craftsman 14 chainsaw manual

The Craftsman 14-inch Chainsaw is a lightweight, gas-powered chainsaw designed for homeowner use in trimming, pruning, and cutting small to medium-sized trees and branches. It features a 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, a 2-cycle engine requiring a gas/oil mix, automatic oiler, chain brake, throttle lockout safety, and easy-start technology. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14-inch Oregon bar and chain, 2-cycle engine, automatic chain oiler, chain brake, throttle lockout, primer bulb, choke control, and carrying case.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble bar, chain, and handle.

1. Attach the bar and chain: Place bar onto mounting studs, align chain, adjust tension.
2. Fill oil reservoir: Use bar and chain oil only.
3. Mix fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane min.) with 2-cycle oil at 40:1 ratio.
4. Check all fasteners: Ensure screws and nuts are tight.

WARNING! Always wear protective gear (gloves, goggles, ear protection, chaps) during assembly and use. Keep bystanders away.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Failure to follow safety rules may cause serious injury.

1. Always wear safety gear: Helmet with face shield, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toe boots.
2. Check work area: Clear debris, ensure secure footing, identify escape path.
3. Inspect chainsaw: Check chain sharpness, tension, and for damage before each use.
4. Use two hands: Maintain firm grip with both hands on handles.
5. Avoid kickback: Do not let bar tip contact objects; cut with lower portion of bar.

CAUTION! Never operate a chainsaw when tired, under the influence, or in poor weather conditions.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-cycle, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 32 cc.
• Fuel Capacity: 10.1 fl oz (300 ml).
• Oil Capacity: 5.1 fl oz (150 ml).
• Bar Length: 14 inches.
• Chain Pitch: 3/8 inch low-profile.
• Chain Gauge: 0.050 inch.
• Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg) without fuel.
• Sound Level: 105 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Vibration Level: Less than 2.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Main components: Front handle with throttle trigger, rear handle, throttle lockout, chain brake lever, choke control, primer bulb, stop switch.

Controls: Throttle trigger (accelerates engine), Throttle lockout (must be pressed to engage throttle), Chain brake lever (stops chain rotation), Choke (for cold starts), Primer bulb (pumps fuel into carburetor), Stop switch (turns engine off).

Maintenance: Chain tension adjustment screw, bar nuts, oil filler cap, fuel cap, air filter cover, spark plug.

Fuel & Oil

Use fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane) mixed with high-quality 2-cycle engine oil at 40:1 ratio.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil to gasoline, shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank: Use funnel to avoid spills.
3. Fill oil reservoir: Use only bar and chain oil; do not use motor oil or waste oil.
4. Check for leaks: Before and after filling.

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Store fuel in a cool, dry place away from sparks.

Starting & Operation

Starting procedure for cold and warm engine.

1. Place on flat, clear surface: Engage chain brake.
2. Cold start: Set choke to full, press primer bulb 5 times, pull starter cord until engine fires, move choke to half, pull again to start.
3. Warm start: Choke off, press primer bulb 2 times, pull starter cord.
4. Operation: Disengage chain brake, squeeze throttle lockout and trigger to accelerate.
5. Cutting: Let chain do the work; avoid forcing. Cut at full throttle.
6. Shut off: Release throttle, press stop switch.

WARNING! Never drop-start or start above waist height. Keep hands away from chain.

Chain Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures performance and safety.

1. Chain tension: Check before each use. Chain should snap back when pulled from bar.
2. Sharpening: Use round file (5/32 inch) and file guide. Maintain 30-degree angle.
3. Cleaning: Remove debris from bar groove, oil holes, and air filter.
4. Lubrication: Ensure automatic oiler is working; check oil flow before cutting.

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

Storage

Prepare chainsaw for storage longer than 30 days.

1. Drain fuel: Run engine until it stops from empty tank.
2. Drain oil: Empty oil reservoir.
3. Clean: Wipe exterior, remove sawdust from cooling fins.
4. Store: In dry place, away from children, with bar and chain covered.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank to avoid carburetor damage and fire hazard.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 14-inch Chainsaw is covered by a 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Not covered: damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, commercial use, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Support at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Craftsman service center. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

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