McCulloch PM 605 Chainsaw Manual

The McCulloch PM 605 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks, featuring a high-performance 60cc engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, tool-less chain tensioning, and a robust 20-inch guide bar. This manual covers essential safety procedures, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and efficient use.

1. Safety Information 2. Features & Specifications 3. Assembly Instructions 4. Starting & Stopping 5. Operation Guidelines 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Chain & Bar Care 8. Troubleshooting 9. Parts Diagram 10. Warranty Information

Safety Information

Critical safety warnings and precautions for operating the McCulloch PM 605 chainsaw.

HazardPrecaution
KickbackAlways hold saw firmly with both hands; use reduced-kickback chain; avoid tip contact.
Hearing DamageWear approved hearing protection during operation.
Eye InjuryAlways wear safety glasses or face shield.
Chain ContactKeep hands away from moving chain; ensure chain brake is functional.
Fuel HandlingRefuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.
Electrical HazardsDo not operate near power lines or electrical sources.
Fall HazardsOperate with secure footing; do not cut above shoulder height.
Exhaust FumesOperate only in well-ventilated outdoor areas.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Read manual thoroughly before use.

Features & Specifications

Key components and technical specifications of the McCulloch PM 605 chainsaw.

Assembly Instructions

Step-by-step guide to assemble your McCulloch PM 605 chainsaw.

  1. Unpacking: Remove all packaging materials and verify contents (chainsaw, guide bar, chain, tool kit, manual).
  2. Attach Guide Bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar on studs, ensure tensioning pin engages in bar hole.
  3. Install Chain: Place chain on bar with cutting teeth facing forward, ensure drive links engage in sprocket.
  4. Tension Chain: Use tool-less tensioning wheel to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  5. Secure Bar Nuts: Tighten bar nuts firmly while holding bar tip upward.
  6. Fill Oil Tank: Use recommended bar and chain oil; check for leaks.
  7. Fuel Mix: Prepare 50:1 fuel/oil mixture (89 octane gasoline with 2-stroke oil).

CAUTION! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure chain is properly tensioned before operation.

Starting & Stopping

Proper procedures for starting and stopping the chainsaw engine.

  1. Cold Start:
    • Place saw on flat, clear surface.
    • Activate chain brake by pushing forward.
    • Set choke to full position.
    • Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
    • Pull starter cord slowly until resistance felt, then pull briskly.
    • After engine fires, move choke to half position and pull starter again.
    • When engine runs, push choke to off position.
  2. Warm Start: Choke off, pull starter cord normally.
  3. Stopping: Release throttle, push stop switch to OFF position.
  4. Emergency Stop: Activate chain brake by pushing guard forward.

Tip: Never drop-start the chainsaw. Always maintain firm footing during starting.

Operation Guidelines

Best practices for safe and efficient chainsaw operation.

  1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, sharpness, lubrication, and all fasteners are tight.
  2. Proper Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, left foot slightly forward.
  3. Gripping: Left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle with thumb wrapped underneath.
  4. Cutting Techniques:
    • Felling: Use notch and backcut method; plan escape path.
    • Limbing: Cut from trunk outward; support limb when possible.
    • Bucking: Support log properly; cut from top down on supported sections.
  5. Kickback Prevention: Maintain firm grip, avoid cutting with upper quadrant of bar tip.
  6. Chain Oiling: Check oil flow regularly; adjust flow screw if needed.

WARNING! Never operate chainsaw with one hand. Always be aware of kickback zone.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance tasks to keep your chainsaw in optimal condition.

IntervalTaskProcedure
DailyAir FilterClean with compressed air; wash in soapy water if very dirty.
DailyChain TensionCheck and adjust when chain is cool.
DailyBar & Chain OilRefill as needed; check oil flow.
WeeklySpark PlugClean electrode; gap at 0.025 inch (0.63 mm).
MonthlyFuel FilterReplace if clogged or annually.
MonthlySprocketInspect for wear; replace if teeth are hooked.
SeasonallyCylinder FinsClean cooling fins of debris.
AnnuallyCarburetorProfessional adjustment recommended.

Chain & Bar Care

Maintaining the cutting system for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (5/32 inch for 3/8 chain). Maintain 30° cutting angle. File all cutters to equal length.
  2. Depth Gauges: File rakers to 0.025 inch below cutter height using depth gauge tool.
  3. Bar Maintenance:
    • Clean bar groove regularly with bar groove cleaner.
    • Flip bar weekly to ensure even wear.
    • File down burrs on bar edges.
  4. Lubrication: Always use quality bar and chain oil. In cold weather, use winter-grade oil.
  5. Storage: Coat bar and chain with oil before long-term storage.

CAUTION! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling chain. Ensure chain brake is engaged during maintenance.

Troubleshooting

Common problems and solutions for the McCulloch PM 605 chainsaw.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, stale fuelCheck spark plug; wait if flooded; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, carburetor issuesReplace fuel filter; clean carburetor.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension.
Chain won't oilEmpty oil tank, clogged oil passagesRefill tank; clean oil ports in bar.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; check chain for damage.
Chain throws off barWorn bar, improper tension, damaged drive linksReplace bar; adjust tension; inspect chain.
OverheatingDull chain, insufficient oil, clogged cooling finsSharpen chain; check oil flow; clean fins.

Parts Diagram

Reference diagram for major components and part numbers.

Note: For complete parts list and exploded diagrams, refer to official McCulloch website or contact authorized dealer.

Warranty Information

McCulloch PM 605 chainsaw warranty terms and conditions.

Limited Warranty: 2 years commercial use, 5 years private use from date of purchase. Covers defects in materials and workmanship.

What's Covered: Engine components, crankshaft, cylinder, piston, carburetor, ignition system.

What's Not Covered: Normal wear items (chain, bar, sprocket, filters, spark plugs), damage from misuse, improper maintenance, accidents, or use of incorrect fuel/oil.

Claim Procedure: Contact authorized McCulloch service center with proof of purchase. Do not attempt repairs yourself as this may void warranty.

Customer Support: McCulloch Power Products, 1-800-521-1502, www.mcculloch.com

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