McCulloch CS 38 Chainsaw Manual

The McCulloch CS 38 is a lightweight, powerful chainsaw designed for general-purpose cutting, pruning, and firewood preparation. It features a 38cc 2-stroke engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, inertia chain brake, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 38cc 2-stroke engine, 16-inch guide bar, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-free chain tensioner, and easy-start system.

Safety Information

Always read and follow all safety instructions before operating the chainsaw.

1. Wear appropriate PPE: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear work area of obstacles and ensure no bystanders are within 15 feet.
3. Check chain tension and sharpness before each use.
4. Never operate with a damaged or loose chain.
5. Always hold chainsaw with both hands; right hand on rear handle, left on front.

WARNING! Kickback can occur without warning. Keep saw chain sharp and maintain proper tension. Do not operate above shoulder height.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach guide bar: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain around sprocket and bar groove.
2. Tension chain: Use tool-free tensioner to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
3. Fill fuel: Mix unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Use JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD certified oil.
4. Fill chain oil: Use bar and chain oil (not motor oil) in separate oil tank.
5. Check controls: Ensure throttle trigger, throttle lockout, and chain brake function properly.

CAUTION! Fuel is flammable. Refuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

Specifications

• Model: McCulloch CS 38
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled
• Displacement: 38 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp)
• Max. Engine Speed: 12,500 rpm
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (unleaded gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
• Guide Bar Length: 16 inches (40 cm)
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch (1.3 mm)
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 105 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear handle: 5.0 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle trigger, throttle lockout, choke control, stop switch, primer bulb, and decompression valve (if equipped).

Controls: Throttle trigger (accelerates engine), Throttle lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), Choke (for cold starts), Stop switch (O=Run, I=Stop), Chain brake lever (manual activation), Inertia brake (automatic activation on kickback).

Maintenance points: Air filter cover, spark plug, chain tensioner, oil filler cap, fuel filler cap.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start:

1. Place saw on flat, clear ground. Engage chain brake.
2. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
3. Move choke lever to full choke position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times until fuel is visible.
5. Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
6. Move choke to half-throttle position. Pull starter cord until engine starts.
7. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds before disengaging chain brake.

Warm Start: Choke off. Pull starter cord.

Stopping: Release throttle, press stop switch to "I".

Emergency Stop: Activate chain brake manually or by inertia.

Operating Instructions

Proper cutting techniques ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Bucking: Cut fallen logs from top side. Use support for logs off ground.
2. Limbing: Remove branches from felled tree. Stand on opposite side of log.
3. Felling: Not recommended for inexperienced users. Plan escape path. Use notch and back cut method.
4. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly, avoid tip contact, do not cut above shoulder height.
5. Chain Oiling: Check oil level frequently. Chain should throw fine oil mist during operation.

Tip: Let the chain do the work; do not force the saw. Maintain steady throttle in cut.

Maintenance Schedule

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Chain Sharpening & Tensioning

Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32 inch). File each cutter at 30° angle. Maintain equal length on all cutters.

Tensioning: Chain should be snug against bar but pull freely. Adjust when chain sags from bottom of bar. Loosen bar nuts, turn tensioning screw clockwise, tighten bar nuts.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Stop engine and ensure chain is cool before tensioning.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days:

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil. Store separately.
3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
4. Store in dry, cool place, away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods; fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized McCulloch service center.

Support: 1-800-521-8559; www.mcculloch.com