montgomery ward chainsaw manual

The Montgomery Ward chainsaw is a gasoline-powered outdoor power tool designed for cutting wood, pruning trees, and general forestry work. This manual covers safety procedures, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for various Montgomery Ward chainsaw models. Below are key sections for safe and effective use of your chainsaw.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Features & Components 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Operation 6. Fuel & Oil Mixture 7. Chain & Bar Maintenance 8. Troubleshooting 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Parts Diagram 11. Warranty & Support

Safety Instructions

Always read and follow all safety warnings before operating the chainsaw. Key safety components: Chain Brake, Throttle Lockout, Front Hand Guard, Chain Catcher, Right Hand Guard.

Safety FeatureDescription
Chain BrakeStops the chain immediately if kickback occurs or is manually activated
Throttle LockoutPrevents accidental throttle engagement
Front Hand GuardProtects left hand from debris and chain
Chain CatcherHelps reduce risk if chain breaks or derails
Right Hand GuardProtects right hand from rear of the chain
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces fire risk from exhaust sparks

WARNING! Always wear protective equipment: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots. Never operate alone.

Features & Components

Key components: Engine, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Oil Tank, Fuel Tank, Starter Assembly, Throttle Trigger, Stop Switch.

  1. Engine: 2-stroke gasoline engine, air-cooled.
  2. Guide Bar: Available in lengths from 14" to 20".
  3. Saw Chain: Low-kickback chain with safety links.
  4. Oil Tank: For automatic chain lubrication.
  5. Fuel Tank: Capacity varies by model (typically 0.5-0.7 L).
  6. Starter Assembly: Recoil starter with rope.
  7. Throttle Trigger: With lockout button for safety.
  8. Stop Switch: Stops engine immediately.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching guide bar and chain, filling fluids.

  1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar on studs, align chain groove.
  2. Install chain: Place chain over bar sprocket, ensure cutting teeth face forward on top.
  3. Tension chain: Adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  4. Fill fuel: Mix gasoline with 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (check manual for specific ratio).
  5. Fill bar & chain oil: Use recommended bar oil for lubrication.
  6. Start engine: Place on flat surface, set choke, pull starter rope firmly.

CAUTION! Ensure chain is properly tensioned—too loose may derail; too tight may damage bar.

Specifications

Controls & Operation

Front Handle: Left hand placement. Rear Handle: Right hand placement with throttle trigger. Controls: Stop Switch, Throttle Lockout, Chain Brake Lever, Choke Lever, Primer Bulb.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Engage chain brake by pushing forward.
  2. Press throttle lockout and squeeze throttle trigger to set fast idle.
  3. Move choke lever to COLD START position.
  4. Press primer bulb 5-6 times (if equipped).
  5. Place on ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
  6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.
  7. Move choke to RUN position, pull again to start.
  8. Allow 30-second warm-up at idle.

Cutting Techniques: Use bottom of bar for cutting; avoid tip to prevent kickback.

Fuel & Oil Mixture

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

Model SeriesFuel:Oil RatioOil Type
GIL / GILT Series50:1JASO FD or ISO-L-EGD
Older Models40:1TC-W3 2-Stroke Oil

Mixing Instructions: Pour correct amount of oil into approved gas can, add gasoline, close lid, shake thoroughly. Use within 30 days.

Bar & Chain Oil: Use specially formulated bar oil in all temperatures; in cold weather, use winter-grade oil.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file matching chain pitch (typically 5/32" or 7/32"). File each cutter at 30° angle, maintain equal length on all cutters.
  2. Chain Tension: Check when cold; adjust so chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Retighten after initial use.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly, flip bar monthly for even wear.
  4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace if worn or damaged.
  5. Lubrication System: Check oil flow by running at idle over light surface; look for oil line.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, clogged filter, flooded engineUse fresh fuel mix; clean/replace filter; wait 10 min if flooded.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, carburetor adjustmentClean air filter; adjust carburetor screws (H/L).
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch worn, drive sprocketDisengage brake; inspect clutch and sprocket.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oil viscosityAdjust oiler screw; use correct bar oil.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, unbalanced chainTighten all nuts/bolts; sharpen chain evenly.
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, improper filingAvoid ground contact; sharpen at correct angle.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage.

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
  2. Remove spark plug, add 1 tsp of oil through hole, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
  3. Clean entire saw, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Remove chain, clean and soak in oil; store bar flat.
  5. Store in dry, cool place, covered.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days.

Parts Diagram

Refer to exploded view diagram for part numbers and assembly order. Common replacement parts:

Always use genuine Montgomery Ward parts for optimal performance and safety.

Warranty & Support

Montgomery Ward chainsaws are covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period varies by model (typically 2 years for residential use).

Warranty Exclusions: Damage from misuse, improper maintenance, unauthorized repairs, or use of non-genuine parts.

Customer Support: For technical assistance, parts ordering, or warranty claims:

Safety Recall Information: Check website regularly for any safety notices or recalls.

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