Makita UC4000 Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Makita UC4000 is a 16-inch electric chainsaw designed for general pruning, cutting, and trimming tasks. It features a powerful 14.5 AMP motor, automatic oiler, tool-less chain tensioning, and a low noise design. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Installation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation Guide 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14.5 AMP electric motor, 16-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler system, tool-less chain tensioner, rear handle with soft grip, and safety chain brake.

FeatureDescription
Motor14.5 AMP, 120V AC, 60Hz for powerful cutting performance
Bar Length16 inches (40 cm) Oregon guide bar
Chain.325-inch pitch, low-kickback safety chain
Automatic OilerContinuous lubrication system for bar and chain
Chain TensioningTool-less adjustment for quick chain tightening
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety brake to prevent kickback injuries
Hand GuardFront hand guard for operator protection
Oil Level WindowTransparent window for monitoring chain oil level
Weight10.1 lbs (4.6 kg) without cable
Sound LevelLow noise design for reduced operator fatigue

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.
  2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use only 120V outlet with proper grounding. Keep cord away from cutting area.
  4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar.
  5. Chain Brake: Test chain brake before each use by pushing forward on hand guard.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Do not operate without proper training and safety equipment.

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble before first use.

  1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar onto mounting studs with chain sprocket cover removed.
  2. Install Chain: Position chain on bar with cutting teeth facing forward on top.
  3. Tension Chain: Use tool-less tensioning knob to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled.
  4. Fill Oil Tank: Use only chainsaw bar oil. Fill to MAX line through oil filler cap.
  5. Power Cord: Connect to grounded 120V outlet. Use extension cord rated for 15 AMP minimum.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned and moves freely before operation.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main components: Front hand guard/chain brake, rear handle with trigger switch, lock-off button, tool-less chain tensioner, oil filler cap, and oil level window.

Operation Controls: Trigger switch with lock-off button for safety. Chain brake activates when hand guard is pushed forward. Automatic oiler requires no manual operation.

Adjustments: Chain tension via side knob. Bar position can be rotated for even wear. Oil flow rate is factory set; no user adjustment needed.

Operation Guide

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

  1. Starting: Ensure chain brake is disengaged. Press lock-off button and squeeze trigger.
  2. Basic Cutting: Let chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Use middle of bar for cutting.
  3. Pruning: Cut small branches first. Support larger limbs to prevent pinching.
  4. Limbing: Work from trunk outward. Keep saw stable and maintain firm grip.
  5. Bucking: Cut from top of log. Use wedges for logs under tension.
  6. Stopping: Release trigger and engage chain brake before setting saw down.

Tip: Allow chain to cool for 5 minutes before tension adjustment or storage.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) at 30° angle. File all cutters evenly.
  2. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges to 0.025 inch below cutter height.
  3. Chain Tension: Check every 15 minutes of operation. Adjust when chain sags more than 1/4 inch from bar.
  4. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
  5. Sprocket Inspection: Check drive sprocket every 50 hours for wear.

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

Cleaning & Storage

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

  1. Exterior Cleaning: Wipe with dry cloth. Remove sawdust from air vents.
  2. Bar and Chain: Clean with stiff brush. Apply light oil to prevent rust.
  3. Oil System: Check for leaks. Clean oil ports with compressed air if clogged.
  4. Storage: Empty oil tank for long-term storage. Hang saw or store in case.

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

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Conforms to UL STD 60745-1, 60745-2-13. EPA Certified: Meets environmental standards. Copyright © Makita Corporation. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.makitatools.com or contact 1-800-4MAKITA (1-800-462-5482).

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Chain does not moveChain brake engagedDisengage chain brake by pulling back hand guard
Poor cutting performanceDull chain or improper tensionSharpen chain and adjust tension
Chain throws oilOverfilled oil tankDrain oil to proper level (MAX line)
Motor overheatsDull chain or dirty air filterSharpen chain; clean air vents
Chain comes off barLoose chain tensionAdjust tension; check bar for damage
No oil to chainEmpty oil tank or clogged portFill oil tank; clean oil ports
Motor hums but won't startFaulty switch or damaged cordCheck power cord; contact service center

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Makita service center only.

Warranty: 1-year limited warranty from date of purchase.

Makita UC4000 Electric Chainsaw Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025