troy bilt ms42 chainsaw manual

The Troy-Bilt MS42 is a 42cc gas-powered chainsaw designed for general homeowner use, featuring a 2-stroke engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiler, anti-vibration system, inertia chain brake, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 42cc 2-stroke engine, 18-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic chain oiler, inertia-activated chain brake, anti-vibration handles, tool-free chain tensioning, and easy-pull starting system.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear protective gear.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure no bystanders, pets, or obstacles within 15 feet.
3. Kickback Awareness: Hold saw firmly; do not cut with tip of bar.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors; no smoking near fuel.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from chain at all times.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assembly requires attaching bar and chain, filling fluids.

1. Attach Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain around sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension.
2. Fill Chain Oil: Use SAE 30 bar & chain oil. Fill oil tank to marked level.
3. Mix Fuel: Use 89+ octane gasoline with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio (3.2 oz oil per 1 gal gas).
4. Prime & Start: Press primer bulb 5-10 times, set choke, pull starter cord.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is engaged during assembly. Keep chain away from skin and clothing.

Specifications

• Engine: 42cc 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Bar Length: 18 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Fuel Mix Ratio: 40:1 (gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 - 3,200 RPM.
• Max Power Speed: 9,500 RPM.
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Level: Front handle 4.2 m/s², rear handle 6.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty.

Controls and Components

Main controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, chain brake handle, and side-mounted chain tensioner.

Components: Front handle with chain brake, rear handle with throttle, fuel tank cap, oil tank cap, spark plug cover, muffler, and air filter cover.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lockout and throttle to accelerate. Push chain brake handle forward to engage brake (stop chain). Pull back to disengage. Use choke for cold starts.

Fuel & Oil Mixing

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (89 octane or higher) and high-quality 2-cycle engine oil.

1. Mix in approved container: 1 gallon gasoline + 3.2 oz 2-cycle oil (40:1 ratio).
2. Shake well before filling fuel tank.
3. Use SAE 30 bar & chain oil in separate oil tank.
4. Do not use old fuel (over 30 days); discard properly.

Tip: Label fuel containers. Never use automotive motor oil or diesel fuel.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure (cold engine):

1. Engage chain brake by pushing handle forward.
2. Set stop switch to "I" (on).
3. Pull choke lever to full choke position.
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Place saw on ground, hold rear handle with right foot.
6. Pull starter cord briskly until engine "pops."
7. Move choke to half position, pull cord until engine starts.
8. Allow to warm up 30 seconds, then disengage chain brake.

WARNING! Always start on ground, never drop-start. Keep firm grip during operation.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) at 30° angle. File each cutter evenly.
2. Chain Tension: Adjust when chain sags from bar. Loosen bar nuts, turn tension screw, tighten nuts.
3. Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove, flip bar periodically for even wear.
4. Sprocket Inspection: Replace if worn or damaged.

CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling chain. Ensure engine is off and cool.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare chainsaw for extended storage (over 30 days).

1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
2. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of 2-cycle oil through spark plug hole, pull starter cord slowly to coat cylinder, reinstall plug.
3. Clean entire saw, sharpen chain, and apply oil to bar and chain.
4. Store in dry, cool place away from children.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank. Fuel can degrade and damage engine.

Warranty Information

Troy-Bilt MS42 chainsaw includes a 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or commercial use. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized service center or call 1-800-828-5500. Visit www.troybilt.com for more information.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For persistent issues, consult authorized service center.

Service: 1-800-828-5500; www.troybilt.com