Craftsman 10 Inch Electric Chainsaw Manual

The Craftsman 10 Inch Electric Chainsaw is a lightweight, corded power tool designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks such as pruning, limbing, and cutting small logs. It features a 10-inch Oregon low-kickback bar and chain, tool-free chain tensioning, an automatic oiler, and a 12-amp motor. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Operation 7. Chain Maintenance 8. Cleaning & Storage 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-Amp electric motor, 10-inch Oregon bar and chain, automatic oiling system, tool-free chain tensioner, front hand guard, rear handle with trigger lockout.

FeatureDescription
Motor12-Amp, corded electric motor for consistent power
Bar & Chain10-inch Oregon low-kickback bar and chain
Chain OilerAutomatic, adjustable oiling system
Chain TensioningTool-free side knob for quick adjustments
Safety FeaturesTrigger lockout, front hand guard, inertia chain brake
WeightApproximately 7.5 lbs (lightweight design)
Power Cord8-foot heavy-duty cord with cord retainer
WarrantyLimited 2-year warranty

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  1. PPE: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, non-slip footwear, and close-fitting clothing.
  2. Work Area: Keep work area clean, well-lit, and free of bystanders.
  3. Electrical Safety: Use a grounded outlet. Do not use in wet conditions. Inspect cord before each use.
  4. Kickback Awareness: Be aware of kickback zone (upper quadrant of bar tip). Use low-kickback chain and proper technique.
  5. Chain Brake: Test inertia chain brake before each use.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. Keep hands away from chain. Never operate with one hand.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires attaching the bar and chain, and filling the oil reservoir.

  1. Attach Bar & Chain: Loosen side cover nuts. Place chain over sprocket, aligning drive links in bar groove. Position bar onto studs. Ensure chain direction is correct (cutting teeth forward on top).
  2. Tension Chain: Use tool-free tensioning knob to adjust until chain snaps back when pulled from bar. Tighten side cover nuts securely.
  3. Fill Oil Reservoir: Use only recommended bar and chain oil. Fill to MAX line. Check for leaks.
  4. Power Cord: Attach cord retainer to power cord to prevent accidental disconnection.

CAUTION! Ensure chainsaw is unplugged during assembly. Chain must be properly tensioned before operation.

Specifications

Controls and Components

Main Components: Front hand guard/inertia brake, bar and chain, oil filler cap, tensioning knob, trigger switch with lockout, rear handle, power cord with retainer.

Operation Controls:

Operation

Always follow safety procedures. Plan your cut and escape path.

  1. Pre-Operation Check: Verify chain tension, oil level, chain sharpness, and that bar nuts are tight. Test chain brake.
  2. Starting: Place on stable surface. Ensure chain is clear. Depress trigger lockout, then squeeze trigger.
  3. Cutting Technique: Use firm grip with both hands. Let the saw do the work. Do not force. Be aware of pinch points and kickback.
  4. Refueling/Oiling: Unplug saw. Refill oil reservoir as needed during extended use.
  5. Stopping: Release trigger. Unplug from outlet when not in use.

Tip: Make sure the chain does not touch the ground or any object when starting.

Chain Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures performance and safety.

  1. Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide matching chain pitch (3/8" LP). File at recommended angle (usually 30°). File all cutters to equal length.
  2. Tensioning: Chain stretches when new. Check tension frequently. Adjust via side knob when chain is cool. Proper tension: chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
  3. Lubrication: Always use recommended bar and chain oil. Check oil flow by pointing bar at a light surface and running at speed; a thin line of oil should appear.
  4. Inspection: Regularly check for worn drive links, damaged cutters, and bar groove wear. Replace bar if groove is excessively worn.

WARNING! Always unplug the chainsaw before performing any maintenance. Wear gloves when handling chain.

Cleaning & Storage

Unplug and allow to cool. Clean sawdust and debris from air vents, bar, chain, and housing with a brush or dry cloth. Empty oil reservoir for long-term storage. Store in a dry, secure place out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Do not use compressed air or water for cleaning. Never store with fuel (if applicable) in tank.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 10 Inch Electric Chainsaw is backed by a limited 2-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in material or workmanship under normal use. Proof of purchase required. This warranty does not cover wear items (chain, bar, guide), damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized repair. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Chainsaw won't startNo power, trigger lockout not engaged, faulty switchCheck outlet and cord. Ensure lockout is depressed. Contact service.
Chain does not moveChain brake engaged, loose chain, faulty sprocketDisengage brake by pulling guard back. Tension chain. Inspect sprocket.
Poor cutting performanceDull chain, improper tension, low oilSharpen chain. Adjust tension. Refill oil reservoir.
Chain throws oil excessivelyOver-oilingAdjust oiler screw to reduce flow (if equipped).
Chain comes off barLoose chain, worn bar, damaged drive linksTension chain properly. Inspect bar for wear. Replace chain if damaged.
Motor overheatsDull chain, forcing cut, clogged air ventsSharpen chain. Use proper technique. Clean air vents.

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt to repair motor or switch yourself.

Support: 1-888-331-4569; www.craftsman.com

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