTION! Wear heavy gloves when handling chain. Ensure saw is secure during sharpening.

Storage

Prepare chainsaw for storage to prevent fuel system issues.

1. Drain all fuel from tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean it and the bar with oil, and store separately.
3. Clean entire saw thoroughly.
4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

Long-Term Storage: Consider adding fuel stabilizer if fuel cannot be fully drained.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant safety and emissions standards. The engine meets EPA Phase 3 and CARB Tier 3 emission regulations. The chainsaw incorporates safety features per ANSI B175.1 and CSA Z62.1 standards. Makita is a registered trademark. For genuine parts and service, contact an authorized Makita service center.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Makita service center. Use only genuine Makita parts.