Shindaiwa 377 Chainsaw Manual

The Shindaiwa 377 is a professional-grade chainsaw featuring a high-performance 36.3cc engine, advanced anti-vibration system, automatic oiler, and lightweight design for demanding cutting tasks. This manual covers essential safety procedures, operational instructions, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use.

1. Safety Warnings & Precautions 2. Features & Components 3. Assembly & Initial Setup 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls & Operation 6. Chain & Bar Maintenance 7. Engine Maintenance 8. Fuel & Lubrication 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Troubleshooting 11. Warranty & Support

Safety Warnings & Precautions

Always wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots. Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Keep bystanders at a safe distance.

HazardPrevention
KickbackHold saw firmly with both hands; do not cut with tip of bar; use reduced-kickback chain.
Fuel HandlingRefuel in open area with engine off and cool; use approved fuel containers.
Electrical HazardsDo not operate near power lines or electrical sources.
Falling DebrisBe aware of overhead branches; plan escape path.
Hot SurfacesAvoid contact with muffler and cylinder during/after operation.

Features & Components

Key components: Engine, guide bar, cutting chain, chain brake, throttle trigger, choke, primer bulb, oiler, spark plug, air filter, and fuel tank.

  1. Anti-Vibration System: Reduces operator fatigue during extended use.
  2. Automatic Oiler: Delivers consistent lubrication to bar and chain.
  3. Chain Brake: Stops chain rotation instantly upon kickback or manual activation.
  4. Decompression Valve: Eases starting by reducing cylinder pressure.
  5. Air Purge System: Removes air from carburetor for reliable starting.

Assembly & Initial Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

  1. Attach guide bar: Loosen bar nuts, position bar over studs, align chain drive links with sprocket.
  2. Install chain: Ensure cutting teeth face forward on top of bar; adjust tension.
  3. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture (89 octane minimum).
  4. Fill chain oil tank: Use quality bar and chain oil.
  5. Check controls: Verify throttle, choke, and chain brake function properly.

WARNING! Never operate without proper chain tension and lubrication. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

Technical Specifications

Controls & Operation

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

  1. Engage chain brake.
  2. Move choke lever to FULL position.
  3. Press primer bulb 5-6 times.
  4. Pull starter rope until engine "pops".
  5. Move choke to HALF position.
  6. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
  7. Allow to warm up at idle for 30 seconds.
  8. Disengage chain brake to begin cutting.

Cutting Techniques: Use full throttle when cutting; let chain do the work. Do not force saw. Plan cuts to avoid pinching bar.

Chain & Bar Maintenance

Daily maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

TaskFrequencyProcedure
Chain SharpeningEvery 2-3 hours of useUse round file and guide; maintain 30° cutting angle.
Chain Tension CheckBefore each useAdjust so chain snaps back when pulled from bar.
Bar InspectionWeeklyCheck for wear, straightness, and groove condition.
Sprocket InspectionMonthlyReplace if teeth are hooked or worn.
Oiler TestDailyRun at full throttle over light surface; check for oil line.

Engine Maintenance

Regular engine maintenance prevents failures and extends lifespan.

  1. Air Filter: Clean weekly with soapy water; replace if damaged.
  2. Spark Plug: Clean and gap to 0.65 mm (0.026") every 25 hours; replace annually.
  3. Cylinder Fins: Keep clean to prevent overheating.
  4. Carburetor Adjustment: Factory set; only adjust if necessary using H and L screws.
  5. Muffler Screen: Clean carbon deposits monthly.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel Mix: Use 89+ octane unleaded gasoline mixed with high-quality 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio (20 ml oil per 1 liter gasoline).

Chain Oil: Use specified bar and chain oil for proper lubrication. Do not use waste oil.

Storage: For storage over 30 days, drain fuel tank and run engine until carburetor is empty. Add fuel stabilizer if storing with fuel.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents deterioration and starting problems.

  1. Clean entire saw of dirt, sap, and debris.
  2. Drain fuel or add stabilizer.
  3. Remove chain, clean, and soak in oil.
  4. Store in dry, cool place away from ignition sources.
  5. Cover to prevent dust accumulation.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank in enclosed spaces due to fire risk.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo spark, flooded, stale fuelCheck spark plug; wait if flooded; use fresh fuel mix.
Engine runs poorlyClogged air filter, carburetor issuesClean/replace air filter; adjust carburetor.
Chain doesn't turnBrake engaged, clutch wornDisengage brake; inspect clutch assembly.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, unbalanced chainTighten all fasteners; sharpen chain evenly.
Chain throws oilOver-oiling, wrong oil viscosityAdjust oiler; use correct oil type.
Chain dulls quicklyCutting dirty wood, improper filingAvoid ground contact; sharpen correctly.

Warranty & Support

Shindaiwa 377 carries a 2-year commercial warranty and 7-year consumer warranty when registered within 30 days of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

Contact Information:

Safety Recall Information: Register your product to receive safety notices.

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