mcdillen chainsaw manual english

The Mcdillen Chainsaw is a professional-grade gasoline-powered cutting tool designed for demanding forestry, logging, and heavy-duty cutting tasks. It features a high-performance engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, safety chain brake, and ergonomic design for user comfort and control. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Fuel & Oil Preparation 7. Starting & Operating Procedures 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Chain Sharpening & Replacement 10. Storage Guidelines 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque 2-stroke engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Chain Brake, Throttle Trigger, Choke Control, Primer Bulb, Automatic Oiler, Anti-Vibration Handles.

FeatureDescription
Engine DisplacementHigh-output 2-stroke engine for powerful cutting
Guide Bar LengthAvailable in 16", 18", and 20" options
Chain BrakeInertia-activated safety feature to stop chain rotation
Automatic Chain OilerLubricates bar and chain during operation
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces user fatigue during extended use
Ergonomic HandlesFront and rear handles with soft grip
Air FiltrationDual-stage air filter for engine protection
Decompression ValveEases engine starting
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces exhaust sparks and noise
Chain TensionerTool-less side adjustment for quick chain tightening

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

  1. PPE Required: Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, steel-toe boots, and hard hat.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. No smoking.
  4. Kickback Zone: Avoid contact with the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip.
  5. Carrying: Engage chain brake and carry with guide bar pointing rearward.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The chain brake is a safety device, not a substitute for safe operating practices.

Assembly & First-Time Setup

Unpack all components and inspect for damage.

  1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on mounting studs. Loop chain over bar sprocket, ensuring cutting teeth face forward on top. Adjust tension.
  2. Fill Bar & Chain Oil: Use recommended bar & chain oil. Fill reservoir to indicated level.
  3. Prepare Fuel Mix: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
  4. Initial Start: Place saw on clear, flat ground. Engage chain brake. Follow starting procedure.

CAUTION! Never operate the saw without proper chain tension and lubrication. Overtightening can damage the bar and chain.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting the engine.

Main Controls: Front Handle: Contains throttle trigger and throttle trigger lockout. Rear Handle: Contains main ON/OFF switch. Top Cover: Houses choke control, primer bulb, and decompression valve (if equipped). Right Side: Chain brake lever (front hand guard). Left Side: Chain tensioner adjustment wheel.

Operation: To operate, press the throttle trigger lockout with your right thumb, then squeeze the throttle trigger. Release to idle. Engage the chain brake by pushing the front hand guard forward.

Fuel & Oil Preparation

Using the correct fuel and oil mix is critical for performance and engine life.

  1. Fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89. Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10).
  2. 2-Stroke Oil: Use a high-quality oil certified for air-cooled 2-stroke engines (ISO-L-EGD or JASO FD).
  3. Mix Ratio: 50:1. For 5 liters of gasoline, add 100 ml of 2-stroke oil. Mix in a separate approved container.
  4. Bar & Chain Oil: Use a dedicated chainsaw bar oil for proper adhesion. Do not use waste motor oil.

Tip: Always shake the fuel mix container before refueling. Never store mixed fuel for more than 60 days.

Starting & Operating Procedures

Follow these steps for cold and warm starting.

  1. Cold Start: Engage chain brake. Move ON/OFF switch to ON. Set choke to FULL CHOKE. Press primer bulb 5-6 times. Pull starter rope sharply until engine 'pops'. Set choke to HALF CHOKE. Pull starter rope to start. Let engine run for 10 seconds, then move choke to RUN.
  2. Warm Start: Engage chain brake. ON/OFF switch ON. Choke in RUN position. Pull starter rope.
  3. Cutting Technique: Use full throttle when cutting. Let the saw do the work; do not force it. Be aware of pinch points, especially when cutting logs under tension.
  4. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle for 30 seconds. Move ON/OFF switch to OFF.

WARNING! Always start the saw on the ground, never drop-start. Keep both hands on the handles during operation.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safe and reliable operation.

IntervalTask
Before Each UseCheck chain tension and sharpness; check fuel/oil levels; inspect for loose parts/damage.
Every 5 HoursClean air filter; check spark plug condition.
Every 20 HoursClean spark arrestor screen; clean cooling fins; inspect fuel filter.
Every 50 HoursReplace air filter; replace spark plug; clean carburetor air intake.
Seasonally/AnnuallyReplace fuel filter; clean/replace muffler; check all nuts/bolts for tightness.

CAUTION! Perform all maintenance with the engine off, cool, and the spark plug wire disconnected.

Chain Sharpening & Replacement

A sharp chain is essential for safe and efficient cutting.

  1. Sharpening: Use a round file matching the chain pitch (e.g., 4.0mm). File each cutter at the manufacturer's specified angle (typically 30°). Maintain consistent file height. File depth gauges (rakers) with a flat file and gauge.
  2. Replacement: Replace chain when cutters are worn down to the line marked on them, or if damaged. Ensure new chain matches bar pitch and gauge.
  3. Tensioning: Chain should be snug against the bar but pull freely by hand. Re-tension when chain sags away from the bar rail. Always re-tension on a cold chain.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Drain all fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor.
  2. Remove, clean, and oil the chain. Store separately.
  3. Clean the entire saw of dirt, sap, and debris.
  4. Store in a dry, cool place, protected from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Never store the saw with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Stale fuel will clog the carburetor.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo spark, flooded, stale fuel, switch OFFCheck spark plug; wait if flooded; use fresh fuel mix; ensure switch is ON.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carburetor issuesReplace fuel filter; clean air filter; service carburetor.
Loss of power during cutDull chain, clogged air filter, spark arrestor screen blockedSharpen chain; clean air filter; clean spark arrestor screen.
Chain does not oilEmpty oil tank, clogged oil passage, faulty oil pumpFill tank; clean oil ports and bar groove; check/replace oil pump.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chain, damaged anti-vibration mountsTighten all nuts/bolts; balance chain; inspect/replace mounts.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOver-oiling, wrong oil viscosityCheck oiler adjustment; use correct bar oil.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized Mcdillen service dealer. Use only genuine Mcdillen replacement parts.

Support: For technical assistance, visit www.mcdillen-power.com or contact customer service at 1-800-555-MCDL.

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