Partner 500 Chainsaw Manual

The Partner 500 is a professional-grade chainsaw designed for demanding forestry and arborist work. It features a high-performance 2-stroke engine, automatic chain oiling, anti-vibration system, safety chain brake, and ergonomic design for extended use. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Operation 7. Chain & Bar Maintenance 8. Engine Maintenance 9. Storage & Transport 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque 2-stroke engine, Oregon cutting bar and chain, Automatic chain oiler, Inertia-activated chain brake, Anti-vibration handles, Quick-stop throttle trigger.

FeatureDescription
Engine Displacement50cc professional 2-stroke engine
Guide Bar LengthStandard 16" Oregon bar (options: 14", 18")
Chain Type.325" pitch, 0.063" gauge safety chain
Chain BrakeInertia-activated for kickback protection
Fuel Tank Capacity0.55 liters (18.6 oz)
Oil Tank Capacity0.26 liters (8.8 oz)
Weight (dry)5.2 kg (11.5 lbs)
Ignition SystemElectronic CDI ignition
Vibration DampeningMulti-point anti-vibration system
Safety FeaturesChain brake, throttle lockout, right-hand guard

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear protective equipment.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, gloves, and steel-toe boots.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, especially children. Ensure secure footing.
  3. Kickback Prevention: Hold saw firmly with both hands. Do not cut with tip of bar. Keep chain sharp.
  4. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use proper fuel/oil mix.

WARNING! Chainsaw kickback can cause severe injury or death. Always maintain proper grip and stance.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar and chain before first use.

  1. Attach Guide Bar: Place bar on mounting studs, align chain tensioning pin.
  2. Install Chain: Place chain on sprocket and bar, ensuring cutting teeth face forward.
  3. Tension Chain: Adjust tension screw until chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
  4. Fuel Mix: Use 50:1 ratio of unleaded gasoline (min 89 octane) to 2-stroke oil.
  5. Chain Oil: Fill oil tank with quality bar and chain oil.

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

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, Throttle lockout, Chain brake lever, Stop switch, Choke, Primer bulb.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, Rear handle with throttle, Fuel tank cap, Oil tank cap, Chain tensioning screw, Spark plug cover, Air filter cover, Decompression valve (optional).

Operation: Pull throttle lockout before pressing throttle. Push chain brake forward to engage; pull toward rear handle to disengage. Use decompression valve for easier starting.

Starting & Operation

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Place saw on flat ground, clear of debris.
  2. Engage chain brake by pushing forward.
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Set choke to full position.
  5. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  6. Pull starter cord sharply until engine fires.
  7. Move choke to half position, pull until engine starts.
  8. Disengage chain brake before cutting.

Tip: Warm up engine at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Daily maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

  1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file (4.0mm) at 30° angle. File all cutters evenly.
  2. Chain Tension: Check frequently when hot. Proper tension: chain should snap back when pulled.
  3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove weekly. Flip bar monthly for even wear.
  4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace drive sprocket if worn or damaged.
  5. Oil Flow Check: Run saw at full throttle pointed at light surface; oil line should appear.

WARNING! Always wear gloves when handling chain. Disconnect spark plug during maintenance.

Engine Maintenance

Regular maintenance schedule:

Fuel System: Use fresh fuel (max 30 days old). Clean fuel filter every season.

Storage & Transport

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

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

CAUTION! Transport with bar guard installed. Secure in vehicle to prevent movement.

Warranty Information

Partner 500 comes with 2-year commercial warranty and 5-year private user warranty. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, non-genuine parts. Keep purchase receipt for warranty claims. For service, contact authorized Partner dealers or visit www.partnerpower.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, old fuelCheck spark plug; use fresh fuel; follow cold start procedure.
Engine runs then diesClogged fuel filter, air leakReplace fuel filter; check fuel lines and carburetor seals.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tensionSharpen chain; adjust tension; check bar groove.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all bolts; check chain for damaged cutters.
Chain doesn't oilEmpty oil tank, clogged oilerFill oil tank; clean oil passages; check oil pump.
OverheatingDirty cooling fins, lean mixtureClean fins; adjust carburetor; use proper fuel mix.

Service: For technical support: 1-800-PARTNER (1-800-727-8637) or www.partnerpower.com

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