Makita UC4020A Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Makita UC4020A is a 16-inch electric chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. It features a 14.5 Amp motor, automatic oiling system, tool-less chain tensioning, and a low noise design. Ideal for pruning, limbing, and cutting firewood. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiler, front hand guard, chain brake, tool-less chain tensioner, and lock-off button.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 feet away. Ensure secure footing.
3. Electrical Safety: Use a grounded outlet and proper extension cord (minimum 14 AWG). Keep cord away from cutting area.
4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Use reduced-kickback chain.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Never operate without proper training and safety gear. Keep hands away from chain at all times.

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble before first use.

1. Attach Guide Bar and Chain: Place bar onto mounting studs. Loop chain over bar with cutting teeth facing forward on top. Adjust tension.
2. Fill Oil Tank: Use only high-quality chainsaw bar & chain oil. Fill to MAX line.
3. Check Chain Tension: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely by hand. Use tool-less tensioner to adjust.
4. Power Connection: Plug into a 120V grounded outlet. Ensure switch is OFF before plugging in.

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

Specifications

• Model: UC4020A
• Motor: 14.5 Amp AC
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Oil Tank Capacity: 6.8 fl oz (200 ml)
• Sound Pressure Level: 94 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 3.5 m/s², Rear handle: 4.5 m/s²
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Cord Length: 8.2 ft (2.5 m)

Controls and Components

Main Controls: On/Off switch with lock-off button, front hand guard/chain brake, oil cap, and tension adjustment dial.

Front Handle: Contains chain brake lever. Rear Handle: Houses trigger switch and lock-off button. Side Panel: Covers chain tensioner and oil fill port.

Operation: Press lock-off button, then squeeze trigger to start. Release trigger to stop. Engage chain brake by pushing front hand guard forward.

Operation Guide

Starting and basic cutting techniques.

1. Pre-Start Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, and clear work area.
2. Starting: Place on firm ground. Press lock-off button, then squeeze trigger.
3. Cutting: Use middle part of bar. Let chain do the work; do not force. For large logs, cut from top and bottom.
4. Stopping: Release trigger. Engage chain brake when not actively cutting.

Tip: Avoid pinching the bar. Use wedges for large cuts. Always cut at waist level or below.

Chain Maintenance

Regular sharpening and tension adjustment ensure optimal performance.

1. Sharpening: Use round file and guide. Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters evenly.
2. Tension Adjustment: Chain should be tight but pull freely. Adjust when cold. Re-check after first few minutes of use.
3. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn beyond repair or damaged. Use only Makita-approved chains.
4. Depth Gauges: File depth gauges with flat file to maintain proper height (0.025 inch below cutter).

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

Lubrication System

Automatic oiler delivers oil to bar and chain. Manual override available.

Automatic Oiling: System operates when chain is moving. Adjust flow rate via screw near oil tank (if equipped). Check oil level frequently.

Manual Oiling: Press manual oiler button (if equipped) to deliver extra oil for heavy cutting.

Note: Use only chainsaw bar oil. Do not use waste oil, which can damage pump and bar.

Storage & Care

Clean and store properly to extend lifespan.

1. Cleaning: Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Clean bar groove and oil ports. Remove sawdust from motor vents.
2. Chain Storage: Remove chain, clean in kerosene, coat with oil, and store in sealed bag.
3. Long-Term Storage: Empty oil tank. Store in dry, cool place away from children.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean motor. Ensure saw is completely dry before storage.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable UL standards and FCC regulations. Designed for residential use. Copyright © Makita Corporation. Makita and Teal are registered trademarks. For genuine parts and accessories, visit www.makitatools.com or contact Makita customer service at 1-800-4-MAKITA.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use only Makita-authorized service centers. Do not attempt to repair motor yourself.

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