McCulloch 16 Chainsaw Manual

The McCulloch 16 is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and trimming. It features a 16-inch guide bar, automatic oiling system, anti-vibration handles, easy-start technology, and a reliable 2-stroke engine. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 16-inch guide bar and chain, 2-stroke gasoline engine, automatic chain oiler, anti-vibration system, safety throttle lock, chain brake, and easy-start mechanism.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Inspect Chainsaw: Check for loose parts, damaged chain, or leaks before each use.
4. Proper Grip: Hold firmly with both hands, right hand on rear handle, left on front.
5. Kickback Awareness: Keep nose of bar away from objects; do not cut above shoulder height.

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

Assembly & Setup

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

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Install Chain Brake Cover: Align cover, tighten nuts securely with provided tool.
3. Fill Fuel Tank: Use fresh gasoline mixed with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (see section 6).
4. Fill Oil Tank: Use bar and chain oil only. Do not use motor oil or recycled oil.
5. Check Chain Tension: Chain should snap back when pulled from bar; adjust tensioning screw if loose.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is installed with cutting teeth facing forward. Overtightening can damage bar and chain.

Specifications

• Model: McCulloch 16
• Engine Displacement: 42 cc
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) mixed with 2-stroke oil
• Oil Mix Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Idle Speed: 2,800 - 3,200 RPM
• Max Power Speed: 9,500 RPM
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.2 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, stop switch, primer bulb, chain brake lever.

Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and lockout. Rear Handle: Houses stop switch and choke. Top Cover: Covers air filter and spark plug. Side Panel: Covers chain tensioning screw and oil filler cap.

Operation: Pull choke for cold start, press primer bulb 5-6 times, engage throttle lockout before pulling trigger. Use chain brake lever to stop chain instantly.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke engine oil.

1. Mix Ratio: 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil (e.g., 5 liters gas to 100 ml oil).
2. Mixing Container: Use approved fuel can. Add oil first, then gasoline. Shake well.
3. Bar & Chain Oil: Use only dedicated chainsaw bar oil in oil tank.
4. Storage: Do not store mixed fuel more than 30 days. Use fuel stabilizer if needed.

Tip: Never use automotive motor oil, diesel, or mixed fuel from unknown sources.

Starting & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Move choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
3. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
- Pull starter rope briskly until engine "pops" (usually 3-5 pulls).
4. Move choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter rope again until engine starts.
5. Allow to idle for 30 seconds. Squeeze throttle to disengage choke.

Cutting Techniques: Use lower part of bar for cutting; let chain do the work. Do not force. For bucking, use sawhorses. For limbing, cut from top down.

WARNING! Always engage chain brake when moving between cuts or carrying saw. Never drop-start the chainsaw.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32" for 3/8" pitch). File at 30° angle, each tooth equally.
2. Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot and cold. Adjust tensioning screw until chain snaps back lightly.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace if worn or damaged.
5. Air Filter: Clean every 5 hours of use. Replace if damaged.

CAUTION! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Storage & Cleaning

For storage longer than 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil through spark plug hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Loosen chain tension. Store in dry place, covered.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Keep away from open flames and heat sources.

Warranty Information

McCulloch 16 chainsaw comes with a 2-year limited warranty for residential use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, commercial use. For warranty claims, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.mcculloch.com or call 1-800-521-2803.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, use authorized McCulloch service centers only. User manual part number: 12345-16. Keep for future reference.